RTI Online Assam: Apply, Fee, Appeal & Status Check Guide

Assam provides an official online system for filing applications under the Right to Information Act, 2005. Citizens can submit RTI applications, file First Appeals and track the status of their requests through the Assam RTI Online Portal. The fee and procedure for State Government public authorities are governed by the Assam Right to Information Rules, 2005. The prescribed RTI application fee is Rs 10.

RTI applications may be submitted in English or Assamese (Asamiya). The Assam RTI Online Portal allows applicants to choose the concerned Department, District and Public Authority before submitting an application, helping route the request to the appropriate Public Information Officer (PIO).

Second Appeals and complaints relating to Assam State Government public authorities can be filed through the Assam State Information Commission (SIC). The Commission also provides an online facility for filing Second Appeals through its official website.

For RTI applications relating to Central Government ministries, departments and organisations such as UIDAI, EPFO, Passport Seva, Northeast Frontier Railway and other Central Public Authorities, applicants should use the Central RTI Online Portal. For a complete overview of the RTI process across India, read our RTI Online India Guide.

Which RTI Portal Should You Use?

Before filing an RTI application, identify whether the information is held by an Assam State Government public authority or a Central Government public authority. Submitting your application through the correct RTI portal helps it reach the appropriate Public Information Officer (PIO) without unnecessary delays.

Use the Assam RTI Online Portal if the information is held by an Assam State Government department or public authority, such as:

• Revenue & Disaster Management Department
• Assam Police
• Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL)
• Public Health Engineering Department (PHED)
• Public Works Department (PWD)
• Assam Public Service Commission (APSC)
• Municipal Corporations and other Urban Local Bodies
• Panchayati Raj Institutions
• School Education Department
• Health & Family Welfare Department
• Social Welfare Department
• Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA)

Use the Central RTI Online Portal if the information is held by a Central Government ministry, department or organisation. Common examples include:

• Income Tax Department
• Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)
• UIDAI (Aadhaar)
• Passport Seva
• Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR)
• Oil India Limited (OIL)
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
• Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL)
• IIT Guwahati
• Tezpur University

RTI Fee and Payment Methods in Assam

The RTI application fee and charges for obtaining information are governed by the Assam Right to Information Rules, 2005. The applicable charges are:

• RTI Application Fee: Rs 10
• Photocopies (A4/A3): Rs 2 per page
• Larger-size documents: Actual cost
• Information on CD: Rs 50 per disc
• Inspection of records: Free for the first hour, then Rs 5 for every 15 minutes or part thereof
• First Appeal: No fee
• Second Appeal: No fee

Offline Payment: For postal applications, the prescribed fee is generally paid through an Indian Postal Order (IPO) drawn in favour of the Accounts Officer of the concerned public authority. Where permitted, other payment methods specified by the concerned authority may also be accepted.

Online Payment: The Assam RTI Online Portal provides an integrated facility to pay the prescribed application fee while submitting an online RTI request.

BPL Applicants: Applicants claiming exemption from the RTI application fee should attach valid proof of eligibility as prescribed under the applicable RTI Rules.

How to File an RTI Application Online in Assam

You can submit an RTI application online through the Assam RTI Online Portal for information held by Departments and Public Authorities of the Government of Assam. Before starting, make sure you have a valid mobile number, email address and the details of the public authority from which you want to obtain information.

Step 1: Visit the Assam RTI Online Portal

Open rtionline.assam.gov.in and choose the option to file a new RTI application. Read the instructions displayed on the portal and continue after accepting the declaration.

Step 2: Verify Your Contact Details

Enter your mobile number and email address, if required by the portal. These contact details are used for communication regarding your RTI application.

Step 3: Select the Correct Public Authority

The Assam RTI portal helps applicants identify the correct office through a three-step selection process.

• Select the Department.
• Select the relevant District.
• Select the concerned Public Authority or Office.

Choosing the correct public authority helps your RTI application reach the appropriate Public Information Officer (PIO).

Step 4: Enter Your RTI Request

Fill in the required applicant details and clearly describe the information you want to obtain. RTI applications may be submitted in English or Assamese (Asamiya). If the portal allows supporting documents, you may attach them where relevant.

Step 5: Pay the Prescribed Fee

Non-BPL applicants must pay the prescribed Rs 10 RTI application fee using the payment facility available on the portal. Applicants eligible for fee exemption should upload the required proof, wherever applicable.

Step 6: Submit the Application

After reviewing all the information, submit your RTI application. The portal generates an application reference number. Keep this number safely, as it is required for tracking your application and filing a First Appeal, if necessary.

Step 7: Track Your RTI Status

You can check the progress of your application through the status tracking option available on the Assam RTI Online Portal by entering your application reference number.

How to File an RTI Application by Post in Assam

If you prefer not to apply online, you can send your RTI application by post to the State Public Information Officer (SPIO) of the concerned Assam Government department or public authority.

Step 1: Prepare Your RTI Application

Write your RTI application in English or Assamese (Asamiya). Clearly mention the information or documents you wish to obtain along with your name and contact details.

Step 2: Address the Application

Address the application to the State Public Information Officer (SPIO) of the concerned department or public authority that holds the requested information.

Step 3: Attach the Prescribed Fee

Attach the prescribed Rs 10 RTI application fee through an Indian Postal Order (IPO) or any other payment method accepted by the concerned public authority. Applicants eligible for fee exemption should enclose the required supporting documents.

Step 4: Send the Application

Send the application by Speed Post, Registered Post, or any other reliable postal service. Keep the postal receipt safely, as it can be useful for tracking delivery.

Step 5: Wait for the Response

Once the SPIO receives your application, the RTI Act timelines begin to apply. If additional copying charges are required, the public authority will inform you before providing the requested information.

How to Submit an RTI Application in Person

You may also submit your RTI application directly at the office of the concerned State Public Information Officer (SPIO). Carry the completed application along with the prescribed fee or proof of fee exemption, wherever applicable.

After submission, collect an acknowledgement or receipt for your records. This will help you track the application and calculate the statutory response period under the RTI Act.

Can You File an RTI Application in Assamese?

Yes. Under Section 6(1) of the Right to Information Act, 2005, an RTI application may be submitted in English, Hindi, or the official language of the area. Since Assamese (Asamiya) is an official language of Assam, citizens may submit RTI applications in Assamese when seeking information from Assam Government public authorities.

Whether you apply online or offline, write your request clearly and ask for specific records, documents or certified copies instead of opinions or explanations. Using simple and precise language helps the Public Information Officer (PIO) understand your request and process it more efficiently.

If you are more comfortable writing in English, you may also submit your RTI application in English through the Assam RTI Online Portal or by post.

How to File a First Appeal in Assam

If you do not receive a response to your RTI application within the prescribed time or you are dissatisfied with the information provided, you may file a First Appeal under Section 19(1) of the Right to Information Act, 2005. The appeal is submitted to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the same public authority.

When can you file a First Appeal?

• No response is received within the RTI Act time limit.
• The information supplied is incomplete or incorrect.
• Only part of the requested information is provided.
• Your RTI request has been rejected and you disagree with the decision.

Time Limit: The First Appeal should normally be filed within 30 days from the date the RTI response was due or from the date you received the reply.

Fee: No fee is prescribed for filing a First Appeal in Assam.

How to File a First Appeal Online

1. Visit the Assam RTI Online Portal.
2. Select the option to file a First Appeal.
3. Enter the reference number of your original RTI application.
4. Explain the reasons for filing the appeal.
5. Review the information and submit the appeal.

How to File a First Appeal Offline

You may also submit a written appeal to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) of the concerned department. Attach copies of your original RTI application, the reply received (if any), and clearly explain why you are filing the appeal.

The First Appellate Authority is generally expected to dispose of the appeal within 30 days. In appropriate cases, this period may be extended up to 45 days, provided the reasons for the delay are recorded in writing.

How to File a Second Appeal or Complaint in Assam

If you are not satisfied with the decision of the First Appellate Authority (FAA), or if no decision is received within the prescribed time, you may file a Second Appeal under Section 19(3) of the Right to Information Act, 2005 before the Assam State Information Commission (ASIC). A complaint relating to matters covered under Section 18 of the RTI Act may also be submitted to the Commission, wherever applicable.

Time Limit: A Second Appeal should ordinarily be filed within 90 days from the date of the First Appellate Authority’s decision or from the date on which the decision was due. The Commission may admit a delayed appeal if sufficient cause is shown.

File a Second Appeal Online

The Assam State Information Commission provides an online facility for filing Second Appeals through its official website.

1. Visit the Assam State Information Commission Online Second Appeal Portal.
2. Select whether you are filing a Second Appeal or a Complaint, as applicable.
3. Enter the required details relating to your RTI application and First Appeal.
4. Upload the supporting documents requested by the portal.
5. Review the information and submit your application.

Keep the acknowledgement or reference number generated after submission for future correspondence with the Commission.

File a Second Appeal Offline

If you prefer, you may also submit a written Second Appeal or Complaint to the Assam State Information Commission along with copies of your RTI application, the First Appeal, the reply received (if any), and any other supporting documents relevant to your case.

For the latest filing procedure, document requirements and updates, visit the official Assam State Information Commission website.

How to File an RTI Complaint in Assam

The Assam State Information Commission also accepts complaints under Section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2005. A complaint is different from a Second Appeal and is generally used when you are unable to exercise your RTI rights due to procedural issues.

You may file a complaint if:

• The concerned Public Information Officer (PIO) refuses to accept your RTI application.
• No Public Information Officer has been appointed by the public authority.
• You are unable to submit an RTI application because of procedural difficulties.
• You are charged an unreasonable fee for providing information.
• You believe the information provided is false, misleading or incomplete.
• Any other violation of your rights under the RTI Act has occurred.

How to File a Complaint

1. Visit the Assam State Information Commission.
2. Select the appropriate option for filing an RTI Complaint, if available online.
3. Provide details of the public authority and explain the grievance clearly.
4. Upload or attach supporting documents, wherever applicable.
5. Submit the complaint and keep the acknowledgement or reference number for future correspondence.

If you prefer, you may also submit a written complaint to the Assam State Information Commission along with copies of all relevant documents supporting your grievance.

RTI Response Time in Assam

The Assam Government public authority must process RTI applications within the time limits prescribed under the Right to Information Act, 2005.

• 30 days: The Public Information Officer (PIO) should provide the requested information or communicate the reasons for rejection within 30 days of receiving the RTI application.
• 48 hours: Information concerning the life or liberty of a person must be provided within 48 hours.
• 35 days: If the RTI application is submitted through a State Assistant Public Information Officer (SAPIO), up to 5 additional days may be added to the normal response period.
• Transfer within 5 days: If the requested information is held by another public authority, the application should be transferred under Section 6(3) of the RTI Act within 5 days, and the applicant should be informed about the transfer.
• Additional fee: If further copying or document charges are payable, the Public Information Officer will issue an intimation before supplying the information.

Useful Tips for Filing an RTI in Assam

• Select the correct public authority: Before submitting your RTI application, identify the department or office that actually holds the information. Choosing the correct authority can help avoid unnecessary transfers.
• Use the Department–District–Public Authority selection carefully: The Assam RTI Online Portal allows applicants to choose the concerned Department, District and Public Authority. Review your selection before submitting the application.
• Ask for records, not explanations: Request copies of documents, registers, reports, orders, file notings or other existing records instead of asking questions that require opinions or justifications.
• Be specific: Mention the relevant scheme, office, village, district, file number or time period whenever possible. A clear request is usually processed more efficiently.
• Keep your application reference number safe: It may be required for tracking your RTI application, filing a First Appeal or communicating with the concerned public authority.
• Use the correct RTI portal: File requests relating to Assam Government departments through the Assam RTI Online Portal, while applications concerning Central Government ministries, departments and organisations should be submitted through the Central RTI Online Portal.

Quick Reference

Particular	Details
Assam RTI Online Portal	https://rtionline.assam.gov.in
Assam State Information Commission	https://sic.assam.gov.in
Online Second Appeal	https://sic.assam.gov.in/public/second_appeal.jsp
Central RTI Portal	https://rtionline.gov.in
RTI Application Fee	Rs 10
First Appeal Fee	No Fee
Second Appeal Fee	No Fee
Photocopy Charges	Rs 2 per A4/A3 page
Information on CD	Rs 50 per CD
Inspection of Records	Free for the first hour; thereafter as prescribed under the RTI Rules
Accepted Languages	English and Assamese (Asamiya)
State RTI Rules	Assam Right to Information Rules, 2005 (verify official notification title before publishing)
Dharitree (Land Records)	https://dharitree.assam.gov.in
Government of Assam	https://assam.gov.in

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Which RTI rules apply in Assam?
Ans. RTI applications relating to Assam Government public authorities are governed by the Assam Right to Information Rules, 2005. The prescribed RTI application fee is Rs 10. (Verify the exact official title of the Rules from the Gazette before publishing.)

Q. Which portal should I use for filing an RTI in Assam?
Ans. Use the Assam RTI Online Portal for Assam State Government departments and public authorities. For Central Government ministries, departments and organisations, use the Central RTI Online Portal.

Q. Can I file an RTI application in Assamese?
Ans. Yes. Under Section 6(1) of the Right to Information Act, 2005, an RTI application may be submitted in English, Hindi or the official language of the area. Applicants may therefore submit RTI applications in Assamese (Asamiya) when seeking information from Assam Government public authorities.

Q. What is the RTI application fee in Assam?
Ans. The prescribed RTI application fee is Rs 10. Additional charges may apply for photocopies or other records as specified under the applicable RTI Rules.

Q. How can I file a First Appeal?
Ans. If you do not receive a reply within the prescribed time or you are dissatisfied with the response, you can file a First Appeal before the concerned First Appellate Authority (FAA). The appeal may be filed through the Assam RTI Online Portal or by submitting it directly to the concerned department.

Q. How do I file a Second Appeal or Complaint?
Ans. A Second Appeal under Section 19(3) or a Complaint under Section 18 of the RTI Act may be filed before the Assam State Information Commission. The Commission also provides an online facility for filing Second Appeals through its official website.

Q. How long does it take to receive RTI information?
Ans. In most cases, the Public Information Officer (PIO) should respond within 30 days. Information concerning the life or liberty of a person must ordinarily be provided within 48 hours.

Q. Can I submit an RTI application by post?
Ans. Yes. You can send your RTI application by post to the concerned State Public Information Officer (SPIO) along with the prescribed application fee or proof of fee exemption, wherever applicable.