The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, is a landmark legislation that empowers citizens to access information under the control of public authorities. Its primary objective is to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every public authority.
- Statement 1 is Correct: The RTI Act defines "information" broadly to include records, documents, memos, opinions, advices, press releases, circulars, orders, and data material held in any electronic form. Citizens are entitled to seek information regarding administrative processes, including the status of recruitment and reasons for delays in the declaration of results, as this falls under the purview of public information.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The jurisdiction of the RTI Act is not limited to the Central Government. It applies to "Public Authorities" established or constituted by the Constitution, by any other law made by Parliament, or by any other law made by the State Legislature. This includes bodies owned, controlled, or substantially financed by both the Central Government and State Governments.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The Act empowers citizens to scrutinize the functioning of the government. Furthermore, Section 4 of the Act mandates suo motu (voluntary) disclosure of particulars regarding the organization, functions, and duties of public authorities, ensuring that citizens are informed about how government departments operate.
Key Takeaway: The Right to Information Act, 2005 applies to all levels of government (Central, State, and Local bodies) and grants citizens the legal right to demand information regarding government operations, decisions, and delays, subject to specific exemptions under Section 8.