Provision of information key to accountability, governance: Iqbal Hussain Khattak

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 10th Apr, 2026) Additional Deputy Commissioner (Human Rights) Mardan, Iqbal Hussain Khattak, has said that providing information to citizens is a fundamental responsibility of the state, as guaranteed under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Right to Information Act 2013.

Addressing a seminar titled “Safe, Free and Effective Media,” organized in collaboration with IRSP and TDEA at a local hall, he stated that citizens have a constitutional and legal right to access information from public institutions.

He added that this right promotes transparency and plays a vital role in strengthening the democratic system.

Iqbal Hussain Khattak emphasized that public accountability and good governance cannot be achieved without access to information.

He said the Right to Information law serves as an effective tool for building trust between the public and the state, urging institutions to ensure timely and accurate dissemination of information to avoid misunderstandings and facilitate prompt resolution of public issues.

He praised the role of media, stating that a free, responsible, and professional media is essential for bringing positive change in society.

He noted that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is taking measures to strengthen citizens’ access to information, including capacity-building of relevant institutions.

The seminar was attended by representatives of government departments, civil society members, political workers, lawyers, students, teachers, and former local government representatives.

Other speakers, including Professor Muhammad Abrar, Rahat Khan, Abbas Shah, Taj Ghani Advocate, Nazia Shah, Aziz Ahmad, Muhammad Arif, and Fayyaz-ul-Islam, highlighted the importance and implementation of the Right to Information Act and stressed the need for greater public awareness.

IRSP Program Coordinator Muhammad Ismail briefed participants on panel discussions held in educational institutions and presented findings of a three-and-a-half-month project along with Aziz Ahmad.

They emphasized the importance of educating youth about their right to access information through seminars and workshops.

Speakers also underscored the need to raise awareness among women, youth, and marginalized communities and called for collective efforts to address challenges faced by media, including limited access to information and journalists’ safety.

At the end of the seminar, a shield was presented to the chief guest, while informational material on the Right to Information Act was distributed among participants. The speakers reaffirmed their commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and rule of law through such initiatives.