How do I file an RTI application in Pune under the state RTI rules and what is the fee?

Detailed Legal Analysis

To file a Right to Information (RTI) application in Pune under the Maharashtra State RTI Rules, you need to follow specific steps and pay a nominal fee as prescribed by the Maharashtra RTI Act, 2005.

Here is a detailed guide on how to file your RTI application:

• Eligibility: Any citizen of India can file an RTI application as per Section 3 of the Right to Information Act, 2005.
• Drafting the Application:
  • Clearly mention “Application under the Right to Information Act, 2005” at the top.
  • Provide your name, address, and contact details.
  • Specify the information you seek in a clear and concise manner.
  • Indicate the department or public authority from which you seek the information.
• Submission of the Application:
  • You can submit the application in person, by post, or through email if the public authority allows it.
  • If submitting in person, visit the designated Public Information Officer (PIO) of the relevant department.
  • For postal submissions, send the application to the address of the PIO.
• Fee Structure:
  • The application fee is Rs. 10, which can be paid via cash, demand draft, or Indian Postal Order.
  • For information provided in printed form, additional fees may be charged as follows:
  • Rs. 2 per page for A4 or A3 size paper.
  • Rs. 50 for a CD containing information.
  • For larger sizes or other formats, the fees will vary as per the rules.
• Time Frame: As per Section 7 of the RTI Act, the PIO must respond to your application within 30 days of receipt. If the information concerns the life or liberty of a person, the response time is reduced to 48 hours.
• Appeals: If your request is denied or not responded to, you can file an appeal under Section 19 of the RTI Act with the designated appellate authority.

Filing an RTI application is a straightforward process that empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.