Section 1
Overview of RTI Application Filing
The Right to Information Act, 2005 empowers every citizen to seek information from public authorities. Filing an RTI application is the first step in exercising this right. The process is simple, affordable, and designed to be citizen-friendly.
An RTI application is a formal request made to a Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) or State Public Information Officer (SPIO) seeking access to information held by a public authority.
Key Points About RTI Filing
- Who Can File: Any citizen of India
- Where to File: Central/State Public Information Officer (CPIO/SPIO)
- Fee: ₹10 (Central) / Varies by state
- Response Time: 30 days (48 hours for life/liberty matters)
- Mode: Online or Offline
Key Fact
You do not need to mention the reason for seeking information. The CPIO cannot ask you why you want the information. RTI Portal
Section 2
Step-by-Step Process to File an RTI
Follow these steps to file an RTI application successfully:
- Identify the Public Authority: Determine which government department, ministry, or public authority holds the information you need.
- Identify the CPIO/SPIO: Find out who is the Central/State Public Information Officer for that authority. You can check the authority's website or the RTI Portal .
- Draft the Application: Write a clear and specific application. You can use plain paper or the prescribed format.
- Attach the Fee: Attach the application fee (₹10 for central government authorities) via Indian Postal Order (IPO), Demand Draft, or online payment.
- Submit the Application: Submit it to the CPIO/SPIO by post, in person, or online through the official portal.
- Get Acknowledgment: Always obtain an acknowledgment of receipt of your application.
- Wait for Response: The CPIO must respond within 30 days (or 48 hours in life/liberty matters).
- If No Response/Unsatisfied: File a First Appeal before the Appellate Authority within 30 days of the due date or receipt of the response.
- Second Appeal: If the First Appeal is unsatisfactory, file a Second Appeal before the Information Commission (CIC or SIC) within 90 days.
Section 3
RTI Application Format
Below is a standard format for filing an RTI application. You can use this format on plain paper or an A4 sheet.
Note on the Format
You can use this format on plain paper or download the prescribed format from the RTI Portal . The format above is editable for your convenience.
Section 4
RTI Fee Structure
| Particular |
Central Government |
State Governments |
| Application Fee |
₹10 (IPO/Demand Draft/Online) |
₹10 - ₹50 (varies by state) |
| Additional Fee (Information) |
₹2 per page (A4 size) |
Varies by state |
| Large Size Documents |
Actual reproduction cost |
Actual cost |
| Inspection Fee |
No fee for first hour |
Varies by state |
| CD/DVD |
₹50 |
Varies by state |
| BPL Applicants |
Full exemption (no fees) |
Full exemption |
Tip: For online filing through
RTI Online , you can pay the fee using internet banking, credit/debit cards, or UPI. No need for postal orders or demand drafts.
Section 5
Drafting Tips for RTI Applications
Be Specific: Clearly state what information you want. Vague requests are often rejected or delayed.
Mention Documents: If you know the specific document, file, or record number, mention it to help the CPIO locate the information.
Use Simple Language: Write in simple, clear English or Hindi. Avoid legal jargon unless necessary.
Break Down Questions: If seeking multiple pieces of information, number your questions (1, 2, 3...) for clarity.
Specify Mode: Mention whether you want photocopies, inspection, or electronic copies.
Time Period: Specify the time period for which you need information (e.g., "from 2018 to 2023").
No Reasons Needed: You are not required to state why you want the information.
Attach Fee: Always attach the correct fee to avoid rejection.
Include Contact Details: Provide your phone number and email address for communication.
Keep Copies: Always keep a copy of your application and all correspondence.
Pro Tip: You can use the
RTI Online Portal to draft and file your application. The portal has a user-friendly interface with a structured format.
Section 6
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Vague Questions: Asking for "all information" without specification. This leads to delay or rejection.
Asking for Opinions: The RTI Act provides access to information, not opinions or interpretations.
No Fee: Failing to attach the correct application fee results in rejection.
Wrong Address: Sending the application to the wrong public authority or the wrong officer.
Not Mentioning Mode: Not specifying how you want to receive the information.
Non-Resident: Only citizens of India can file RTI applications.
Not Acknowledging: Not obtaining acknowledgment of receipt, making it difficult to file an appeal.
Missing Deadline: Not filing the appeal within the prescribed time limit.
Important: If your application is rejected, do not give up. File a First Appeal before the Appellate Authority within 30 days. If still unsatisfied, file a Second Appeal before the Information Commission.
RTI Appeal Process
Section 7
Online vs Offline Filing
| Feature |
Online Filing |
Offline Filing |
| Convenience |
Can be done from anywhere with internet |
Requires physical visit or postal service |
| Fee Payment |
Online payment (Netbanking, UPI, Card) |
IPO, Demand Draft, or cash (in person) |
| Tracking |
Real-time tracking of application status |
No online tracking available |
| Response Time |
Faster processing |
May take longer due to postal delays |
| Availability |
24x7 |
During office hours |
| Ease of Drafting |
Structured format with prompts |
Manual drafting required |
| Applicable For |
Central Government (and some states) |
All public authorities |
Tip: For central government authorities, online filing is recommended. For state governments, check if they have an online RTI portal. For Telangana, use
Telangana RTI Portal .
Section 9
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can file an RTI application?
Any citizen of India can file an RTI application. The Act does not apply to non-citizens. There is no age limit or other restriction.
2. What is the fee for filing an RTI application?
For central government authorities, the application fee is ₹10. Additional fees apply for information (₹2 per page). BPL applicants are exempt from all fees. State government fees vary.
3. How do I file an RTI application online?
Visit
rtionline.gov.in for central government authorities. Register, fill the application form, pay the fee online, and submit. You will receive an acknowledgment with a unique registration number.
4. What is the time limit for response to an RTI application?
The CPIO must respond within 30 days from the date of receipt of the application. In cases involving life and liberty, the response must be given within 48 hours.
5. Do I need to mention why I want the information?
No. You are not required to state the reason for seeking information. The CPIO cannot ask you why you want the information.
6. What information can be withheld under the RTI Act?
Section 8 of the Act provides exemptions, including national security, trade secrets, personal privacy, and cabinet papers. Some exemptions have a public interest override.
7. What is the appeal process if I don't get a response?
If you do not receive a response or are dissatisfied, file a First Appeal within 30 days to the Appellate Authority. If still dissatisfied, file a Second Appeal within 90 days to the Information Commission (CIC or SIC).
8. Can I file an RTI application in Hindi or regional languages?
Yes, you can file an RTI application in Hindi or any regional language. The CPIO must respond in the same language if possible.
9. What is the difference between CPIO and Appellate Authority?
The CPIO (Central Public Information Officer) is the first point of contact for RTI applications. The Appellate Authority is the senior officer who hears First Appeals against the CPIO's decision or non-response.
10. Can I file an RTI application for information about private bodies?
Yes, if the private body is substantially funded by the government or is a public authority under the Act. NGOs and private companies receiving government funds can be covered.
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RTI Portal .