Right to Information (RTI) Policy

1. Purpose

Beacon College is committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and public participation by providing timely access to information in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. This policy establishes the framework for the college’s compliance with the Right to Information Act and ensures that information is provided to the public in an efficient and responsible manner.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all departments, staff, faculty, and administrative units of Beacon College and covers all records and information maintained by the college, unless exempted by law.

3. Definitions

  • Information: Any recorded data, document, record, correspondence, email, report, or any other material stored in any physical or electronic format.

  • Applicant: Any individual or entity requesting information under this policy.

  • Public Information Officer (PIO): The designated official responsible for receiving and responding to information requests.

  • Third Party: Any person or entity other than the applicant or Beacon College, whose information may be involved in an RTI request.

4. Right to Information

  • Every citizen has the right to request and receive information held by Beacon College, subject to the exceptions and limitations set forth by law.

  • Requests for information should be made in writing and include sufficient details to identify the information sought.

5. Procedure for Requesting Information

  • Requests should be submitted to the designated Public Information Officer (PIO) via email, postal mail, or in person.

  • The request must clearly state the information sought and provide contact details for communication.

  • An application fee or processing fee, if applicable, will be communicated to the applicant.

6. Designation of Public Information Officer (PIO)

  • Beacon College shall appoint a Public Information Officer responsible for:

    • Receiving RTI requests.

    • Processing requests within the stipulated time frame.

    • Coordinating with relevant departments to provide accurate information.

    • Maintaining records of all RTI requests and responses.

7. Response Time

  • The PIO will respond to all requests within the legally mandated time frame (usually within 15 working days).

  • If the information requested concerns the life or liberty of a person, the response time will be reduced (e.g., 48 hours).

  • If the request is incomplete or requires clarification, the PIO will notify the applicant accordingly.

8. Exemptions and Restrictions

  • Information that is confidential, proprietary, or legally exempted (e.g., personal data, trade secrets, security-related information) will not be disclosed.

  • The PIO will cite specific reasons and legal provisions for any denial of information.

9. Fees and Charges

  • The college may charge fees for the cost of copying, postal charges, or other administrative expenses in accordance with applicable laws.

  • Fee waivers or reductions may be granted for applicants below the poverty line or for requests of public interest.

10. Appeal Process

  • Applicants who are dissatisfied with the response or denial may file an appeal to the designated Appellate Authority within Beacon College.

  • The appeal must be filed within the stipulated time frame (usually 30 days) after receiving the initial response.

  • The Appellate Authority will review and respond to the appeal promptly.

11. Record Keeping and Transparency

  • All RTI requests, responses, and appeals will be recorded and maintained for a minimum of five years.

  • Beacon College will proactively disclose frequently requested information and publish an annual report on RTI requests.

12. Training and Awareness

  • Beacon College will conduct regular training for staff on RTI compliance and best practices.

  • The college will make information about this RTI policy widely available on its website and notice boards.

13. Review of Policy

  • This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure compliance with changes in legislation and institutional needs.