After completing a 7 day RTI course at http://rtiocc.cgg.gov.in and reading up on blogs and forums on the RTI process, I had filed an application today. It was the first step towards a more serious legal aid work awaiting.
The process is quite simple. Beginners will have initial roadblocks. Let me remove the roadblocks and make it easy for every one.
Step 1: Write an application. Your need to frame questions in a simple and direct way to get information. Ask why you need this information and what you will do with it before framing the question. Be specific about the quantity. Mention in which format and mode you want to receive the information.
Browse through sample RTI applications online at www.rtiindia.org or request from other RTI activists. Thanks to Naman Mohnot for sharing one with me.
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To
The CPIO Date: 20th November 2012
Directorate of Karnataka Prisons
Bangalore [Karnataka]
Dear Sir,
Application for Information under the Right to Information Act, 2005
The undersigned applicant wishes to seek the following information:
- Kindly provide the exact number of under-trials of all Jails of Karnataka as on November 21, 2012 who have been charged with offences that are not punishable with a death sentence and who have already been in prison for a duration which would be half or more than half of the maximum sentence that can be awarded in their individual case if found guilty as per Section 436 A of C.r.P.C.
- Kindly provide this information of under-trials in the below given format.
| Serial No. | Name of Undertrial | Father’s name | Offence/s | Case No. | Date of arrest | Date of entry into jail | Name of Hon’ble courts (in which case is pending) | Whether get bail or not
(Y/NO) |
Next Date Of Hearing |
Please find attached the receipt of cash amount of Rupees Ten only (Rs. 10 only) deposited in connection with this application.
Note: Incase, the application is not received by the appropriate PIO the same should be transferred to the concerned PIO within 5 working days of the receipt of this application and the applicant shall be intimated about the same. The applicant will also be willing to bear the expense of photocopies, as and when informed in this regard by the PIO.
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Phone
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Step 2: Know your PIO. You may struggle on this. But always shout for help. There are several generous people in the online forums to help. Use http://dpar-rti.kar.nic.in/frmknowpio.aspx (for other states: rti.gov.in/rti/states.asp)
Select Department and Sub Unit in the above link.
Step 3: Make postal order for Rs.10. Payable to the Accounts Officer and send the application through a registered post addressed to the PIO of that particular department.
Notes:
I did send a photo copy of my pancard for citizenship proof. I am not sure whether it was necessary.
Download the sample RTI application in word doc.
I will keep updating on my RTI application status and its further use. Do check later. Your comments, suggestions and feedback are most welcome.
