Right to Information

Few years back, one used to wonder about the accountability of the government officials. Nobody could question their use or misuse of the public funds. They had unlimited freedom. Result we all know. Finally the government woke up from its slumber and in 2005 the RTI Act was passed. Ever since some responsible citizens of our nation have stepped forward and realized its importance.

RTI is a powerful tool that can get out the information of the public authorities and inturn catch them red handed. Although there are some exceptions regarding the information but its only with the confidential informations. Below i am posting some important details about the RTI process. It is important for us to realize the gravity of the matter and act for the benefit of our nation.

Process to get information under RTI Act

Procedure for requesting information:

1) Apply in writing or through electronic means in English or Hindi or in the official language of the area, to the PIO, specifying the particulars of the information sought for.
2) Reason for seeking information are not required to be given;
3) Pay fees as may be prescribed (if not belonging to the below poverty line category).

Time limit to get the information:

1) 30 days from the date of application
2) 48 hours for information concerning the life or liberty of a person
3) 5 days shall be added to the above response time, in case the application for information is given to Assistant Public Information Officer.
4) If the interests of a third party are involved then time limit will be 40 days (maximum period + time given to the party to make representation).
5) Failure to provide information within the specified period is a deemed refusal.

Fee for getting information:

1) Application fees to be prescribed which must be reasonable.
2) If further fees are required, then the same must be intimated in writing with calculation details of how the figure was arrived at;
3) Applicant can seek review of the decision on fees charged by the PIO by applying to the appropriate Appellate Authority;
4) No fees will be charged from people living below the poverty line
5) Applicant must be provided information free of cost if the PIO fails to comply with the prescribed time limit.

For Application form, click on the link below

http://www.indg.in/Application_Form.pdf

Kindly post your expirience (if any) with the process. It will be really helpful for one and all.