Understanding FIR and Zero FIR
An FIR (First Information Report) is the official document recorded by the police when information about a cognizable offence, an offence serious enough for the police to act without prior court approval, is first received. It marks the formal beginning of the investigation process.
When a person approaches a police station to report an offence, they will be attended to by the duty officer or officer-in-charge of that station. The officer will listen to the details of the incident and ask for the relevant information to record the FIR.
The complainant can either narrate the incident verbally or submit it in writing. If the complaint is given verbally, the police officer will write it down and then read it back to ensure that every detail is recorded correctly. It is important that the complainant verifies the accuracy of what has been written before signing the document.
Once the details are confirmed, the police officer will make an entry in the daily diary or general diary (GD), a record that every police station maintains for all incoming complaints.
If the complaint is written, the complainant should prepare two copies of it, one for the police and one to keep. The police copy must be stamped with a daily diary number (DD No.), which serves as proof that the complaint has been officially received. The stamp typically includes the date, diary number, and the name of the police station.
After the FIR has been recorded, the officer will read out the statement to the complainant once more and request a signature as confirmation. It is crucial that the complainant notes the FIR number, date, and name of the police station, as these details will be needed for all future follow-ups or legal correspondence.
The FIR should contain key information such as:
- The date, time, and place of the incident.
- The nature of the offence (for example, theft, assault, harassment, etc.).
- The identity of the accused, if known.
- Any witnesses or supporting details that can aid the investigation.
It is not necessary to have every single detail before filing an FIR; what matters most is providing all the information that is currently available.
What is a Zero FIR?
A Zero FIR is an important safeguard built into India’s criminal justice system. It allows a person to file an FIR at any police station, regardless of where the crime occurred or which station has jurisdiction over the area.
The purpose of this provision is to make the process of filing an FIR faster and more accessible, especially in sensitive cases such as sexual assault, harassment, domestic violence, or trafficking, where immediate action is critical.
Under the Zero FIR system, no police officer can refuse to file a complaint simply because the incident occurred outside their jurisdiction. Once the complaint is lodged, the police must register it as a Zero FIR (denoted by the number “0”) and can even begin a preliminary investigation if necessary, for instance, to secure evidence or record the victim’s statement promptly.
After this initial step, the Zero FIR is transferred to the police station that holds jurisdiction over the place where the crime actually occurred. The receiving police station then continues the formal investigation.
This process ensures that no victim is turned away and that crucial time and evidence are not lost due to procedural delays. It reflects a commitment to accessibility, accountability, and protection of victims’ rights.
Why These Procedures Matter
Filing an FIR or a Zero FIR isn’t just a bureaucratic step; it’s the first legal acknowledgement that a wrong has occurred. It sets the process of justice in motion and ensures that the incident is investigated officially.
Unfortunately, many people, especially women and marginalised groups, hesitate to approach the police because of fear, lack of awareness, or past experiences of being turned away. Understanding one’s rights, including the right to file a Zero FIR and to have the process handled respectfully and privately, can empower individuals to take timely action.
Every person has the right to report an offence, seek protection, and demand accountability. The responsibility lies not only with law enforcement but also with workplaces, communities, and individuals to ensure that reporting mechanisms are safe, transparent, and trusted.