FIR Format - How to File an FIR

एफआईआर प्रारूप - एफआईआर कैसे दर्ज करें

Legal Notices Updated: 2025-02-28

Overview

A First Information Report (FIR) is a written document prepared by the police upon receiving information about a cognizable offence. Under BNSS 2023, the procedure for filing an FIR is governed by Section 173.
Hindi प्रथम सूचना रिपोर्ट (एफआईआर) पुलिस द्वारा संज्ञेय अपराध की सूचना प्राप्त होने पर तैयार किया जाने वाला एक लिखित दस्तावेज है। BNSS 2023 के तहत एफआईआर दर्ज करने की प्रक्रिया धारा 173 द्वारा शासित है।

When to Use This Format

  • When a cognizable offence has been committed (theft, assault, fraud, etc.)
  • To report crimes like robbery, murder, kidnapping, or cybercrime
  • When you are a victim of or witness to a criminal offence
  • For accidents involving injury or death
  • To report offences against women (mandatory zero FIR provision)

Key Components

  1. 1 Informant Details

    Name, address, and contact details of the person filing the FIR.

  2. 2 Date, Time, and Place

    When and where the offence occurred with as much specificity as possible.

  3. 3 Description of Offence

    Detailed narration of what happened, who was involved, and what property was stolen/damaged.

  4. 4 Accused Details

    Names, descriptions, or identifying features of the accused persons if known.

  5. 5 Witness Details

    Names and contact information of any witnesses.

  6. 6 Evidence

    Any physical evidence, documents, CCTV footage, or electronic evidence available.

Sample Format

Download Word Document
TO The Station House Officer, Police Station: _____________ District: _____________ Subject: First Information Report under Section 173 BNSS, 2023 Respected Sir/Madam, I, [Full Name], S/o / D/o [Father's Name], aged ___ years, resident of [Full Address], do hereby lodge the following complaint: 1. DATE AND TIME OF OCCURRENCE: On [Date] at approximately [Time]. 2. PLACE OF OCCURRENCE: [Exact location with landmarks]. 3. DETAILS OF INCIDENT: [Detailed description of what happened]. 4. ACCUSED PERSON(S): [Name/Description of accused if known]. 5. WITNESSES: [Names and details of witnesses if any]. 6. PROPERTY INVOLVED: [Details of stolen/damaged property with approximate value]. 7. SECTIONS APPLICABLE: The above offence is punishable under Section(s) _____ of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. I request you to register an FIR and investigate the matter. I am ready to cooperate in the investigation. Date: _____________ Place: _____________ (Signature of Informant) Name: _____________ Contact: _____________

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Visit the Police Station

Go to the nearest police station. Under BNSS 2023, any police station must accept a Zero FIR regardless of jurisdiction.

2

Provide Information

Give a written or oral account of the incident. If oral, the police officer will write it down for your signature.

3

Ensure Proper Recording

Verify that all important details are accurately recorded including date, time, place, and description of the offence.

4

Get Your Copy

Under Section 173 BNSS, you are entitled to a free copy of the FIR. Insist on receiving it immediately.

5

Note the FIR Number

Record the FIR number for future reference in all follow-up communications and court proceedings.

6

Follow Up

Keep track of the investigation. You can file an application to the Superintendent of Police if unsatisfied with the investigation.

Important Notes

  • Post July 2024: FIR registration is governed by Section 173 BNSS 2023, replacing Section 154 CrPC.
  • Zero FIR: Under BNSS 2023, any police station must register an FIR irrespective of jurisdiction and transfer it later.
  • E-FIR facility is available in many states for certain categories of offences.
  • Offence sections must reference BNS 2023 instead of IPC. For example: Theft is Section 303 BNS (not 378 IPC), Cheating is Section 318 BNS (not 420 IPC).
  • Refusing to register an FIR is a punishable offence. You can approach the Superintendent of Police or file a complaint before the Magistrate under Section 175(3) BNSS.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Zero FIR?

A Zero FIR can be filed at any police station regardless of where the crime occurred. The police station that registers the Zero FIR must then transfer it to the police station having jurisdiction over the area where the offence took place. This provision ensures that no time is lost in registering the FIR.

Can an FIR be filed online?

Yes, many states including Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh allow e-FIR or online FIR registration for certain categories of offences through their state police websites or apps. However, for serious offences, physical presence at the police station may be required.

What is the difference between an FIR and an NCR?

An FIR (First Information Report) is registered for cognizable offences where police can investigate without a magistrate's order. An NCR (Non-Cognizable Report) is registered for non-cognizable offences where police need the magistrate's permission to investigate. Cognizable offences are generally more serious in nature.

Legal Disclaimer

This format is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The format may need to be adapted based on specific circumstances, applicable laws, and jurisdictional requirements. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before filing any legal document. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

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