Mon Jan 13 23:45:00 UTC 2025: ## RTI OTP System Delays Spark Concerns Despite Privacy Focus

**Madurai, January 14, 2025** – The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has defended its new system of using one-time passwords (OTPs) for accessing RTI application status, citing the need to protect applicant personal information. The clarification comes in response to complaints from Madurai-based railway union leader V. Ramkumar regarding significant delays in OTP delivery via email.

While acknowledging the delays, the DoPT Secretary explained that the OTPs have no expiry date and can be used at any time after receipt. However, Mr. Ramkumar highlighted the stark contrast between the delayed RTI OTP system and the near-instantaneous delivery of OTPs in banking transactions. He pointed out that the current system’s inefficiency undermines the user experience.

Mr. Ramkumar has called for improvements, suggesting that OTPs be delivered via SMS to mobile phones in addition to email, and that delivery times be significantly reduced to a matter of seconds, mirroring the speed and reliability of other online systems. He welcomes the privacy enhancement provided by the OTP system but emphasizes the need for a more efficient implementation.

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