A person files an application on request for certain information to a public authority and if such information is held by another public authority, then such authority shall __________.

The correct answer is 'forward the application to the concerned authority'

Key Points

• Forwarding the application to the concerned authority:
  • Under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 in India, public authorities are required to provide information to citizens upon request, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
  • If the information requested by an applicant is held by another public authority, the RTI Act mandates that the authority receiving the application must forward it to the appropriate authority within five days of receipt.
  • Additionally, the applicant must be informed about this transfer, ensuring that the process is transparent and the applicant is aware of the progress of their request.
  • This provision prevents applicants from being burdened with the task of figuring out which specific authority holds the information and ensures seamless access to information.

Additional Information

• Other options explained:
  • Return the application: Public authorities are not allowed to simply return the application if the requested information is not within their jurisdiction. Returning the application would defeat the purpose of the RTI Act, which aims to facilitate access to information.
  • Impose a fine: Imposing a fine is not the responsibility of the authority receiving the application. Fines under the RTI Act are levied only in cases of non-compliance, delay, or refusal to provide information without justified reasons.
  • Reject the application: Rejecting the application without valid reasons is against the principles of the RTI Act. If the information is not held by the concerned authority, the proper procedure is to forward the application, not reject it.