Refusing an RTI Application

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When the PIO refuses your RTI application, they have to tell you:

Why was the request refused?
Details of whom you can approach to appeal against this refusal.
How much time do you have to file this appeal?

If the PIO has not replied with information or has refused to give you the information unlawfully, you can appeal to an officer senior in rank to the PIO or file a complaint with the Central or State Information Commission.

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Related Resources

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The Nyaaya Guide on Applying Offline under RTI provides applicants with the steps to take when seeking information under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

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Processing of an RTI Application

The PIO can take 30 days to process an RTI application and provide the information that is requested. If the application is made to an APIO, the information must be provided in 35 days time.

Appealing an RTI Application

If you do not receive a decision from the PIO within 30 days, you can file an appeal against the decision of the PIO before an officer who is senior to the PIO. You need to file this appeal within 30 days. This time period may be extended if the officer feels that the delay is justified.