Dear friends,
Many of you have applied for certified copies of answer sheets under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
As per law, ICAI is required to provide the information within 30 days from the date of filing the RTI application.
Common Issues Faced by Students#
Several students have reported the following problems:
- Certified copies not received even after 30 days
- First Appeals filed, which again take another 30 days
- SMS received stating that copies were sent by email, but no email received
- Different timelines — some received copies in 10–15 days, while others waited 40–45 days
Naturally, this has caused confusion and anxiety among students.
Why Is There a Delay?#
Due to the huge number of RTI applications being filed for certified copies, ICAI is finding it difficult to strictly adhere to the statutory timeline.
Additionally, ICAI is carrying out suo motu verification of marks before supplying copies — a process done in the interest of students, but which consumes additional time.
Because of this:
- There is no fixed number of days
- On average, students are receiving copies within 30–40 days
- Delays beyond 30 days are occurring in genuine cases
However, you will receive your copies — there is no need to panic.
Important Clarification on Marks#
I am receiving repeated queries asking:
“Can ICAI decrease marks under RTI?”
Let me state this clearly once again:
👉 ICAI WILL NOT DECREASE MARKS UNDER RTI.
- Marks may increase due to verification
- Or copies may be supplied as evaluated
- Marks will never be reduced under RTI
I have already written a separate detailed blog post on this issue with official sources, and I have explained this on multiple platforms.
Official ICAI Reply on Delay in Supply of Copies#
ICAI has officially acknowledged the delay in supplying certified copies due to the huge volume of RTI applications, and has also provided contact details for students who have not received copies even after 30–45 days.
Below is the official RTI reply from ICAI for your reference.
What Should Students Do?#
- Check your Spam / Junk folder regularly
- Wait patiently for 30–40 days
- If copies are still not received, use the contact details provided by ICAI
- Avoid unnecessary panic or duplicate RTI applications
Final Words#
ICAI is dealing with an unprecedented volume of RTI requests.
Delays are unfortunate, but they are procedural, not intentional.
Be assured — your copies will reach you, and your marks are safe.