Soon a website to help RTI activists file query

Kochi: RTI activists based in Kochi are all set to launch a website to help the public in preparing a proper RTI query.

According to them, government officials are taking advantage of the ignorance of applicants in filing a proper RTI query and are declining information raising flimsy excuses to avoid queries.

Mahesh Vijayan and Dhanaraj Subhash Chandran, two IT professionals and well known RTI activists in the state, are behind the new move.

The website will be launched in September. “When a person approaches a lawyer to help him file an appeal, the lawyer charges a hefty fee so we thought it would be better if we share the expertise in the matter.” said Mahesh Viajayan.  

“At present we are planning to help people who genuinely seek information. We will be offering help for free.  If there are people who have little time and there is a need for an RTI reply we charge them a nominal fee and give them help,” said Mahesh Vijayan.

“Our Facebook Group ‘Vivaravakashikal’ is a hit on Facebook. We are getting so many requests seeking help so we decided to go online and help any common man.” he said.

Mahesh Vijayan is known for his role in saving the lives of many NRIs who were languishing in jails in foreign countries.

Mahesh also managed to bring out the truth about the pathetic conditions of school toilets in the State which resulted in thegovernment allotting more funds. Dhanraj also has intervened in many issues and managed to bring out information.