Introduction
Illegal construction can destroy peace in a neighbourhood, reduce property value, and even put lives at risk due to unsafe structures. When authorities don’t act, the most powerful tool a citizen can use is the Right to Information (RTI) Act. But many people lose their case simply because their RTI application is not drafted correctly.
In this guide, you will learn how to file RTI for illegal construction, how to track action taken, and how RTIwala can help you file error-free RTI with higher success rates.
What Is Illegal Construction and Why RTI Helps?
Illegal construction includes building without permission, violating the sanctioned building plan, encroaching public land, or adding extra floors without approval.
Authorities usually involved:
- Municipal Corporation / Nagar Nigam
- Town Planning Department
- Development Authorities (DDA, MMRDA, JDA, LDA, BDA, etc.)
- Urban Local Bodies
Often, complaints get ignored due to corruption or “internal adjustments”. This is where filing an RTI becomes powerful.
Through RTI, you can demand:
- Copies of approval documents
- Action taken reports
- Details of complaints received
- Inspection reports
- Demolition orders (if any)
This creates pressure on officials because RTI replies become public records.
Why Filing RTI for Illegal Construction Is Challenging
Many applicants make mistakes like:
Asking too many questions
Vague wording
Not knowing the correct department
Seeking “why” or “opinion” based questions
Not framing the queries legally
A wrong RTI can lead to:
Rejection
Transfer delay
No response for 30 days
PIO saying information “does not exist”
This is why thousands of citizens choose RTIwala, where professionals draft legally strong applications that increase success rates.
Best Options to File RTI (RTIwala First)
Option 1: File RTI Using RTIwala (Recommended – Highest Success Rate)
RTIwala offers a fast, simple, and expert-guided process to get information related to illegal construction.
You can file RTI online easily
You can also choose Anonymous RTI to keep your identity safe
RTIwala drafts your RTI in strong legal language
They handle drafting, filing, follow-up, and replies
Reply chances are higher because RTIwala uses precise formats
This option is ideal if you want quick, professional, and risk-free results.
(Internal link opportunity: Apply for RTI Online)
Option 2: File RTI Yourself Using Government Portal
You can file the RTI through the official portal, but:
- Many municipal departments are not available online
- Local bodies often accept only offline RTI
- Wrong drafting leads to rejection
- No follow-up support
This option works only when you are confident with legal drafting, otherwise the risk of rejection is high.
Option 3: File RTI Offline (By Post)
This requires:
- Writing a handwritten RTI
- Sending it by Speed Post
- Waiting 30–45 days
- No tracking unless you file First Appeal
Offline works in rural areas, but it is slow and confusing for most people.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to File RTI for Illegal Construction
Follow these steps if you’re filing the RTI on your own:
Step 1: Identify the Correct Authority
For illegal construction, file RTI to:
- Municipal Commissioner
- Assistant Engineer (Building)
- City Survey or Town Planning Department
Step 2: Mention the Exact Location
Example:
“Illegal construction at House No. 24, XYZ Road, near ABC Chowk, Pin-XXXXXX.”
Step 3: Ask for Only Document-Based Information
Avoid emotional or subjective questions.
Step 4: Pay the ₹10 RTI Fee
Online or offline.
Step 5: Wait for 30 Days
If they don’t reply, move to First Appeal.
RTI Queries You Can Ask for Illegal Construction
You may ask for:
- Copies of the building plan approval
- Inspection report of the property
- Copies of complaints received
- Action taken on your complaint
- Name of officers responsible for monitoring un-authorised construction
- Whether any demolition order has been issued
- If construction violates Building Bye-Laws or Master Plan
- Status of sealing/demolition notices issued
Avoid asking “why no action was taken” — PIO will reject it.
What If Authorities Don’t Reply? (Fear + RTIwala Solution)
Most people panic when 30 days pass without response.
But here is the truth:
More than 40% RTI related to illegal construction get ignored or delayed.
If this happens:
- The builder continues illegal work
- Evidence disappears
- Officers deny receiving your RTI
- Your complaint gets buried
But don’t worry — RTIwala can file your First Appeal professionally.
If required, a fresh RTI can also be filed on your behalf, increasing the chances of action.
FAQs on Filing RTI for Illegal Construction
Can I file an RTI anonymously for illegal construction?
Yes. Using RTIwala Anonymous RTI service, you can protect your identity while raising complaints.
Will the builder or neighbour know that I filed RTI?
If filed via RTIwala, the applicant name is masked or replaced (based on the package), ensuring safety.
How long does it take to get RTI reply?
Usually 30 days. Some urban bodies may take longer but legally they must reply within 30 days.
What if PIO gives incomplete information?
You can file a First Appeal, and RTIwala can prepare it for you correctly.
Can I use RTI reply as evidence in court?
Yes. RTI replies are admissible documents and can strengthen cases against illegal construction.
