RTI complaint and appeal — different statutory routes

At a glance

Identify the problem and the relief sought before choosing a complaint or appeal. The two provisions should not be treated as interchangeable forms.

Law and context

Sections 18 and 19 of the RTI Act establish different mechanisms within their scope. A refusal to accept an application, an access decision and other procedural concerns can raise different legal questions under current judicial interpretation.

Practical next step

Bring the original request or attempted submission, acknowledgements, responses and exact desired outcome to counsel or the appropriate official guidance source. Keep the chronology complete.

Important qualifications

This guide does not choose a route or say every complaint can secure the same relief as an appeal. Statutory timing and jurisdiction need checking.

Document checklist

• Attempted or filed request
• Acceptance and response record
• Desired relief
• Relevant dates

Sources

• The Right to Information Act, 2005 — 18,19

General information. The appropriate course depends on the complete facts, documents and applicable law. Editorial process and website disclaimer.