Salient Features of RTI

Right to Information Act, 2005

Right to Information Act or RTI is a central legislation, which enables the citizens to procure information from a public authority. It provides the mechanism for obtaining information.

RTI Act is a progressive legislation based on citizen’s right to know which is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution of India. The purpose of the act is to make the executive accountable and ensure transparency in the implementation of schemes and policies. Under the act, information may be sought from a public authority as defined under the act. Common examples of public authorities are PMC, MSEB, RTO, PMT etc. Right to information includes right to inspect documents. It came into force on 12th October 2005 (120th day of its enactment on 15th June, 2005). The Act extends to the whole of India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir. Section 2 (f) of the act defines information as “Information means any material in any form including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advices, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force but does not include "file noting"

Public Information Officers (PIOs)

Public Information Officers (PIOs) are officers designated by the public authorities in all administrative units or offices under it to provide information to the citizens requesting for information under the Act.

Click Here for List of PIOs

Procedure for request of Information

Apply in writing or through electronic means in English or Hindi or in the official language of the area, to the Public Information Officer (PIO), specifying the particulars of the information sought for.

Information asked for, can be applied on a piece of paper with the following necessary particulars.
1. Full name of the applicant
2. Address
3. Particulars of information required:

(i) Subject-matter of information.
(ii) The period to which the information relates (specify the year).
(iii) Description of the information with details of documents required.
(iv) Whether information is required by post or in person.
(v) In case by post (Ordinary, Registered or Speed).