Full formGovernment & Exams
FIRstands forFirst Information Report
Full Form of FIR
What is FIR?
FIR, or First Information Report, is a written document prepared by the police in India when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offence. It is the first step in the criminal justice process and sets the legal machinery in motion. The concept is defined under Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (now replaced by Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023). An FIR can be lodged by the victim, a witness, or any person with knowledge of the offence. The police are legally bound to register an FIR if the complaint discloses a cognizable offence, where arrest without a warrant is permissible. The FIR contains details like the date, time, location, description of the incident, and the names of accused and witnesses. A copy of the FIR is provided free of cost to the informant. It is a crucial document used for investigation, trial, and cross-examination. In India, the Supreme Court has reinforced the mandatory nature of FIR registration in cases like Lalita Kumari vs. Govt. of UP. The FIR is also admissible as evidence under the Indian Evidence Act. For students preparing for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, Judiciary, or CLAT, understanding the FIR process, legal provisions, and landmark judgments is essential. FIRs also play a vital role in data collection for crime statistics, such as the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports.
FIR का फुल फॉर्म
प्रथम सूचना रिपोर्ट
Example
The police officer registered an FIR under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code after the murder was reported.
FIR — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of FIR?
FIR stands for First Information Report. It is the initial record of a cognizable crime registered by the police in India.
Can an FIR be filed online in India?
Yes, many Indian states provide online portals to file an FIR for certain offences, especially non-emergency ones, through citizen services or police websites.
What is the difference between FIR and NCR?
An FIR is filed for cognizable offences where police can arrest without a warrant, while an NCR (Non-Cognizable Report) is for non-cognizable offences where a court order is needed for arrest.