When to File First Appeal?
No response from PIO within 30 days
Incomplete or incorrect information provided
Information denied improperly
Excessive or incorrect fees demanded
Application rejected without valid reason
PIO misdirected application to wrong department
Timeline for First Appeal
Key Timelines: First appeal must be filed within 30 days of PIO's decision (or 30 days after response deadline). Appellate authority must decide within 30 days (extendable to 45 days with reasons).
First Appeal Application Format
To,
The First Appellate Authority,
[Name of Department/Office],
[Complete Address]
Subject: First Appeal under Section 19 of RTI Act, 2005
Respected Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Name], had filed an RTI application (Registration No. ______ dated ______) with the PIO, [Department Name].
Grounds for Appeal:
1. [State reason - e.g., No response received within 30 days]
2. [State reason - e.g., Information provided is incomplete]
3. [State reason - e.g., Information wrongly denied]
Relief Sought:
Please direct the PIO to provide complete information as requested in my original application dated ______.
Enclosures:
1. Copy of original RTI application
2. Copy of PIO's response (if any)
3. Proof of fee payment
4. Postal receipt (if sent by post)
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
[Address]
[Date]
Who is the First Appellate Authority?
The First Appellate Authority is a senior officer within the same public authority, typically one rank above the PIO. Common designations include:
Additional Secretary / Joint Secretary
Director / Deputy Director
Superintendent of Police (for police dept)
Chief Medical Officer (for health dept)
Tip: The name and address of the First Appellate Authority should be displayed on the public authority's RTI portal or notice board.
What First Appellate Authority Can Do?
- Confirm, modify, or reverse the PIO's decision
- Direct PIO to provide information within specified time
- Impose penalty on PIO for delay (recommend to CIC)
- Compensation for loss or detriment suffered
- Reject appeal if found frivolous
Legal Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Consult RTI Act or legal professional for specific guidance.