Since 1 July 2024, FIR registration is governed by Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 (the old Section 154 CrPC). Two reforms — Zero FIR and e-FIR — are favourite exam topics and genuinely useful citizen rights.
What is a Zero FIR?
A Zero FIR lets you report a cognizable offence at any police station, regardless of where the crime took place. Section 173(1) BNSS uses the words “irrespective of the area where the offence is committed.” It is registered with a serial number “0” and then transferred to the station with jurisdiction, where it is re-registered as a regular FIR. The BNSS gives this earlier practice statutory backing for the first time.
What is an e-FIR?
Information about a cognizable offence may be given electronically; it is taken on record only after the informant signs it within three days (Section 173(1) BNSS) — widening access while checking fake complaints.
Your rights when filing an FIR under the BNSS
- Free copy of the FIR — given forthwith, free of cost, to the informant or victim (S.173(2)).
- Progress update within 90 days — the victim must be informed of the investigation’s progress (S.193(3)).
- Preliminary enquiry for offences punishable 3 to under 7 years, with senior permission, before registering an FIR (S.173(3)).
- Recourse if police refuse — approach the Superintendent of Police (S.173(4)); a public servant who fails to record information can be punished.
- Sensitive recording — for specified offences against women, by a woman police officer; at the residence for a disabled victim.
- Mandatory forensics for offences punishable with 7 years or more, with videography of the scene (S.176(3); states have up to five years to roll out).
- Audio-video recording of search and seizure (S.105).
- Electronic summons, including to produce digital records (S.94).
- Bail for first-time undertrials after serving one-third of the maximum sentence (S.479).
Zero FIR vs e-FIR vs regular FIR
| Feature | Regular FIR | Zero FIR | e-FIR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where filed | Station with jurisdiction | Any police station | Electronically, then signed |
| Jurisdiction needed | Yes | No | No |
| FIR number | Regular | “0”, then transferred | Assigned on recording |
| Key safeguard | — | Mandatory transfer | Signature within 3 days |
Why this matters for your exams
Judiciary-service syllabi and university procedure papers are now framed on the BNSS. Zero FIR, e-FIR, the 90-day victim update, mandatory forensics and the new bail provision are high-yield topics. Cite the BNSS section first (old CrPC section in brackets where useful).
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FAQ
Difference between a Zero FIR and a regular FIR? A regular FIR is filed where the crime occurred; a Zero FIR can be filed anywhere and is then transferred.
Which section deals with FIR registration? Section 173 BNSS (old 154 CrPC).
Can I file an FIR online? Yes — an e-FIR, signed within three days.
If police refuse? Escalate to the SP under Section 173(4) BNSS.
Disclaimer: For educational and exam-preparation purposes only; not legal advice. Procedures may be subject to state notifications and judicial interpretation.
