Right to Information requests in India
The Right to Information Act 2005 gives citizens a right to request information from public authorities. Requests to central government bodies can be filed through RTI Online, run by the Department of Personnel and Training, and appeals go first to the public authority and then to the Central Information Commission. States have their own information commissions and portals.
What it publishes
- RTI Online: online filing of requests and first appeals to central public authorities, with guidelines and FAQs.
- Central Information Commission: second appeals, complaints and decisions.
Key datasets
- RTI Online
File and track RTI requests and first appeals.
- RTI Online guidelines
How to file, pay the fee and upload documents.
- RTI Online FAQ
Time limits for appeals and payment questions.
- Central Information Commission
Second appeals, complaints and decisions.
APIs and downloads
- Central Information CommissionDecisions and orders can be searched on the Commission's site.
When it publishes
Requests are answered by the Central Public Information Officer; a first appeal can be filed once the 30-day period has passed without a reply.
How to use it to check a claim
- File with the public authority that holds the information; RTI Online lists central ministries and departments.
- Keep the registration number to track the request and any appeal.
- For state bodies, use the state's own RTI process.
Common mistakes
- Some information is exempt under the Act.
- Do not upload identity documents other than a BPL card, as the portal guidelines advise.
Is there a fee for RTI?
A prescribed fee is paid online; citizens below the poverty line pay no fee, and there is no fee for a first appeal, according to RTI Online.
What if I get no reply?
After 30 days you can file a first appeal; a second appeal goes to the Central Information Commission.
Questions answered using this source
Links checked 14 October 2026. This page describes what the source publishes and gives no verdict on any claim.