The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, empowers citizens of India to request information from any public authority, ensuring transparency and accountability. In Bihar, filing an RTI is a straightforward process, but many people are still unaware of how to proceed. This blog will walk you through the complete steps to file an RTI application in Bihar, ensuring your queries are addressed effectively.
What is the Right to Information (RTI) Act?
The RTI Act allows any citizen of India to request information from public authorities. These authorities are mandated to respond to the application within a fixed period, typically 30 days. This law ensures that government operations remain transparent, and officials are accountable to the public.
अगर आपको RTI FILE करने मे दिक्कत हो रही है, तो हमसे सम्पर्क करे,, आपकी मदद करके हमे खुशी होगी।
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing an RTI in Bihar
1. Identify the Public Authority
Before filing your RTI, identify the public authority from which you need information. This could be any government department, agency, or office that falls under the scope of the RTI Act in Bihar.
- Example: If you need information about a government land acquisition in Bihar, you would file an RTI with the Department of Revenue and Land Reforms, Bihar.
2. Draft Your RTI Application
Your application should be clear, concise, and specific about the information you’re seeking. There is no prescribed format for filing an RTI, but it must contain the following:
- Your full name and contact details
- The name of the public authority
- The details of the information you seek
- A declaration that the request is made under the RTI Act, 2005
- Application fee details
3. Pay the Application Fee
The RTI Act requires an application fee of ₹10 for most requests. In Bihar, you can pay this fee using:
- Postal Order
- Demand Draft
- Banker’s Cheque
- Online payment through the Bihar RTI Portal (if applicable)
For Below Poverty Line (BPL) citizens, the application fee is waived, but you must provide proof of your BPL status.
4. Submit Your RTI Application
You can submit your RTI application in Bihar through the following methods:
- In Person: Visit the office of the concerned Public Information Officer (PIO) and hand in your RTI application.
- By Post: Send your RTI application via registered post to the PIO of the respective department.
- Online: Some departments in Bihar allow the submission of RTI applications through their online portals. Check the Bihar government RTI portal for availability.
5. Wait for the Response
As per the RTI Act, the Public Information Officer is required to respond to your request within 30 days of receiving the application. For matters concerning life or liberty, the response time is reduced to 48 hours.
If the public authority fails to provide the information within the specified period, you can appeal to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) within the department.
6. Filing an Appeal if Necessary
If you are dissatisfied with the response or no information is provided, you can file an appeal within 30 days. There are two levels of appeals:
- First Appeal: File this with the First Appellate Authority within the concerned department.
- Second Appeal: If the First Appellate Authority fails to provide a satisfactory response, you can file a second appeal with the State Information Commission of Bihar.
Important Tips for Filing an RTI in Bihar
- Be Specific: Ensure your request is precise and to the point. Vague or ambiguous questions may lead to delays or rejection.
- Track Your Application: If you send your RTI via post, keep the tracking receipt. In the case of online submissions, note down the application number for future reference.
- Appeal Timeline: If you do not receive a response within 30 days, act swiftly by filing an appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about RTI in Bihar
1. How can I check the status of my RTI application in Bihar?
- You can track your RTI application status on the Bihar RTI portal or by contacting the concerned Public Information Officer (PIO).
2. What if the PIO rejects my application?
- If your application is rejected, the PIO is required to give valid reasons. You can then file an appeal with the First Appellate Authority.
3. Can I file an RTI in the local language?
- Yes, you can file your RTI application in Hindi, English, or the official language of the concerned public authority.
4. What is the time frame for receiving the requested information?
- The public authority is bound to provide the requested information within 30 days. If the matter concerns life or liberty, the response time is reduced to 48 hours.
Conclusion
Filing an RTI application in Bihar is a simple yet powerful way to access information from public authorities. With the knowledge of the RTI process, citizens can hold government officials accountable and ensure transparency in governance. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently file an RTI and receive the information you seek.