How to File RTI in India for Any Government Department: A Practical Guide for 2025

As a practicing woman lawyer in India, I’ve seen the Right to Information (RTI) Act empower citizens to hold authorities accountable, access public records, and resolve long-pending issues without litigation. If the goal is to obtain certified documents, track project progress, or understand how decisions were made, the RTI application process in India is a precise, lawful, and effective tool—especially now that most departments accept online RTI filings.

Empowering citizens: Raise your voice with the Right to Information and demand transparency from every government department.

What You Can Ask Under RTI

• Certified copies of records, circulars, orders, memos, contracts, reports.

• Status updates on applications, tenders, projects, and public schemes.

• Inspection of records and taking notes/copies.

• Reasons and file notings behind administrative decisions (except exempted matters).

Note: RTI cannot be used to ask for opinions, ask questions that require creating new data, or seek personal information without public interest. Matters affecting national security, trade secrets, and ongoing investigations are exempt.

Where and How to File RTI (Central and State)

• Central Government ministries/departments: File via the official RTI Online portal (look for “Submit RTI Request”).

• State Governments: Most states have dedicated RTI portals (e.g., Tamil Nadu, Assam, Gujarat, Delhi). If the online option isn’t available, send a physical application by post to the department’s Public Information Officer (PIO).

Tip: Identify the exact public authority that holds the record. If in doubt, check the department’s proactive disclosure page (Section 4 of the RTI Act) listing PIO details, subjects handled, and contact information.

Step-by-Step: Filing Your RTI Online

1. Create an account on the relevant RTI portal.

2. Choose “Submit RTI Request” and select the correct public authority.

3. Clearly describe the information needed. Use bullets, date ranges, file numbers, and document names.

4. Attach supporting files (if any)—identity proof is not mandatory, but BPL applicants must upload proof for fee exemption.

5. Pay the application fee (typically ₹10) via UPI, cards, net banking. BPL applicants are exempt.

6. Submit and note the registration number for tracking.

Timelines You Should Know

• PIO must respond within 30 days of receipt.

• Life and liberty matters: 48 hours.

• If the application is transferred (wrong authority), the 30-day clock runs from receipt by the correct authority.

• First Appeal: File within 30 days of an unsatisfactory or no response.

• Second Appeal/Complaint: To the Information Commission if the First Appeal fails.

Fees and Additional Charges

• Application fee: ₹10 (exempt for BPL).

• Photocopies: usually ₹2 per page.

• Inspection: often free for the first hour, nominal fees thereafter.

• Electronic records (PDF, CD): charged as per department rules.Always pay only against an official receipt.

How to Write an Effective RTI That Gets Results

• Be specific: “Certified copy of the sanction order dated DD/MM/YYYY for Project X under Scheme Y.”

• Narrow the time frame: “from 01/04/2023 to 31/03/2025.”

• Ask for existing records, not explanations or “why.”

• Use serially numbered points. One subject per application is best.

• Request format: “Kindly provide in PDF via email.” This reduces copying charges and delays.

• If unsure where to file, include: “If the information pertains to another public authority, kindly transfer under Section 6(3) within 5 days.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing to the wrong authority (verify the custodian of records).

• Vague questions like “Why haven’t you done X?”

• Clubbing multiple departments in one RTI.

• Missing the First Appeal window after no response.

• Not saving the acknowledgment/registration number.

What If Your RTI Is Ignored or Refused?

• No response in 30 days, incomplete information, or unjustified denial: File a First Appeal to the Appellate Authority of the same department. Cite your RTI registration number, date, and grounds (delay, vague reply, wrongful exemption).

• Still unresolved: File a Second Appeal or Complaint before the Central or State Information Commission, as applicable.

• For persistent delays, seek a direction for disclosure and, where appropriate, penalty proceedings under Section 20 against the PIO.

Sensitive and Exempt Information

Exemptions under Section 8 include:

• National security, strategic interests, Cabinet papers until decisions are made, personal information with no public interest, trade/commercial secrets, and information that would impede investigations.However, if larger public interest outweighs harm, disclosure may be ordered. Also, once an investigation is complete, certain records become accessible.

Pro Tips From Practice

• Keep the tone neutral and professional. RTI is not a grievance tool; it’s a records-access mechanism.

• Use previous RTI replies to refine subsequent queries.

• For scheme benefits, ask for beneficiary lists, eligibility norms, and fund utilization certificates.

• For municipal/property issues, request certified copies of approvals, maps, mutation records, and NOCs.

• Track deadlines with calendar reminders to avoid missing appeals.

Final Word

The RTI Act is one of India’s most powerful accountability frameworks—when used correctly, it can unlock answers that stall files, clarify decisions, and empower citizens. If drafting, identifying the right authority, or appealing feels complex, professional guidance can save time and ensure compliance with procedure and timelines.

Need expert assistance with drafting, filing, or appeals? As a seasoned woman lawyer, I bring both rigorous legal expertise and a client-first approach to help secure the information lawfully and efficiently. Contact us via advocatenikita.com, and let’s get your RTI application right the first time.