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How to File RTI First Appeal 2026

RTI First Appeal - free escalation if info denied. Within 30 days. Higher authority reviews.

📁 Schemes ⏱️ 30-45 mins 💰 Free

About This Guide

RTI First Appeal under Section 19(1) of RTI Act 2005 - file within 30 days of: receiving unsatisfactory info, no reply in 30 days, denial of information. Free. Filed at same authority but to a senior official (Appellate Authority). 30-day decision. Then Second Appeal at Information Commission if still unresolved.

Eligibility Criteria

Original RTI applicant
Within 30 days of CPIO's reply OR 30-day silence
Same authority as original
Appellate Authority designated by department

Documents Required

Keep these documents ready before starting application. Missing documents = delayed approval.

Original RTI application copy
CPIO's reply (if any)
Reasons for appeal
Specific grievance points
Aadhaar
Original payment receipt

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps in order. Each step is critical - skip none.

Wait 30 Days for Reply

CPIO must reply within 30 days.

Receive Reply

Unsatisfactory / partial / denial.

Or No Reply

After 30 days = deemed refusal.

Visit RTI Portal

rtionline.gov.in.

First Appeal Section

Click File First Appeal.

Reference Original RTI

RTI Registration Number.

Appeal Grounds

Specific grievance: incomplete info, wrong info, denial reasons not valid, etc.

Submit

Free. No fee for first appeal.

Forwarded to Appellate Authority

Senior official in same department.

Decision

Within 30 days. Mandates CPIO to provide info OR upholds denial.

Still Unsatisfactory

File Second Appeal at CIC within 90 days.

Key Benefits

100% FREE
Within 30 days of CPIO reply
Senior official review
30-day decision
Section 7(7) - if proven harassment, CPIO penalty
First step to information access
Second appeal possible at CIC

What Happens After Application?

30 days for AA decision. CIC second appeal if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

AA same as CPIO?

NO. AA is senior to CPIO in same department. Independent review.