Our Projects

How can I file RTI?

RTI applications can be filed with local, state and national governments. They can also be filed with para-statal bodies such as the MMRDA (Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority), MHADA (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority), SRA (Slum Rehabilitation Authority) and others.

Recently, it was decided that private organizations, implementing public infrastructure projects under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, must provide information if an RTI application is made to them.

To file an RTI application,

1. Find out the public information office (PIO) which will provide you with the information you are seeking. In case you do not know the exact PIO where you can file your application, submit it to the department that generally deals with the issue about which you are seeking information. The provisions of the RTI Act require the department to forward your application to the concerned.
2. Write your name and address in the application clearly so that the PIO knows where to contact you to give you the information.
3. List down your questions as precisely as possible so that there is no ambiguity in interpreting what you are asking for.
4. Explain clearly how you would like to receive the information – by speed post, ordinary registered post, or in person.
5. If you do not belong to the below poverty line (BPL) category, simply state “no”.
6. To complete the application, stick Rs.10 court fee stamp.

The PIO must respond to you within one month of filing the application. After the passage of one month, if no information is forthcoming, then the PIO can be fined for each day thereafter.

If you are not satisfied with the information that the PIO has given to you, you can file an appeal with the appellate authority who in turn, must respond to you within 15 days of filing the appeal. In case the appellate authority fails to satisfy you, you can move an appeal to the State Information Commission (SIC) and eventually, to the Central Information Commission (CIC) in New Delhi.