I want to file an RTI in Srinagar 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 Srinagar, you have the right to appeal against this decision under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

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

• Understand the Grounds of Rejection: Review the rejection letter carefully to understand the specific grounds on which the PIO denied your request. Common reasons include the information being exempt under Section 8 of the RTI Act, or the request being vague or lacking in specificity.
• Prepare Your First Appeal: According to Section 19 of the RTI Act, if you are not satisfied with the response from the PIO, you can file a first appeal to the designated appellate authority within 30 days of receiving the rejection. Make sure to include the following:
  • Your original RTI application details.
  • The rejection letter from the PIO.
  • Reasons why you believe the rejection is unjustified.
  • Your contact details for further communication.
• Submit the Appeal: File your appeal with the appellate authority of the respective department. In Jammu and Kashmir, this could also be the Chief Information Officer (CIO) or any other designated officer under the RTI Act.
• Await the Response: The appellate authority is required to address your appeal and provide a decision within 30 days from the date of filing the appeal, as per Section 19(6) of the RTI Act.
• Further Appeals: If you are still dissatisfied with the decision of the appellate authority, you can approach the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC) as applicable. This must be done within 90 days of receiving the decision from the appellate authority. You will need to submit a second appeal, providing all pertinent information and reasonings again.

It is important to keep copies of all documents and correspondences related to your RTI requests and appeals for your records. Additionally, you may seek assistance from civil society organizations or legal aid services to help guide you through the process if needed.