I want to file an RTI in Guntur 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 Guntur, you can file an appeal against the rejection under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

Here are the steps you should follow to file your appeal:

• Understand the Grounds of Rejection: First, carefully read the rejection letter to understand the reasons cited by the PIO. Common reasons may include non-existence of information, requests for information that are exempt under Section 8 of the RTI Act, or procedural issues.
• Prepare an Appeal: Draft an appeal addressing the reasons for rejection. In your appeal, explicitly state why you believe the information should be disclosed, citing relevant sections of the RTI Act.
• Address the Appeal: Your appeal should be addressed to the First Appellate Authority (FAA). This is typically a senior officer in the same department or organization that the original RTI application was submitted to.
• Time Frame for Filing: Ensure that you file your appeal within 30 days from the date of receipt of the rejection letter, as per Section 19(1) of the RTI Act, 2005.
• Format of the Appeal: The appeal should include the following details:
  • Your name and address.
  • Date of the original RTI application.
  • Details of the PIO and the rejection order.
  • Grounds for the appeal.
  • Your signature.
• Submit the Appeal: You may submit the appeal in person or via post to the FAA. It is advisable to keep a copy of the appeal for your records.
• Await Response: The FAA is required to respond to your appeal within 30 days as per Section 19(6) of the RTI Act. If the FAA upholds the PIO’s decision, you have the option to further appeal to the State Information Commission.
• Further Action: If you are not satisfied with the FAA's decision, you can file a second appeal to the Andhra Pradesh State Information Commission within 90 days of the FAA's decision as per Section 19(3) of the RTI Act.

Additionally, you may refer to the Andhra Pradesh RTI Rules, 2010, which provide more detailed procedures specific to the state.

By following these steps, you can effectively challenge the rejection of your RTI application and seek the information you require regarding the public works project.