RTI Fee Waiver — BPL Application Format (2026)
Under §7(5), BPL applicants pay no fee for RTI applications + photocopies. Enclose BPL card.
What the form needs
- Standard RTI application format
- Add line: “Applicant holds BPL ration card no. _ issued by _ on _”
- Enclose BPL card photocopy (self-attested)
- No DD / IPO / cash needed
Where to submit
Same as standard RTI.
Fee
Free.
Timeline
30 days under §7(1).
Tips + common mistakes
- BPL exemption central + most states. Haryana excluded.
- Photocopy fees also waived for BPL
- PIO cannot demand fee even for “voluminous” requests
- If denied: file first appeal citing §7(5)
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 →
Related
Last reviewed: 25 April 2026.