I want to file an RTI in Ghaziabad 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 Ghaziabad, you have several options to challenge this decision under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

Here are the steps you can take:

• Review the Rejection Letter: Carefully read the rejection letter to understand the reasons cited by the PIO. Common grounds for rejection include:
• Information sought is not related to public authority.
• Information is exempt under Section 8 of the RTI Act.
• Application is not in the prescribed format.
• File an Appeal: If you believe the rejection is unjustified, you can file an appeal against the decision. This is governed by Section 19 of the RTI Act, 2005.
• The first appeal should be addressed to the senior officer of the PIO (Appellate Authority) within 30 days of receiving the rejection.
• Include details such as:
• Your name and contact information.
• Details of the RTI application along with the rejection letter.
• Reasons why you believe the information should be provided.
• You should receive a response to your appeal within 30 days of filing it.
• Second Appeal: If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the first appeal, you can file a second appeal to the Central Information Commission (CIC) or State Information Commission (SIC), depending on the authority from which you sought information.
• The second appeal must be filed within 90 days of the decision made on the first appeal.
• Clearly state the facts of the case, the relief sought, and attach relevant documents.
• The CIC/SIC will hear your case and pass an order.
• Legal Recourse: If the information is still denied, you may seek legal recourse through the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, particularly if there is a violation of your rights to information.

It is important to note that you are entitled to information under the RTI Act, which promotes transparency and accountability in the functioning of public authorities. Sections 6, 8, and 19 of the RTI Act, 2005 are particularly relevant in this context.