Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005
The RTI Act empowers citizens to access information from any public authority, promoting transparency and accountability in government functioning.
Key Fact: The RTI Act applies to all constitutional authorities, including central and state governments, local bodies, and any organization substantially funded by the government.
Step-by-Step RTI Application Process
1
Identify Information
Clearly define what information you need
2
Write Application
Write on plain paper or use format
3
Address to PIO
Address to Public Information Officer of concerned department
4
Pay Fee
Pay ₹10 application fee via IPO/cash
5
Submit
Submit by post, in person, or online
What Information Can Be Obtained Under RTI?
- ✓ Government records and documents
- ✓ Contract details and tender information
- ✓ Expenditure details of government schemes
- ✓ Service delivery timelines and status
- ✓ Reasons for administrative decisions
- ✓ Copies of inspection reports, inquiry reports
Fees for RTI Application
- Application fee: ₹10 (by cash, Indian Postal Order, or bank draft)
- Additional fee for information: ₹2 per page (A4 size)
- CD/DVD fee: ₹50 per disc
- Inspection of records: No fee for first hour, then ₹5 per 15 minutes
- BPL cardholders: Complete fee waiver (attach copy of BPL card)
RTI Application Format - Key Components
- Date of application
- Name and address of Public Information Officer
- Subject: Application under RTI Act, 2005
- Specific questions/information requested
- Applicant's details (name, address, contact)
- Enclosure of fee (IPO/Bank Draft details)
Timeline for RTI Response
- Standard response time: 30 days from receipt of application
- For matters involving life/liberty: 48 hours
- For third-party information: 40 days
- Appeal to First Appellate Authority: Within 30 days of non-response
- Second appeal to Information Commission: Within 90 days
Note: If information is not provided within 30 days, it is deemed refusal. You can file first appeal immediately after 30 days.
RTI Appeal Process
- First Appeal: File within 30 days of PIO's response (or 30 days after deadline) to First Appellate Authority (typically a senior officer). Response time: 30-45 days.
- Second Appeal: File within 90 days to Central/State Information Commission. No fee for second appeal.
Online RTI Filing (rtionline.gov.in)
- Visit rtionline.gov.in
- Register with mobile number and email
- Select department and fill application
- Pay fee online via net banking/card
- Submit and track application online
Can RTI be filed anonymously?
No, the RTI Act requires the applicant to provide their name and contact details. Anonymous applications are not entertained.
What information cannot be obtained under RTI?
Information affecting national security, cabinet papers, personal information unrelated to public activity, and information prohibited by court orders cannot be disclosed.