Public Information Officers
RTI Designated Officials (Kuravilangad Grama Panchayat)
Public Information Officer : Prasanna S. T. (Secretary) — Phone: 9446205953
Assistant Public Information Officer : Jais Joseph (Head Clerk) — Phone: 6238038277
Section Clerk: Athira P. R. — Phone: 9895487410
Appellate Authority: Deputy Director of Panchayats, Kottayam
Right to Information Act, 2005 - Overview
The Right to Information Act came into force on October 12, 2005, to ensure transparency, accountability, and reliability in the functioning of public authorities and to curb corruption.
- Applicability: Applies to all authorities established under the Constitution, Act of Parliament/State Legislature, or government notifications, including government bodies and government-aided institutions.
- Rights of Citizens: Citizens have the right to inspect work, documents, and records; take notes or certified copies; obtain certified samples of materials; and receive information stored electronically (printouts, CDs, tapes, etc.).
Application Process: Applications must be submitted in writing or electronically with an application fee of ₹10. Applicants do not need to disclose the reason for seeking information, only their contact address. The PIO is obligated to assist applicants who are unable to write.
Fee Exemption: Applicants below the Poverty Line (BPL) are exempt from fees upon producing proof.
- Time Limits for Information Supply:
Standard request: 30 days
Request submitted via APIO: 35 days
Information related to life or liberty: 48 hours
Appeals & Penalties: Provision for appeal exists if information is denied, incomplete, or false. Officials failing to comply are subject to disciplinary action.
Apex Authority: The State Information Commission (Headquartered at Punnen Road, Thiruvananthapuram) is the authority responsible for resolving complaints and enforcing penalties.
DOCX
Prescribed Fee Structure for Information / Records
1. Under Section 7 (1)
A4 Size Paper: ₹2 per pag
Larger Size Paper: Actual cost of preparation
Samples and Models: Actual cost/price
Inspection of Records: First 1 hour is free; ₹10 for every additional 30 minutes (or fraction thereof)
2. Under Section 7 (5)
Electronic Formats (CD / Floppy, etc.): ₹50 per item
Printed Formats: ₹2 per page