What is an RTI Application?
An RTI (Right to Information) application is a formal request filed by a citizen under the Right to Information Act, 2005 to seek information from any public authority. The Act promotes transparency and accountability in government functioning by giving citizens the right to access information held by public authorities.
Legal Basis: Section 6 of the Right to Information Act, 2005 provides for the procedure to request information from public authorities.
Sample RTI Application Format
Online RTI Filing (e-Daakhil)
Many states and Central Government departments offer online RTI filing through portals like rtionline.gov.in. Steps for online filing:
Register on the RTI portal
Select Ministry/Department
Enter applicant details
Write questions in text box
Upload supporting documents
Pay fee online
Submit and get acknowledgment number
Track status online
Pro Tip: Online RTI filing is faster and provides instant acknowledgment. Keep your acknowledgment number for tracking and future reference.
First Appeal Format (If Information Denied)
Exempted Information under Section 8
National security, sovereignty, defense
Cabinet papers
Court proceedings (contempt of court)
Personal privacy (unrelated to public interest)
Commercial confidence, trade secrets
Fiduciary relationships
Public Interest Override: Even exempted information can be disclosed if public interest outweighs the harm (Section 8(2) of RTI Act).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who can file an RTI application?
Any citizen of India can file an RTI application. Non-citizens cannot file RTI. The application can be filed in English, Hindi, or the official language of the state.
Q2: Is there any fee for filing RTI?
Yes, a prescribed fee is applicable for Central Government authorities. BPL certificate holders are exempted. State governments may have different fee structures.
Q3: How long does it take to get RTI response?
Normally 30 days from receipt of application. For life/liberty matters, 48 hours. For third party information, 40 days. For corruption/human rights violation, 45 days.
Q4: Can I file RTI online?
Yes, through rtionline.gov.in for Central Government authorities. Many states also have online RTI portals. Online filing provides digital acknowledgment.
Q5: What is the format of RTI application?
RTI application can be written on plain paper. No specific format is prescribed, but it should contain applicant details, specific questions, and fee payment proof. Sample formats are provided above.
Q6: What is the difference between First Appeal and Second Appeal?
First Appeal is filed within the same public authority before the First Appellate Authority. Second Appeal is filed with CIC/SIC (external authority) after First Appeal is rejected or not decided.
Q7: Can I get certified copies of documents under RTI?
Yes, you can request certified copies of documents. Additional fee may apply for copies as per RTI Rules.
Q8: What if the PIO does not respond within 30 days?
You can file First Appeal immediately after 30 days. The PIO is liable for penalty imposed by CIC/SIC for delay without reasonable cause.