Illustrative situation and records to prepare
Hypothetical example; not a reported case or a predicted outcome.
A person wants copies of a public authority's sanction orders for a stated period. Describe the existing records and identify the likely record-holder. Keep the submitted request and receipt; asking for a new explanation and seeking copies of existing records are different requests.
Short answer
Choose the public authority that holds the records you need and make a focused request. The RTI Online guidelines address applications and first appeals by Indian citizens to Central Ministries and Departments; check the appropriate route for a state authority.
Practical preparation
- Specify the records, date range, department or file reference and preferred form of access. Use separate numbered requests so the records sought are easy to identify.
- The Central portal allows 3,000 characters in the text field and an attachment for a longer application. Its guidelines advise against uploading personal identity documents such as Aadhaar or PAN, except the BPL card where relevant.
- Save the registration number to track the request. The guidelines provide a first-appeal route without an appeal fee; BPL applicants claiming a fee exemption must attach the relevant certificate.
Scope and limits
This overview covers request preparation and the Central portal guidance, not statutory exemptions, response deadlines or every appeal remedy. Confirm those separately for your authority and circumstances.