Understanding Compassionate Ground Appointments in Maharashtra Telecom Circle: How to Use RTI to Seek Information
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, is a powerful tool that allows Indian citizens to access information held by public authorities. It promotes transparency and accountability, enabling individuals to obtain details about government processes, policies, and decisions.
One such area where RTI can be effectively used is to gather information about Compassionate Ground Appointments (CGA), a scheme designed to provide employment to dependents of deceased government employees under specific circumstances.
This article explores how to draft an RTI application to seek information about CGA in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle, based on a sample request, and explains its importance for those seeking clarity on this scheme.
What is Compassionate Ground Appointment (CGA)?
Compassionate Ground Appointment is a scheme offered by government organizations, including Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), to provide jobs to the dependents of employees who pass away during service or become permanently disabled.
The scheme aims to offer financial stability to the family of the deceased or incapacitated employee. In the context of BSNL’s Maharashtra Telecom Circle, understanding how this scheme is implemented, who has benefited, and the policies governing it can be crucial for families seeking such appointments or for those monitoring the process for transparency.
Why Use RTI for CGA Information?
The RTI Act empowers citizens to request specific details from public authorities, such as the number of appointments made, the names and designations of appointees, and the policies governing such appointments.
For instance, if you want to know how many candidates were appointed under CGA in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle from 2017 to 2025, or how these appointments are distributed across different Secondary Switching Areas (SSAs) like Mumbai, Pune, or Nagpur, an RTI application can help you obtain accurate, official records.
This information can be vital for applicants, legal professionals, or activists ensuring fair implementation of the scheme.
Sample RTI Application for CGA Information
Below is an example of how to structure an RTI application to seek detailed information about CGA appointments in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle. This sample is based on a request seeking data from January 1, 2017, to the present date (September 25, 2025).
Key Components of the RTI Application
Recipient Details: Address the application to the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the relevant department. For the Maharashtra Telecom Circle, the PIO is located at:
The Public Information Officer, Maharashtra Telecom Circle, O/o CGMT, RTI Section, 6th Floor, B Wing, BSNL Admin Complex, Juhu Road, Santacruz (W), Mumbai – 400054.
Subject Line: Clearly state the purpose, e.g., “Request for Information under RTI Act, 2005 regarding Compassionate Ground Appointments.”
Applicant Details: Include your name, address, and contact information to establish your identity and facilitate communication.
Specific Information Requested: List the exact details you need. For CGA, this could include:
The total number of candidates appointed under CGA from 2017 to 2025, with a year-wise breakdown (e.g., 2017, 2018, etc.).
A Secondary Switching Area (SSA)-wise list of candidates appointed under CGA, covering areas like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Nashik, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, Goa, and other relevant SSAs.
Details of each appointee, including their full name, joining date, designation, and the SSA they were appointed to.
Copies of circulars, guidelines, or orders issued by BSNL or the Maharashtra Telecom Circle regarding CGA from 2017 to 2025, including eligibility criteria and SSA-wise quota allocations.
The latest policy document or circular governing the CGA scheme during this period, along with any internal or external circulars outlining the procedure for processing CGA cases.
Non-Exemption Declaration: State that, to the best of your knowledge, the requested information does not fall under exemptions in Sections 8 or 9 of the RTI Act, 2005.
Preferred Format: Specify if you want the information in electronic format (e.g., via email) or as hard copies. Provide an email address (e.g., abcd@gmail.com) for soft copies to avoid delays.
Fee and Compliance: Mention your willingness to pay any applicable fees for processing the request and ask for acknowledgment of receipt. Request that the response adheres to the 30-day timeline mandated by the RTI Act.
Closing: End with a polite note, thanking the PIO and expressing hope for a timely response.
Why This RTI Application Matters
This RTI application is designed to uncover critical details about the CGA scheme’s implementation in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle. For families seeking CGA, knowing the number of appointments, the distribution across SSAs, and the governing policies can help them understand their chances and the process.
For legal professionals or activists, this data can reveal whether the scheme is being implemented fairly and transparently. For instance, a year-wise breakdown can show trends in appointments, while SSA-wise data can highlight if certain regions are prioritized over others.
Tips for Filing an Effective RTI Application
Be Specific: Clearly outline the information you need, as vague requests may lead to incomplete responses. For example, specifying “SSA-wise list” and “year-wise breakdown” ensures the PIO understands your requirements.
Know Your Rights: The RTI Act mandates that public authorities respond within 30 days. If the information is denied or delayed, you can appeal to the First Appellate Authority or the Central Information Commission.
Follow Up: If you don’t receive an acknowledgment, contact the PIO or visit the RTI Section to ensure your application is being processed.
Check Exemptions: While most CGA-related information should be accessible, familiarize yourself with Sections 8 and 9 of the RTI Act to ensure your request avoids exempted categories like personal information that doesn’t serve public interest.
How RTI Lawyers Can Assist
Filing an RTI application can sometimes be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process or face delays or denials. RTI lawyers can help by:
Drafting precise and legally sound RTI applications.
Guiding you on how to frame questions to avoid exemptions.
Assisting with appeals if the PIO denies information or fails to respond.
Ensuring compliance with the RTI Act’s timelines and procedures.
If you’re seeking information about CGA or any other government scheme, consulting an RTI lawyer can streamline the process and increase your chances of obtaining the desired information.
Conclusion
The RTI Act, 2005, is a vital tool for accessing information about schemes like Compassionate Ground Appointments in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle. By filing a well-structured RTI application, you can obtain detailed data on appointments, policies, and procedures, promoting transparency and accountability.
Whether you’re a family member seeking clarity on CGA eligibility or an advocate for fair governance, RTI empowers you to ask questions and demand answers. For professional assistance, consider reaching out to an RTI lawyer to ensure your application is effective and your rights are protected.
For expert RTI guidance, contact our team at rtilawyers@gmail.com or + 91 9999641341 or visit https://rtilawyers.com/ for more resources.