Can RTI be filed anonymously?

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Answer By law4u team

No, an RTI application cannot be filed anonymously under the RTI Act, 2005. Reasons: Section 6(2) of the RTI Act states that an applicant is not required to give reasons for seeking information, but must provide their name and contact details. The Public Information Officer (PIO) must know whom to send the reply to, so the applicant’s identity is necessary. The Act mandates that an RTI application be signed and submitted with the applicant’s name and address for communication. However, here are two practical options: You can ask someone else to file the RTI on your behalf. You can approach RTI activist groups or NGOs who file it in their own name. Conclusion: RTI cannot be filed anonymously under the law, but you can protect your identity by filing indirectly through another individual or organization.

Answer By Anik

Dear Client, No, an RTI (Right to Information) application cannot be submitted anonymously in the prevailing legal setup of India. Under the Right to Information Act, 2005, there is a requirement that the applicant must give his/her name and contact information while making a request for information from a public authority. The Act prescribes that an individual who is applying for information should submit the application in writing or electronically, along with the prescribed fee, and should provide their name, address, and details of information desired. This is to guarantee proper communication and delivery of the information or further queries. Nonetheless, public debate and pressures have been voiced regarding the permission for anonymous RTI applications in instances where the applicants fear threats or harassment.A system of "whistleblower protection" or submission through intermediaries has been proposed by some activists, but these are not legally established under the present RTI law. Lastly, although the intention of RTI is to facilitate transparency, according to the RTI Act, it does not accept anonymous applications, and the identity of the applicant should be known. I hope this answer helps. In case of future queries, please feel free to contact us. Thank you.

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