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Right to Information (RTI): how to file an application and appeal

In short: any citizen can ask a government office or public authority for information under the Right to Information Act, 2005, without giving a reason. The fee is ₹10 for central authorities (states set their own; free for people below the poverty line). The reply is due in 30 days, or 48 hours where life or liberty is involved. If there is no reply or an unsatisfactory one, file a first appeal, then a second appeal to the Information Commission.

How to file an RTI

  1. Identify the public authority that holds the information.
  2. Write clear, specific questions asking for records: copies of files, file notings, the status of your application, inspection of documents.
  3. File it online (rtionline.gov.in for central government bodies; many states have their own portals) or by post to the Public Information Officer (PIO), with the fee.
  4. Keep proof of filing and the registration number.

Time limits and exemptions

  • 30 days for the reply; 48 hours where it concerns a person's life or liberty; 35 days where filed through an assistant PIO.
  • Information may be refused only under the exemptions in Section 8, such as national security, cabinet papers before a decision, and personal information unrelated to public activity.
  • Copying charges may be asked for, with a breakdown.

Appeals

  • First appeal to the First Appellate Authority in the same office, within 30 days of the reply or of the deadline passing.
  • Second appeal or complaint to the Central or State Information Commission within 90 days of the first appeal decision. The Commission can order disclosure and impose a penalty of ₹250 per day, up to ₹25,000, on a PIO who refused without reason.

Questions people ask

How do I file an RTI online?

For central government bodies, use rtionline.gov.in: register, choose the ministry or department, type your questions, and pay ₹10 online. Many states have their own RTI portals.

What if I do not get a reply to my RTI in 30 days?

File a first appeal with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days of the deadline. If that fails, go to the Information Commission.

Can I use RTI to get the status of my police complaint or file?

Yes. You can ask for the status of your application, copies of action taken and file notings, subject to the exemptions, for example where disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation.

Can NRIs file RTI applications?

The Act gives the right to citizens of India. NRIs who are Indian citizens can file online, paying the fee electronically.

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This guide gives general information about the law in India as on 11 November 2026. It is not legal advice for your situation, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Rules and limits change; please take advice on your own facts.