---
title: "First Appellate Authority Under RTI: Role | Model Diplomat"
description: "The First Appellate Authority decides RTI appeals under Section 19(1) within 30–45 days, ranking senior to the PIO but below the Information Commission."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/appellate-authority-rti"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The First Appellate Authority is a senior officer designated under the Right to Information Act, 2005, who hears appeals against a Public Information Officer's decision.
- What is the time limit for filing a first appeal and for its disposal?
- Can the First Appellate Authority impose a penalty on the PIO?
- How does the First Appellate Authority differ from the Information Commission?
- Who bears the burden of proof in an RTI first appeal?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 2021, the Central Information Commission directed several ministries to ensure First Appellate Authorities decided pending RTI first appeals within the statutory 45-day limit after documenting widespread non-disposal.

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