You’re likely familiar with the Right to Information Act, commonly known as RTI—a potent tool for the public post-independence. The RTI Act of 2005 stands as a revolutionary law, aimed at fostering transparency within India’s governmental organizations. Before this act, only Members of Parliament held the exclusive right to access government information. With its implementation, the common person gained the ability to seek information from the government, making the RTI Act a valuable tool for anyone, be it a business owner or a concerned citizen.

Understanding the Basics of RTI

The RTI Act, with its extensive scope, covers a myriad of governance-related issues across all tiers of government—central, state, and local. It also extends to entities receiving substantial government funding. This guide aims to demystify the process of filing an RTI application, ensuring you can harness the power of information for your specific needs.

 How to File an RTI Application

1. Identify the Public Authority:

   – Determine the department or office from which you want information.

2. Draft Your Application:

   – Draft the RTI application form in English, Hindi, or the official language of the state.

   – Address it to the Public Information Officer (PIO), articulating your inquiries clearly.

   – Include your complete name, contact information, and the preferred address for receiving the RTI information/response.

3. No Prescribed Format:

   – There is no prescribed format for the application, and it can be submitted on plain paper.

   – No need to provide reasons for seeking information.

 Steps for RTI Application Online

The Department of Personnel and Training has introduced the RTI online web portal, www.rtionline.gov.in, offering a convenient means for Indian citizens to submit their RTI applications and appeals electronically. The prescribed RTI fee can be conveniently paid online through this portal, streamlining the entire process.

 Fee and Modes of Payment

Citizens seeking information are required to submit a demand draft, banker’s check, or Indian Postal Order of Rs. 10/- along with the application. Payment can also be made in cash directly to the Public Authority or Assistant Public Information Officer, with a proper receipt issued. For Central Ministries/Departments, online payment options are available through State Bank of India Internet Banking or via Master/Visa Debit/Credit Card.

Note: Citizens below the poverty line are exempt from paying the RTI fee, provided they enclose a copy of the relevant government-issued certificate as proof.

 Period for Information Supply

The public authority aims to furnish the requested information within 30 days of receiving the application. However, if the information pertains to the life or liberty of an individual, it must be provided within a shorter timeframe of 48 hours.

Government Offices Covered Under the RTI Act

The RTI Act encompasses all government agencies, whether operating under the state or central government. This includes entities such as Municipal Corporations, PSUs, Government Departments, Ministries, the Judiciary, Government-Owned Companies, Universities, Schools, Construction Departments, Road Authorities, Provident Fund Department, and more.

Government Organizations Not Covered Under the RTI Act

Entities associated with defense and intelligence, such as RAW, BSF, CRPF, CISF, Intelligence Bureau, National Security Guard, etc., are subject to the provisions of the RTI Act, with specific exemptions to protect sensitive information.

Summary: Empowering Citizens through Information

The Right to Information (RTI) is a highly effective and cost-efficient tool, allowing individuals to scrutinize the allocation of public funds, identify corruption, and assess the working status of government officials. It serves as a means to subject government institutions to scrutiny, contributing to the principles of accountability and openness in governance. Empowered with the knowledge of RTI, an ordinary citizen has the authority to request information from any government agency, thereby enhancing transparency in operations.