How to Check Online RTI Status and File a First Appeal: A Comprehensive Guide to Tracking Your Application on the RTI Online Portal

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 empowers citizens of India to obtain information from government departments. Nowadays, the online RTI portal has made this process even easier. But what happens after filing an RTI application? How do you track the status of your application? And if you don’t receive a satisfactory response, how do you file a First Appeal? This guide will provide you with step-by-step answers to all these questions.

Why is it Important to Track Your Online RTI Status?

Once you submit your online RTI application, it’s crucial to know its current stage. Tracking the status helps you understand whether your application has reached the correct officer, if it’s being processed, and if any stipulated deadline has been missed. By checking the status promptly, you can ensure that you receive your information within the prescribed timeframe.

How to Check Online RTI Status: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Government of India’s official RTI Online Portal provides a simple way to know the status of your application.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

• First, visit the Government of India’s RTI Online Portal (rtionline.gov.in).

Step 2: Select ‘View Status’ Option

• On the portal’s homepage, you will see the ‘View Status’ option. Click on it.

Step 3: Enter Registration Number and Security Code

• You will be asked to enter your RTI Registration Number (which you would have received via email/SMS after submitting the application), Email ID, and the Security Code displayed on the screen.

Step 4: Understand the Status

• After entering the details, click ‘Submit’. You will see the current status of your application. Common statuses include:
• Pending: Your application is under consideration.
• Transferred: Your application has been transferred to another relevant Public Authority.
• Responded: The Public Information Officer (PIO) has responded to your application.
• Closed/Disposed: Action on your application has been completed, and you have received a response.

What is a First Appeal and When is it Required?

Under Section 19(1) of the Right to Information Act, if you do not receive a satisfactory response to your RTI application, or if you receive no response within the stipulated 30 days (35 or 40 days in some cases), you can file a ‘First Appeal’ with the senior officer to the Public Information Officer (PIO). This is the next crucial step towards obtaining the information.

How to File a First Appeal Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

Filing a First Appeal on the RTI Online Portal is equally simple.

Step 1: Select ‘File First Appeal’ Option on the Portal

• Visit the RTI Online Portal (rtionline.gov.in). On the homepage, you will find the ‘File First Appeal’ option. Click on it.

Step 2: Provide Details of the Original RTI Application

• You will need to enter the Registration Number of your original RTI application, Email ID, and Security Code. After clicking ‘Submit’, the details of your original application will appear on the screen.

Step 3: Clearly State the Grounds for Your Appeal

• Here you will find a text box where you can state the reason for your appeal. For instance, if you haven’t received a response, or if the response received is incomplete, incorrect, or misleading, clearly state it.

Step 4: Pay the Required Fee (if applicable)

• There is usually no additional fee for a First Appeal, but a fee may apply in some states or specific circumstances. If so, make the payment online.

Step 5: Submit the Appeal and Save the Receipt

• After checking all your details, click the ‘Submit’ button. You will receive a unique First Appeal Registration Number. Note this number for future reference and take a printout or screenshot of the receipt.

Important Points to Note While Filing an Online First Appeal

• Follow the Time Limit: A First Appeal should generally be filed within 30 days of receiving a response to the original RTI application, or if no response is received, within 30 days after the expiry of 30 days from the submission of the original application.
• Be Clear and Concise: State your grievances clearly, concisely, and precisely in your appeal. Avoid unnecessary details.
• Attach Supporting Documents: If you have any emails, SMS, or other documents that support your appeal, upload them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the time limit for filing a First Appeal?

A: You must file a First Appeal within 30 days of receiving a response from the PIO or, if no response is received, within the next 30 days after the expiry of 30 days from the submission of the original application.

Q: Is there any fee for a First Appeal?

A: There is no additional fee for filing a First Appeal with Central Government departments. However, rules may vary for some State Governments.

Q: When is a Second Appeal filed?

A: If you are not satisfied with the decision of the First Appellate Authority, or if they have not given a decision within the stipulated time frame, you can file a ‘Second Appeal’ with the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC).

Conclusion

Tracking the status of an online RTI and filing a First Appeal when necessary is a crucial part of properly utilising the Right to Information. This process is entirely available online, making it even more accessible to citizens. By following these steps, you can ensure access to your information and contribute towards transparency and accountability.

If you need assistance in drafting your RTI application, you can instantly and freely prepare your RTI application using our automated tool available on the homepage of rtisupport.in!

---

---