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

Detailed Legal Analysis

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

Here are the steps you can take to file an appeal against the rejection:

• Understand the Grounds for Rejection: First, carefully review the reasons provided by the PIO for rejecting your RTI application. The PIO must provide a specific justification under Sections 8 and 9 of the RTI Act, which pertain to exemptions from disclosure of information.
• File an Appeal: You can file a first appeal against the decision of the PIO within 30 days of receiving the rejection. The appeal should be addressed to the designated Appellate Authority in the same public authority (as per Section 19(1) of the RTI Act).
• Drafting the Appeal: Include the following in your appeal:
  • Your name and contact information.
  • The date on which your original RTI application was submitted and the date of rejection.
  • The details of the information sought.
  • Specific reasons why you believe the rejection was incorrect.
  • Any additional documents or evidence that support your case.
• Submit the Appeal: Submit your appeal to the Appellate Authority through registered post or in person. Ensure you keep a copy of the appeal and the submission receipt for your records.
• Await Response: The Appellate Authority is required to respond to your appeal within 30 days of receiving it (as per Section 19(6) of the RTI Act). If they do not respond or if you are unsatisfied with their decision, you can escalate the matter further.
• Second Appeal: If the first appeal is also denied or if you do not receive a satisfactory response, you can file a second appeal with the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC) within 90 days of the decision of the Appellate Authority (Section 19(3) of the RTI Act).

Throughout this process, it is important to keep copies of all correspondence and maintain a record of all submissions. The RTI Act empowers citizens to seek information and ensures transparency in governance, so it is crucial to assert your rights effectively.