Public Desk
Right to Information
তথ্যের অধিকার
The RTI Act, 2005 gives every citizen the right to ask a public authority for information. This page explains the process in plain language and how this office helps if you are stonewalled.
Filing an RTI, step by step
আরটিআই দাখিলের ধাপ- 01
Write the application
In English, Hindi or Bengali. State the information sought clearly. You are not required to give reasons for seeking it.
- 02
Address the PIO
Send it to the Public Information Officer of the department or office that holds the information.
- 03
Pay the fee
The prescribed application fee is ₹10. Applicants below the poverty line are exempt on producing proof.
- 04
Wait 30 days
The PIO must reply within 30 days — 48 hours where the information concerns life or liberty.
- 05
First appeal
If there is no reply or the reply is unsatisfactory, file a first appeal within 30 days with the First Appellate Authority.
- 06
Second appeal
If the first appeal fails, approach the West Bengal Information Commission within 90 days.
Official portals
সরকারি পোর্টালCommon questions
সাধারণ প্রশ্নCan this office file an RTI on my behalf?
The office does not file applications for citizens, but the public desk will tell you which department holds the information, who the Public Information Officer is, and how to address your application. If a PIO has not replied within the statutory period, write in and the office will take it up.
What can I not ask for?
Information exempt under Section 8 of the RTI Act — matters affecting national security, information held in a fiduciary relationship, personal information with no public interest, and a few other categories. A PIO must state the specific exemption relied upon.
Is there a fee for the reply?
Beyond the ₹10 application fee, the PIO may charge prescribed per-page copying costs. Applicants below the poverty line are exempt from both.
What if the PIO ignores my application?
Silence for 30 days is treated as a deemed refusal and you may file a first appeal immediately. Write to this office with the application date and department, and the matter will be pursued.
RTI not answered in time?
Write in with the department, the date of your application and the reference number. The office will pursue it with the concerned Public Information Officer.