Table Of Content
Introduction: Facing Issues With Your Bank? RTI Can Help You Get Answers
Did your loan application get rejected without explanation? Or your account was frozen and no one’s telling you why? Maybe you didn’t receive a response on your KYC update or NPA clearance?
In such cases, the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 empowers you to demand clear, timely, and legally mandated answers—especially when dealing with public sector banks. Even with private banks, there are smart legal strategies via RTIwala to hold them accountable indirectly.
This guide walks you through how to file RTI against banks, both public and private, and how RTIwala ensures your RTI is effective and lawfully delivered.
Can You File RTI Against Banks Public & Private Banks?
Yes, but with a distinction:
| Bank Type | RTI Applicable? |
|---|---|
| Public Sector Banks (SBI, PNB, BOI, Canara, etc.) | Yes – Directly covered under RTI Act |
| Private Banks (HDFC, ICICI, Axis, etc.) | No direct RTI, but you can file via RBI or Finance Ministry for indirect accountability |
RTIwala helps route your RTI to the correct public authority based on the nature of your issue—even with private banks.
Common Issues You Can Raise via RTI
For Public Sector Banks:
- Account freeze or KYC delay
- Loan rejection without reason
- Pension credit or salary account issues
- NPA status or foreclosure details
- Delay in locker allotment or branch response
- Staff misbehavior or corruption complaints
- Details of charges, interest rates, and branch-level decisions
For Private Banks (via RBI):
- License/approval-related info
- RBI circular compliance by private bank
- Violation of RBI customer service guidelines
- Complaints pending with Banking Ombudsman
Step-by-Step: How to File RTI Against Banks Public & Private Banks
Step 1: Identify the Correct Authority
| Your Issue | File RTI To |
|---|---|
| Loan issue, account closure, fraud, delay (SBI/PNB etc.) | Bank’s own RTI Officer |
| Complaint against private bank (HDFC, ICICI) | RBI / Department of Financial Services |
| Customer rights violations | Banking Ombudsman + RBI via RTI |
Not sure where to file? RTIwala helps you determine and reach the correct Public Information Officer (PIO).
Step 2: Draft a Clear, Legally Sound RTI Application
Be Specific. Be Neutral. Be Brief.
Example RTI Query for Public Bank:
“Please provide the reason for rejecting loan application No. L1234 dated 10 March 2025 submitted to SBI Bhilai Branch.”
Example RTI Query via RBI for Private Bank:
“Please provide the status and action taken on RBI complaint ID CRN2457 filed against HDFC Bank on 5 Feb 2025 regarding home loan overcharging.”
Use RTIwala Custom Drafting for expert-prepared, legally strong RTI that get results.
Step 3: Submit the RTI Online
Option A: RTIwala Online RTI Filing
- Filed directly to RBI or bank’s RTI Cell
- Covers both Central (RBI) and Bank branches
- Anonymous RTI for whistleblowers or fear of bank retaliation
- Digital, paperless, and 100% support
Option B: Government RTI Portal (For RBI or PSU Banks Only)
- Visit: https://rtionline.gov.in
- Choose the correct department (e.g., RBI, Ministry of Finance, SBI)
- Fill your query
- Pay ₹10 and submit
Use RTIwala if you need help with language, escalation, or unclear jurisdiction.
Step 4: Track, Escalate or File Appeal (If Needed)
- You must receive a reply within 30 days
- If not, file a First Appeal within 30 days
- RTIwala provides reminders, appeal filing support, and follow-up services
List of Banks Covered Directly Under RTI
- State Bank of India (SBI)
- Punjab National Bank (PNB)
- Canara Bank
- Union Bank of India
- Bank of Baroda (BOB)
- Indian Bank
- Bank of India (BOI)
- Central Bank of India
- UCO Bank, Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), etc.
Each of these banks has an RTI Cell or designated PIO at Head Office and Zonal levels.
RTIwala Services to Handle Bank-Related RTI
- Online RTI Filing: Clean, quick, and department-targeted
- Anonymous RTI: For sensitive or risky complaints
- Custom Drafting: Your query, our legal expertise
- Expert Consultation: For case discussion or escalation
- RTI Products & Bundles: For frequent RTI filers
- Affordable RTI Plans: For students, professionals, activists
Expert Tips Before Filing RTI Against Banks
- Keep reference numbers ready (application ID, complaint ID, loan no.)
- Don’t use emotional or threatening language
- Don’t mix issues—one query per RTI application
- Consider Anonymous RTI if the issue is sensitive or risky
Final Word: Make Banks Accountable Using RTI
Banks cannot escape scrutiny—especially when public funds or customer trust is involved. With RTI, you can demand transparency and action within 30 days.
Use RTIwala to file RTI against banks, whether you’re up against SBI, ICICI, HDFC, or even RBI itself. It’s your right. Use it smartly.
