Table of Contents
- Introduction: What is RTI First Appeal?
- When Can an RTI Applicant File First Appeal?
- Legal Provisions for First Appeal under RTI Act
- Step-by-Step: How to File RTI First Appeal
- Fear Factor: Risks of Ignoring RTI Appeals
- Why File First Appeal with RTIwala?
- Real-Life Examples of RTI First Appeal Cases
- FAQs on RTI First Appeal
- Conclusion: Protect Your Right to Information with RTIwala
1. Introduction: What is RTI First Appeal?
The RTI First Appeal is the next step for an RTI applicant when:
- No reply is received within 30 days.
- The reply is incomplete or misleading.
- Information is wrongly denied.
The Right to Information Act, 2005, gives every citizen the power to appeal before the First Appellate Authority (FAA) if the Public Information Officer (PIO) fails to respond properly.
But here’s the catch: A weak or poorly drafted RTI application or appeal can waste months. This is why most citizens now prefer RTIwala, which ensures expert RTI filing online and appeals without errors.
2. When Can an RTI Applicant File First Appeal?
You can file a First Appeal in these cases:
- No reply within 30 days of filing your RTI application.
- Unsatisfactory reply that doesn’t answer your questions.
- Excessive delay in providing documents.
- Unjust denial citing vague exemptions.
Example: A student filed an RTI to get his university answer sheet. He got a vague reply: “Information not available.” He filed a First Appeal, and within weeks, the certified copy was released.
3. Legal Provisions for First Appeal under RTI Act
- Section 19(1) of the RTI Act, 2005: If the applicant doesn’t get a reply or is dissatisfied, they may appeal to the First Appellate Authority.
- Time Limit: Appeal must be filed within 30 days from the date when the reply should have been received.
- Decision Timeline: The First Appellate Authority must respond within 30–45 days.
Missing these deadlines can cost you your right to information. That’s why timely filing through RTIwala is crucial.
4. Step-by-Step: How to File RTI First Appeal
Step 1: Draft Your Appeal
- Mention your original RTI details (application number, date).
- Clearly state the reasons for dissatisfaction or non-receipt of a reply.
- Quote relevant sections of the RTI Act (Section 19).
Step 2: Address the Correct Authority
The appeal should go to the First Appellate Authority (senior to the PIO).
Step 3: Attach Documents
Include a copy of your RTI application, fee receipt, and the reply (if received).
Step 4: Submit Appeal
- Offline: Post it to the First Appellate Authority.
- Online: The easier way is through RTIwala, where experts draft and file your appeal with zero errors.
Step 5: Track Your Case
You should get a reply in 30–45 days.
Thousands of RTI applicants lose cases because they don’t know how to file RTI appeals properly. With RTIwala, you don’t take that risk.
5. Fear Factor: Risks of Ignoring RTI Appeals
If you don’t file an appeal:
- Authorities can ignore your RTI forever.
- You may lose vital documents (land records, exam sheets, FIR status).
- Corruption may remain hidden.
- Once deadlines pass, your legal right weakens.
Every year, thousands of citizens in online RTI India lose justice because they fail to file appeals correctly. Don’t let this happen to you.
6. Why File First Appeal with RTIwala?
RTIwala acts like your professional RTI advocate:
- Expert Drafting – Appeals with strong legal references.
- Correct Authority Selection – Avoids rejection.
- Timely Filing – No missed deadlines.
- Confidential Filing – Identity protected in sensitive cases.
- Nationwide Service – From Maharashtra to Delhi, you can file an RTI online with ease.
Call: +91-7999-50-6996 now!
File Your RTI First Appeal Online Now
7. Real-Life Examples of RTI First Appeal Cases
- Recruitment Transparency: An aspirant got his MPSC answer sheet only after filing a First Appeal.
- Police FIR Delay: A family filed an RTI for FIR status but got no reply. The First Appeal forced police to release the report.
- Pension Case: A retired employee got pending pension details after his appeal reached the FAA.
These cases prove why filing RTI online with expert help is essential.
8. FAQs on RTI First Appeal
Q1. What is an RTI First Appeal?
It is the process of appealing to the First Appellate Authority when your RTI application is ignored or inadequately answered.
Q2. What is the time limit for filing a First Appeal?
Within 30 days from the date the RTI reply was due.
Q3. Do I need a lawyer for an RTI First Appeal?
Not necessarily, but expert help ensures stronger chances. RTIwala acts as your RTI specialist.
Q4. Can I file a First Appeal online?
Yes, with RTIwala, you can file an RTI online, including First Appeals.
Q5. What if the First Appeal also fails?
You can escalate with a Second Appeal to the Information Commission. RTIwala helps with that, too.
9. Conclusion: Protect Your Right to Information with RTIwala
The RTI First Appeal is your weapon when authorities ignore or deny your RTI. Filing it properly ensures accountability and transparency.
Don’t let deadlines, poor drafting, or wrong authority selection weaken your case.
With RTIwala, you get professional support to file RTIs online, draft appeals, and secure timely replies.
Call: +91-7999-50-6996
Apply for RTI online today.
