DHAKA, Feb 10, 2026 (BSS) - The interim government has promulgated an ordinance amending the Right to Information Act, 2009 with a view to ensuring free flow of information and strengthening transparency and accountability in public and private offices.

The Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs issued a gazette notification in this regard on Monday.

Ministry's Public Relations Officer Dr Md Rezaul Karim confirmed the matter, saying the ordinance has been titled the Right to Information (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026 and has come into immediate effect.

The ordinance was promulgated by the President in exercise of the powers conferred under Article 93(1) of the Constitution.

Under the amended ordinance, the definition of 'information' has been expanded. 

It now includes memoranda, maps, contracts, audio-visual materials and any content prepared or stored in electronic devices or computers concerning the formation, structure and official activities of an authority. 

However, official note sheets or copies thereof have been excluded from the scope of information.

Regarding proactive disclosure, the ordinance makes it mandatory for every authority to make publicly accessible all information relating to its decisions, audit reports, expenditure and completed or proposed activities. 

In cases of major policies or decisions, authorities will be required to verify public opinion and provide explanations of the proceedings. All such reports must be published on the respective authority's website.

The ordinance has also enhanced penalties for violations of the Right to Information. Through an amendment to Section 27 of the Act, the daily fine for negligence or failure to provide information has been increased from Tk 50 to Tk 100, while the maximum fine has been raised from Tk 5,000 to Tk 10,000.

Under the new ordinance, the Information Commission will establish a central 'Information Treasury (Tathya Bhaban)' through regulations to facilitate quicker and more detailed access to information for citizens.