Tamil Nadu revokes RTI exemption for law and order department after backlash

The Tamil Nadu government revoked an order exempting the Public (Law and Order) department from the RTI Act on Sunday, after a political backlash from allies and opposition parties. Government Order 57 dated September 21, 2026, was withdrawn following criticism by the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and Congress, both ruling alliance partners, and the opposition DMK, BJP and PMK.

The original order, issued under Section 24(4) of the RTI Act, had designated the department an intelligence and security organisation. Minister CTR Nirmal Kumar announced the withdrawal on social media. The DMK's Kanimozhi Karunanidhi called the move shameful, accusing the government of restricting transparency within four months of assuming office. The VCK's Thol Thirumavalavan said the order would suppress human rights.