What Is A Zero Fir And How Can You File One?

In India’s criminal justice system, the First Information Report (FIR) is the beginning of any criminal investigation. It is the first written record made by the police upon receiving information about the commission of a cognizable offence.

However, victims often face unnecessary delays or refusals when attempting to lodge an FIR due to jurisdictional limitations. To address this, the concept of Zero FIR was introduced, a key procedural reform that enhances access to justice and protects victims’ rights.

What is a Zero FIR and Why Should You Care?

A Zero FIR allows any police station to accept your complaint, even if the crime didn’t happen in that area. It gets a temporary ‘0’ number and is later sent to the correct jurisdiction.

In my legal practice, I’ve seen Zero FIRs save precious time, especially in crimes where every hour counts (rape, kidnapping, hit-and-run).

Legal Basis: What the Law Actually Says

Even though CrPC doesn’t directly mention “Zero FIR,” it’s fully backed by Section 154 CrPC/Section 173 BNSS. Refusing to register an FIR just because of jurisdiction is now considered a violation of law, a fact supported by Supreme Court rulings.

Why Using Zero FIR Could Protect Your Rights

Here’s what I’ve seen first-hand in cases where Zero FIR made all the difference:

• Fast Action: Immediate medical exams and evidence collection
• No Jurisdiction Excuses: Police can’t turn you away
• Preservation of Evidence: Vital in hit-and-run and sexual assault cases
• Gives Power Back to Victims: Stops delay tactics

When Should You Insist on a Zero FIR?

• Sexual assault or harassment
• Kidnapping, abduction
• Murder or attempt to murder
• Cyber crimes
• Road accidents (hit and run)
• Terrorism-related activity

If the crime is serious, and especially if delay could ruin your case, file a Zero FIR. I always tell clients: “Don’t wait. Jurisdiction can be sorted out later, evidence cannot.”

How I Guide Clients to File a Zero FIR: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Step 1: Go to the Nearest Police Station 

• Doesn’t matter if the crime happened elsewhere
• If traveling, injured, or distressed, this is often the only practical option

Step 2: Clearly Explain What Happened

• Date, time, place
• Names involved (if known)
• Any supporting evidence: CCTV, medical reports, messages

Tip I give clients: Bring everything you can. The clearer and complete the information, the faster things move.

Step 3: Ask Politely for a Zero FIR

• If the officer starts mentioning jurisdiction, mention Zero FIR and quote Justice Verma Committee or Lalita Kumari ruling.
• I’ve trained many clients on how to handle this conversation, being respectful but assertive is key.

Step 4: Demand a Copy of Your FIR

This is your legal right under Section 154(2) CrPC/Section 173 (2) BNSS. Never leave without a copy.

Step 5: Follow Up on the Transfer

• The FIR will be sent to the correct police station
• It will then receive a regular FIR number

Pro tip: Keep a record of who you spoke to and dates, helps if you need to escalate.

Real Cases from My Experience Where Zero FIR Helped

Case 1: Assault in Another City

• A client was assaulted while traveling. When they reached home, their local police initially refused to file an FIR, saying “wrong jurisdiction.”
• Once we invoked Zero FIR and cited Supreme Court rulings, the FIR was registered, and crucial evidence (CCTV) was saved.

Case 2: Hit-and-Run in Remote Area

In a hit-and-run accident, the victim’s family reached the nearest town police station. I guided them over phone on how to request a Zero FIR, result: Medical evidence preserved, and later the case led to an arrest.

If Police Refuses: Here’s What I Tell My Clients to Do

1. Go Up the Chain: SP or DCP

• File a written complaint to Superintendent of Police under Section 154(3) CrPC/Section 173 (3) BNSS.
• Often this alone gets the FIR registered

2. Approach the Magistrate

• File an application under Section 156(3) CrPC/Section 173 (3) BNSS.
• Magistrate can order police to register FIR

3. Use Online Portals or Email

Many states allow online FIR filing or email complaints, use them to document your effort.

4. File a Writ Petition if Needed

• If all else fails, file a Writ of Mandamus under Article 226 of the Constitution.
• I’ve personally helped clients win such cases, and the courts have come down heavily on police inaction.

Why the Justice Verma Committee Changed Everything?

After the Nirbhaya case, the Justice Verma Committee revolutionized how Zero FIRs are treated:

• Mandatory Zero FIR registration
• Penalties for refusal
• Victim-first policing

In my legal workshops, I often tell young lawyers: “If you know the Verma Committee recommendations, you can hold the system accountable.”

State Police Circulars: How They Back You Up

• Delhi Police: Mandatory Zero FIR for crimes against women
• Maharashtra Police: Zero FIR is now part of their manual
• Tamil Nadu & Karnataka: Clear SOPs for Zero FIR process

I always advise clients to cite these circulars if needed, they carry legal weight.

Why Every Citizen Must Know This Right?

The Zero FIR concept is still evolving, but its power is clear. I’ve seen first-hand how it protects:

• Victims of gender-based violence
• Accident victims
• Cyber crime complainants

If you or someone you know faces crime, remember:

• Don’t take “jurisdiction” as an excuse
• Insist on Zero FIR
• Demand your FIR copy

Final Thought: From My Desk as a Lawyer

• Time lost is justice lost. The earlier you start the legal process, the stronger your case will be.
• Zero FIR is not just a legal technicality; it is a victim’s shield. Know it. Use it. Teach others about it.

One can talk to lawyer from Lead India for any kind of legal support. In India, free legal advice online can be obtained at Lead India. Along with receiving free legal advice online, one can also ask questions to the experts online free through Lead India.

FAQs

1. Can I file a Zero FIR for cyber crime?

Yes, you can file a Zero FIR for cyber crimes such as online fraud, stalking, or data theft. The police station will forward it to the Cyber Cell for proper investigation.

2. Is there a time limit for filing a Zero FIR?

There is no official time limit, but it is always advisable to file a Zero FIR as soon as possible to ensure timely action and preservation of evidence.

3. Do I need a lawyer to file a Zero FIR?

No, it is not mandatory. However, consulting a lawyer can help you understand your rights and handle the situation effectively, especially if you face resistance from the police.