RTI Success Story: How a Student Corrected Low Marks by Accessing His Answer Sheet and Rectifying a Totalling Error

Got Low Marks? RTI Could Be Your Lifeline!

Even after immense hard work for an examination, if you feel your marks are significantly lower than expected, it not only casts doubt on your efforts but also raises questions about the evaluation process itself. In such a situation, despair is not the solution. The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, grants you the right to inspect your answer sheet, a right that has proven to be a boon for many students. Today, we delve into one such success story where a student, upon receiving low marks, used RTI to obtain his answer sheet, not only correcting a totalling error but also securing an improved result.

Aman’s Story: When Hopes Were Fading

Aman was a bright student who had dedicated countless hours to preparing for his examination. He was confident that he had performed well. However, when the results were declared, he was taken aback – his marks were far below his expectations. He felt that an error must have occurred somewhere. His friends and family advised him to apply for re-evaluation, but Aman knew that this process often consumed both time and money, without always yielding satisfactory results. It was then that he learned about RTI.

The Weapon of RTI: Accessing Your Answer Sheet

Aman decided to exercise his rights. He discovered that following a landmark Supreme Court judgment (CBSE vs. Aditya Bandopadhyay, 2011), students have the right to request certified copies of their evaluated answer sheets under the RTI Act. This was a crucial step towards ensuring transparency and instilling confidence in students regarding the evaluation process.

Process to Obtain Your Answer Sheet via RTI if You Get Low Marks:

1. Identify the Correct Public Authority: You must send the RTI application to the examination board or university that conducted the exam and declared the results.
2. Prepare the RTI Application:
   • Clearly state in your application that you require a certified copy of your answer sheet (mentioning exam name, year, roll number, subject code).
   • You may also request details regarding marks awarded for each question, the calculation of total marks (totalling), and the evaluation criteria (marking scheme).
3. Pay the Fee: A fee of INR 10 (Indian Postal Order, Demand Draft, or cash) must be submitted along with the RTI application. Some states also offer online payment facilities.
4. Submit the Application: You can submit it via Speed Post or in person to the concerned Public Information Officer (PIO). Using an online portal (such as rtionline.gov.in, if it’s a central body) is also a convenient method.
5. Observe the Timeframe: Generally, the PIO is required to respond within 30 days. If the information pertains to life or liberty, this period is 48 hours (however, this is not applicable in the case of exam answer sheets).

Ray of Success: Totalling Error Exposed

Aman filed his RTI application as described. Within 20 days, he received the certified copy of his answer sheet. Upon carefully inspecting his copy, Aman was astonished. The marks awarded to him for several questions were correctly entered, but when these marks were totalled, the examiner had made a mistake. The marks for some questions had been overlooked during the addition, resulting in a significantly lower overall score. This was a simple totalling error that had completely skewed Aman’s result.

Error Correction and New Result

Aman immediately brought this error to the attention of the concerned Controller of Examinations and presented the copy obtained through RTI as evidence. Since the error was clear and RTI had ensured transparency, the examination board had to acknowledge its mistake. They promptly corrected Aman’s marks and issued a revised result. In the new result, Aman’s marks had increased significantly, which not only validated his hard work but also improved his future prospects.

What’s the Lesson for You? The Power of RTI

Aman’s story teaches us how the RTI Act, 2005, is a powerful tool for ordinary citizens, especially students. It not only ensures transparency but also provides an opportunity to correct errors and seek justice. If you also have doubts about your exam marks, know your rights and exercise them. A small initiative from your side can change your future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can an RTI application be rejected?

   Yes, an RTI application can be rejected on certain specific grounds, such as if the information relates to national security, personal privacy (where there is no larger public interest), or information pertaining to a third party that, if disclosed, could harm their interests. However, information like your exam answer sheet is generally considered to be in the public interest and is usually not rejected. If your application is rejected, you can file an appeal with the First Appellate Authority within 30 days.

2. What if the RTI response is not provided within 30 days?

   If the Public Information Officer (PIO) does not respond to your RTI application within 30 days, or provides an incomplete/incorrect response, you can file a First Appeal with the First Appellate Authority. If a satisfactory response is still not received there, you can file a Second Appeal with the Central Information Commission (CIC) or the State Information Commission (SIC). Failure to respond or providing false information is a violation of the RTI Act, for which the PIO may also be penalised.

3. Why is RTI important for viewing exam answer sheets?

   RTI is important for viewing exam answer sheets because it ensures transparency and accountability in the evaluation process. It grants students the right to verify whether their answer sheet has been evaluated fairly and correctly. This not only allows for the correction of potential errors but also provides valuable feedback to students for improving their studies and performance. It enhances trust in the system and reduces the apprehension of any malpractice.

4. What to do if an error is found after receiving the copy via RTI?

   If you find an error (such as a totalling error, unmarked answers, or incorrect evaluation) after viewing your copy through RTI, you should immediately contact the Controller of Examinations or the grievance redressal officer of the concerned examination board or university. Submit a formal application/complaint letter with the certified copy obtained through RTI and clear evidence of the error. If appropriate action is not taken on your complaint, you may approach higher authorities or a consumer court.

Need Help Preparing Your RTI Application?

RTI is a powerful tool, and using it correctly can bring significant positive changes to your life. If you wish to file an RTI application for information related to your exam answer sheet, we at rtisupport.in can help you draft your RTI application for free. Raise your voice for your rights!

Regards,

Team RTI Support India

Facilitating Citizen Empowerment and Transparency