Filing an RTI Request Online: A Comprehensive Guide to Tracing Your Grandfather's Properties

Understanding RTI Requests and Their Application

Addressing the various types of property your grandfather may possess, this guide provides a structured approach for filing an RTI request online to trace and gather information about those assets. RTI, or Right to Information, is a legal framework that allows citizens to access information from government bodies, promoting transparency and accountability.

Types of Properties and Corresponding Authorities

The process of filing an RTI request online varies based on the type of property your grandfather holds. Below, we outline the specific steps for each category:

Agricultural, Commercial, and Residential Land

If the property in question is land situated in a village or mandal, the information resides in the Mandal Revenue Office or Tahsildar office. Historically, these offices are state government departments that maintain land records. While some states offer online RTI services, others may require physical submission. Always check the state-specific guidelines.

Commercial Properties in Municipalities or Corporations

For commercial properties located within municipalities or corporations, you should direct your request to the corresponding Municipality, Corporation, or Sub Registrar's office. These entities are responsible for maintaining property-related records and documents.

Bank Deposits, Bonds, and Corporate Bonds

When the property involves bank deposits, bonds, or corporate bonds, you must target the relevant bank, financial company, or corporate entity. These private organizations hold the detailed records and can be approached via RTI.

Shares, Commodities, and Futures Options

For investments in shares, commodities, or futures options, the repositories NSDL, CSDL, NSE, BSE, or MCX are the appropriate entities to contact. These platforms manage larger financial transactions and can provide the necessary records.

Non-Public Interest Matters and Alternative Routes

Some property details may not be permissible under the RTI Act due to privacy concerns. In such cases, you have alternative options:

Visiting the Land Department Office

If the information requested pertains to private interests rather than public interest, you can directly visit the Land Department office to request the information. Submit your request as a formal letter, petition, or affidavit.

Lower Court Application

Alternatively, you can file an application in a lower court requesting the department to furnish the documents to you. This step involves a formal legal procedure, ensuring that your request is thorough and adhere to established protocols.

Handling Potential Infiltration or Abuse of Authority

In extraordinary cases where you suspect that your grandfather's property records have been tampered with or misused by government authorities, you can file an RTI request with the relevant Central Public Information Officer (CPIO). Your request should be detailed and include any evidence supporting your claim.

Example RTI Request Covering Suspicion of Infiltration

You can draft your RTI request as follows:

To

CPIO

Concerned Department

Date

Subject: Seeking Information as per RTI Act

Your Question:

[Explain your concern and why you suspect infiltration or misuse of authority]

Please provide detailed and comprehensive records related to your grandfather's property to verify your claims.