Educational Purpose: This guide is for educational purposes only. RTI procedures may vary by state and public authority. Consult a legal professional for specific advice.
What is RTI?
The Right to Information Act, 2005 empowers citizens to access information from public authorities. RTI promotes transparency and accountability in government functioning. Any citizen can request information from any "public authority" under this Act.
Which Organizations Are Covered?
- Central, State, and Local Governments
- Constitutional Authorities (Supreme Court, High Courts, CAG, Election Commission)
- Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
- Government-funded organizations (NGOs receiving substantial government funds)
- Judiciary (related to administration)
What Information Can You Request?
- Files, documents, and records
- Letters, memos, and emails
- Contracts and agreements
- Inspection of work and projects
- Information in electronic form
- Reasons for administrative decisions
How to File RTI Application
1 Identify the correct Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned department
2 Write application clearly stating specific information required
3 Pay application fee (₹10 for Central Govt, varies by state)
4 Submit application to PIO via post, email, or online portal
5 Obtain acknowledgement with receipt number
6 PIO must provide information within 30 days (48 hours for life/liberty matters)
RTI Fee Structure
- Application Fee: ₹10 (Central Govt) - Exempted for BPL cardholders
- Additional fee: ₹2 per page of information (A4 size)
- Inspection fee: No fee for first hour, then nominal charges
- CD/DVD fee: Actual cost
- Mode of payment: IPO, DD, Court Fee Stamps, or Online
Important: RTI application should not ask for "reasons" or "opinions" - only specific information. Vague applications may be rejected. Also, information affecting national security, privacy, or cabinet proceedings is exempt under Sections 8 & 9.
Sample RTI Application Format
To,
The Public Information Officer,
[Department Name], [Address]
Subject: Request for information under RTI Act, 2005
Name of Applicant: [Your Name]
Address: [Your Address]
Particulars of information required:
1. Provide copies of all files/notings related to [specific matter] from [date range].
2. Provide details of [specific information requested].
3. Permit inspection of [specific records/works].
I am enclosing application fee of ₹10 vide [IPO/DD/Court Fee Stamp No.].
Information may be provided in [English/Hindi/local language].
Date: [Date]
Signature: [Signature]
(This is a pro bono publico initiative for legal awareness)
What If Information Is Denied or Delayed?
- File first appeal to First Appellate Authority within 30 days of denial/no response
- First appeal must be decided within 30 days
- File second appeal to State/Central Information Commission within 90 days
- Commission can impose penalties on erring PIO (₹250/day up to ₹25,000)
Your Rights Under RTI Act
- Right to get information within 30 days
- Right to inspect records and take notes/photocopies
- Right to get sample materials
- Right to file appeal if information denied
- Right to complain to Information Commission