In Pakistan, every citizen has the fundamental right to access information, and the Right to Information Act 2017 serves as an important legal framework in this regard. Under this law, any individual can request information from any federal government institution by submitting a written application. This process is not overly complicated, but following certain guidelines is essential to ensure it is done correctly.
To write an application, you may use plain paper or a specific form provided by the institution on its website. The most important part of the application is to clearly state what information you are seeking, so that the institution faces no difficulty in locating it. Additionally, you should provide your full name, address, CNIC number, and contact details such as phone number or email. It is also advisable to mention explicitly that this application is being submitted under the Right to Information Act 2017. If you require the information in a particular format, such as a photocopy or CD, you should specify that as well. Finally, do not forget to sign the application.
After writing the application, make sure you are sending it to the relevant institution that holds the requested information. You may submit the application in person, send it by post, or use fax or email if the institution provides such facilities. Some institutions also offer online submission systems. When submitting the application, be sure to obtain a receipt from the institution that includes the date of submission and confirmation of receipt. If you are sending it by post, use registered mail and keep the receipt safe.
Under the law, a nominal fee may be charged for providing certain types of information, but no fee is required for information related to life or liberty.
Now, if it happens that you receive no response to your application within the prescribed time, or you are provided with incomplete, incorrect, or misleading information, or your application is rejected, there is no need to lose hope. The law provides a clear mechanism for redress. In such cases, your first step is to file a complaint with the Pakistan Information Commission. This is an independent forum established specifically to address such issues.
You may write this complaint on plain paper or on a form provided by the Commission. In the complaint, you must provide full details, such as which institution you applied to, the details of your application, and the reasons you are unsatisfied (for example, no response received, incorrect information provided, or application rejected). You should also attach a copy of the application receipt and any response received from the institution (if applicable).
You can submit this complaint by visiting the Commission’s office in person, sending it by post, or using the online facility if available on the Commission’s website. The Commission will review your complaint, issue a notice to the relevant institution, and seek its response. If necessary, the Commission may summon both parties for a hearing and request records. If the Commission concludes that the institution has violated the law, it may issue orders to provide the information. Additionally, the Commission may impose fines on the officer found responsible for the violation.
If you are still not satisfied with the Commission’s decision, you may, as a last resort, approach the High Court. This is the final legal remedy.
It is important to remember that this Right to Information Act 2017 applies only to federal government institutions. Provincial levels may have their own separate RTI laws. Furthermore, certain types of information are exempt under the law, and institutions may refuse to provide them. Therefore, when submitting applications and complaints, ensure you provide all necessary documents and information to avoid delays in processing, and keep your receipts and documents safe at every stage.