What is a Zero FIR, and why is it different from a normal FIR? Learn the concept of a Zero FIR.

An FIR, or First Information Report, is the first written report filed by the police upon receiving information about a crime. It is registered only at the police station in whose jurisdiction the crime occurred.

Registering an FIR is considered a crucial process in the Indian legal system. The investigation of any crime begins only after an FIR is filed at the police station. However, victims often faced the problem of police officers refusing to register a case, citing that the case was not within their jurisdiction. This often left victims stranded, and sometimes, the delay resulted in the loss of evidence. The concept of a Zero FIR was introduced to address this problem. This rule is part of the amendments made after the Nirbhaya incident, specifically to ensure immediate relief to the victim and prevent the perpetrator from escaping punishment.

What is an FIR?

An FIR, or First Information Report, is the first written report filed by the police upon receiving information about a crime. It is registered only at the police station in whose jurisdiction the crime occurred. For example, if a theft, robbery, murder, or rape incident occurs in a particular area, an FIR will be registered at that police station. The police from that station then initiate an investigation and action. Registering an FIR is legally mandatory for the police.

What is a Zero FIR?

A Zero FIR means that regardless of where the crime occurred, the victim can go to any nearby police station and file a complaint. The FIR number begins with "0," hence the name. The case is then transferred to the police station in the relevant area. Its biggest advantage is that there is no delay in filing the complaint, and an investigation begins immediately.

Why did the concept of a Zero FIR arise?

After the Nirbhaya gang rape case (2012), when outrage spread across the country, it was observed that victims often faced great difficulty in filing complaints at the police station. Police officers would delay the case, saying it was not within their jurisdiction. This is why the provision for zero FIRs was added to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act in 2013. The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Supreme Court also mandated this system to ensure victims receive prompt justice.