The Urban Development department initially procrastinated on the Right to Information (RTI) application, which raised concerns about its commitment to transparency and accountability.
After more than two years of delay, the matter was finally transferred to District Magistrate (D.M.) Mirzapur for further investigation and response.
This prolonged process has highlighted the challenges in accessing information in a timely manner, prompting citizens to question the efficiency of governmental procedures.
However, the eventual transfer of the application indicates a step towards improved transparency and accountability within the state government of Uttar Pradesh, illustrating that there is a growing recognition of the importance of open governance to restore public trust and enhance civic engagement.
The Delay is a Violation
Section 6(3) of the RTI Act is clear and unequivocal in its intent to promote transparency and efficiency in the handling of information requests.
The transfer “shall be made as soon as possible,” which underscores the urgency and importance of timely access to information.
Specifically, it stipulates that this transfer must be completed in no case later than five days from the date of receipt of the application.
This provision ensures that applicants are not left in limbo, waiting for an unnecessary period, and reinforces the obligation of public authorities to act swiftly, thus fostering a culture of accountability and responsiveness in public governance.
Your application was filed on June 6, 2023, but the transfer was not noted until August 27, 2025. This is a massive delay, far exceeding the five-day statutory limit.
Consequences of the Delay
This inordinate delay can be a ground for action against the concerned officials, particularly the Public Information Officer (PIO), who holds a significant responsibility in managing responses to information requests.
The Nodal Officer typically routes applications to various departments for processing. Yet, the PIO is the key figure accountable for ensuring compliance with the Act and is expected to facilitate timely responses to inquiries.
When delays arise, it reflects poorly on the system designed to uphold transparency and accountability. Stakeholders, including citizens and advocacy groups, should be vigilant and prepared to take appropriate action to address such lapses.
Raising awareness about these issues not only empowers the public but also emphasizes the importance of adhering to timelines, fostering a culture of responsibility among officials.
- Deemed Refusal: The application must be transferred promptly. Failing to do so, and thus not providing the information, can be considered a “deemed refusal” under the RTI Act.
- Penalty: You can file an appeal. If the Information Commission finds the PIO’s delay unreasonable, they can impose a penalty. If the delay is deliberate, they can also impose a penalty of Rs. 250 per day of delay, up to a limit of Rs. 25,000. The PIO must pay this penalty from their own salary.
- Disciplinary Action: The Information Commission also has the power to recommend disciplinary action against the PIO under their service rules.
What You Should Do Now
You have a clear path ahead to tackle this issue and get the information you want:
- File a First Appeal: Your application has transferred. You should now wait for a response from the new public authority. This authority is the District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur. Use the new registration number DMOMR/R/2025/80049.
Timelines: Section 6(3) requires the transfer done “as expeditiously as possible.” It must be, completed within five days of receiving the application. The status you provided shows the transfer occurred on August 27, 2025. You filed the application on June 6, 2023. The reason for the significant delay in the transfer is unclear. Yet, the act of transferring the application itself aligns with the provisions of Section 6(3).
Your Right to Know: A Guide to Your RTI Application’s Journey 📜
Filing a Right to Information (RTI) application can feel like navigating a complex maze. Yet, understanding the process empowers you to track your inquiry effectively. This guide explains the details of your specific RTI application. It covers its status. You will learn about the next steps you can take to get the information you need.
Understanding Your RTI Application Status
Your RTI application, registered under number DOUDV/R/2023/60116, was submitted to the Urban Development Department on June 6, 2023.
After careful review, the status indicates that the Urban Development Department determined it wasn’t the correct authority to handle your request. The information you requested wasn’t within its purview, suggesting that your queries fell outside the specific jurisdiction of this department.
Consequently, it concluded that it is not capable of providing the necessary information you seek.
Understanding the importance of ensuring your application reaches the appropriate entity, the department has taken proactive steps by transferring your application to the correct public authority, which is the District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur.
You can expect a follow-up from the District Magistrate Office soon, as they will now be responsible for addressing your inquiry and providing the requisite information.
What’s Next for Your Request?
The transfer created a new registration number for your request: DMOMR/R/2025/80049. You’ll need to use this new number to track the status of your application going forward. This process is common and necessary in the RTI procedure. It ensures your inquiry reaches the correct office. This office holds the information you’ve asked for. You can track the progress of your application on the official RTI portal by entering this new registration number.
Who Are the Key Contacts?
Knowing the right people to contact can be crucial for a smooth process, as having the appropriate connections often paves the way for efficient communication and expedites various stages of your application.
Here’s a quick look at the officials involved in your application: from the initial point of contact who can guide you through requirements, to the specialized reviewers who assess the details, and ultimately, to the decision-makers who finalize the approval.
Understanding each role can significantly enhance your chances of success and ensure that all necessary steps are followed promptly.
- Initial PIO (Public Information Officer): Gaurav Dueby, Section Officer (Urban Development Department)
- Initial Nodal Officer: Paras Nath (Urban Development Department)
- New Public Authority: District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur
Remember, the contact details provided for Gaurav Dueby and Paras Nath were for the first public authority. You will need to look up the new PIO details for the District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur. This is necessary to follow up on your inquiry under the new registration number.
What Information Did You Ask For?
In your application, you sought detailed information from the Municipality of Mirzapur regarding the Sangmohal ward. Specifically, you asked for:
- Development Funds: A year-by-year breakdown of the total development funds provided to the Sangmohal ward over the last five years.
- Project Details: A list of projects executed by the municipality using these funds.
- Financial Records: Estimates and invoices for the projects mentioned in your inquiry.
- Proactive Disclosures: Information on the voluntary disclosure of information by the municipality. This is, mandated by Section 4(1)(b) of the RTI Act, 2005.
- Staffing Details: A list of class one and class two staff now working at the municipality. This includes those who, transferred over the past five years.
Important Reminder
Your first application successfully initiated the process, and the transfer ensures your inquiry now sits with the appropriate public body. The RTI Act mandates that the PIO of the District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur, must respond to your query. If they fail to give a response within the stipulated time, you have the right to file a first appeal. You can file it if they do not give the information. This appeal should be, addressed to the appellate authority of the District Magistrate Office, Mirzapur.
Stay vigilant and keep an eye on the status using your new registration number, DMOMR/R/2025/80049. Your persistence is key to exercising your right to information. 🧐
Municipality is not providing any information concerning development
Nodal officer of Urban Development has made history not to entertain RTI application
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