RTI Application Not Answered
A government department hasn't responded to your Right to Information request within the deadline.
What this generally means
Public authorities are legally required to respond to RTI requests within 30 days; failure to do so can be escalated to the Information Commission.
Your journey
You Are Here
You're trying to understand what to do about an unanswered RTI request. That's a good first step.
Understand Issue
Read through what this situation generally means and what your options are.
Gather Documents
Collect the evidence and paperwork that will support your case.
Contact Resource
Reach out to the most relevant authority, helpline, or legal aid service.
Escalate If Needed
If the first contact doesn't resolve things, escalate to a higher forum or authority.
Follow Up
Track your complaint's status and keep records of every response you receive.
Common next steps
- 1Confirm the 30-day deadline has passed from your filing date.
- 2File a first appeal with the department's Appellate Authority.
- 3If still unresolved, file a second appeal with the State/Central Information Commission.
- 4Keep your RTI acknowledgment and tracking number handy throughout.
Useful documents
- RTI application copy
- Acknowledgement/tracking number
- Any partial response received
Relevant authorities
- State Right to Information Cell
- State/Central Information Commission
Frequently asked questions
What if I get an incomplete answer?+
You can file a first appeal explaining what information is still missing or unclear.
Is there a penalty for not responding to an RTI?+
Yes, the Information Commission can impose a penalty on officers who unreasonably delay or deny information without valid grounds.
Verified resources
RTI Online (Central Government)
Official portal to file Right to Information applications and first appeals to central government Ministries/Departments. State authorities typically have separate portals.
Understanding RTI (Guide)
Plain-language explainer on filing Right to Information requests under the RTI Act, 2005.
State/Central Information Commission
Independent authority hearing second appeals when RTI requests are denied or ignored. Contact details vary by state; central commission linked via CPGRAMS.