Zero FIR

Zero FIR is an important legal provision that makes simple and fast the process of filing a crime complaint in the Indian legal system. It is different from a regular FIR.

What is a Zero FIR?

A Zero FIR, also known as a Null FIR, It is a First Information Report (FIR) that can be filed at any police station, depending on the location of the crime. A regular FIR is registered only at the police station where the crime occurred under Section 173 of the Indian Civil Justice Code (BNSS). However, there is no such restriction in a Zero FIR. The victim can file a complaint at any police station, even if the crime occurred in another police station's jurisdiction.

                         A Zero FIR is entered in the station's general diary register with the number zero (0), hence the name. Once registered, the police transfer it to the relevant police station, and an investigation begins immediately. This provision applies specifically to cognizable crimes (such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, etc.), where the police are mandated to register an FIR. According to several Supreme Court rulings, a station house officer cannot refuse to register an FIR.

                   Suppose you are traveling from Assam to Delhi and are robbed on a train. Upon arrival in Delhi, you can file a Zero FIR at the nearest police station. The police will forward it to the relevant police station, but the process will begin immediately. This facility proves to be a boon for women, the elderly, and people in remote areas.

History of Zero FIR

The need for Zero FIRs arose due to the difficulties in filing FIRs after any incident. Following the Nirbhaya case in 2013, where FIR registration was delayed, the Supreme Court issued necessary guidelines in the Lalita Kumari vs. State of Uttar Pradesh case. According to the court, an FIR should be registered immediately upon receiving information about a cognizable crime, without any investigation.

                   Subsequently, the implementation of the new Code of Criminal Procedure (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita - BNSS) in 2023 further strengthened the Zero FIR system. Under Section 173 of the BNSS, it is mandatory to transfer a Zero FIR to the concerned police station within 15 days. The new laws also provide for e-FIRs and the ability to file Zero FIRs digitally. Many state governments have incorporated Zero FIRs into their police manuals. Zero FIRs ensured timely justice in the Manipur violence (2023) and other incidents. Now, it is implemented across the country.

Benefits and Importance of Zero FIRs

Zero FIRs have several benefits that strengthen the justice system:

- Zero FIRs save time. Timely filing of FIRs allows for immediate investigations and immediate action against criminals.

- Zero FIRs have made filing a Zero FIR easier for the common man; it will be easier to file a complaint at the nearest police station.

 - Zero FIRs have increased women's sense of security and instilled fear in criminals, as immediate action in cognizable crimes (like rape and molestation) can lead to quicker apprehension of criminals.

How to File a Zero FIR:

Filing a Zero FIR is extremely simple. The step-by-step process is as follows:

1. First, prepare a complaint, detailing the crime in detail, including when, where, and what happened, who the accused is, and what evidence is available. A verbal complaint will also be accepted.

2. Next, go to the nearest police station that is available 24x7. If you are a woman, choose a women's police station or a special desk.

3. Then, submit the complaint to the SHO (Station House Officer) and inform them that it is a Zero FIR. Obtain a copy of the FIR from the police station.

4. Your FIR will be sent to the relevant police station within 15 days. Check the PID (Police Investigation Diary) to check the status of your FIR.

 5. In many states, you can register an e-Zero FIR on police portals (such as the UP Police and Rajasthan Police apps).

6. If the police refuse to register a Zero FIR, complain to the Superintendent of Police, DCP, or Magistrate. You can also call the helpline number 100/112.

Required Documents:

✓Aadhaar Card (Identity Card)

✓Photograph

✓Evidence (Photo, CCTV)

                       Zero FIR has simplified the Indian justice system. It not only empowers victims but also ensures speedy punishment for criminals. Lawhelp4you urges you to be aware of your rights and, if you found this information helpful, please share it with others. This blog is for your information; for legal advice, contact an experienced lawyer.