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How to File an RTI Application Online – Step-by-Step Process & Samples
- The Law Gurukul
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 empowers Indian citizens to seek information from government bodies. Whether you want to check pension status, land records, or government project details, filing an RTI is a powerful tool for transparency.
This guide covers:
✔ How to file RTI online (step-by-step)
✔ Offline RTI filing process
✔ Sample RTI applications
✔ Tracking & appeals process
1. What is the RTI Act?
The RTI Act (2005) allows citizens to request information from:
Central/State Government departments
Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
NGOs funded by the government
Courts, Parliament & Legislatures
Exemptions:
Defence, intelligence (Sec 8)
Personal privacy (Sec 11)
2. How to File RTI Online (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit the RTI Online Portal
For Central Govt: https://rtionline.gov.in
For States: Many states (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka) have their own portals.
Step 2: Register/Login
New users must register with phone/email.
Step 3: Submit Application
Select Ministry/Department (e.g., Income Tax, Municipal Corporation).
Fill in:
Name, Address, Contact Details
Information sought (clear & concise)
Language preference (Hindi/English)
Upload supporting docs (if any).
Step 4: Pay Fee
₹10 fee (via debit card/UPI/net banking).
BPL cardholders are exempt (attach proof).
Step 5: Submit & Note Registration No.
You’ll get an acknowledgment number to track status.
3. How to File RTI Offline?
Draft an application (typed/handwritten).
Pay ₹10 via:
Demand Draft (DD)
Postal Order
Cash (in some offices)
Send to PIO (Public Information Officer) via post or in person.
4. Sample RTI Applications
Sample 1: Basic RTI Format
To,
The Public Information Officer,
[Department Name],
[Office Address]
Subject: Request for information under RTI Act, 2005
Dear Sir/Madam,
I seek the following information under Section 6(1) of the RTI Act:
1. [Question 1]
2. [Question 2]
Kindly provide the information within 30 days as per the law.
Regards,
[Your Name]
[Address]
[Phone] Sample 2: RTI for Pension Status
1. Total pending pension applications in [Department] as of [Date].
2. Average time taken to process pension requests.
3. Reason for delay in my application (File No. XXX). 5. How to Track RTI Status?
Online: Use your registration number on RTI Online.
Offline: Contact the PIO via phone/email.
6. What If Your RTI is Rejected?
First Appeal
File within 30 days to the First Appellate Authority (details in rejection letter).
No fee required.
Second Appeal
If unresolved, approach the Central/State Information Commission within 90 days.
7. Pro Tips for Effective RTIs
✅ Be specific (avoid vague questions).
✅ Use simple language (no legal jargon).
✅ Keep proof of submission (postal receipt/acknowledgment).
✅ Follow up if no reply in 30 days.
8. Common RTI Queries & Uses
Land records
Tax refund status
Government job recruitment details
Municipal complaints
9. Conclusion
Filing an RTI is easy, cheap, and powerful—use it to hold authorities accountable!
Need help drafting an RTI? Comment below with your query!
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