The NextGen Law Firm

You should register a First Information Report (FIR) if you are:

• The victim of a crime/offence.
• Have witnessed a crime/offence.
• Have knowledge of a crime/offence.

This however, only applies to cognizable offences. You cannot file an FIR in case of a non-cognizable offence.

The Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) Act of 1973, Sec 154 classifies criminal offences as cognizable and non-cognizable offences. 

In the case of a cognizable offence, the police can begin investigation immediately and arrest the accused without a warrant.

This list includes serious offences such as murder, rape, theft, kidnapping, or forgery

In your FIR, you should ensure to include:

• Date, time and place of the offence.
• Against whom it was committed.
• Description of what occurred (this is critical. do not leave out any details)
• Description of the suspect, and name if known to you.
• If the offence took place in front of any witnesses.

To register an FIR, follow these steps: 

• Visit the police station closest to you. 
• Ask to speak to a police officer. 
• Request the police officer to take your oral or written statement. 
• Narrate the offence you witnessed or of which you were a victim. 
• The police must read/write down your statement. 

After recording your statement, request:

• To review it and make any edits before you sign it.
• For a copy of your FIR to take with you. 

If you have been asked by a police officer to visit the police station:

• DO NOT rush over.
• Ask them regarding what matter or offence they are calling you.
• Check whether they need you urgently or if the matter can wait.

Once you have a few details, speak to a lawyer. If required, ask the lawyer to accompany you. 

At the police station, your lawyer can help in three important ways:

• Help you respond correctly without compromising your sovereignty.
• Help organize things in case the police station is rushed and you are waiting endlessly.
• Help start the paperwork immediately in case you are arrested.