Yes. Under the Right to Information Act, 2005, an applicant generally has the right to seek information without giving any reason or justification for requesting it.
Key points:
- Section 6(2) of the RTI Act specifically states that an applicant is not required to give any reason for requesting information. (India Code)
- The Public Information Officer (PIO) can ask for information necessary to contact the applicant, but cannot normally demand an explanation about why the applicant wants the information. (India Code)
- The applicant only needs to clearly specify the information sought and comply with the applicable application and fee requirements.
- The PIO can still examine whether the requested information falls under an exemption under Sections 8 or 9 of the Act. However, the applicant's motive or reason for seeking the information is generally not a ground for refusing an otherwise disclosable request. (India Code)
- If a PIO improperly refuses or obstructs an RTI request, the applicant can use the first appeal mechanism and, where appropriate, approach the Information Commission.
Conclusion:
An RTI applicant is not required to explain why they want the information. A PIO may ask for necessary contact details or clarification about the information being sought, but cannot ordinarily require the applicant to justify the purpose or motive behind the RTI application. The information can still be refused if a valid exemption under the RTI Act applies. (India Code)
