RTI Information
Introduction
The foundation of Indian democracy rests on the principles of transparency, accountability, and responsibility. All governmental work, schemes, decisions, and policies are meant for the welfare of citizens. Therefore, citizens have the fundamental right to access information about the functioning of the government.
With this purpose, the Right to Information Act, 2005 was implemented. Through this law, every Indian citizen gained the legal right to seek information from Government and Public Authorities. The main objective of this act is to bring transparency into the functioning of the government, curb corruption, and strengthen citizens’ trust in the administrative system.
Right to Information Act 2005 – Legislative Journey
| Sr. No. | Details | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | RTI Bill introduced in Lok Sabha | 23.12.2004 |
| 2 | RTI Act 2005 passed in Lok Sabha | 11.05.2005 |
| 3 | Presidential assent granted and certain provisions enforced | 15.06.2005 |
| 4 | RTI Act published in the Gazette of India | 21.06.2005 |
| 5 | Act enforced across India except Jammu & Kashmir | 12.10.2005 |
After receiving Presidential assent on 15 June 2005, and after being fully implemented across the country from 12 October 2005, the RTI laws of individual states were repealed.
Purpose of the Right to Information Act 2005
The major objectives of the Act are:
- To create well-informed citizens and a knowledgeable society for a mature democracy
- To increase citizens’ participation in the functioning of government
- To promote transparency and openness in governance
- To establish accountability of government machinery towards citizens
- To prevent corruption in administration and governance
- To develop a practical mechanism for obtaining information
Components Included Under the RTI Act 2005
Right to Obtain Information
- Information about schemes, decisions, projects, agreements, expenditure, and funds
- Copies of documents, records, files, reports, orders, manuals, etc.
Right to Inspect Records and Documents
- Inspecting official records and documents
- Verifying files in an office
Right to Obtain Certified Copies
- Photocopies of documents, orders, circulars, correspondence, etc.
Right to Inspect Samples
- Inspecting samples used in government work, materials, or projects
Access to Electronic Information
- Computer data, CDs, videos, or other electronic formats
Time Limits for Providing Information
- General information: within 30 days
- Life and liberty related matters: within 48 hours
Responsibilities of Public Authorities
- Departments must publish essential information about their functioning
- Important information should be available on official websites
Information that Cannot be Provided
National Security and Intelligence Agencies
- RAW (Research & Analysis Wing)
- Intelligence Bureau
- Directorate of Revenue Intelligence
- BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP and other paramilitary forces
- Police and defence intelligence branches
Note: Information related to corruption or human rights violations can still be requested.
Defence and Foreign Affairs Related Information
- National security, military strategies, troop movements
- Information affecting international relations
Commercial and Confidential Information
- Third-party personal information
- Trade secrets and intellectual property
Judicial Proceedings Related Information
- Information during ongoing court proceedings
- Sealed evidence or confidential records
Information Affecting Investigation
- Information that may interfere with an ongoing investigation
Confidential Government Documents
- Cabinet papers, discussions and decision-making records
Personal Information of Individuals
- Health-related information
- Confidential bank account details
- Private life related information (Right to Privacy)