Table Of Content
Introduction
You filed an RTI hoping for answers.
But 30 days passed… and there’s no reply, or worse—a vague, incomplete response.
Frustrated? Don’t be.
Under the Right to Information Act, 2005, you have the legal right to appeal against delayed, denied, or unsatisfactory replies—through a structured and time-bound process.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the RTI appeal procedure—step by step—including First Appeal, Second Appeal, and how RTIwala can help you fight your case smartly, quickly, and effectively.
When Do You File an RTI Appeal?
You can file an RTI Appeal in these cases:
- No reply within 30 days of filing
- Incomplete or misleading reply
- Denied information without proper reason
- Wrong transfer of your RTI to irrelevant departments
- Exemption cited that doesn’t apply to your question
RTI Appeal Levels Explained
The RTI Act provides two levels of appeal:
| Appeal Type | Filed To | When To File | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Appeal | First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the same department | Within 30 days from RTI reply or after 30 days of no reply | FAA orders PIO to re-send or revise reply |
| Second Appeal | Central/State Information Commission (CIC/SIC) | Within 90 days from FAA’s decision or no action | Legally binding order issued, can summon officials |
Step-by-Step: How to File an RTI First Appeal
Step 1: Wait for 30 Days (Or RTI Reply)
The PIO has 30 days to respond. If they don’t, or give an unsatisfactory reply, you can initiate the appeal.
Step 2: Draft a Strong First Appeal
Include:
- Your original RTI application
- RTI reply received (if any)
- Grounds for appeal (delayed/no/incomplete response)
- Clear demand: “Provide the requested information within 15 days”
Step 3: Send It to the First Appellate Authority
Mode:
- Post/Email (Offline RTI)
- RTI Portal (For central RTIs at rtionline.gov.in)
Timeline: File within 30 days of receiving the reply (or from the date when reply was due)
What If the First Appeal Fails? File a Second Appeal
If the FAA does not respond within 45 days, or gives an unsatisfactory decision, you can file a Second Appeal.
Second Appeal Filing Details:
- To: Central or State Information Commission (based on authority type)
- Include:
- Copy of RTI application
- Copy of First Appeal
- Any reply received
- Clear explanation of why the appeal is being filed
- Timeline: Within 90 days of First Appeal decision
The Information Commission may:
- Summon officials
- Impose penalties on the PIO
- Order complete disclosure
Challenges People Face in RTI Appeals
- Don’t know where or how to file
- Draft vague appeals that get ignored
- Miss deadlines
- Face legal terms and technicalities
- Feel scared or uncertain in sensitive cases
That’s where RTIwala becomes your expert legal partner.
How RTIwala Helps You Win RTI Appeals
RTIwala has helped thousands of users successfully appeal when their RTI was ignored or denied.
RTIwala Offers:
- Expert Drafting of First and Second Appeals
- Filing to the correct Appellate Authority
- Follow-up Add-ons to track and push for resolution
- Anonymous option for sensitive issues
- Faster resolution through professionally written appeals
RTIwala Services for RTI Appeals
Online RTI
Start with a strong RTI if you haven’t filed yet.
Custom Drafting
Let RTIwala’s legal experts draft your First or Second Appeal for maximum impact.
Expert Consultation
Not sure how to proceed? Speak directly with RTI professionals.
Anonymous RTI
Appeal safely without revealing your identity in risky matters.
RTIwala Products
Explore complete RTI and Appeal service packages with fast delivery and support.
Sample First Appeal Format
To:
The First Appellate Authority,
[Name of Department]
[Office Address]Subject: First Appeal under Section 19(1) of the RTI Act, 2005
Sir/Madam,
I filed an RTI application dated [DD/MM/YYYY] requesting information on [topic]. I have not received a reply within 30 days / the reply received is unsatisfactory.
I hereby file this First Appeal seeking complete and correct information as per my RTI application.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[RTI Application Number]
[Contact Info]
Final Thoughts
Filing an RTI is powerful—but appealing against a bad or delayed reply is even more powerful. It shows that you’re serious, aware of your rights, and ready to hold the system accountable.
🛡️ Don’t let silence win. If your RTI was ignored or mishandled, file an appeal with RTIwala and take the next legal step with confidence.
