In India’s criminal justice system, time is often a critical factor—especially in cases of serious offences. Victims may not always be in the area where the crime occurred. In such situations, Zero FIR plays a pivotal role. It ensures the immediate registration of the complaint. This happens even when jurisdiction does not align. It upholds the victim’s right to access justice without procedural delays.
What is a Zero FIR?
A Zero FIR is a First Information Report. It can be lodged at any police station, regardless of the area where the offence occurred. The FIR is assigned the serial number “0”. It is then transferred to the police station that has jurisdiction over the location of the crime. The concept eliminates jurisdictional objections in cases requiring urgent police action.
Key Features of Zero FIR
- Jurisdiction-Free Filing: Victims can approach any police station, not necessarily the one where the crime happened.
- Assigned Number “0”: It is temporarily recorded with a zero serial number until transferred.
- Applicable to Cognizable Offences: Crimes like murder, rape, kidnapping, and serious accidents fall under this category.
- Ensures Immediate Action: Police can begin medical aid, investigation, or evidence preservation without delay.
- Mandatory Registration: Police are legally bound to record a Zero FIR when a cognizable offence is reported.
Legal Basis for Zero FIR
The concept of Zero FIR is supported by Section 154 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1973. This section deals with the procedure for filing FIRs in cognizable offences.
Additionally, the Supreme Court’s ruling in Lalita Kumari v. Government of Uttar Pradesh (2013) made it clear that:
“The police must register an FIR upon receiving information about the commission of a cognizable offence.”
This judgment established that delaying FIR registration is a violation of legal duty. Jurisdiction should not be a ground for refusal.
Why Zero FIR is Crucial
- Protection of Victims: Especially important for survivors of rape, domestic violence, or harassment who may flee to a safer location.
- Time-Sensitive Investigations: Allows police to initiate early action, preserving critical evidence.
- Prevents Procedural Delay: Avoids the typical back-and-forth caused by jurisdictional wrangling.
- Empowers Citizens: Makes the legal system more accessible, particularly for women and vulnerable groups.
Real-Life Application
Imagine a woman is sexually assaulted while traveling through City A, but manages to reach City B for help. Instead of waiting or traveling back, she can immediately file a Zero FIR at any police station in City B. The case will later be transferred to City A, but medical support and protective action begin instantly.
Common Misconception
“Police can’t register an FIR if the crime didn’t happen in their area.”
This is false. The law mandates police to register a Zero FIR in such cases and forward it to the appropriate station. Victims should not be turned away on jurisdictional grounds.
The concept of Zero FIR strengthens the delivery of justice by placing victim rights above bureaucratic procedure. It is a progressive tool that protects individuals in distress and enhances police accountability. Every citizen should be aware of this right and insist on its implementation when necessary.
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