Government Employee’s Right to Access Old Service Book under the RTI Act in India

Under the Right to Information (RTI) Act in India, government employees have the legal right to request a copy of their old service book. The RTI Act provides citizens with access to information from public authorities, including government departments and officials. So, it is perfectly within a government employee's rights to seek and obtain a copy of their service records, including their service book.

Steps to Request a Service Book Copy under RTI

The process for requesting a service book copy through the RTI Act involves several key steps:

Draft an RTI Application

1. Clearly state your request: Your RTI application should explicitly mention that you are seeking a copy of your service book. Providing your personal details like your name, designation, and department will help the Public Information Officer (PIO) identify and locate your records.

Submit the Application

2. Send the application: Submit your RTI application to the relevant Public Information Officer (PIO) in your department. It is advisable to review your department's specific RTI guidelines for proper submission procedures.

Pay the Required Fees

3. Fee payment: There may be a nominal fee associated with obtaining the information. The amount varies based on the state and the nature of the information requested. You should consult your department’s guidelines for the exact fee required.

Wait for a Response

4. Response period: The PIO must respond within 30 days of receiving your application. If your request is denied, you have the right to seek further clarification or appeal the decision.

Other Considerations and Rights

There are additional considerations and rights related to service books and access to government records:

1. Annual Signature Requirement: According to some rules, employers are required to take the signature of employees each year, giving them an opportunity to check their service records. However, this is not always followed in practice.

2. Public Record Status: The service record of a government employee is considered a public record. It is not confidential or classified. Heads of departments or offices can supply copies of the entries upon request.

3. RTI and Service Books: Under the RTI Act, government employees also have the right to obtain copies of their service books, even if the original is not available. If the service book is with the Public Information Officer (PIO), it must be endorsed or transferred to the correct custodian.

4. Statutory Obligation: The transfer or endorsement of records is a statutory obligation. If the service book is not available, it must be made available to the employee under the RTI Act.

Conclusion

Government employees in India have the legal right to access their service books through the RTI Act. By following the outlined steps, employees can ensure transparency and obtain their old service book copies. It is crucial to adhere to the RTI guidelines to facilitate a smooth and successful process.