The Right to Information Act, 2005 (RTI) is one of the most powerful tools available to every Indian citizen. It allows you to ask any government department for information — and they must reply within 30 days.
Who Can File an RTI?
Any Indian citizen can file an RTI application. There is no need for a lawyer. You do not need to give a reason for why you want the information.
What Can You Ask For?
You can ask for:
- Status of your pending application or case
- Government contracts, tenders, and expenditure
- Files, records, and official documents
- Minutes of meetings
- Information about public schemes and their beneficiaries
You cannot use RTI to ask for personal information of third parties, or information that affects national security.
Step 1 – Identify the Right Authority
Find out which department holds the information you need. Each public authority has a designated Public Information Officer (PIO). This is the person to whom you address your application.
Step 2 – Write Your Application
Write a simple letter addressed to the PIO. Mention the specific information you need in clear, numbered points. Do not write essays — be precise. You can write in Hindi or in the official language of the state.
Step 3 – Pay the Fee
The application fee is Rs. 10 for central government departments. States may differ. You can pay by postal order, demand draft, or online through the RTI portal. Below-poverty-line (BPL) applicants are exempt from fees.
Step 4 – Submit the Application
You can file online at rtionline.gov.in (for central ministries) or by post or in person at the department. Keep a copy of your application and the proof of fee payment.
What If You Don’t Get a Reply?
If the PIO does not reply within 30 days (or 48 hours for life and liberty matters), you can file a First Appeal to the First Appellate Authority within the department. If still unsatisfied, file a Second Appeal before the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC). The Commission can impose a penalty of Rs. 250 per day (up to Rs. 25,000) on the PIO for non-compliance.
RTI for Legal Matters
RTI is extremely useful in legal disputes — to get certified copies of official records, verify land records, check government orders, or expose corruption. An advocate can guide you on how to frame RTI questions strategically to support your case.