How to File an RTI Request
A short guide to using Bangladesh's Right to Information Act to request information from a public body.
What the law covers
The Right to Information Act gives citizens the right to request information held by public authorities, subject to specific, limited exceptions set out in the law. [TO VERIFY: the year and exact scope of the Act before publishing.]
The basic steps
- Identify the authority. Work out which government body holds the information you want, and find its designated Information Officer.
- Write your request. State clearly what information you want. Be specific: a precise request is more likely to succeed than a broad one.
- Submit it. Requests can usually be submitted in writing, in person, by post, or sometimes online, depending on the authority.
- Wait for a response. The law sets a time limit for a response. [TO VERIFY: the exact statutory deadline before publishing.]
- If refused, appeal. If your request is refused, or you get no response, the law provides an appeal process, usually first to a senior officer within the authority, and then to the Information Commission.
Tips for a stronger request
- Ask for specific documents or data (for example, "the tender documents for project X"), rather than a general question.
- Keep a copy of your request and any response.
- If you are not sure which authority holds the information, you can ask any public authority to direct you to the right one.
If your request supports an investigation
If your RTI request has been refused, delayed, or the answer reveals something concerning, you can report it or submit the evidence to us.