Mysuru: Prof. Nikhil Moro of the Department of Mass Communications and Journalism, Norfolk State University, USA, said that information by nature is free and the Government is obliged to share it, as it is only its caretaker.

He was delivering a lecture, organised by the Internal Assurance Quality Cell (IQAC) of SBRR Mahajana First Grade College, in association with the Department of Studies in Communication and Journalism, University of Mysore and UGC-University with Potential for Excellence Project, here recently.

Prof. Moro, who hails from Mysuru, spoke at length on FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) of the US and RTI (Right To Information) Act of India. While pointing out the similarities and differences, he said both Acts are bound by strong presumption in favour of disclosure.

The FOIA was adopted in 1996 while the RTI was adopted in 2005. Though FOIA was implemented much earlier than the RTI, it has hardly seen any amendments where as the RTI has seen a few  amendments, he said.

Highlighting that millions have gained access to information through these acts, he said an individual is liable to be punished in case of abuse or misuse of the information sought. Further, he added that in India, a non-citizen cannot access RTI, whereas, the US has no such restriction. An interaction with students followed.

Prof. Moro was accompanied by Prof. George James, Professor and Chair, Jain Studies, North Texas University, USA. Dr. Ramesh S.R, CEO, Principal Dr. S. Venkataramu and members of the teaching faculty were also present. IQAC Coordinator Dr. G.B. Aravind welcomed.