Step wise process to file an RTI application online

Introduction

Right to Information (RTI) is an act of the Parliament of India which sets out the rules and procedures regarding right of citizens to information. RTI is inherent in democratic functioning and a precondition to good governance. The main objectives of the law on RTI are:

To operationalize the fundamental right to information
To set up systems and mechanisms that facilitate people’s easy access to information
To promote transparency and accountability in governance
To minimize corruption and inefficiency in public offices
To ensure people’s participation in governance and decision making

Important Features of the Right to Information Act, 2005:

Every citizen possesses the right to information.
Information includes any mode of information in any form of record, document, email, circular, press release, contract sample or electronic data etc.
RTI covers inspection of work, document, record and its certified copy and information in any other electronic mode.
Applicant can obtain information within 30 days from the date of request in a normal case.
Information can be obtained within 48 hours from time of filing the request if it is a matter of life or liberty of a person.
Every public authority is under obligation to provide information on written request or request by electronic means. Certain information is prohibited for security reasons.
No Court can entertain any suit, application or other proceedings in respect of any order made under the Act.

What are the Steps to file an application under RTI?

1.An applicant who desires to obtain any information under the RTI Act can make a request through Web Portal – rtionline.gov.in to the Ministries/Departments of Government of India.

2. On clicking at “Submit Request”, the applicant has to read all the guidelines and select ‘I have read and understood the above guidelines’ and select Submit.

3. Fill the required details on the page that will appear. The fields marked * are mandatory.

4. The text of the application may be written at the prescribed column.

5. At present, the text of an application that can be uploaded at the prescribed column is confined to 3000 characters only. In case an application contains more than 3000 characters, it can be uploaded as an attachment, by using column “Supporting document”.

6. After filling the first page, the applicant has to click on “Make Payment” to make payment of the prescribed fee.

7. The applicant can pay the prescribed fee through the following modes:

a. Internet banking through SBI;

b. Using credit/debit card of Master/Visa;

c. Using RuPay Card.

8. After making payment of the fees , an application can be submitted.

9. No RTI fee is required to be paid by any citizen who is below poverty line. However, the applicant must attach a copy of the certificate issued by the appropriate government in this regard, along with the application

10. On submission of an application, a unique registration number would be issued, which may be referred by the applicant for any references in future.

11. The application filed through this Web Portal would reach electronically to the “Nodal Officer” of concerned Ministry/Department, who would transmit the RTI application electronically to the concerned CPIO (Central Public Information Office).

12. In case additional fee is required representing the cost for providing information, the CPIO would intimate the applicant through this portal. This intimation can be seen by the applicant through Status Report or through his/her e-mail alert.

13. For making an appeal to the first Appellate Authority, the applicant has to click at “Submit First Appeal” and fill up the page that will appear.

14. The registration number of original application has to be used for reference.

15. As per RTI Act, no fee has to be paid for first appeal.

16. The applicant/the appellant should submit his/her mobile number to receive SMS alert.

17. Status of the RTI application/first appeal filed online can be seen by the applicant/appellant by clicking at “View Status”.