What is RTI? What is the full form of RTI?
RTI stands for Right to Information, It is a law that allows any citizen of India to request and obtain information from public authorities, such as government departments, agencies, or institutions. It was started in 2005. RTI aims to promote transparency, accountability, and democracy in the functioning of the public sector.
How Right to Information Works
It works by empowering citizens to file applications or appeals to seek information from public authorities, who are obliged to respond within a specified time limit. The information sought should be related to the public interest and not violate the privacy or security of any individual or group. The information should also be available in the records of the public authority and not require any new processing or analysis.
How to File an RTI?
The process of filing an RTI application is simple and easy. The applicant has to follow these steps:
To file an RTI application, one can either use the online portal (https://rtionline.gov.in)
OR
Can submit a written request to the concerned public authority. By following the below Steps :
Step 1: Identify the public authority that holds the information you need. You can use the online directory of public authorities on the RTI website to find the relevant authority.
Step 2: Write or type your application in English, Hindi, or the official language of the state or union territory where the public authority is located. You can use the sample format of the RTI application provided on the RTI website or create your format.
Step 3: Your application should contain the following details: Your name, address, and contact details. The name and address of the public authority, The information sought, along with the reason for seeking it, if any.
Step 4: The fee payment details, if applicable, Pay the prescribed fee of Rs. 10, which can be paid by cash, demand draft, postal order, or online mode. However, no fee is required for applicants who belong to the below poverty line (BPL) category, provided they submit proof of their BPL status.
Step 5: Submit your application to the public information officer (PIO) of the public authority, either in person, by post, or by email. You can find the contact details of the PIOs on the RTI website or on the public website of the public authority. You should also keep a copy of your application and the receipt of the fee payment for future reference.
Step 6: Wait for the response from the PIO, which should be given within 30 days of receiving your application. If you do not receive a response within 30 days, or if you are not satisfied with the response, you can file an appeal to the first appellate authority (FAA) of the public authority, within 30 days of the expiry of the time limit or the receipt of the response.
Step 7. If you are still not satisfied with the decision of the FAA, you can file a second appeal to the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC), as the case may be, within 90 days of the receipt of the decision of the FAA.
Some of the unique points of RTI are:
- It covers all levels of government, from the central to the local, as well as constitutional bodies, statutory bodies, and non-governmental organizations that receive public funds.
- It imposes penalties on public authorities who fail to provide information within the stipulated time or provide false or incomplete information.
- It exempts certain information from disclosure, such as information that affects the sovereignty, integrity, or security of India, information that relates to personal matters or trade secrets, information that infringes the intellectual property rights of others, and information that has been expressly forbidden by a court or tribunal.
- It allows citizens to inspect the documents, records, or works of the public authority, or take samples of materials from them, subject to the payment of additional fees.
- It enables citizens to seek information in the form and language of their choice, as far as possible.
- It protects the identity and interests of the applicants and the informants and prohibits any discrimination or harassment against them.
- It encourages proactive disclosure of information by public authorities through various means, such as websites, publications, notice boards, etc.
- It promotes public awareness and education about RTI and its benefits and provides for the training of public officials and information commissioners on RTI matters.
- It empowers citizens to participate in the governance and decision-making processes of the public sector and to hold the public authorities accountable for their actions and performance.
Conclusion
RTI is a revolutionary law that gives citizens the right to know and the power to question. It is a tool that can transform the relationship between the government and the people, and foster a culture of openness, responsiveness, and accountability. RTI can also enhance the quality of democracy, development, and justice in the country. However, RTI is not a magic wand that can solve all the problems of the public sector. It is a means to an end, not an end in itself. RTI can only be effective if the citizens use it responsibly and constructively, and if the public authorities implement it sincerely and efficiently. Therefore, every citizen and every public official has to respect, protect, and promote RTI, and make it a way of life.
Also Read HOW TO FILE RTI IN ARMY
“Do you belong to the Indian Armed Forces, either as a veteran or a serving personnel? Do you want to exercise your right to information under the Act 2005? Do you have any queries or complaints related to your service, benefits, pension, or any other matter?If yes, then you have come to the right place. We at The ESM CORNER offer RTI filing and appeal filing services for Indian armed forces veterans and serving personnel. We help you to submit your right to information requests and appeals to the appropriate authorities simply and quickly. We also provide you with assistance and support throughout the process.Whether you want to know about the rules, regulations, policies, Entitlements, pension, disability, or procedures of the Indian armed forces, or you want to seek redressal of your grievances, we can help you to get the information you need. All you need to do is fill out a short form, pay a small fee, and wait for the response. We will handle the rest.So, don't delay. Start your RTI journey with us today and claim your right to information. We are here to serve you and empower you with knowledge.”
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