Introduction
The Right to Information Act, simply known as RTI, is a revolutionary Act that came into existence in 2005. The aim of the RTI Act is to promote transparency in government institutions in India.
By virtue of this Act, any person can demand information from government authorities. All government agencies, whether they are under a state government or the Centre, come under the purview of the Act.
As per law, the RTI information must be provided within 30 days. Upon delay, PIO concerned is mandated to send written intimation about the possible delay and the reason. If he/she fails to do so and the information is not received within 30 days, a penalty can be imposed on the PIO.
Procedure to file RTI
➢ Write the application (or get it typed) on a paper in English/Hindi/the official language of the state. Few states have prescribed formats for RTI applications.
➢ Address the application to the PIO (Public Information Officer) of the department concerned.
➢ Clearly write the full name, contact details and address where the information/response RTI is to be sent.
➢ Advisable to send it via registered post so as to have proof of delivery. Take acknowledgement if the application is submitted in person.
➢ If in doubt, take the help of a professional lawyer.
List of some of the government agencies covered under the RTI Act:
➢ Municipal Corporations
➢ PSUs (Public Sector Units)
➢ Government departments
➢ Ministries at the State as well as Central level
➢ Judiciary
➢ Government-owned Companies
➢ Government Universities
➢ Government Schools
➢ Works Departments
➢ Road Authorities
➢ Provident Fund department etc.
Some of the personal issues that can be addressed by filing an RTI:
➢ Delayed PF withdrawal
➢ Delayed PF Transfer
➢ Delayed Passport
➢ Pending Income Tax return
➢ Delayed Aadhar card
➢ Delayed IRCTC Refund
➢ Copies of answer sheets
➢ Property Documents like Occupancy Certificate / Completion Certificate
➢ Status of FIR
➢ Status of EPF