Query regarding RTI rules to get written records of my all complaints

918 votes

Yes, based on what you've described, you can file a First Appeal to the First Appellate Authority (FAA) under the Right to Information Act, 2005, and you have a legal basis to request written or digital copies of the complaint records, Action Taken Reports (ATRs), and enquiry reports instead of just inspection. You should file a written appeal to the FAA of the Delhi Police, citing: Your original RTI application, The PIO's reply (attach copy), Sections 2(j) and 7(9) of the RTI Act, Your request for certified copies or digital records instead of just inspection. You can get all complaint records and ATRs under RTI, unless: The information is exempt under Section 8 or 9 (e.g., privacy of third party, national security, etc.), The police demonstrate that compiling and supplying the records would disproportionately divert their resources (they must give specific reasoning, not vague claims). under Section 2(j)(ii) – the right includes obtaining information in electronic form, if available. Typically, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the District is the FAA for RTI appeals related to that district’s police stations.

LawRato LawRato

621 votes

Under the RTI Act, you have the right to receive information in the form you request, unless supplying it in that form would disproportionately divert resources or harm the safety or preservation of the records (Section 7(9) RTI Act). If the Public Information Officer (PIO) is refusing and only allowing inspection, you should file a first appeal (to the FAA) stating that you are unable to physically visit and require copies (physical or scanned/digital) under your entitlement. Also emphasize that you are willing to pay for copying/scanning charges as per the RTI rules. In your appeal, clearly mention: – The specific written or digital format you seek (e.g., photocopies, scanned PDFs). – That the refusal forces hardship and is contrary to the spirit of transparency under RTI. – That mere “voluminous information” or the offer of inspection does not absolve the PIO from providing copies if reasonably feasible. It is common for FAA or second appeal authorities (SIC/CIC) to direct the PIO to supply written/digital copies, especially if specific complaint files or reports can be segregated without undue burden. If you appeal properly and justify your need, you are likely to get the records in the desired format.

Advocate Yuganshu Sharma LawRato