The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, empowers Indian citizens to request information from public authorities. Tripura State Medical Council (TSMC), being a statutory body under the state government, comes under the scope of this Act. Any person who seeks information related to medical registrations, disciplinary actions, recognized qualifications, or council decisions can file an RTI application with TSMC. A proper process must be followed for filing the RTI to receive timely and accurate information.
Table of Contents
RTI Filing Process for Tripura State Medical Council
Step 1: Understand the Scope of RTI
- Information related to doctor registrations, renewals, or suspended licenses can be requested.
- Inspection reports of medical institutions, council meeting records, and audit reports are also covered.
- Internal correspondence, opinions, and documents marked confidential are exempt under Section 8 of the RTI Act.
Step 2: Identify the Right Authority
- The Public Information Officer (PIO) is the official designated to receive and respond to RTI applications.
- If the PIO fails to respond within 30 days, an appeal can be made to the Appellate Authority in the same council.
Step 3: Draft the RTI Application
- The application should be written clearly in English or Bengali.
- Applicant’s full name, contact address, and information sought must be mentioned.
- The purpose of seeking information is not necessary under the Act.
Step 4: Address the Application Correctly
- Application must be addressed to:
The Public Information Officer,
Tripura State Medical Council,
Agartala, Tripura – 799001
Step 5: Pay the RTI Fee
- A fee of ₹10 is applicable for every RTI application.
- Payment can be made via Indian Postal Order (IPO), Demand Draft, or cash.
- If the applicant falls under the Below Poverty Line (BPL), no fee is required with valid proof.
RTI Fee Details
| Category | Amount | Mode of Payment |
|---|---|---|
| General Applicants | Rs 10 | Indian Postal Order, Demand Draft, Cash |
| BPL Applicants | Rs 0 | BPL Certificate needed |
| Additional Pages | Rs 2/page | After 20 pages |
| Inspection of Records | Rs 5/hour | First hour free |
Step 6: Submit the RTI Application
- The application must be submitted in person or via post.
- The online RTI filing facility is not available specifically for TSMC yet.
- Acknowledgment receipt should be collected and preserved.
Step 7: Wait for the Response
- Council must respond within 30 days from the date of receiving the application.
- In case of information involving third-party interest, the time limit is 40 days.
- No response within the time limit is treated as a deemed refusal.
Important Timeframes
| RTI Stage | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Initial Response | 30 days from receipt |
| Third-party Consultation | 40 days |
| First Appeal | Within 30 days of refusal or no reply |
| Second Appeal | Within 90 days of the first appeal decision |
Step 8: File a First Appeal if Required
- The appeal should be filed if no information is received within 30 days or if the reply is unsatisfactory.
- First Appeal must be addressed to the First Appellate Authority, Tripura State Medical Council.
- Details of the original application and reply received must be enclosed.
Step 9: Second Appeal to the State Information Commission
- If the First Appeal fails, a Second Appeal can be made to:
Tripura Information Commission,
North Banamalipur, Agartala – 799001 - The application should include copies of the original RTI, first appeal, and any responses.
Tips for Effective RTI Filing
- Clarity: Specific questions must be asked. Avoid vague or open-ended queries.
- Language: Simple language improves understanding and response quality.
- Relevance: Request only information available in records, not opinions or justifications.
- Tracking: Date of dispatch and acknowledgment should be noted.
Sample RTI Application Format
| Field | Details to Fill |
|---|---|
| Applicant’s Name | Full legal name |
| Full Address | Complete residential or communication address |
| Subject | Request for Information under RTI Act, 2005 |
| Description of Information | Clear and itemized list of questions or data requested |
| Mode of Payment | Indian Postal Order/DD/Cash |
| Declaration | “I am an Indian citizen seeking information under the RTI Act.” |
| Date & Signature | Date of application and applicant’s signature |
Documents to Attach
- Copy of identity proof (for verification).
- BPL Certificate (if applicable).
- Payment proof (DD, IPO receipt, or cash receipt).
RTI Information Not Available Under TSMC
| Category | Status |
|---|---|
| Patient Medical Records | Not applicable |
| RTI Queries on Private Hospitals | Outside Council Jurisdiction |
| Confidential Disciplinary Cases | Exempted under Section 8 |
| Internal Memos or Drafts | Not provided |
Contact Information for RTI Queries
| Designation | Details |
|---|---|
| Public Information Officer | Tripura State Medical Council, Agartala |
| Phone Number | +91-381-XXXXXXX (official number to be verified) |
| Email (if available) | [To be obtained from council office] |
| State Information Commission | North Banamalipur, Agartala, Tripura – 799001 |
Summing Up
Filing an RTI with the Tripura State Medical Council is a legal right that helps ensure transparency and accountability. By following the proper steps, any citizen can access information regarding the functioning of the Council. Careful drafting, proper payment, and timely follow-up are essential to getting useful responses. A structured approach ensures that genuine queries receive the attention they deserve from the authorities.
