How to get information from rti online?
As someone who's filed numerous RTIs both online and offline, here are some practical insights:
Which departments are covered online: Currently, the RTI Online portal covers most central government ministries and departments. For state government information, you'll need to check if your state has its own online portal (many do now).
Alternative platforms: While the official portal is best, you can also use: - State RTI portals (like Mahartionline for Maharashtra) - Third-party services like RTI India or OnlineRTI (they charge a small fee but help with drafting)
Drafting effective RTI applications: - Ask specific, answerable questions - instead of "why is there corruption?" ask "please provide copies of all contracts awarded to XYZ company in 2023" - Use numbered questions for clarity - Reference relevant laws or rules if applicable - Keep it concise - officers are more likely to respond to well-drafted applications
What to expect: - 30 days is the standard response time - If information isn't provided, you can file first appeal online - Some information may be denied under exemption clauses
I recently helped a friend file an RTI about railway reservation rules - we got a detailed response within 25 days. The system works surprisingly well when used properly!
Remember: RTI is a powerful tool for transparency, but use it responsibly. Don't file frivolous applications that waste public resources.
Filing RTI (Right to Information) applications online has become much easier in recent years. Here's how to do it:
Official Portal: The primary website is RTI Online - this is the Government of India's official platform for filing RTI applications to central government departments.
Step-by-step process: 1. Register on the portal with your basic details and mobile number 2. Login and click "Submit Request" 3. Select the Ministry/Department you want information from 4. Write your application - be specific about the information you need 5. Pay the fee - ₹10 for most applications, payable online 6. Submit and note your registration number
What you'll need: - Valid mobile number for OTP verification - Email address - Specific details about the information you're seeking - Digital payment method (credit/debit card, net banking)
Important tips: - Be clear and specific in your questions - vague applications may be rejected - Keep your application under 500 words - You can check status anytime using your registration number - First appeal can also be filed online if you're not satisfied with the response
The system is quite user-friendly now. I've filed 3-4 RTIs through this portal and received responses within the mandated 30 days in most cases. Much better than the old paper-based system!
I want to add some important legal aspects and limitations that others haven't mentioned:
Who can file RTI: - Any citizen of India - unfortunately, NRIs sometimes face issues with verification - No reason needed - you don't have to justify why you want the information
Cost structure: - Application fee: ₹10 for central government, states may have different fees - Additional costs: You may be charged for photocopies (₹2/page) or inspection of documents
Limitations: - Not all information is disclosable - there are exemptions for national security, personal privacy, etc. - Some organizations are exempt - intelligence agencies, certain defense establishments - Information that doesn't exist - the Public Information Officer isn't required to create new information
State RTI portals: Many states now have their own online systems: - Maharashtra: mahartionline.maharashtra.gov.in - Karnataka: karnataka.gov.in/rti - Tamil Nadu: tn.gov.in/rti
Pro tip: Before filing RTI, check if the information is already available in the public domain or through proactive disclosure that many departments now maintain.
The RTI Act has been a game-changer for Indian democracy. I've used it to get information about local infrastructure projects, government hiring processes, and even environmental clearances. It's empowering when you learn to use it effectively!
If you need help drafting your application, the website rti.gov.in has excellent guidelines and sample applications.