The Right to Information (RTI) Act empowers Indian citizens to request information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability. However, there are instances when your RTI application might not receive a response. This guide will walk you through the steps to take if your RTI query goes unanswered, and also introduce you to the services offered by RTIwala to assist you in this process.
Steps to Take If Your RTI is Not Answered
- Wait for the Mandatory Response Period
- Public authorities are required to respond to an RTI application within 30 days of receipt. In cases concerning life and liberty, the response time is reduced to 48 hours. Ensure that this period has passed before taking further action.
- File a First Appeal
- If you do not receive a response within the stipulated time, you can file a first appeal. This appeal should be submitted within 30 days from the date the response was due. Address it to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the concerned public authority. The FAA is mandated to respond within 30–45 days. RTIwala can assist you in drafting and submitting your first appeal, ensuring it adheres to all necessary guidelines.
- Lodge a Second Appeal
- If the first appeal also goes unanswered or if you are unsatisfied with the response, you can escalate the matter by filing a second appeal. This appeal must be submitted to the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC) within 90 days of the FAA’s decision or the expiry of the response period. RTIwala experts can guide you through this process, providing support and expertise to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
- File a Complaint with the Information Commission
- Besides the second appeal, you can also file a complaint directly with the CIC or SIC under Section 18 of the RTI Act. This is applicable in cases of refusal, delay, incorrect or misleading information, and non-compliance with the Act. With RTIwala, you can ensure that your complaint is comprehensive and correctly filed, increasing the likelihood of it being addressed promptly.
- Seek Legal Recourse
- As a last resort, if all administrative remedies fail, you can approach the judiciary by filing a write petition in the High Court or the Supreme Court. Legal intervention is generally time-consuming and costly, so it is advisable to exhaust all other options first. RTIwala offers access to legal professionals who can assist you with the complexities of the judicial process.
Filing an RTI Online
The process of filing an RTI has become more accessible with the option to file online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Official RTI Portal
- For central government departments, visit the RTI Online portal (https://rtionline.gov.in). For state government departments, visit the respective state’s RTI portal. Instead of dealing with multiple portals and processes, use RTIwala expert solution to file your RTI application quickly and easily.
- Register on the Portal
- Create an account by providing your basic details and contact information.
- Fill in the RTI Application Form
- Provide all necessary information, including your query, the concerned public authority, and personal details. Be clear and specific in your questions to avoid ambiguity. RTIwala online platform can help you draft precise and effective RTI applications, ensuring all required details are included.
- Pay the Application Fee
- Some RTI applications may require a nominal fee for processing. Check the RTI rules in your jurisdiction to determine the applicable fee and payment methods. RTIwala provides an easy payment gateway for your RTI fees, making the process hassle-free.
- Submit the Application
- After completing the form and payment, submit your application. You will receive an acknowledgement and a unique registration number to track your application status. RTIwala streamlined process makes it easy to submit and track your RTI applications online.
RTIwala: Your Partner in RTI Success
Navigating the RTI process can be daunting, especially when facing unresponsive public authorities. RTIwala is here to help. Our services include:
- Expert Guidance: Receive personalized assistance from our team of RTI experts who can help draft precise and effective RTI applications.
- Appeal and Complaint Filing: Get support in filing first and second appeals, as well as complaints with the CIC or SIC.
- Legal Assistance: Access to legal professionals who can guide you through the judicial process if necessary.
- Online RTI Filing: Simplify the RTI filing process with our user-friendly online platform, ensuring your applications are correctly formatted and submitted to the appropriate authorities.
FAQs
Q: How long should I wait for a response to my RTI application?
A: Public authorities are required to respond within 30 days. For matters concerning life and liberty, the response time is 48 hours.
Q: Can I file an RTI application online?
A: Yes, you can file an RTI application online through the official RTI Online portal for central government departments or respective state portals.
Q: What should I do if I don’t receive a response to my RTI application?
A: If you don’t receive a response within the stipulated time, file a first appeal with the FAA. If unsatisfied, you can escalate to a second appeal with the CIC or SIC.
Q: How can RTIwala help me with my RTI application?
A: RTIwala offers expert guidance, support in filing appeals and complaints, legal assistance, and an easy-to-use online RTI filing platform.
Conclusion
Filing an RTI can be an empowering process, but it comes with its challenges. When your RTI goes unanswered, knowing the proper steps to take can make all the difference. RTIwala is dedicated to ensuring your right to information is upheld, providing the tools and expertise needed to navigate the RTI process effectively. Visit RTIwala today and take the first step towards transparency and accountability.
