Govt defends new OTP feature for RTI portal amid user backlash

The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Thursday clarified concerns raised by users regarding the functioning of the Right to Information (RTI) portal after the introduction of a new One-Time Password (OTP) feature.

The OTP feature, introduced on January 2, aims to authenticate users and protect sensitive personal data included in RTI applications, the DoPT said in a statement.

However, some users reported delays in receiving OTPs, sparking criticism about the additional step complicating access to information.

Another frequent user, Dr Aman Kaushik, expressed frustration over being unable to check the status of his application due to non-receipt of the OTP. "Without it, there is no way to access the status of my application," TOI quoted him as saying.

"The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has examined the concerns raised about the functioning of the Right to Information (RTI) portal and clarified that the system is operational and effective after the introduction of a new One-Time Password (OTP) feature," a government release said.

"A comprehensive review by the DoPT has confirmed that the portal’s newly implemented features, including an enhanced security protocol, are operational and user-friendly," it added.

The DoPT explained that while OTPs are promptly dispatched from the NIC email domain, delays may occur due to high traffic on NIC servers or external email providers like Gmail and Yahoo.

"Importantly, OTPs do not expire until they are used, meaning users can access the status of their applications as soon as the OTP arrives. As of January 9, 2025, at 10:55 AM, 9,782 users have successfully accessed RTI statuses using the new system, underscoring its reliability," the release stated.

Referring to the criticism of the additional step complicating the process, the government reiterated that the measure is vital for protecting user privacy and that the system has been tested thoroughly to ensure smooth functioning.

"The DoPT reassured citizens that it remains committed to transparency, accessibility, and user satisfaction, with ongoing monitoring of the RTI portal to maintain its efficiency. The recent updates are part of the government’s broader initiative to enhance digital services while safeguarding the rights of citizens under the RTI Act," it said.