Maharashtra raises RTI fee to ₹30 and tightens application rules
Maharashtra just bumped up its Right to Information (RTI) application fee from ₹10 to ₹30 and copying charges from ₹2 to ₹5 per page.
The new rules, announced on June 12, also make it tougher for applicants: now you have to keep your request within a 150-word limit, stick to one topic, and attach a self-attested photo ID.
Activists decry Maharashtra RTI changes
Activists like social activist Anjali Damania and RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar aren't happy about the fee hike or the stricter limits, saying it's bad for transparency.
On the plus side, digital payments and video conferencing for appeals are now allowed if documents are submitted two days prior and the facility is available.
If officials don't proactively disclose information as required, the head of the relevant office could face disciplinary action.