In a country as complex as India, getting simple answers from government offices can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle.
The Right to Information Act, 2005, makes that process much easier. It gives every citizen the legal right to request information from public authorities and get a response within a specific timeframe.
Whether it’s about your delayed passport, a local construction project, or the use of public funds, RTI is your tool for transparency.
Under Section 6(1) of the RTI Act, a citizen can make a request in writing or electronically to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the concerned department. You don’t need to explain why you want the information—only what you want.
This section forms the backbone of your ability to question the system and demand clarity.
If you prefer the traditional route, filing an RTI offline is fairly simple. You can write the application on plain paper. There’s no fixed format, but your request must be specific. Address the application to the PIO of the relevant department and clearly mention your name, contact details, and the exact information you seek.
Along with the application, attach a fee of ₹10—this can be paid through an Indian Postal Order, demand draft, court fee stamp, or even cash in some cases. Once ready, the application can be submitted in person or sent by Speed Post.
Remember to keep a copy of your application and the payment receipt for reference.
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Write your RTI request clearly on plain paper |
| 2 | Address it to the relevant Public Information Officer (PIO) |
| 3 | Attach ₹10 application fee (Postal Order/Stamp/Cash/DD) |
| 4 | Send via post or submit in person at the concerned office |
For those comfortable with the digital route, the Central Government offers an online portal at https://rtionline.gov.in. Once you’re on the site, click on “Submit Request,” fill in your name and contact details, choose the ministry or department, and write your questions in the text box.
You can pay the ₹10 fee online via UPI, net banking, debit card, or credit card. After submission, you’ll receive a registration number which you should save for future tracking.
| Online RTI Steps | Platform Details |
|---|---|
| Visit rtionline.gov.in | Official RTI portal for Central Government |
| Fill personal and departmental details | Name, contact, relevant ministry/department |
| Write your RTI request | Be clear and focused |
| Pay fee digitally | UPI, net banking, debit/credit card |
| Submit and save acknowledgment number | For tracking and follow-up |
Want to make sure your question won’t get rejected? Read our guide on What You Can and Cannot Ask Under RTI.
Keep in mind, each state government may also have its own RTI filing portals for state-level queries, like those related to municipalities, local police stations, or public schools.
Some states, however, still do not offer online filing and accept only physical applications.
The legal deadline for receiving a reply is 30 days from the date your application reaches the Public Information Officer, as per Section 7(1) of the Act. If the request concerns someone’s life or liberty, the reply must be given within 48 hours.
If you don’t receive a reply, or if the reply is unsatisfactory, don’t worry—you have the right to file a first appeal within 30 days of the lapse.
Read next: What to Do If You Don’t Get a Reply to Your RTI – Your Next Legal Step.
Once your RTI application is submitted, the process is governed by Section 7 of the RTI Act, 2005.
According to the law, the Public Information Officer (PIO) must reply within 30 days from the date of receipt. If the RTI concerns the life or liberty of a person, the deadline is reduced to 48 hours.
The reply will usually come in writing, either by post or email (if mentioned). You may receive:
- The exact information requested,
- A rejection with reasons (if your query falls under any of the exemptions in Section 8 or 9),
- Or a partial response with redactions, depending on the content.
If your application is transferred to another department under Section 6(3), you will be informed, and the 30-day period will start from the day it reaches the correct authority.
If you do not receive a reply within the time limit or the response is unsatisfactory, you have the right to file a First Appeal under Section 19(1) within 30 days.
The appeal must be addressed to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the same department. It’s a simple process—no extra fee is required.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you learn How to File a First Appeal Under RTI Act.
If you’re still not satisfied after the first appeal, you can escalate the matter to the State or Central Information Commission under Section 19(3), which is the final stage of appeal.
It’s also worth noting that if the PIO fails to reply without reasonable cause, they can face a penalty of ₹250 per day under Section 20—up to a maximum of ₹25,000.
Lastly, remember that while RTI is a powerful tool, it’s not meant for complaints or service requests. If your issue requires action (like fixing a road or restoring electricity), a grievance portal might be more suitable.
Confused about which to use? Read our blog on RTI vs Grievance Portal – Which One Should You Use?
FAQs
1. What if I get no reply within 30 days?
You can file a first appeal within 30 days of the lapse.
2. Do I need to pay again for the first appeal?
No, filing a first appeal is free of cost.
3. Can I send the first appeal by email?
Some departments allow it. Otherwise, send it by post or submit in person.
4. Will I get a refund if my RTI is rejected?
No, the ₹10 application fee is non-refundable.
5. Can I ask multiple questions in one RTI?
Yes, but keep it focused. Too many unrelated questions may lead to rejection.
