Introduction
Section 6 of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 outlines the procedure for requesting information from public authorities. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their literacy level or physical ability. They can exercise their right to information. The section simplifies the application process and removes barriers by allowing requests in multiple languages and formats. It also mandates that Public Information Officers (PIOs) must assist individuals who are unable to make written requests. Thus, making the RTI process inclusive, accessible, and citizen-friendly.
Requesting Information Under Section 6 of RTI Act?
Under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, any citizen can request information from public authorities. To make a request, a person must submit it in writing or electronically. The request can be in English, Hindi, or the official language of the local area. It must also include the prescribed application fee.
The applicant should address the request to the Central or State Public Information Officer (PIO), or to the Assistant PIO. This is depending on the public authority involved. The application must clearly specify the information being sought.
If a person is unable to make a written request, the PIO must assist them. The officer should help convert the oral request into a written one.
Importantly, applicants do not need to explain why they want the information. They also don’t have to provide personal details, except contact information.
If the requested information is held by another public authority or is more relevant to another department, the PIO must transfer the application. This transfer must happen promptly, within five days, and the applicant should be informed right away.
This simple process ensures transparency and helps citizens access government-held information without unnecessary hurdles.
How Section 6 of the RTI Act Assists Those Unable to Write Requests?
Section 6(1) of the RTI Act, 2005 ensures that every citizen can access information, even if they cannot write a formal request. If a person is illiterate, disabled, or unable to write for any reason, the Public Information Officer (PIO) must assist them. The PIO has a legal duty to help reduce the oral request into a written form.
This support ensures that barriers like illiteracy or physical challenges do not block access to public information. For example, under Freedom of Information (FOI) guidelines, if a person cannot read or write, a designated officer fills out the request form on their behalf. In some procedures, a neutral third party may witness the process to ensure fairness and accuracy.
This provision promotes inclusion and transparency. It mandates that public authorities must help citizens exercise their right to know, no matter their physical or educational limitations.
Case Law Examples
- Aseer Jamal v. Union of India (2018).
In this landmark case, the petitioner, Aseer Jamal, represented the interests of illiterate and visually impaired citizens. Thus, challenging whether Section 6 of the RTI Act provided adequate mechanisms to ensure genuine accessibility to information for all citizens, regardless of literacy or physical abilities. The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 6, acknowledging the concerns raised but concluding that the existing provisions, including assistance for illiterate and visually impaired individuals, were sufficient to ensure accessibility. - Madhu Bhaduri vs. Director, Delhi Development Authority (2006).
In this case, the applicant was asked by the Delhi Development Authority to apply for information using a specific proforma. Also, to provide reasons for the information request. The Central Information Commission held that prescribing a particular format and asking for reasons violated Sections 6(1) and 6(2) of the RTI Act. The Commission emphasized that an applicant is not required to provide reasons for requesting information and that any direction to use a specific format cannot override the simple application process laid down in the Act. - S.V. Deshpande vs. Department of Personnel & Training (2022).
In this case, the applicant sought information under Section 6 of the RTI Act. The court observed that under Section 6. An applicant is entitled to obtain only such information that can be accessed by the “public authority” under any other law for the time being in force. This case highlights the limitations of the RTI Act concerning the nature of information that can be disclosed.
Conclusion
Section 6 of the RTI Act strengthens the foundation of transparency by ensuring that no citizen is excluded from accessing information due to disability, illiteracy, or any other limitation. It enforces a duty on public authorities to offer assistance and accept applications in both written and oral form. This provision empowers citizens, promotes accountability, and supports the RTI Act’s core objective, making government operations open and accessible to all.
