If you need information from a Meghalaya Government department, you can file an application under the Right to Information Act, 2005. Meghalaya provides an official online RTI platform called MeghaRTI, where eligible applicants can file RTI applications and First Appeals online.
The online RTI service is available through the MeghaRTI Portal. The portal allows applicants to submit RTI applications, file First Appeals, track application status and pay the prescribed fee online through the integrated payment gateway.
At present, the MeghaRTI Portal covers only State Government Departments, Directorates and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Offices. Public authorities that are not yet available on the portal can still be approached by submitting an RTI application through the offline process.
The application text box on the portal accepts a maximum of 150 words. If your RTI request is longer, upload the complete application as a PDF attachment wherever the portal provides this option.
The fee structure and filing procedure are governed by the Meghalaya RTI Rules, 2012 and the Right to Information (Regulations of Fees and Cost) Rules, 2006. The prescribed RTI application fee is Rs 10, and RTI applications may be submitted in English, Khasi or Garo.
If you are not satisfied with the response to your RTI application, you may file a First Appeal and, where applicable, a Second Appeal under the prescribed procedure. The Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) deals with Second Appeals and complaints under the RTI Act. Before filing an appeal or complaint, visit the Commission’s official website for the latest procedure and instructions.
Important: The MeghaRTI Portal should be used only for Meghalaya State Government public authorities. RTI applications meant for Central Government ministries, departments, PSUs or public authorities of other States should not be filed through this portal, as such applications may be returned without refund of the application fee. For Central Government public authorities, use the Central RTI Online Portal instead.
For a complete overview of RTI procedures across India, you can also read our RTI Online India Guide.
Central vs Meghalaya State RTI: Know Before Filing
Use the MeghaRTI Portal or Offline RTI for Meghalaya State Government Public Authorities
- Revenue and Disaster Management Department
- Meghalaya Police (except notified Special Branch organisations)
- Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) and related State electricity authorities
- Public Works Department (PWD)
- Community and Rural Development Department
- Meghalaya Public Service Commission (MPSC)
- Municipal Boards, Town Committees and other Urban Local Bodies
- School Education and Literacy Department
- Health and Family Welfare Department
- Autonomous District Councils and other State public authorities
- Directorate of Social Welfare
- Tourism Department
- Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department
- Other Meghalaya Government Departments, Directorates and Deputy Commissioner Offices
Use the Central RTI Online Portal for Central Public Authorities
- Income Tax Department
- Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)
- Aadhaar Card related queries (UIDAI)
- Passport Office
- North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO)
- North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS)
- Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong
- National Institute of Technology (NIT) Meghalaya
- North Eastern Hill University (NEHU)
- Railway authorities
- Central Armed Police Forces and other Central Government departments
- Other Central Government ministries, departments and public authorities
RTI Application Fee in Meghalaya
The fee for obtaining information under the Right to Information Act, 2005 in Meghalaya is prescribed under the Right to Information (Regulations of Fees and Cost) Rules, 2006 and the Meghalaya RTI Rules, 2012. Applicants are required to pay the prescribed application fee, while additional charges apply for copies of records and certain other services.
| Particular | Fee |
|---|---|
| RTI Application | Rs 10 |
| A4 / A3 Photocopies | Rs 2 per page |
| Larger Size Documents | Actual cost |
| Publications | Actual cost |
| Information on CD | Rs 50 per CD |
| Inspection of Records | Rs 10 for the first hour, then Rs 5 for every additional 15 minutes or part thereof |
| Maps and Plans | Actual cost as determined by the Public Information Officer (PIO) |
| First Appeal | No fee |
| Second Appeal | No fee |
The prescribed application fee should be paid in the manner accepted by the concerned public authority or through the official MeghaRTI Portal for online applications.
BPL applicants: Applicants holding a valid Below Poverty Line (BPL) certificate are exempt from paying the RTI application fee. As prescribed under the Meghalaya RTI Rules, the BPL certificate should be issued by the concerned Deputy Commissioner. Attach a self-attested copy of the valid certificate while submitting your RTI application.
Online Payment Options
The official MeghaRTI Portal currently supports payment of the RTI application fee through:
- Internet Banking
- Debit Card
Offline Payment Modes
For offline RTI applications, the prescribed fee may generally be paid through:
- Indian Postal Order (IPO)
- Demand Draft (DD)
- Banker’s Cheque
- Court Fee Stamp
- Cash against an official receipt (where accepted)
Before submitting an offline RTI application, verify the accepted payment mode and payee details with the concerned public authority, as administrative instructions may vary.
How to File an RTI Application Online in Meghalaya
You can submit an RTI application online through the official MeghaRTI Portal. Before you begin, make sure that the public authority you want to contact is available on the portal. At present, online filing is available only for State Government Departments, Directorates and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Offices. If the concerned authority is not listed, submit your RTI application through the offline process.
Step 1: Open the Official MeghaRTI Portal
Visit the MeghaRTI Portal. On the homepage, click “Submit Request” to start a new RTI application.
Step 2: Register or Log In
If you are using the portal for the first time, create your account by entering your name, mobile number and email address. Complete the OTP verification to activate your account. Existing users can simply log in using their registered credentials.
Step 3: Select the Public Authority
Choose the concerned Department, Directorate or Deputy Commissioner Office from the available list. If you cannot find the authority you are looking for, it may not be available for online filing yet. In that case, submit your RTI application offline instead.
Step 4: Fill in Your RTI Application
Enter the required details in the application form. Write your RTI request clearly and keep it specific. The application text box accepts a maximum of 150 words. If your application is longer, upload the complete RTI request as a PDF in the Supporting Document section.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Non-BPL applicants must pay the prescribed Rs 10 application fee through the online payment gateway using the available payment options. If you are applying under the BPL category, upload a copy of your valid BPL certificate issued by the concerned Deputy Commissioner instead of making the payment.
Step 6: Submit the Application
After verifying all the information, submit your RTI application. Once the application is submitted successfully, the portal generates a unique Registration Number. Save this number carefully because you will need it to check your application status and file an appeal, if required.
Step 7: Check Your RTI Status
Visit the MeghaRTI Portal again and click “View Status”. Enter your Registration Number to track the progress of your RTI application, view any updates and check whether any additional fee has been requested by the concerned Public Information Officer (PIO).
Important: Do not use the MeghaRTI Portal to file RTI applications for Central Government ministries, departments, public sector undertakings or public authorities of other States. Such applications may be returned without refund of the application fee.
How to File an RTI Application by Post in Meghalaya
If the concerned public authority is not available on the MeghaRTI Portal or you prefer the offline process, you can submit your RTI application by post.
Step 1: Write Your RTI Application
Write your RTI application on plain paper in English, Khasi or Garo. Meghalaya does not prescribe a standard application form. Clearly mention your name, complete postal address and the information you are requesting under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
Step 2: Address the Application to the Correct PIO
Find the State Public Information Officer (SPIO) of the concerned department or public authority and address your application to that officer. Sending the application to the correct public authority helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 3: Attach the Prescribed Fee
Attach the prescribed Rs 10 application fee using any accepted offline payment method, such as an Indian Postal Order (IPO), Demand Draft (DD), Banker’s Cheque, Court Fee Stamp or any other mode accepted by the concerned public authority. If you are applying under the BPL category, attach a self-attested copy of your valid BPL certificate instead of paying the application fee.
Step 4: Keep a Copy for Your Records
Before sending the application, keep a photocopy or scanned copy of the completed RTI application and the fee receipt or payment instrument for future reference.
Step 5: Send the Application
Send the RTI application by Registered Post or Speed Post to the concerned public authority. Keep the postal receipt safely until you receive a reply.
How to File an RTI Application in Person
You can also submit your RTI application directly at the office of the concerned State Public Information Officer (SPIO) or State Assistant Public Information Officer (SAPIO).
Step 1: Carry the Required Documents
Carry your completed RTI application along with the prescribed application fee or a valid BPL certificate, wherever applicable.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Submit the application to the concerned SPIO or SAPIO. If the fee is accepted in cash, collect the official payment receipt.
Step 3: Collect the Acknowledgement
Ask for a dated acknowledgement or receiving copy after submitting your RTI application. Keep it safely, as it may be required while tracking the application or filing an appeal.
How to File a First Appeal Online in Meghalaya
If you do not receive a reply within the prescribed time or you are not satisfied with the information provided, you can file a First Appeal through the MeghaRTI Portal.
Step 1: Open the MeghaRTI Portal
Visit the MeghaRTI Portal and click “Submit Appeal”.
Step 2: Enter Your RTI Details
Provide the Registration Number of your original RTI application. Mention the reason for filing the appeal, such as non-receipt of information within the prescribed time or dissatisfaction with the reply received.
Step 3: Submit the Appeal
Review the information and submit your First Appeal. No appeal fee is payable. You can later track the appeal status through the “View Status” option available on the portal.
How to File an RTI for the Meghalaya High Court
If you want information relating to the administrative records of the Meghalaya High Court, you can file your RTI application through the official MeghaRTI Portal.
As mentioned on the official Meghalaya High Court RTI page, while filling the online RTI application, select:
- Department: Law Department
- Public Authority: High Court of Meghalaya
After selecting the correct public authority, complete the application form, pay the prescribed fee (if applicable) and submit your RTI request through the portal.
Note: The RTI Act applies only to the administrative records of the High Court. Matters relating to judicial proceedings, court orders or case-related remedies are governed by the applicable court rules and other legal procedures.
How to File an RTI for Meghalaya Autonomous District Councils
The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) and Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) are separate public authorities under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Each Council appoints its own Public Information Officer (PIO) to deal with RTI applications.
If you need information relating to land administration, forests, traditional governance, licences, permits or any other record maintained by a District Council, address your RTI application to the PIO of the concerned Council.
Before submitting your application, verify the name and contact details of the concerned PIO from the official website or office of the respective District Council to ensure that your RTI application reaches the correct authority.
RTI Response Time in Meghalaya
Under the Right to Information Act, 2005, every Public Information Officer (PIO) must respond to an RTI application within the prescribed time limit. The applicable timelines are as follows:
| Situation | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Normal RTI Application | 30 days from the date of receipt |
| Information concerning the life or liberty of a person | Within 48 hours |
| Application transferred to another Public Authority under Section 6(3) | Transfer within 5 days |
| No reply within the prescribed period | Treated as a deemed refusal under the RTI Act |
If the concerned Public Information Officer requests additional fees for providing copies or other records, the response period is calculated in accordance with the provisions of the RTI Act.
When Can You File a First Appeal?
You can file a First Appeal before the designated First Appellate Authority (FAA) if:
- You do not receive any reply within the prescribed time limit.
- You are not satisfied with the information provided.
- Your RTI application is rejected wholly or partly.
- You disagree with the additional fee demanded by the Public Information Officer.
| Particular | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Time limit to file the First Appeal | Within 30 days from the date of the PIO’s decision or from the expiry of the response period |
| Time available to the First Appellate Authority to decide the appeal | 30 days, extendable up to 45 days with recorded reasons |
| Appeal Fee | No fee |
The detailed online and offline procedure for filing a First Appeal has already been explained in the sections above.
How to File a Second Appeal in Meghalaya
If you are not satisfied with the decision of the First Appellate Authority (FAA), or the FAA does not decide your appeal within the prescribed time, you can file a Second Appeal before the Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC).
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Appellate Authority | Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) |
| Time Limit | Within 90 days from the FAA’s decision or from the expiry of the prescribed period |
| Appeal Fee | No fee |
| Official Website | megsic.gov.in |
During the appeal proceedings, the burden of proving that the denial of information was justified lies on the concerned Public Information Officer (PIO), as provided under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
How to File a Second Appeal Online
- Visit the official Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) website.
- Open the Online Second Appeal service.
- Fill in your personal details and details of the original RTI application and First Appeal.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Review the information and submit the appeal.
- Save the acknowledgement or reference number for future tracking.
How to File a Second Appeal Offline
- Prepare your Second Appeal mentioning the facts of the case and the relief you are seeking.
- Attach copies of all supporting documents.
- Send the appeal to the Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) by Registered Post, Speed Post or submit it in person.
- Keep the postal receipt or acknowledgement safely for future reference.
Documents Required for a Second Appeal
- Copy of the original RTI application.
- Proof of payment of the RTI application fee, wherever applicable.
- Copy of the reply received from the Public Information Officer (if any).
- Copy of the First Appeal.
- Copy of the order passed by the First Appellate Authority, if available.
- Copies of any other supporting documents relevant to the appeal.
How to File an RTI Complaint in Meghalaya
A Complaint under Section 18 of the RTI Act is different from a Second Appeal. You can file a complaint directly before the Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) in situations permitted under the RTI Act, such as refusal to accept an RTI application, refusal to accept the prescribed fee, non-appointment of a Public Information Officer, or any other matter covered under Section 18.
How to File a Complaint Online
- Visit the official MSIC website.
- Open the Online Complaint service.
- Enter the required details and explain your grievance.
- Upload the supporting documents.
- Submit the complaint and save the acknowledgement for future reference.
How to File a Complaint Offline
- Prepare a written complaint describing the facts of your case.
- Attach copies of all relevant documents.
- Send the complaint to the Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) by Registered Post, Speed Post or submit it personally.
Note: A Complaint and a Second Appeal are different legal remedies under the RTI Act. Choose the appropriate option based on the nature of your case.
Helpful Tips for Filing an RTI in Meghalaya
- Check whether online filing is available: Before starting your application, confirm that the concerned public authority is available on the MeghaRTI Portal. If it is not listed, submit your RTI application through the offline process.
- Keep your request brief and specific: The MeghaRTI Portal allows only 150 words in the application text box. If your request is longer, upload the complete RTI application as a PDF attachment wherever the portal provides this option.
- Choose the correct RTI portal: Use the MeghaRTI Portal only for Meghalaya State Government public authorities. For Central Government ministries, departments, universities, PSUs and other Central Public Authorities, use the Central RTI Online Portal.
- Ask for records instead of explanations: Request copies of records, documents, orders, reports or certified copies instead of asking the Public Information Officer to provide opinions or explanations.
- Keep your documents safely: Preserve your Registration Number, postal receipt, acknowledgement and copies of your RTI application. These documents may be required while filing an appeal or complaint.
- Use the correct legal remedy: If you are dissatisfied with the reply, file a First Appeal or Second Appeal as applicable. If your grievance falls under Section 18 of the RTI Act, file a Complaint before the Meghalaya State Information Commission.
Quick Reference
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Online RTI Portal | megrti.gov.in/onlinerti |
| MeghaRTI Home | megrti.gov.in |
| Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC) | megsic.gov.in |
| Meghalaya High Court RTI Information | meghalayahighcourt.nic.in/online-rti |
| Central RTI Portal | rtionline.gov.in |
| RTI Application Fee | Rs 10 |
| Photocopy Charges | Rs 2 per page (A4/A3) |
| Information on CD | Rs 50 per CD |
| Online Payment | Internet Banking, Debit Card |
| Offline Payment | Indian Postal Order (IPO), Demand Draft (DD), Banker’s Cheque, Court Fee Stamp and Cash (where accepted) |
| Application Languages | English, Khasi and Garo |
| Portal Text Limit | 150 words (attach a PDF if additional space is required) |
| BPL Applicants | Application fee exempt on submission of a valid BPL certificate issued by the concerned Deputy Commissioner |
| First Appeal Fee | No fee |
| Second Appeal Fee | No fee |
| Special Branch RTI | Notified Special Branch organisations are exempt under Section 24 of the RTI Act, subject to the exceptions provided under the Act. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the Meghalaya RTI Rules and which fee rules apply?
Ans. RTI applications in Meghalaya are governed by multiple rules. The Meghalaya Right to Information (Regulations of Fees and Cost) Rules, 2006 prescribe the RTI application fee and charges for copies, CDs and inspection of records. The Meghalaya RTI Rules, 2012 govern the filing procedure, while Second Appeals before the Meghalaya State Information Commission are governed by the Right to Information (Appeals and Procedures of the State Information Commission) Rules, 2007.
Q. What is the 150-word limit on the MeghaRTI Portal?
Ans. The MeghaRTI Portal allows a maximum of 150 words in the application text box. If your RTI request is longer, upload the complete application as a PDF attachment in the Supporting Document section wherever the portal provides this option.
Q. Who can claim the BPL fee exemption in Meghalaya?
Ans. Applicants holding a valid BPL certificate issued by the concerned Deputy Commissioner are exempt from paying the RTI application fee. Attach a copy of the certificate while submitting your RTI application.
Q. Can I file an RTI application in Khasi or Garo?
Ans. Yes. RTI applications in Meghalaya may be submitted in English, Khasi or Garo.
Q. Which public authorities are available on the MeghaRTI Portal?
Ans. The MeghaRTI Portal currently provides online RTI filing mainly for State Government Departments, Directorates and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Offices. If the concerned public authority is not available on the portal, submit your RTI application through the offline process.
Q. When should I use the Central RTI Portal instead of the MeghaRTI Portal?
Ans. Use the Central RTI Online Portal for RTI applications relating to Central Government ministries, departments, public sector undertakings, Central universities and other Central Public Authorities, even if they are located in Meghalaya.
Q. How can I file a Second Appeal or Complaint in Meghalaya?
Ans. You can file a Second Appeal or a Complaint before the Meghalaya State Information Commission (MSIC). The Commission provides both online and offline filing facilities. Visit megsic.gov.in for the latest procedure and available services.
Tabassum is a government document researcher and writer with over 5 years of experience exclusively dedicated to tracking and simplifying Central and State Government document processes across India. She has researched and published detailed guides on 100+ government documents and certificates – including Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Ration Card, Domicile Certificate, and Birth Certificate – covering all states and the Central Government, helping lakhs of Indian citizens successfully complete their paperwork in simple, easy-to-understand language.