Today, On 28th June, The Ministry of Home Affairs issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the filing of Zero FIRs and e-FIRs under the BNSS framework. This initiative aims to streamline and simplify the process for citizens to report crimes. By implementing these guidelines, the government seeks to enhance accessibility and efficiency in the registration of First Information Reports.
New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for filing Zero FIR and e-FIR under the new criminal procedure code, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
These guidelines aim to modernize crime reporting, making it more accessible to the public and expediting the registration process.
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The e-FIR system leverages technology to simplify the crime reporting process, reducing time delays and eliminating geographical constraints. This innovation allows victims to report crimes promptly and accurately, irrespective of their location. To file an e-FIR, individuals can log into the official police e-FIR portal or website or send their complaint electronically to the relevant police station.
The SOP specifies that under section 173(1) of the BNSS, any information regarding a cognizable offense can be reported orally or through electronic communication, regardless of where the offense occurred. The e-FIR must be recorded by a police official and signed by the complainant within three days to be officially registered.
For urgent cases requiring immediate police action, the Investigation Officer can register the complaint on behalf of the informant after verifying the facts and circumstances.
Zero FIR addresses jurisdictional challenges that have historically delayed criminal investigations. It allows any police station to register an FIR regardless of the crime’s location, ensuring swift initiation of the investigation.
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This provision provides immediate relief and a quicker response from authorities. If necessary, a preliminary investigation can be conducted by the same police station (e.g., a medical examination of a rape victim) before transferring the FIR to the police station with jurisdiction over the incident location.
The SOP also outlines a remedy for citizens in cases where a police officer fails to register an e-FIR or Zero FIR.