Objectives of the Right to Information Act

The primary objective of the Right to Information Act is to ensure the right of citizens to access information regarding the functioning of government departments and public authorities. The Act seeks to increase transparency in administration, ensure government accountability, promote informed public participation and help curb corruption.

Procedure for Obtaining Information

1. Applicants seeking information from departments or institutions under the State Government should submit an application to the concerned State Public Information Officer (SPIO).
2. Applications may be submitted in writing or through permitted electronic means. The information sought should be clearly specified. Applicants are not required to state the purpose for which the information is requested.
3. The prescribed application fee must be paid. Applicants belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households are exempt from the prescribed fee, subject to applicable rules and requirements.
4. The Public Information Officer must ordinarily provide the information or communicate the decision to reject the request within 30 days of receiving the application.
5. Information concerning the life or liberty of a person must be provided within 48 hours of receipt of the request, as prescribed by the Act.
6. If the application concerns information held by another public authority, it must be transferred to the appropriate authority as soon as practicable and within five days of receipt, where applicable.
7. The Public Information Officer must provide appropriate assistance to applicants with disabilities to facilitate access to information.
8. If a request is rejected, the applicant must be informed of the reasons for rejection, the period within which an appeal may be filed and the particulars of the appellate authority.

Fees for Obtaining Information

Right to Information Authorities