Need an RTI first appeal format? This page explains when you need it, what it must contain and how to make it valid, step by step. You can also get CIVL’s ready-to-use RTI first appeal format as an editable Word file and PDF.
Quick answer
If the Public Information Officer does not reply in 30 days, refuses, or gives incomplete information, you can file a first appeal under Section 19(1) of the RTI Act within 30 days. It goes to a senior officer in the same office, the First Appellate Authority. For Central offices there is no fee, and you can file it online.
Read the full guide: How to file an RTI first appeal
What is an RTI first appeal?
A first appeal is your request to a senior officer of the same public authority to review what the PIO did. The officer is called the First Appellate Authority (FAA). Their name and address are usually on the PIO’s reply or on the department’s website.
The FAA should decide within 30 days, extendable to 45 days with reasons (Section 19(6)). If you are still not satisfied, you can file a second appeal with the Central or State Information Commission within 90 days (Section 19(3)).
When you need it
- No reply within 30 days of the PIO receiving your RTI application.
- The PIO refused the information, wrongly citing an exemption under Section 8.
- You got incomplete, misleading or irrelevant information.
- You were asked to pay fees you think are unreasonable.
- Your application was transferred or returned without a valid reason.
Stamp duty, notarisation and registration
| Requirement | What applies | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp paper / e-stamp | Not needed | Plain paper or the online appeal form. |
| Notarisation | Not needed | No affidavit is required. |
| Registration | Not needed | Keep proof of filing. |
| Fee | None for Central offices | Some states charge a small appeal fee; check the state rules. |
Appeal rules can differ by state. Check the state RTI rules for any fee, format or documents required.
What the first appeal must contain
- Addressed to: “The First Appellate Authority”, with the department name and address.
- Your name and address.
- Details of your RTI application: registration number or postal receipt, date filed, and the PIO it was addressed to.
- Details of the PIO’s reply (date and reference), or a statement that no reply was received.
- Grounds of appeal: briefly, why the reply is wrong or incomplete, point by point against your questions.
- Relief sought: for example, “direct the PIO to provide complete information on points 2 and 4, free of cost under Section 7(6)”.
- List of attachments (copies of the application, fee proof and the PIO’s reply), date and signature.
How to make it valid: step by step
- Check the deadline. 30 days from the PIO’s reply, or from the date the 30-day reply period ended if no reply came. A late appeal can be accepted if you explain the delay.
- Find the FAA. Look at the PIO’s reply or the department’s RTI page for the First Appellate Authority’s name and address.
- Fill in the format. Quote your application and reply details, and set out the grounds point by point.
- File online or by post. If you applied on rtionline.gov.in, use “Submit First Appeal” with your registration number. Otherwise send it by Speed Post or hand it in and take a receipt.
- Attend the hearing if called. The FAA may call you for a hearing, sometimes by video. Carry copies of all papers.
- Second appeal if needed. If the FAA does not decide or you are unhappy with the order, file a second appeal with the Information Commission within 90 days.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending it to the PIO. The appeal goes to the First Appellate Authority, not back to the PIO.
- Asking new questions. An appeal is about your original application. New questions need a fresh RTI.
- Skipping the first appeal. Information Commissions usually expect you to have gone to the FAA first.
- Missing attachments. Without copies of the application and reply, the FAA may not be able to decide.
- Missing the 30 days. If you are late, explain the reason in a short paragraph at the start.
CIVL format
Get the ready-to-use RTI first appeal format
- Editable Word file and a print-ready PDF
- Notes on how to fill every blank
- Ready grounds for “no reply”, “refusal” and “incomplete reply”
- Second appeal checklist
- Delivered to your email after payment
Price: ₹49 · Coming soon
Frequently asked questions
What is the time limit for an RTI first appeal?
30 days from receiving the PIO’s decision, or from the date the reply was due if no reply came (Section 19(1)). The FAA can accept a late appeal for sufficient cause.
Is there a fee for an RTI first appeal?
Not for Central Government public authorities. Some states charge a small fee under their own rules.
How long does the First Appellate Authority take?
30 days from receipt, which can be extended to 45 days with written reasons (Section 19(6)).
Can I file a first appeal online?
Yes, for applications filed on rtionline.gov.in, using your registration number. Many state portals also accept appeals.
What after the first appeal?
A second appeal to the Central or State Information Commission within 90 days of the FAA’s decision or of the date it was due (Section 19(3)).
Where can I get a ready-to-use RTI first appeal format?
CIVL’s RTI first appeal format comes as an editable Word file and a print-ready PDF, with notes on filling every blank and checking your state’s rules. Use the button above to be told when it is available.