Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (SP)
Kundapur, Feb 10: "Even after several decades of earning our independence, India continues to follow some redundant laws left behind by the British. In addition to properly implementing the law, there is a strong need to continue to conduct objective review about their pros and cons," felt state High Court Judge Justice Huluwadi G Ramesh.
He was speaking after inaugurating a seminar on 'Right to Information Act - 2005' held under the aegis of the District Legal Aid Committee, District Committee of Rotary district 3180, Taluk Legal Aid committee and Bar Association, at Rotary Laxinarasimha Kalamandir here on Sunday February 8.
"A few laws were enacted to protect the gullible from the menace of dowry and caste-abuse, both of which are punishable offences. This is the opportune time to review these laws by taking into account how far they have benefited the society, and how many innocent people faced harassment through the misuse of these laws unjustifiably against them, although protecting the affected people continues to be the main aim of these laws. In some cases, legal remedy need not be prescribed for social issues. If proper cogitation and deep thinking are involved before implementing the laws, miseries that the laws might heap on people who are not guilty and also several other tragedies can be averted," he felt. He also asked the media, officials etc., to work transparently and without forgetting their respective social responsibilities.
State Information Commissioner G S Virupakshaiah who delivered the key note address, pointed out that the Right to Information Act, which is a small act with only six chapters and 31 sections, has a strong base. Seeking for and obtaining information is one of our constitutional rights. There is no bar in furnishing any information unless the information is detrimental to the country's security or when secrecy needs to be maintained about them. If people properly use the potent weapon of seeking information, we can drive away the deep-rooted corruption and inequality, he reiterated.
Rotary district 3180 governor K Krishna Shetty presided. Udupi district Fast Track court judge S G Gowda, district court judge Ramachandraiah and Kundapur chief civil judge Shivanna participated as guests.
Rotary assistant governor Dr M N Adiga welcomed. Kundapur Bar Association secretary G Ramanna Shetty proposed vote of thanks. Bar Association president G Santoshkumar Shetty presented the programme.