A reference note on the working of the Right to Information Act, 2005 in the State of Karnataka. Where the State position differs from the Central rules, it is noted here. Readers relying on these rules for a live application, appeal, or complaint are advised to confirm against the Karnataka Government Gazette or the Karnataka Information Commission website.

The Karnataka Information Commission (KIC) is constituted under Section 15 of the RTI Act, 2005, seated at Bengaluru. It hears second appeals under Section 19(3) and complaints under Section 18 concerning State Government departments, local bodies, and State universities.

• The Karnataka Right to Information Rules, 2005 — covering the form, fee, and procedure for filing and disposal.
• The Karnataka Information Commission (Appeal Procedure) Rules — the procedure before the Commission.
• Official language of filing: Applications may be filed in Kannada or English under Section 6(1) read with Article 350.

Application fees under the State rules are typically Rs 10 (confirm against the latest notification). Copies are priced per page as prescribed. BPL applicants are exempt on producing a valid certificate. Accepted payment methods include Indian Postal Order, demand draft, and cash at the counter of the public authority.

For State departments (Revenue, Health & Family Welfare, Home, Urban Development, Panchayati Raj), file with the Public Information Officer of the concerned department or district office. Karnataka operates an online RTI portal (rtionline.karnataka.gov.in) for many State departments — check for the current scope. For Central Government bodies in Karnataka, use rtionline.gov.in. See How to File RTI Online in India — 2026 step-by-step.

The Karnataka RTI Rules have been amended by State notification since 2005. Fees, forms, and procedural timelines may differ from the 2005 version. Always confirm against the Karnataka Government Gazette or the Commission's website before filing.

• RTI Rules — Central, State, and Commission rules.
• The Right to Information Act, 2005 — current text.
• How to File RTI Online in India — 2026 step-by-step.
• Why RTI Applications Get Rejected — and How to Avoid It.
• Guide for applicants.

1. The Right to Information Act, 2005 (No. 22 of 2005), Sections 15 and 27.
2. The Karnataka Right to Information Rules, 2005, as notified under the Karnataka Government Gazette.
3. The Karnataka Information Commission (Appeal Procedure) Rules.

19 April 2026