Hyderabad MP and AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has formally raised serious concerns about the alleged misuse of the Right to Information (RTI) Act by certain activists targeting private educational institutions in the city. In a strongly worded letter to State Chief Information Commissioner G Chandrasekhar Reddy, Owaisi accused these individuals of systematic harassment and extortion.
Allegations of Systematic Extortion
The prominent parliamentarian specifically requested the commissioner to issue immediate instructions to state public information officers and appellate authorities within the education department. He urged them to refrain from directing private unaided schools to provide information under the RTI Act, citing ongoing exploitation by these so-called activists.
Owaisi didn't mince words in his demand for strict action against those allegedly misusing the transparency law for personal gain. "Initiate strict action against so-called activists who are misusing the RTI Act to extort money from unaided private and minority schools," he emphasized in his communication dated Wednesday.
Legal Battles and Court Interventions
The situation has escalated to such an extent that major school associations have sought judicial intervention. The Hyderabad District Recognised Schools Management Association and the Telangana Recognised School Management Associations have approached the High Court regarding these matters.
Owaisi highlighted that the judiciary has already provided some relief in similar circumstances. The High Court has set aside proceedings initiated by the District Education Officer of Hyderabad and other education department officials in cases with identical circumstances. The MP attached copies of relevant court orders and writ petitions to substantiate his claims.
Immediate Action Demanded
Recognizing the widespread nature of this harassment, Owaisi urged the Chief Information Commissioner to treat this issue as a priority matter. The letter indicates that the problem affects numerous educational institutions across Hyderabad, creating an environment of fear and financial pressure.
The MP took the significant step of naming the specific activists allegedly involved in these activities, though these names weren't disclosed in the public communication. This move demonstrates the seriousness of the allegations and the need for targeted intervention.
The development comes at a time when educational institutions are already facing multiple challenges, and such alleged extortion attempts add to their operational difficulties. The matter now awaits official response and action from the information commission and education authorities.
