Why do police register FIR? Is FIR registered on every complaint? Know the answer to every question. Why Police Register Fir And Why It Is Important What Is Fir How To File Fir Photoshow

What is FIR?

The full name of FIR is – First Information Report. It is also called first information report. That is, the first official information about a serious crime (Cognizable Offence) reaches the police. When a person informs the police about such a crime, in which the police can start investigation without the permission of the court and if necessary can even arrest the accused, then the police registers an FIR.

Why do police register FIR?

The biggest reason for registering an FIR is so that an official record of the crime can be made. If the record is not made, it will be difficult to start the investigation. After the FIR is registered, the police legally gets the right to start investigation. After this, the police collects evidence, interrogates witnesses, investigates the incident site and can even arrest the accused if necessary.

Is FIR registered on every complaint?

No. Not every complaint becomes an FIR. If the case is of a small dispute or a crime in which the police cannot take direct action, then it can be considered as a non-cognizable case. It is also called crimes of less serious nature, such as defamation, minor assault, or abusive language. In such cases, the police register a complaint and give necessary advice or may ask you to go to court. But in serious crimes like murder, robbery, rape, kidnapping, serious assault, robbery the police have to register an FIR.

What happens after FIR is registered, is a copy of it available?

After the FIR is registered, the police starts investigation. She collects evidence, takes statements of witnesses, may collect CCTV footage, mobile records or other technical evidence. After completion of the investigation, the police files a charge sheet in the court. If sufficient evidence is not found, the police can also file a closure report. Most importantly, registration of FIR does not mean that the accused is proved guilty. Only the court has the right to declare a person guilty or innocent. In India, after the FIR is registered, there is a rule to give a copy of it to the complainant, that too for free. With this he can understand the further legal process and can use it when needed.

What should be done if the police is reluctant to register an FIR?

If the police does not register an FIR despite a serious crime, then the victim can complain to the SP (Superintendent of Police). Apart from this, he can also approach the magistrate’s court. That is to say, FIR is not just a page, but it is the first and most important legal step in the investigation of any crime. Its purpose is not to convict anyone, but to start an impartial investigation of the crime. Therefore, if any serious crime happens to someone, then he should register FIR on time.

Some other information related to FIR…

• The word FIR is used in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and some South Asian countries. In many countries it is also called Police Report or Crime Report.
• The facility of e-FIR (Online FIR) is available in many states of India. Complaint can be lodged even sitting at home.
• Registration of FIR does not mean that the accused has been proved a criminal. Until the court’s decision comes, he is considered only an accused in the eyes of the law.
• The rule of Zero FIR was made to save people’s lives. Even if the crime has taken place in some other area, any police station can still register a Zero FIR and later transfer the case to the correct police station.
• It is a legal right to give a copy of the FIR to the complainant for free. No separate fee can be charged for this.

Content Source: Police and criminal law related information issued by Ministry of Home Affairs, citizen awareness material of Bureau of Police Research and Development. Bharatiya Citizen Security Code.