How to File a CIC Appeal Online in India: A Comprehensive Guide from Legal Light Consulting

As an RTI Lawyer at Legal Light Consulting, I regularly assist clients in exercising their right to information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. The Central Information Commission (CIC) plays a crucial role as the apex body for resolving disputes related to information access from central public authorities.

Filing a second appeal to the CIC is a vital step when lower authorities fail to provide satisfactory responses. In this detailed educational article, we’ll explore how to file a CIC appeal online in India, based on official rules and procedures from the Central Information Commission (Appeal Procedure) Rules, 2005, and updated guidelines as of 2025. This is for informational purposes only; seek professional legal advice for your specific situation.

Understanding CIC Appeals: A Quick Recap

Before diving into the filing process, it’s essential to recall what a CIC appeal entails. A CIC appeal is the second appeal under Section 19(3) of the RTI Act, filed when you’re dissatisfied with the First Appellate Authority’s (FAA) decision or if they fail to respond within 45 days.

The CIC has the power to direct disclosure, impose penalties, and ensure compliance. Eligibility requires exhausting the first appeal, and the timeline is generally within 90 days of the FAA’s order or the 45-day lapse, with provision for condonation of delay if justified.

How Do I File a CIC Appeal Online in India?

Filing online is convenient, paperless, and efficient, especially since the CIC has integrated its system with platforms like rtionline.gov.in for seamless data retrieval (if your initial RTI and first appeal were filed there).

The primary portal for online filing is the CIC’s dedicated system at https://dsscic.nic.in/online-appeal-application/onlineappealapplication/, accessible via the official CIC website. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on official guidelines.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

• Start by accessing the Central Information Commission’s official website at https://cic.gov.in.
• Navigate to the “Submit Second Appeal” or “Online Appeal Application” section. This leads to the dedicated online portal.
• If your original RTI and first appeal were filed via rtionline.gov.in, the system can automatically retrieve details by entering your First Appeal Registration Number, Email ID, and Date of Filing the First Appeal. This integration simplifies the process.
• Prerequisites: Ensure you have a stable internet connection, scanned documents in PDF format, and your contact details ready. No fee is required for second appeals.

Step 2: Prepare Your Appeal

Your appeal must adhere to the prescribed format under Rule 8 of the CIC Appeal Procedure Rules (see Appendix). It should be clear, concise, and in English or Hindi (with translations if needed). The format includes the following mandatory fields:

• Name and complete address of the appellant: Include your full name, postal address, email, and phone number for communication.

• Details of the CPIO who received your original application: Name and address of the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) to whom the RTI was submitted.

• Details of the CPIO who replied to your application: Name and address of the CPIO who provided (or failed to provide) the response.

• Name and address of the First Appellate Authority: Details of the FAA who handled your first appeal.

• Particulars of your original RTI application: Describe the information sought, date of submission, and any fees paid.

• Details of orders against which you’re appealing: Include order numbers, dates, and copies of the PIO’s reply and FAA’s order (if any).

• Brief facts leading to the appeal: Provide a chronology of events, including dates of RTI submission, responses received, first appeal filing, and any delays.

• Clear prayer or relief sought: Specify what you want the CIC to do, e.g., “Direct the PIO to provide the requested information within 15 days” or “Impose penalty on the PIO for malafide denial.”

• Grounds supporting your appeal: Cite relevant RTI Act sections (e.g., Section 8 exemptions don’t apply) and factual arguments. If seeking compensation, detail the detriment suffered.

• Any other relevant information: Mention related CIC orders, third-party involvement, or additional context.

• Proper verification and signature

  : A signed statement authenticating the facts, e.g., “I verify that the above facts are true to the best of my knowledge.”

Prepare this as a signed document (scan it if physical). Ensure all details are legible and authenticated. If filing through a representative, include an authorization letter.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Supporting documents are crucial for registration and speedy disposal. Upload them in PDF format (file types must be PDF; size limits apply—check the portal for specifics). Essential documents include:

Mandatory Documents:

• Copy of the original RTI application with proof of submission (e.g., acknowledgment).
• Reply received from the CPIO (if any).
• Copy of the first appeal filed with the FAA.
• Order passed by the FAA (if available).
• Proof that 45 days have elapsed without a decision (if applicable), such as date-stamped copies.

Supporting Documents:

• Any correspondence with the public authority (emails, letters).
• Fee payment receipts for the original RTI.
• Documents supporting your grounds of appeal (e.g., evidence of public interest).
• Identity proof of the appellant (e.g., Aadhaar, Voter ID—for verification).
• Authorization letter (if filing through a representative).
• Index of all documents for easy reference.
• Proof of sending a copy of the second appeal to the public authority (e.g., email receipt or postal acknowledgment).

All uploads must be clear and verified. If documents are in a regional language, provide English/Hindi translations.

Step 4: Submit and Track

• Fill in the online form with the details from Step 2. The form fields mirror the prescribed format, with required (*) fields for appellant details, PIO/FAA info, appeal facts, and prayer.
• Upload the prepared appeal document and supporting files.
• Review for accuracy, then submit. You’ll receive an acknowledgment number or diary number via email/SMS.
• Track your appeal status on the CIC website under “View Status” using the acknowledgment number.
• If needed, contact the help desk at 011-26767500 or email fdesk-cic@gov.in for assistance.

The CIC may schedule a hearing (in person, video conferencing, or based on submissions). Orders are issued in writing under the Commission’s seal.

What Documents Are Required for a CIC Appeal?

As outlined above, proper documentation is key to strengthening your case. It helps the CIC understand the full history and decide efficiently. Missing documents can lead to delays or rejection. Always index and authenticate them.

Tips from Legal Light Consulting for a Successful CIC Appeal

• Be Timely and Precise: File within 90 days and keep the appeal focused—avoid unnecessary details.

• Leverage Integration: If your RTI was online via rtionline.gov.in, use it to auto-populate details.

• Prepare for Hearings: Under Rule 12, attend or authorize a representative; video conferencing is available.

• Highlight Violations: Point out PIO/FAA lapses to seek penalties (Rule 11 allows evidence on oath).

• Common Pitfalls: Illegible documents, unrelated appeals, or lack of grounds can lead to dismissal.

• Seek Help if Delayed: For condonation, provide strong reasons like illness or postal issues.

• Post-Submission: Monitor status regularly; CIC backlogs can cause delays, but digital filing speeds things up.

At Legal Light Consulting, we’ve helped numerous clients secure information through CIC appeals, from exposing administrative lapses to obtaining policy documents.

FAQ on Filing CIC Appeals Online

Here are frequently asked questions based on official procedures:

1. What is the official portal for filing a CIC appeal online?

The primary portal is https://dsscic.nic.in/online-appeal-application/onlineappealapplication/, accessible via https://cic.gov.in. It’s integrated with rtionline.gov.in for data retrieval if your prior filings were there.

2. Is there a fee for filing a CIC appeal?

No, second appeals are free. However, original RTI fees apply as per rules.

3. Can I file a CIC appeal without a FAA order?

Yes, if 45 days have elapsed since filing the first appeal without a response.

4. What file formats are allowed for uploads?

PDF only, as per portal instructions. Ensure files are under size limits (typically 2-5 MB per file).

5. How long does the CIC take to decide?

No fixed timeline, but hearings are scheduled based on backlog. Track online for updates.

6. Can I file on behalf of someone else?

Yes, with an authorization letter and identity proof.

7. What if my appeal is delayed beyond 90 days?

Request condonation with sufficient cause; the CIC may accept if justified.

8. Are hearings mandatory?

Not always; the CIC may decide on submissions (Rule 11). If scheduled, you’ll get 7 days’ notice (Rule 12).

9. What relief can the CIC provide?

Disclosure of information, penalties on officials, compensation to appellant, or disciplinary recommendations.

10. Where can I get help if stuck?

For legal support, consult firms like Legal Light Consulting.

This guide empowers you to navigate CIC appeals confidently. Remember, RTI is a tool for transparency—use it wisely. For assistance, reach out to our RTI experts at Legal Light Consulting.

Note: Procedures are based on CIC guidelines as of December 2025. Verify on official sites for any updates.