Identify the records rather than ask for a new decision
The Right to Information Act gives citizens a route to seek information held by or under the control of public authorities, subject to the Act. Start by identifying the record you need: an order, recorded file status, applicable rule, inspection report, file noting, expenditure entry or other existing material. A focused request is easier to understand than a long account of a dispute. Explain enough context to locate the records, such as a file number, office, date range or application reference, without adding unrelated accusations.
RTI is not itself an order to fix a grievance, grant a benefit or resolve litigation. Asking why an officer made a decision can be reframed as a request for the recorded reasons, relevant order or file material, if held. The authority is not generally required to create a fresh explanation, legal opinion, calculation or investigation merely because an application asks for one. Existing opinions or advice recorded in official material are a different question. This draft does not determine disclosure entitlement or override exemptions.
Choose the authority and the correct filing channel
Check which public authority holds or controls the requested information and locate its current Public Information Officer details. Use the authority’s official website or published RTI disclosures rather than an unverified directory. A single dispute may involve records in different departments; narrow the request or obtain guidance on appropriate separate applications. A private organisation is not automatically a public authority, though information accessible to a public authority under another law may fall within the statutory definition of information.
The Central RTI Online portal is for the Central public authorities available through that portal; it should not be treated as a universal State-government filing channel. Check the portal’s listed authorities and instructions before selecting one. For State authorities, check the relevant State portal or official office procedure, including any prescribed form and payment method. Creating this draft does not select an authority, transfer a request or submit it through any portal. Preserve actual acknowledgement details after you independently file.
Provide contact details without unnecessary personal data
Section 6(2) says an applicant need not give a reason for requesting information or personal details except those necessary for contacting the applicant. Do not turn the subject field into a justification of why you deserve the records. Supply accurate correspondence details so the authority can communicate about the request. Check citizen eligibility and the official channel’s requirements without inventing identity information. This format does not require an Aadhaar number or upload merely because a person is requesting records.
Avoid including unrelated medical details, complete bank credentials, passwords or third-party identity documents. If you rely on a fee exemption, confirm the applicable rules and the required evidence, and disclose only what is appropriate. Record existing reference numbers accurately and state when a reference is unknown instead of making one up. Keep a private copy of the request and any supporting records you actually provide. An exported file can contain personal details, so handle it carefully even though the builder does not retain edits after you leave.
Keep numbered requests precise and verify fees
Put each information request on its own numbered line. Specify the period and whether you seek a copy, certified copy, inspection or an existing electronic record. Avoid a broad demand for every document ever held by a department where a defined subject or time range will serve your purpose. The form of access is subject to the Act and practical requirements; requesting an electronic copy does not guarantee that a paper-only record will be converted in the way you prefer. Inspection can be useful when you need to identify relevant files before choosing copies.
Application fees, permitted payment methods, copy charges and exemption evidence depend on applicable rules. This template deliberately supplies no universal rupee amount or fictional payment reference. If eligible for a below-poverty-line fee exemption, check the rules and evidence required by the relevant authority. Do not say a fee was paid because you downloaded the document. Additional information charges, if lawfully applicable, may be communicated separately; preserve notices and actual payment records rather than assuming the application fee covers every form of access.
Understand limits, responses and the separate appeal route
Requests may engage statutory exemptions, third-party procedure, severability or other provisions of the RTI Act. A request involving another person’s private information does not create automatic access to it. A public-interest argument, where relevant, needs careful consideration under the applicable law. Read the authority’s response and the provision relied on before deciding your next step. This page does not promise full disclosure, certify that a record exists or assert that a refusal is unlawful.
Response periods and appeal steps vary with the statutory circumstances, including the way the request is received and any applicable special process. A date entered here is not proof of submission and does not generate a reliable due date on its own. Preserve the submitted application, acknowledgement, fee records and every communication. If no response arrives or you disagree with a decision, check the statutory first-appeal and further-remedy procedure using official guidance. This application is not an appeal, and sending it does not extend a separate court or administrative limitation period.
Frequently asked questions
Must I explain why I want the information?
Section 6(2) does not require reasons for seeking information. Give enough detail to identify records and contact you, not an unnecessary justification.
Can RTI require a fresh legal opinion?
A request should identify information held by the authority. It does not generally require a newly created opinion or decision; existing recorded material is different.
Can I use the Central portal for every State authority?
No. Check the Central portal’s listed authorities. Use the applicable State or office channel for State public authorities.
Does downloading pay the fee or submit the application?
No. Verify applicable fees or exemptions and complete filing independently. Retain actual payment and acknowledgement evidence.
Are edits saved permanently?
No. Edits reset when you leave the document builder. Save your exported copy if you need it.
Related formats
Official sources
- RTI Online — Central public authority filing and instructions
- DoPT RTI portal — Act, rules and guidance
- India Code — official statutory reference
- Central Information Commission — official resources
This page gives general information, not legal advice. Forms, fees and timelines are set by each State and can change — confirm on your State portal before applying.