Tree cutting permission in colony - RTI to forest department
Starter question based on recurring Ask RTI reader problems: Several trees were cut by contractor. Residents were told permission exists but no one shows it. What records should we ask?
Know the practical answer?
Share the record to ask for, the authority to approach, or the next appeal step.
Answers
3 answersShort answer: file the RTI to Tree Officer / Forest Department and ask for records, not explanations. The strongest first application asks for file movement, current stage, deficiency memo, officer responsible, and certified copies of any order or note that caused the delay.
Use this structure: - application or complaint number, date, and applicant name - current status with date of last action - copies of file notings, inspection report, or deficiency memo - name and designation of the officer holding the file now - appeal or grievance route if no action is taken
Related RTI Wiki guide: Tree cutting permission in colony - RTI to forest department.
-- Shrawaaan RTI Book: The RTI Playbook
Do not make the RTI sound like a complaint. Write the grievance separately, then use RTI for documents. That way the authority cannot reject it as a request for action.
My preferred wording is: 'Please provide certified copies of records showing the present status, file movement, reasons recorded on file, and the officer currently responsible for the matter.'
-- Shrawaaan RTI Book: The RTI Playbook
If the reply is vague, your first appeal should say: the PIO did not provide the specific records held by Tree Officer / Forest Department, did not identify the custodian, and did not cite any exemption.
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