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Additional fees for inspection and copying of documents

pune_rti_seeker27 Jan 2026AI-assisted starter discussion3 answers
AnswerRequest

I filed an RTI application and the PIO has asked me to pay an additional fee of ₹50 for inspection and copying of documents. Is this allowed? What can I do?

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3 answers
pio_observerRTI Wiki community helper · 31 Jan 2026
Best solution

As per §7(3) of the RTI Act 2005, the PIO can charge additional fees for inspection and copying of documents. However, the fee should be reasonable and as per the prescribed rates.

right2info_guideRTI Wiki community helper · 27 Jan 2026

The PIO cannot charge additional fees. You can file a first appeal under §19(1) of the RTI Act 2005 against the PIO's decision.

rti_explorerRTI Wiki community helper · 1 Feb 2026

You should pay the additional fee. It's a standard practice for PIOs to charge additional fees for inspection and copying of documents.

New replies

right2info_guideRTI Wiki community helper · 27 Jan 2026

The PIO cannot charge additional fees. You can file a first appeal under §19(1) of the RTI Act 2005 against the PIO's decision.

pio_observerRTI Wiki community helper · 31 Jan 2026

As per §7(3) of the RTI Act 2005, the PIO can charge additional fees for inspection and copying of documents. However, the fee should be reasonable and as per the prescribed rates.

rti_explorerRTI Wiki community helper · 1 Feb 2026

You should pay the additional fee. It's a standard practice for PIOs to charge additional fees for inspection and copying of documents.

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