How to File an RTI in India: Complete Guide Under the Right to Information Act, 2005

In a democracy, transparency is the foundation of trust. The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 empowers every citizen to question the government, seek clarity on decisions, and ensure accountability in how public funds and resources are used.

This Act bridges the gap between citizens and the government,  making governance more transparent, participatory, and responsible.

What Is the Right to Information (RTI)?

The Right to Information is a legal right granted to all Indian citizens under the RTI Act, 2005.

It allows individuals to request information from any public authority including government departments, ministries, public sector undertakings, local bodies (like municipalities and panchayats), and even certain NGOs substantially financed by the government.

Under Section 2(j) of the Act, the “Right to Information” includes:

• Inspection of works, documents, and records

• Taking certified samples of materials

• Obtaining copies of documents, reports, or records

Scope of the RTI Act

The RTI Act applies to:

• All Central and State Government departments and institutions

• Constitutional bodies (Election Commission, CAG, UPSC, etc.)

• Public sector undertakings and government-funded organizations

  
  

Since the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, the Central RTI Act now applies to J&K as well.

When Can You File an RTI Application?

You can file an RTI to seek any recorded information held by a public authority. For example:

• Status of your application for a passport, ration card, or government scheme

• Details on how government funds are spent in your locality

• Recruitment details for government jobs (eligibility, selection criteria, cut-offs)

• Details of public works projects: roads, schools, hospitals, etc.

• Certified copies of government orders, notifications, or tenders

However, you cannot seek:

• Opinions, clarifications, or explanations not already recorded

• Personal information of another individual, unless justified by public interest

• Information that affects national security, trade secrets, Cabinet discussions, or ongoing investigations (as per Section 8 of the RTI Act)

Who Can File an RTI Application?

Any citizen of India can file an RTI, there’s no age or occupation restriction.

You can submit an RTI:

• Offline: Written or typed application

• Online: Via the government’s e-RTI portal

  
  

Note: Foreign citizens and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who are not Indian citizens cannot directly file RTIs, though an Indian representative can do so on their behalf.

Step-by-Step Procedure to File an RTI

Step 1: Identify the Correct Department

Determine which government department or authority holds the information. For instance:

• RTI about tax refunds → Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)

• RTI about local roads → Public Works Department (PWD)

• RTI about a government hospital → Health Department

Step 2: Draft the RTI Application

You can write your application on plain paper or use the prescribed form (if available).

It must include:

• Applicant’s full name and contact details

• Specific details of the information sought

• Relevant time period or subject matter

• Details of the application fee

Step 3: Pay the Prescribed Fee

• ₹10 is the standard fee.

• Pay via Indian Postal Order (IPO), Demand Draft, Banker’s Cheque, or online (for e-RTI).

• Applicants below the poverty line (BPL) are exempted from fees (attach BPL proof).

Step 4: Submit the Application

• Offline: Post or submit in person at the relevant office.

• Online: Visit https://rtionline.gov.in for Central Government departments. (States like Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have separate RTI portals.)

Step 5: Wait for the Response

The Public Information Officer (PIO) must respond:

• Within 30 days from receipt of application, or

• Within 48 hours, if it concerns life or liberty of a person

  
  

If no reply is received within the stipulated time, or the response is unsatisfactory, the applicant may file an appeal.

Appeal Procedure Under RTI

First Appeal

• File within 30 days of receiving no or unsatisfactory reply.

• Address it to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the same department.

Second Appeal

• If still unresolved, file within 90 days.

• Address it to the Central Information Commission (CIC) or State Information Commission (SIC), as applicable.

Penalties for Delay or Misconduct

Under Section 20, a PIO may face:

• ₹250 per day of delay (up to ₹25,000), and/or

• Disciplinary action for unreasonable denial or providing false/misleading information

This ensures accountability in the public administration system.

Practical Tips for Filing RTI

Be clear and concise: ask only for factual, recorded information. Avoid combining unrelated topics in one RTI. Keep copies of your application and fee receipt. Check the department’s website first under Section 4(1)(b), many details are already disclosed publicly.

Why RTI Matters

Over the years, the RTI Act has become a citizen’s watchdog tool, helping expose corruption, ensure better delivery of government schemes, and promote transparency in administration.

From securing delayed pensions to unearthing scams, RTI has strengthened India’s democracy by giving power back to the people.

Conclusion

The Right to Information Act, 2005 is not just a law, it’s a symbol of participatory democracy. Every citizen has the right to ask questions, seek answers, and hold public authorities accountable.