What Happens If Your Rti Isn’t Answered In 30 Days? A Practical Guide

I remember the first time I filed an RTI  full of hope, expecting transparency. But 30 days passed, and there was no response. That’s when I realized that knowing your rights after filing an RTI is just as important as filing it.

Here’s everything I learned through experience, so you don’t feel helpless when your RTI goes unanswered.

Why the RTI Act Matters

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is more than just a formality. It is a powerful tool that empowers citizens to hold the government accountable. The Act aims to:

• Promote transparency and openness
• Reduce corruption
• Ensure informed participation in democracy
• Make government agencies more accountable

Who Can File an RTI?

Any Indian citizen can file an RTI. You don’t need a legal background. Here are the basics:

• Include your full name, contact address, and details of the information sought
• Pay the ₹10 fee (exempt if you are a BPL cardholder)
• You can file it in English, Hindi, or a regional language

How to File an RTI: A Step-by-Step Process

Filing an RTI is simple:

• Identify whether the subject matter falls under the Central or State Government.
• Draft your application clearly stating the information required.
• Submit it to the relevant Public Information Officer (PIO) either in person, via post, or online.
• Pay ₹10 through postal order, bank draft, or court fee stamp.
• Keep a copy of the application and payment proof for future reference.

What If There’s No Reply in 30 Days?

As per the RTI Act, a response must be given within 30 days of receipt. If not, or if the response is unsatisfactory, you can file a First Appeal under Section 19(1) of the RTI Act.

Grounds for a First Appeal include:

• No reply received within 30 days
• Incomplete or misleading information
• Excessive and unjustified additional fees demanded

How to File the First Appeal

Here’s how I filed mine:

• Drafted a clear letter mentioning the RTI application reference number and date.
• Explained why the reply was missing or inadequate.
• Requested a personal hearing with the First Appellate Authority (FAA).

The FAA is a senior officer designated within the same department. If you do not know the FAA’s name, address the appeal as:

“First Appellate Authority under RTI, [Department Name]”

Then send it to the same address as the PIO.

What to Expect After Filing the Appeal

The FAA must decide within 30 to 45 days. They may:

• Direct the PIO to provide complete and correct information
• Reject your appeal with reasons
• Escalate to the Information Commission

If you are still not satisfied, you can file a Second Appeal with the Central or State Information Commission.

Tips from My Experience

• Always keep proof of submission and communication
• Mention clearly that you want a personal hearing if needed
• Stay polite but firm in your appeal
• Use online portals when possible for faster filing

Final Thoughts

If your RTI is not answered in 30 days, don’t stop there. You have legal recourse and rights that protect you as a citizen. With the proper approach and documentation, you can get the information you deserve.

Need help with your RTI or First Appeal? Speak with RTI experts at Lead India for legal guidance tailored to your case.

One can talk to lawyer from Lead India for any kind of legal support. In India, free legal advice online can be obtained at Lead India. Along with receiving free legal advice online, one can also ask questions to the experts online free through Lead India.

FAQs

1. What happens if my RTI isn’t answered within 30 days?

You can file a First Appeal under Section 19(1) of the RTI Act. The authorities must respond within 45 days.

2. How do I file a First Appeal for an unanswered RTI?

Write a clear letter mentioning your RTI details, explain the delay, and send it to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the department.

3. What if the FAA doesn’t help with my RTI?

If the FAA doesn’t resolve the issue, you can escalate the matter by filing a Second Appeal with the Information Commission.