To file a case in the Central Information Commission (CIC), which is the apex body for addressing appeals and complaints under the Right to Information Act in India, you can follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Prepare your case
Before filing a case with the CIC, ensure that you have exhausted all remedies available at the lower levels. This means you should have first filed an application for information with the relevant Public Information Officer (PIO) at the public authority concerned. If you have received an unsatisfactory response or no response within the stipulated time frame, you can proceed to file a case with the CIC.
Step 2: Understand the jurisdiction of the CIC
The CIC has jurisdiction over matters related to the Central Government, Union Territory Administrations, and public authorities covered under the RTI Act. Ensure that your case falls within the purview of the CIC before proceeding.
Step 3: Draft your complaint or appeal
The CIC accepts both complaints and appeals. A complaint can be filed if you believe a public authority has not provided information as required under the RTI Act, or if you have faced other issues such as harassment or denial of rights related to the Act. An appeal can be filed if you have already filed an application with the PIO and received an unsatisfactory response or no response within the stipulated time.
In either case, your complaint or appeal should be clear, concise, and well-structured. Include the following information:
a. Your name, contact details, and address.
b. The name and address of the public authority concerned.
c. The date of filing the initial RTI application.
d. Copies of relevant documents, if any.
e. A detailed description of the issue or matter at hand, including any specific information you seek.
f. Grounds on which you are making the complaint or appeal.
g. Any other relevant details or supporting evidence.
Step 4: Make copies and gather supporting documents
Make multiple copies of your complaint or appeal, along with all relevant documents. Keep one copy for your records and additional copies for submission to the CIC and the concerned public authority. Supporting documents may include copies of your RTI application, responses (if any), and any other evidence related to your case.
Step 5: Submit the complaint or appeal to the CIC
You can file your complaint or appeal with the CIC either in person or through postal mail. The CIC’s address is as follows:
Central Information Commission
August Kranti Bhawan,
Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi – 110066
If you choose to submit it in person, you can visit the CIC’s office during working hours and hand over your complaint or appeal along with the supporting documents to the designated officer. Alternatively, you can send it via postal mail, ensuring that you use registered or speed post to track the delivery.
Step 6: Pay the required fee (if applicable)
The CIC charges a nominal fee for filing a complaint or appeal. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the fee for filing a complaint was Rs. 10, while for an appeal, it was Rs. 20. However, these fees may have changed, so it is essential to verify the current fees by checking the CIC’s official website or contacting their office.
Step 7: Follow up on your case
After submitting your complaint or appeal, you will receive an acknowledgment from the CIC. The commission will then proceed to examine your case and issue notices to the concerned parties. You may be called for a hearing or asked to provide additional information during the course of the proceedings. Stay engaged and respond promptly to any communication from the CIC.
Step 8: Await the decision
The CIC will conduct a thorough examination of your case and issue a decision based on the merits. The decision will be communicated to you in writing. If the decision is in your favor, the public authority will be instructed to take necessary actions, which may include providing the requested information or taking disciplinary measures against erring officials.
Remember that the process and timelines for handling cases by the CIC may vary, and it’s advisable to keep track of any updates or changes in their procedures by referring to their official website or contacting their office directly.