What is RTI?
RTI stands for Right to Information and is a fundamental right granted under Article 19(1) of the Indian Constitution. The Right to Information Act 2005 requires a timely response to citizens’ requests from the government. The right to information gives every citizen the right to seek information from the government, to examine an official document and to obtain attested photographs. The right to information gives citizens the right to officially inspect any government work or to take samples of materials used in any work.
Who can file an RTI application?
Any person who is a citizen of India can file an RTI application and can seek information from any government authority. The RTI act applies to the whole of India except to state of Jammu and Kashmir. OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) and PIO (People of Indian Origin) cardholders can also request information under the RTI Act.
FAQ – How can citizens, OCI’s and PIO’s who are staying out of India can apply for information under the RTI Act?
They can file the application with the PIO of the local Indian embassy, that solve their queries related to the application fees in their local currencies.
Which are the entities covered under the RTI Act?
RTI act covers all entities that are formed under the Constitution or any law or government notification or other entities including non-governmental organizations, that are owned, regulated or financed by the government.
All private bodies are also covered, some directly and some indirectly.
- Directly covered – Private bodies are owned, regulated and financed by the government.
- Indirectly Covered – Private bodies are not owned, regulated and financed by the government. ( It implies that any government department can have access to the information of the private bodies and the citizens can seek the information from the government departments.)
How to file an RTI application?
An RTI application can be filled in:
Offline Mode
Step 1 – Firstly, you need to identify the department in which you want to file an RTI application.
Step 2 – Then you need to type or write the application. It can be done in Hindi, English or any other local language of the area. You can also request the Public Information Officer to write your application.
Step 3 – The RTI application should be addressed to the central public information officer or the concerned state by writing ‘Seeking Information under RTI Act 2019’ in the Subject.
Step 4 – After filling the subject, you are required to put your request in the application in the form of a detailed question. (year should be mentioned in the application). You can also request for the copy of any official document, which will be charged at Rs.2 per page.
Step 5 – In order to file a request, you should pay Rs.10 by way of cash or money order or bank draft or court stamp fees.
Note – People living below the poverty line are exempt from paying fees, only if proven with a piece of evidence.
Step 6 – Now, at last, you are required to send the application through mail or by going to the office personally.
FAQ – Is there any time limit in which a concerned officer is bound to respond to the request?
According to section 7 of the RTI Act, the concerned officer is bound to provide the requested information within 30 days of the receipt of the request.
Online Mode
Step 1 – Go to the RTI website and click on the ‘Submit Request’ button. ..
Step 2 – After that, a form will appear on your screen asking you to fill the contact details and select the department.
Step 3 – Now you are required to type your request (not more than 3000 characters) or attach a pdf file (not larger than 1 Mb)containing your request.
Step 4 – Pay 10rs. (fees) through net banking or debit card.
Step 5 – You will receive a receipt with a registration number.
Note – You can also make a request via email.
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