How to Register an FIR Online: Detailed Procedure
In India, filing a First Information Report (FIR) is the first step in initiating a criminal investigation. The government has made it easier for citizens to file an FIR by allowing online registration in many states, including Madhya Pradesh, which covers Indore. Here is a detailed guide on how to register an FIR online, including steps to take if the police do not act on the FIR.
1. Understanding FIR
- FIR (First Information Report): An FIR is a written document prepared by the police when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offense. It sets the criminal law into motion and is an essential document for the police to begin an investigation.
2. Prerequisites for Filing an FIR Online
Before filing an FIR online, ensure that you have the following information and documents ready:
- Personal Details: Name, address, phone number, and email ID.
- Incident Details: Date, time, and place of the occurrence, along with a detailed description of the incident.
- Accused Details: If known, provide details of the accused persons.
- Witness Details: If there are any witnesses, their names and contact details should be mentioned.
- Supporting Documents: Scanned copies of documents, photos, videos, or other evidence that can support your complaint.
3. Steps to Register an FIR Online
Here’s how you can file an FIR online:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of the police department of the relevant state. For example, in Madhya Pradesh, you can visit the Madhya Pradesh Police Citizen Services Portal.
- Navigate to the FIR Section: Look for the section on the website that deals with FIR registration. It is often labeled as “Lodge FIR,” “Online FIR,” or “Citizen Services.”
- Fill in the Required Information:
- Personal Details: Enter your name, address, contact number, and email ID.
- Incident Details: Provide a detailed account of the incident, including the time, date, and place of occurrence.
- Accused Information: If you know the identity of the accused, provide their details. If not, state that the accused is unknown.
- Witness Information: Enter the details of any witnesses if applicable.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Attach any evidence that supports your complaint, such as photographs, videos, or documents.
- Submit the FIR: After filling in all the details, review the information to ensure accuracy and then submit the FIR. A copy of the FIR may be emailed to you, and you may also receive a reference number for tracking the status of your complaint.
- Tracking the FIR: Use the reference number provided to track the status of your FIR on the same website. You can check whether the police have taken action, such as registering the FIR or beginning an investigation.
4. What to Do If the Police Do Not Act on the FIR
If the police do not take any action on the FIR, follow these steps:
- File a Complaint to the Senior Police Officers:
- You can escalate the matter by writing a complaint to the Superintendent of Police (SP) or the Commissioner of Police (CP) of your district.
- Include all relevant details, such as a copy of the FIR, reference number, and any communication with the police.
- Approach the Magistrate:
- Under Section 156(3) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), you can approach the jurisdictional Magistrate if the police refuse to register the FIR or take action.
- File a petition with the Magistrate, including all details of the incident and your attempts to register the FIR. The Magistrate may order the police to investigate the matter.
- File a Writ Petition in the High Court:
- If the police and the Magistrate do not take action, you can file a writ petition in the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution of India.
- The High Court can issue directions to the police to register and investigate the FIR.
- Complaint to the Human Rights Commission:
- If you believe that the police inaction violates your human rights, you can file a complaint with the State Human Rights Commission or the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
- Public Grievance Portal:
- You can also file a complaint on the Public Grievance Portal, where you can submit grievances related to government departments, including the police.
- Media and Public Pressure:
- In some cases, bringing attention to the issue through media outlets or public campaigns can create pressure on the police to take action.
Conclusion
Filing an FIR online is a convenient way to report crimes without needing to visit a police station physically. The process is straightforward, requiring you to provide details of the incident, personal information, and any supporting evidence. However, if the police do not act on your FIR, several legal remedies are available, including approaching senior police officers, the Magistrate, or even the High Court. Understanding these steps ensures that your complaint is heard and the necessary legal action is taken.
Important: Kindly Refer New Corresponding Sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, (BNS); Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, (BNSS); & Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, (BSA) for IPC; CrPC & IEA used in the article.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified lawyer for personalized advice specific to your situation
Advocate J.S. Rohilla (Civil & Criminal Lawyer in Indore)
Contact: 88271 22304