CIC frames new rules for RTI applications from abroad

Chief Information Commissioner Wajahat Habibullah

NEW DELHI: In order to ease RTI application process from abroad, the Central Information Commission has framed new rules enabling NRIs to pay application fees and information costs at the Indian embassies and missions abroad.

NRIs will also be able to avail audio-video conference facilities in case of first and second appeals.

"We have finalized new rules and regulations which will help NRIs to easily process their applications while exercising their Right to Information. There will be an easy-to-follow procedure for paying fee against the information in Indian Embassies and audio-video conferencing facility in case of first and second appeals," Chief Information Commissioner Wajahat Habibullah told PTI.

As per the new procedure envisaged, Habibullah said "Embassies may accept only the fee and information cost and provide e-receipts to applicants who can then directly file their RTIs to public authorities in India by email along with proof of payment."
The CIC said, "I will soon meet concerned officials at the Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Personnel and Training other stake holders for this." NRIs have often complained of a cumbersome process of fee-payment for seeking information.-PTI