2
0
NASIR ALI
SRINAGAR: In a significant move towards digital governance, Jammu and Kashmir has introduced the e-FIR system, enabling citizens to file First Information Reports (FIRs) online. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility, reduce procedural delays, and ensure transparency in law enforcement.
The e-FIR system is a modern initiative aimed at making the process of filing First Information Reports (FIRs) more accessible and efficient. Traditionally, lodging an FIR required a visit to the police station. With the introduction of e-FIRs, citizens can now register complaints online from the comfort of their homes.
By leveraging technology, the e-FIR system streamlines the initial reporting process, reducing paperwork and delays. Once a complaint is submitted through the official police portal or apps, it is assigned to the relevant police station for verification and further action.
The implementation of this system offers several advantages, including enhanced transparency, reduced chances of complaint manipulation, and improved tracking of crime patterns through digital records.
To learn more about the e-FIR process, ‘The ASIA SPEAKS’ spoke with ASIFA RASHID MIR (JKPS), PROSECUTING OFFICER AT DISTRICT POLICE HEADQUARTERS SRINAGAR, to gain insights into its implementation, benefits, and challenges.
Q: WHAT ARE THE KEY CHANGES INTRODUCED UNDER BNSS-2023 REGARDING THE REGISTRATION OF FIRS?
Under BNSS-2023, the process of registering a cognizable offence has shifted from Section 154 of the CrPC to Section 173 of BNSS. One of the major changes is that complaints regarding cognizable offences can now be filed orally or through electronic communication, making it easier for citizens to approach the police. Additionally, Zero FIR has been formally recognized, allowing people to lodge a complaint at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction. This ensures that immediate action can be taken without delays caused by territorial limitations.
Q: HOW CAN A CITIZEN REGISTER AN E-FIR OR A ZERO FIR UNDER THE NEW SYSTEM?
The process for e-FIR registration involves logging into the official police e-FIR portal or sending the complaint via any electronic communication, such as whasapp, email, etc or a police website. The police station will then record the details, but the complainant must sign the report within three days for it to be officially registered.
For Zero FIR, if a person approaches a police station outside the jurisdiction where the offence occurred, the police must still record the complaint in the Zero FIR register and later transfer it to the appropriate station for investigation. This ensures that victims don’t face delays in initiating legal action.
Q: WHAT CAN A PERSON DO IF THE POLICE REFUSE TO REGISTER AN E-FIR OR ZERO FIR?
If a police officer refuses to register an e-FIR or Zero FIR, the complainant has two legal remedies under BNSS-2023:
- Under Section 173(4) BNSS, the aggrieved person can send a written complaint by post to the Superintendent of Police (SP), who has the authority to intervene and order registration.
- Under Section 199 BNSS, any public servant who disobeys legal duties—including refusing to register an FIR—can face action. Citizens can escalate their grievances through legal channels to ensure their complaints are addressed.
The introduction of e-FIR and Zero FIR represents a major step towards modernizing law enforcement, ensuring quicker access to justice, and strengthening accountability within the system.
