The advisory council has given final approval to a new right to information law 2008, meant to increase accountability of government institutions and establish good governance, the chief adviser's press secretary said Saturday.

"The Right to Information Ordinance 2008 has been finally approved," Fahim Munaim told reporters after a cabinet meeting at the CA's office. "As per the ordinance the related officials will supply primary information on issues including arrests and releases within 24 hours."

The ordinance keeps a provision for fines up to Tk 5,000 if the concerned official does not provide the proper information. The cabinet on June 18 approved the ordinance provisionally. The caretaker government has said the ordinance is meant to ensure people's right to information and to increase accountability of government institutions and curb corruption and establish good governance.