The State Information Commission in Thrissur has not decided my second RTI appeal for two years. What can I do?

Detailed Legal Analysis

If the State Information Commission in Thrissur has not decided your second RTI appeal for two years, you can take specific steps to address this delay and seek resolution.

Under the Right to Information Act, 2005, you have the right to appeal against the decisions of public authorities regarding information requests. Here are the steps you can take:

• Follow up with the State Information Commission: Contact the office of the State Information Commission to inquire about the status of your appeal. Keep a record of all communications.
• File a complaint: If there is no response after follow-up, you can file a formal complaint with the Commission under Section 18 of the RTI Act. This section allows a person to complain to the Commission regarding any action of a public authority that contravenes the provisions of the Act.
• Seek judicial remedies: If the State Information Commission continues to delay, you may file a writ petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India in the High Court. This is a legal remedy to enforce your right to information. The High Court can issue directions to the Commission for expediting your appeal.
• Report to the Chief Information Commissioner: You can also approach the Chief Information Commissioner of India, highlighting the undue delay and seeking intervention. This can be done through a written representation.
• Public Interest Litigation (PIL): If the delay is systemic and affects many individuals, consider filing a PIL in the High Court to address the issue of delays in the disposal of RTI appeals.

Additionally, keep in mind the following relevant provisions under the RTI Act:

• Section 19: This section deals with the appeals mechanism under the RTI Act, mentioning timelines and procedures for filing appeals.
• Section 20: Addresses penalties for failure to provide information, which might apply if the delay is unjustified.

Document all your attempts and keep copies of all correspondences. This will help strengthen your case if you need to escalate the matter legally. Timely action can help ensure that your right to information is upheld.