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45-60 Days
First Appeal Time
90 Days
Second Appeal Time
Understanding Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is a landmark legislation that empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities. It promotes transparency and accountability in the working of the government. Any citizen can request information from a public authority which is required to reply within 30 days.
RTI Process Flowchart
Key Features of RTI Act
- Citizen's right to access information
- Time-bound response (30 days)
- Penalty for non-compliance (₹250/day)
- Appeal mechanism available
- Proactive disclosure mandatory
- Information free for BPL citizens
Who Can File RTI?
- Any citizen of India
- Organizations registered in India
- NGOs and Trusts
- Legal heirs can file on behalf of deceased
- No requirement to explain why information is sought
RTI Process Timeline
Pro Tip: If you don't receive a response within 30 days, you can file the first appeal immediately without waiting.
Step-by-Step RTI Filing Process
1
Identify Public Authority
Determine which department has the information
2
Draft RTI Application
Write specific questions clearly
3
Pay Application Fee
₹10 (online/IPO/court fee stamp)
4
Submit Application
Send via post, online, or in-person
5
Get Acknowledgement
Keep proof of submission
6
Wait for Response
Up to 30 days for reply
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is RTI Act?
Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is a law that empowers citizens to seek information from any public authority, promoting transparency and accountability in government functioning.
Q2: How much does it cost to file RTI?
Application fee is ₹10 (₹10 for BPL is free). Additional charges apply for copies: ₹2 per page, ₹5 per hour for inspection, actual cost for CD/DVD.
Q3: What is the time limit for RTI response?
Information must be provided within 30 days (48 hours if matter of life and liberty). If transferred to another public authority, 5 additional days allowed.
Q4: Can I file RTI online?
Yes, you can file RTI online through https://rtionline.gov.in (central government) and respective state portals for state government departments.
Q5: What to do if information is not provided?
File first appeal to First Appellate Authority within 30 days. If still unsatisfied, file second appeal to CIC/SIC within 90 days.
Q6: Which organizations are exempted from RTI?
Intelligence agencies like IB, RAW, CBI, ED, BSF, CRPF, etc. However, information on corruption and human rights violations is not exempted.
Q7: Can I get personal information through RTI?
No, personal information not connected to public activity is exempted under Section 8(1)(j). However, you can seek your own information (CPIO can decide).
Q8: Is there any penalty for delayed response?
Yes, CIC/SIC can impose penalty of ₹250 per day (maximum ₹25,000) on the PIO for unjustified delay or refusal of information.