I want to file an RTI in Bokaro to get information on a public works project but the PIO rejected it. What next?

Detailed Legal Analysis

If your Right to Information (RTI) application has been rejected by the Public Information Officer (PIO) in Bokaro, you have the right to appeal the decision under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

Here are the steps you should follow to file an appeal against the rejection:

• Understand the Grounds for Rejection: The PIO must provide valid reasons for rejecting your RTI application. Common grounds include the information being exempt under Section 8 or 9 of the RTI Act, 2005.
• Request for a Reconsideration: Before filing an appeal, you may consider contacting the PIO for clarification or reconsideration. Sometimes, issues can be resolved with a discussion.
• Prepare Your First Appeal: If reconsideration does not yield results, prepare a first appeal. According to Section 19(1) of the RTI Act, you should file the appeal with the designated Appellate Authority within 30 days from the date of the PIO's decision.
• Draft the Appeal: Your appeal should include:
• Your name and contact details.
• The date of your original RTI application.
• The date on which the PIO rejected your application.
• Reasons for appealing against the rejection.
• Any supporting documents, including a copy of your original RTI application and the rejection letter.
• File the Appeal: Submit the appeal to the Appellate Authority of the concerned department or office. Ensure that you keep a copy of the appeal for your records.
• Await Response: The Appellate Authority is required to decide on the appeal within 30 days. If the information is not provided within this timeframe, you may escalate the matter to the State Information Commission.
• Second Appeal to State Information Commission: If you are still unsatisfied with the outcome, you can file a second appeal under Section 19(3) of the RTI Act with the State Information Commission within 90 days of the decision of the Appellate Authority.
• Possible Outcomes: The State Information Commission may direct the PIO to disclose the requested information or may uphold the rejection depending on the merits of your case.

Being persistent and clear about your rights under the RTI Act is crucial in ensuring transparency and accountability in public service. Remember to keep records of all correspondence and submissions made during this process.