Understanding the RTI Act
The Right to Information Act, 2005 empowers every Indian citizen to demand transparency from public authorities
📜What is RTI?
The Right to Information Act, 2005 is a landmark law that gives every citizen of India the right to request information from any public authority. The Act mandates timely response to citizen requests for government information. It was passed by Parliament on 15 June 2005 and came fully into force on 12 October 2005.
30
Days to respond
₹10
Application fee
₹250
Penalty per day for delay
👤Who Can File RTI?
Any Indian Citizen
No age, education, or gender restriction
No reason required
You don't need to explain why you want info
Any public authority
Central, State, and Local government bodies
BPL applicants
Below Poverty Line applicants are exempt from fees
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing RTI
Identify the Information
Clearly define what government records, documents, or data you need. Avoid asking 'Why?' questions — instead, ask for records and documents.
Find the Right PIO
Every government department has a designated Public Information Officer (PIO). Use our PIO Lookup tool to find the correct one.
Write the Application
Address it to the PIO, cite Section 6 of the RTI Act, and clearly list the information you seek. RTI Mitra AI does this for you automatically.
Pay the Fee (₹10)
Attach a ₹10 Indian Postal Order or Court Fee Stamp. BPL card holders are exempt from this fee.
Send via Registered Post
Send the application via Registered Post or Speed Post to get a tracking receipt as proof. Or use our Full Service to handle this.
Wait for Response (30 Days)
The PIO must respond within 30 days. If life/liberty is concerned, the response must come within 48 hours.
File First Appeal if Needed
If unsatisfied or no response received, file a First Appeal with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file RTI online?
Yes, for central government departments you can file at rtionline.gov.in. For state departments, some states have online portals. RTI Mitra handles both online and physical filing.
What if the PIO doesn't respond in 30 days?
You can file a First Appeal with the First Appellate Authority. If still unsatisfied, you can approach the Information Commission. The PIO can be penalized ₹250 per day of delay.
Can I file RTI for any state from anywhere?
Yes! You can file an RTI application for any state/central government body from anywhere in India. The application is addressed to the PIO of that department.
Is ₹10 the only fee?
₹10 is the application fee. Additional charges may apply for photocopies (₹2/page) or inspection of records. BPL card holders are fully exempt.
Can I file RTI in my local language?
Yes, you can file in Hindi, English, or the official language of the state. RTI Mitra supports Marathi, Hindi, and English.
What information is exempt from RTI?
Information affecting national security, trade secrets, cabinet papers, and personal information that has no public interest is generally exempt under Section 8 of the Act.
Key Sections of RTI Act, 2005
Section 3
Right to Information — every citizen has the right
Section 6
How to make a request for information
Section 7
Disposal of request — 30 day timeline
Section 8
Exemptions from disclosure
Section 19
Appeal process and procedure
Section 20
Penalties for non-compliance (₹250/day)
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