How to File a Complaint Under the Right to Information (RTI) Act: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, enacted in 2005, empowers Indian citizens to seek information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability in governance. If you believe that your request for information has not been addressed appropriately or you have any grievance against the functioning of the RTI Act, you can file a complaint. This guide provides a step-by-step process on how to do so.

Step 1: Understand the RTI Act

Before filing a complaint, familiarize yourself with the key provisions of the RTI Act. It is designed to:

• Provide a mechanism for citizens to request information from public authorities.
• Promote transparency and accountability in the functioning of government bodies.

Step 2: Identify the Issue

Determine the nature of your complaint. Common reasons for filing a complaint include:

• Non-receipt of information within the stipulated time frame.
• Incomplete or unsatisfactory response from the Public Information Officer (PIO).
• Denial of information without valid reasons.
• Failure to appoint a PIO or Appellate Authority.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Collect any relevant documents that support your complaint, such as:

• A copy of the RTI application you submitted.
• Any correspondence with the PIO, including responses received (if any).
• Details of the PIO and the department involved.

Step 4: Draft Your Complaint

Write a clear and concise complaint. Your complaint should include:

• Your name and contact information.
• A statement of the facts of the case, including the details of your RTI application and the response (if any).
• A description of the grievance.
• Any supporting documents you wish to attach.

Step 5: Submit Your Complaint

You can file your complaint in two ways:

Option 1: Online Submission

1. Visit the RTI Online Portal: Go to the official RTI online portal rtionline.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the Complaint Section: Look for the section related to complaints or grievances.
3. Fill Out the Online Form: Enter the required details and attach any supporting documents.
4. Submit: After verifying the information, submit your complaint.

Option 2: Offline Submission

1. Prepare a Written Complaint: Write your complaint on a plain paper, as per the format mentioned above.
2. Address Your Complaint: Send it to the Central or State Information Commission, depending on the department involved. You can find the addresses on the respective commission’s website.
3. In-person Submission: You can also submit the complaint in person at the office of the Information Commission.

Step 6: Acknowledge Receipt

After submitting your complaint, ensure you receive an acknowledgment (if submitting offline) or a confirmation email (if submitting online). This will serve as proof of your complaint.

Step 7: Follow Up

If you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, you may follow up with the Commission. You can check the status of your complaint on the respective commission’s website.

Important Points to Remember

• Timeframe for Filing: Complaints can be filed within 90 days of the occurrence of the issue.
• No Fee for Complaints: There is no fee for filing a complaint under the RTI Act.
• Confidentiality: The identity of the complainant is kept confidential to protect against any potential harassment.

Conclusion

The Right to Information Act is a powerful tool for citizens to hold public authorities accountable. By following these steps, you can effectively file a complaint and ensure that your concerns are addressed. For more information on the RTI Act and the complaint process, visit the Central Information Commission website.