SRINAGAR: The Information Technology (IT) department today said that the J&K online RTI portal completely functions in compliance with  the RTI Act, 2005 and the portal does not restrict applicants from filing First Appeals where permitted by law.

The department said this in response to a news item published in a newspaper regarding  J&K Online RTI Portal restricting applicants from filing First Appeals before 30 days, allegedly in violation of the RTI Act, 2005.

A statement issued by department said that the matter has been examined in consultation with NIC, which manages the technical operations of the portal. It is clarified that there is no technical issue at the application end and the portal functions in compliance with the provisions of the RTI Act, 2005.

“As per the design if an RTI application is still under process with the concerned Public Information Officer (PIO), the system does not allow filing a First Appeal until the statutory period of 30 days is completed, since the PIO still has time to respond as per the Act. However, if the RTI application has been disposed of by the PIO before completion of 30 days, the portal allows applicants to file a First Appeal immediately, in line with the provisions of the Act”, the statement adds.

It further reads that the portal does not restrict applicants from filing First Appeals where permitted by law. It only ensures adherence to the statutory timelines to maintain procedural integrity under the RTI framework.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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