How to File Zero FIR in India ?

A Zero FIR allows you report a cognizable offence at any police station, even if the incident happened elsewhere. The police has to register it, number it as ‘0’, also give you a free copy, and then transfer your Zero FIR to the correct police station for further investigation. 

How to file a Zero FIR in India

.step by step guide which you can follow to file Zero FIR from any location at any time

Step 1 – Visit any nearby police station or call on 112 for all complaints or 1930 for cyber complaints

Step 2- Inform the police about the incident and all facts

Step 3 Ask for “Zero FIR” if crime happened out side the area

Step 4 – Ensure it is read back to you Sign the statement

Step 5 – Take a copy of FIR (Keep note of FIR no. ,date and time )

Step 6 – Police transfers it to the correct station for further investigation

Step 6 – In case of rejection by the police: write to SP/DCP or move to the Magistrate u/s 156 (3)

What is a Zero FIR ?

What is a Zero FIR?

A Zero FIR is the registration of an FIR at any police station, regardless of territorial jurisdiction. It is temporarily allotted the number ‘0’ and is later transferred to the police station that has jurisdiction over the place of incident . You do not have to travel back to the exact area of the crime to start the process.

zero FIR : Legal Basis

Legal basis (in simple words)

• BNSS 2023 / CrPC 1973: The law says that when information about a cognizable offence is given to the police, they must register an FIR. Earlier this was Section 154 of the CrPC; under the new law it is covered under Section 173(1) of the BNSS — including filing by electronic communication within 3 days of signature.
• Supreme Court (Lalita Kumari, 2013): Registration of FIR is mandatory if the information shows a cognizable offence; reliability can be checked after registration.
• MHA Advisories (2013–2015 and later reminders): States/UTs must register FIRs irrespective of jurisdiction and use Zero FIR; give a free copy to the informant.