Complete Guide to Filing RTI in Kolkata 2026

Understanding the Right to Information Act, 2005

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 is a landmark legislation that empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities. It replaced the earlier Freedom of Information Act, 2002 and has become one of the most powerful tools for transparency and accountability in India. The Act applies to all public authorities including government departments, municipalities, panchayats, public sector undertakings, statutory bodies, and non-governmental organizations substantially funded by the government. In Kolkata, information can be sought from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, Kolkata Police, state government departments, and all other public authorities functioning within the city.

Information That Can Be Obtained Through RTI

Under the RTI Act, citizens can seek: Copies of documents, records, and files. Inspection of works and government properties. Samples of materials used in government projects. Information about government decisions and policies. Details of government schemes and beneficiaries. Records of government expenditure. Information about public servants and their conduct. Details of government contracts and tenders. However, certain categories of information are exempted under Section 8 of the Act including: national security information, cabinet papers, commercial confidence, intellectual property, personal information (unless related to public interest), and information received in confidence from foreign governments.

How to File an RTI Application in Kolkata

Step 1: Identify the public authority from which you need information. Step 2: Draft your application clearly specifying the information required. Step 3: Address the application to the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) or State PIO of the concerned authority. Step 4: Submit the application by post, in person, or online through the RTI portals. Step 5: Pay the application fee (Rs 10 for central government, Rs 10-50 for state governments). Step 6: The PIO must respond within 30 days (within 48 hours for life and liberty matters). Step 7: If the information is not provided, file a first appeal with the Appellate Authority within 30 days. Step 8: If still unsatisfied, file a second appeal with the Information Commission.

RTI Application Format and Key Elements

An RTI application should include the following elements: Name and address of the applicant (anonymous applications are not accepted). Name of the public authority and the PIO to whom the application is addressed. Clear and specific questions describing the information required (vague or lengthy questions may be rejected). The format in which information is sought (photocopy, inspection, certified copy, or sample). The period for which information is sought (be specific with dates). The mode of payment of fee (IPO, DD, cash, or online payment). The application can be handwritten or typed on plain paper. There is no prescribed format for RTI application — even a simple letter written on plain paper is acceptable.

RTI Fees and Payment Methods

The RTI application fee varies by government: For central government: Rs 10 per application (no fee for BPL applicants). Additional fee for photocopying: Rs 2 per page. Inspection fee: First hour free, Rs 5 per 15 minutes thereafter. CD/DVD fee: Rs 50 per unit. For West Bengal state government: Rs 10 per application (no fee for BPL applicants). Additional charges for photocopying (Rs 1-2 per page). The fee can be paid through: Indian Postal Order (IPO) payable to the PIO. Demand Draft (DD). Court fee stamp. Cash receipt from the public authority. Online payment through the RTI portal (for central government and some state governments).

Appeal Process Under RTI Act

If the PIO fails to respond within 30 days or refuses to provide information, the applicant can file: First appeal with the First Appellate Authority (senior officer within the same department) within 30 days of receiving the PIO's decision or 30 days after the expected response date. Second appeal with the Central Information Commission (for central government) or State Information Commission (for state government) within 90 days of the first appeal decision. The Information Commission can impose penalties on the PIO for delay (Rs 250 per day up to Rs 25,000) and recommend disciplinary action. The Commission can also order compensation for the applicant. The appeal process ensures accountability and enforcement of the RTI Act.