RIGHT TO INFORMATION : EMPOWERING CITIZENS BY TRANSPARENCY
GOVERNMENT POLICY BY INFORMATION WITH RTI
The RIGHT TO INFORMATION is a basic democratic instrument that gives Indian citizens the right to request information from public authorities. Under the Right to Information Act, 2005, public authorities are required to provide information and built functions of transparency, accountability, and public participation. All citizens have the right to obtain information, inspect records of a public authority, and its officials should be held accountable.
At Vrinlegal , we offer full legal assistance to citizens and organizations who wish to fully utilise their RIGHT TO INFORMATION. Whether you are filing an RTI online application, drafting RTI appeals, or navigating the often difficult task of obtaining proper information from a public authority, we can help.
What is the RIGHT TO INFORMATION?
The RIGHT TO INFORMATION is a legal right that is available to every Indian citizen to request information from government departments and organisations that are publicly funded. It requires public authorities to keep records/works and provide requested information in a timely manner.
a. Goals of RTI
b. Increase transparency in government action
c. Minimise corruption through public scrutiny
d. Encourage informed citizenry in a democracy
e. Improve accountability and governance
Who Can Fill an RTI?
Any citizen of India can submit an online RTI application or a physical application requesting the information. There is no requirement to give reasons related to why you are requesting the information; you can be an individual, activist, journalist, person's citizen, advocate or just asking the request under RTI, it allows you to question certain authorities.
What types of information can I receive under RTI
The RIGHT TO INFORMATION Act covers most kinds of Public information and that includes:
a. The utilization of Government Schemes and budgets
b. Recruitment and appointment process
c. Update on Government project
d. Decision making in a department
e. Listing and land related information
f. Any files, documents or communications
However there are certain exemptions including:
a. Information affecting National security
b. Personal information that are not related to public interest
c. Any trade secret or intellectual property that are legally protected
The RTI portal allows you to file an RTI online application with central government authorities, thanks to changes in technology.
Step 1: Access the RTI Website
Go to https://rtionline.gov.in, the official website for filing RTI with the Central Government.
Step 2: Registration/ Login
You will have to register and create your credentials to log in.
Step 3: Select department
You will have to choose the relevant Ministry/Department for your query.
Step 4: Application Fee
A fee of ₹10 will have to be paid via Net Banking, Credit/Debit card, or UPI.
Step 6: Submit Application and Track your RTI Application
Once you submit the RTI application you will receive an application number to track the response to your query.
Vrinlegal has a team of legal professionals that can prepare a well-drafted and clear RTI online application to ensure you receive a timely and possible actionable response.
The Importance of USE THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION
Exercising or invoking the RIGHT TO INFORMATION will have significant consequences for you and society. It allows you to:
Challenge unlawful business practices
Monitor the delivery of public services
Question the reasons for delays in development
Protect your rights as a citizen
Engage in the democratic process as a citizen
RTI in Judicial and Responsive Matters
Definitely the judiciary is not completely protected under the RTI Act, some confidential documents, discussion of cases, deliberations of judgments may not be applicable to requests. Ous are able to ask for:
Information regarding the status of cases
Copies of judgments certified or otherwise
Information about fees of the Courts as well as procedures
At Vrinlegal, we help clients to use RIGHT TO INFORMATION powers in legal matters to obtain vital information that protects your legal rights.
Filing RTI to State Government Departments
The RTI online application facility is currently available for central ministries, but state government applications must generally be submitted in hard copy or by using the RTI portal established by each state. Each state has designated Public Information Officers (PIOs) identified to process RTI requests.
We support clients to identify the correct authority, prepare structured applications, follow up—so you may obtain information easily.
RTI Rejection: What Now?
If your application for the RIGHT TO INFORMATION is rejected or if the answer is unsatisfactory, you can exercise your rights through the appeal process:
First Appeal
Submit a first appeal with the senior officer in the same department.
Second Appeal
If not successful, escalate it to the State or Central Information Commission.
Vrinlegal assists you in both levels of appeal and we can represent you legally to ensure your RIGHT TO INFORMATION is not wrongly denied.
RTI for NGOs, Corporates & Researchers
RTI is focused on individuals but is key for:
NGOs to show transparency in accountability of public funds
Journalist to get the policy aspects of key matters
Corporates to fulfill business due diligence & public interest disclosure
Researchers wanting to get data from the public authority or around the public authority having the data.
We assist professionals by helping draft, frame and submit legally compliant, effective RTI Applications online.
How Vrinlegal can help you exercise your RIGHT TO INFORMATION
At Vrinlegal we focus on drafting, submitting and appealing under the RIGHT TO INFORMATION framework. Our services include:
Drafting strong, targeted RTI queries
Submitting RTIs online & Off-line
Finding the correct authority to send your RTI to
Following up and lodging appeals if delayed or denied information.
consultation on RTI replies and interpreting the same.
With our expert legal advice, we will make your RTI online application more meaningful within the purview of RIGHT TO INFORMATION framework and improve your chances of receiving a clear, positive outcome within a reasonable time frame.
Conclusion
The RIGHT TO INFORMATION gives you power to stay informed, to question secrecy and be involved in governance. Whether you are looking for justice, transparency or clarity in respect of a public process, by making an RTI online application, you are able to begin your journey toward accountable governance.
Vrinlegal supports those citizens who believe in the power of informed citizens' participation. Let us support you in drafting, filing, and appealing RTI applications with accuracy and legal support!
Need help with your RIGHT TO INFORMATION Application?
Contact Vrinlegal to obtain professional assistance with filing your RTI online application or following up on a pending information request. Let's build a transparent and just society with one application at a time.