I am trying to understand why Utpal Borpujari is against the idea that journalist may use RTI as well, and especially as Agarwal highlighted, in order to compile investigative report.
I can show you records (from my collection) in year 1991 Assam Government failed utilize a fund worth USD 45 million in 1991 - this unutilized fund return back has been a culture. Why shouldn't Journalist or media people address this issue professionally? I also see that Utpal have not answered any of my inquires. But Utpal would you care to share your experiences on PIL so we all understand how it works. In a separate email thread I will highlight my experiences on RTI usage. I have included all relevant threads to this email. Regarding Zaman's inquiry, i.e., "if in the past Assamese journalists have written any investigative article at all on this topic" I guess people like Utpal or Sanjoy are the right persons to answer as they both are journalists. Regards, Rabin --- In [email protected], utpal borpujari <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Dear Rabin Deka, Why journalists - anybody can use the RTI to get information, and the government will be forced to give it even if it is reluctant. Why don't you yourself file an RTI application with the relevant department of Assam government (if you are based in Assam) to get the information, and then maybe file a PIL at Gauhati High Court on behalf of people of Assam against such criminal non-use of funds meant to be spent? Utpal Borpujari --- "Sanjoy Hazarika" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: These are fine ideas. But ideas are relevant, as Uttal suggests, when those making them try to follow up and implement them instead of suggesting that others do so. Surely the RTI is available to all including those living outside of Assam who make many good suggestions. Sanjoy Hazarika --- "khalekzaman" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Agree, this is very good topic! But just wondering if in the past Assamese journalists have written any investigative article at all on this topic. Also any idea what amount of fund will go back by end of December? Khalek --- Manoj Agarwal <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Hi Rabin Da, Very good topic! I know for fact (From Telegraph in Assam as far as I remember) that on average 86% of funds from Assam Flood Control were returned to the Central Govt every year and on average it was 63% of funds returned back to Central govt because it was not utilized. RTI may help in this regard and may be a good topic for investigation wing of Sentinel/Assam Tribune. Manoj --- "rabindeka" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: In my opinion "solution centric" issues be considered often to discuss. e.g. It seems every year in the past about December (from my memory hole) Assam Government returned some Funds to Government of India, GOI, while cause of return had been "unable to utilize". Why did this happen in the past? Who do you need to educate and how to educate? What amount of fund will go back by December 2007? Can journalists use RTI to explore facts deeper? Please think about this issue if you can, and come forward with suggestions feedback. Thanks, Rabin
