Right to Information Wiki

Section 18 Complaint Form — Information Commission (2026)

Section 18 complaint to Information Commission — for systemic non-compliance (PIO not designated, no proactive disclosure, repeated delays).

Section 18 Complaint Form — Information Commission (2026)

§18 complaint is separate from §19 appeals. Use it when the issue is institutional, not just one denied RTI.

What the form needs

  • Complainant name + address
  • Public authority complained against
  • Specific failures alleged (cite section: §4, §5, etc.)
  • Pattern of non-compliance with dates
  • Documentary evidence
  • Reliefs sought (compliance order + penalty)
  • Date + signature

Where to submit

IC office (CIC for central, SIC for state PAs).

Fee

FREE under §18.

Timeline

IC convenes inquiry. Can take 6-18 months.

Tips + common mistakes

  • §18 complains about INSTITUTION; §19 appeals SPECIFIC RTI
  • Both can run in parallel
  • IC has §18(2) summon power for evidence
  • Complaints often catalyze policy change

If submitted form is rejected / delayed — file an RTI

Forms get “lost”, “incomplete”, “wrong section” — RTI brings out the actual file noting and officer name, which usually resolves the issue within 15 days.

Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the RTI Drafter →

Last reviewed: 25 April 2026.

, , ,