Is There Anyone Who Has Successfully Filed a Second RTI Appeal Online?

Ever since I filed my second appeal in December 2023, which was heard in October 2024, I've been reflecting on my experience and the broader implications for citizens seeking transparency and accountability. My case, with Heeralal Samariya as the CIC, highlighted the significant challenges in navigating the RTI (Right to Information) process. Despite the provisions of the RTI Act, the experience was a testament to the difficulties in ensuring effective enforcement and adjudication.

A Personal Insight into the Hearing Process

Attending the hearing personally out of curiosity to understand the process made me realize how unproductive and unhelpful the session could be. Heeralal Samariya, as the CIC, appeared to be not just a mere official but a barrier to the very principles of the RTI Act. His behavior was a stark violation of professional etiquette, and it left me feeling powerless and frustrated.

Firstly, the CIC had a very casual attitude towards the CPIO's response, citing a late reply as being "okay even though it was a 12-day delay." My case was much more complex, involving a denial of information in a manner that felt almost dismissive. Yet, the CIC's approach made such a mockery of the Act that I felt I couldn't even present my case adequately. This experience reinforced my belief that the current system is deeply flawed in how it deals with appeals.

Challenges in Seeking Further Remedies

For individuals like me, who find the information provided unsatisfactory, there are significant hurdles in seeking further redress. The need to challenge the CIC's order through the High Court is a costly and time-consuming process. This requirement not only discourages people from seeking further legal avenues but also underscores the need for a more accessible and efficient complaint mechanism.

The current situation often leaves citizens in a bind, as most of us do not have the resources to challenge orders in the High Court. This absence of a proper grievance redressal system at the initial stages leaves us vulnerable to the whims and biases of CICs and ICs. It is crucial to have mechanisms in place that allow citizens to report such incidents without lengthy and resource-intensive procedures.

Tips for Filing RTI Appeals Successfully

If you are considering filing an RTI appeal or even a second appeal, here are some practical tips that might help:

Knowing the Procedural Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the guidelines and formats needed for an RTI appeal. Though there's no set proforma, having a structured approach can significantly influence the outcome. Good Documentation: Attach copies of all relevant documents, including your initial application, applicable grounds for the appeal, information received from the PIO, and any replies from previous authorities. Clear Grounds for Appealing: Clearly articulate the reasons why you believe the information was mishandled or denied. Legal and factual arguments can strengthen your case. Notifying the Right Authorities: Ensure that your appeal is directed to the appropriate authority. For example, if your initial response came from the CM's Office, your appeal should be addressed to the CJCO or Rajasthan Information Commission. Seeking Legal Guidance: If you're unsure about the process or the legal implications, consider consulting a legal expert who specializes in RTI cases. Follow Up: After filing your appeal, keep track of the status. Sometimes, persistent follow-up can hasten the process and ensure you receive a response.

For more detailed information and guidance, visit relevant websites and forums dedicated to the RTI Act.

Ultimately, the experiences shared here should serve as a call to action for reform in the RTI process. By highlighting such issues, we can work towards creating a system that is fair, transparent, and accessible to all citizens.