The Right to Information Act, 2005 provides citizens with access to information held by or under the control of public authorities, subject to the provisions and exemptions specified under the Act.
What is meant by “Information”?
Under Section 2(f) of the Right to Information Act, 2005, “information” means any material in any form, including:
- Records and documents
- Memos and correspondence
- E-mails
- Opinions and advice
- Press releases and circulars
- Orders and logbooks
- Contracts and reports
- Papers and samples
- Models and data material held in electronic form
- Information relating to a private body that can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force
The definition does not include file notings, as provided under Section 2(f) of the Act.
What does the Right to Information include?
Under Section 2(j) of the Act, the Right to Information includes the right to:
- Inspect works, documents and records.
- Take notes, extracts or certified copies of documents or records.
- Take certified samples of material.
- Obtain information in the form of printouts, diskettes, floppy disks, tapes, video cassettes or through any other electronic mode or printouts.
How to Apply for Information?
An application for information may be submitted to the Public Information Officer (PIO).
The applicant may:
- Submit the application in writing or through electronic means.
- Submit the application in English, Hindi or the official language of the area.
- Clearly specify the information being sought.
- No reason is required to be given for requesting information.
- Pay the prescribed application fee, unless exempt under the applicable provisions, including provisions applicable to applicants belonging to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
Time Limit for Providing Information
The prescribed time limits for providing information under the RTI Act include:
| Situation | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Normal RTI application | 30 days from the date of receipt of the application |
| Information concerning the life or liberty of a person | 48 hours |
| Application submitted through an Assistant Public Information Officer (APIO) | 5 additional days |
| Information involving a third party | Up to 40 days, where applicable |
If the information is not provided within the prescribed period, the application is treated as a deemed refusal, subject to the provisions of the RTI Act.
Important Note
The Right to Information is subject to the exemptions, procedures and other provisions prescribed under the Right to Information Act, 2005. Applicants should refer to the Act and applicable rules for detailed information regarding fees, exemptions, appeals and other procedures.