swapnil,
Which state are you located in ?
Was it a SPIO or a CPIO to whom you adressed your
RTI application ?
1. Format:
No need for the application in a specific format.
Application cannot be rejected on this basis only.
Although some states have formats prescribed in rules, I have seen
many decisions of
SIC's of those states allowing appeals against
PIO
because he rejected application due to this reason.
2. Payment Mode for FEES:
Again depends on the State you are in.
There are different rules for each state.
Please see the following two threads:
Fees for different states to file application under RTI http://www.rtiindia.org/forum/1762-r...e-payment.html
However, the application cannot be rejected by the
PIO.
Neither can he delay the information beyond 30 days on account of this
reason.
There are cases where
CIC has ruled that the
PIO should have returned
the mode of payment to the applicant (and informed him to correctly
remit the fees) BUT he should have continued to collect the information
and given it before 30 days, in case the fees were recieved before the
30 days were over.
As per Section 5(3) the
PIO is supposed to render
"reasonable assistance" to
RTI applicants.
Further, Section 7(1) states that:
"....... on receipt of a request under section 6 shall, as expeditiously as possible, and in any case within thirty days of the receipt of the request, either provide the information on payment of such fee as may be prescribed......."
Therefore, nothing stops him from collecting the information and provide it to you after you remit the fee by the correct mode of payment.
3. Section 6(3):
It is obligatory for the
PIO to transfer the application and also inform
you about the transfer within 5 days.
If he delays, make it one of the grounds for appeal during your First
Appeal.
Please read the following post for citations:
http://www.rtiindia.org/forum/1288-l....html#post4477
4. Different
PIO's give different replies:
Perfect case for "misleading" reply under Section 18(1)(e).
Maybe, you can also attribute "malafide" intentions of the
PIO,
if you smell something fishy.
This can be another ground for appeal uring your First Appeal.
If you come across item 3, please put the following in your "plea" or "prayer", in the First Appeal:
"The
PIO may be instructed to strictly adhere to time limits as specified in Section 6(3) of the
RTI Act and also respect, observe and follow the letter and spirit of Section 6(3). Please enquire into this matter and if the
PIO is found to be habitually doing the same in more than a few cases, I request you to take appropriate action against the
PIO as per service rules and regulations, for not discharging his duties properly in his official capacity"