RTI — Right to Information Act: How to File and What to Expect

The Right to Information Act, 2005 empowers any Indian citizen to seek information from public authorities. The Act covers central and state government departments, public sector undertakings, panchayats, municipal corporations, and any body substantially financed by the government.

Who can file an RTI?

Any citizen of India can file an RTI application. Non-citizens, companies, and associations cannot file RTI applications, though they may use a citizen as their applicant. There is no requirement to state a reason for seeking information.

What information can be sought?

• Inspection of works, documents and records
• Taking notes, extracts or certified copies of documents
• Taking certified samples of material
• Information held in electronic mode
• Status of pending applications, complaints or grievances
• Statistical data and policy decisions

What is exempt under Section 8?

Section 8 of the RTI Act exempts information relating to national security, foreign relations, commercial confidence, personal privacy, ongoing investigations, cabinet papers, and intellectual property. The public authority must justify any refusal by citing the specific exemption clause.

How to file an RTI

Address a written application to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned public authority. Pay the application fee — ₹10 (central government) or ₹2–₹10 (varies by state). Submit by hand, post, or online through the central RTI portal (rtionline.gov.in) for central government departments.

Sample RTI application structure

Address the application "To, The Public Information Officer, [Department Name]". State your name, full address, and Indian citizenship. List specific questions clearly and numerically. Sign with date. Attach the fee receipt or postal order.

Response timelines

• 30 days from receipt for normal RTI applications
• 48 hours for life and liberty matters
• 40 days for applications transferred to other authorities
• 35 days for applications relating to third party

First Appeal

If the PIO does not respond within 30 days or you are dissatisfied with the response, file a First Appeal with the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the same department within 30 days. The FAA must decide within 30 days (45 days in extension).

Second Appeal

If still dissatisfied with the FAA order, file a Second Appeal with the Central Information Commission (for central departments) or the State Information Commission (for state departments). Second Appeals can also lead to penalty proceedings against the PIO under Section 20.

BPL applicant exemption

Persons below the poverty line (BPL) are exempt from paying the application fee on producing a valid BPL certificate or ration card.