In today’s digital India, you no longer need to physically visit a police station for many types of complaints. With the introduction of the new criminal laws in 2023–24, the process has become more structured and technology-driven.

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) has replaced the old Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). It strengthens citizens’ rights and promotes electronic registration of FIRs.

What is an FIR under BNSS?

An FIR (First Information Report) is a written or electronic record prepared by the police when information about a cognizable offence is received.

It is now governed under:

📜 Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023

A cognizable offence means the police can:

• Register the FIR

• Start investigation

• Arrest (if necessary)

Without prior court permission.

Examples:

• Theft

• Assault

• Rape

• Kidnapping

• Cyber fraud

BNSS formally recognizes electronic communication for giving information about offences, encouraging digital reporting.

What is an Online FIR (e-FIR) under BNSS?

Under BNSS, information relating to a cognizable offence may be given:

• In writing

• Or by electronic communication

This makes e-FIR registration legally supported.

An Online FIR (e-FIR) allows citizens to file complaints through official state police portals without visiting the police station (for eligible offences).

Usually available for:

🚗 Vehicle theft
📱 Mobile theft
💻 Cyber crimes
📄 Lost documents
🏠 Minor property offences

Serious offences like murder or sexual assault generally require immediate physical reporting for investigation purposes.

Where to File Online FIR?

You must file the FIR on your State Police Official Website.

Examples include:

• Maharashtra Police

• Delhi Police

• Karnataka State Police

• Uttar Pradesh Police

For cyber offences across India:

🌐 National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal

Step-by-Step Process to File FIR Online (BNSS Procedure)

Step 1: Visit Official Police Website

Go to your state police portal.
Click on:

• “Citizen Services”

• “e-FIR”

• “Online Complaint”

Step 2: Register / Login

• Enter mobile number

• Verify via OTP

• Create account credentials

Step 3: Select Nature of Offence

Choose complaint category:

• Theft

• Lost article

• Cyber fraud

• Women safety complaint

Step 4: Enter Incident Details

Provide accurate details:

• Name and address

• Date and time of incident

• Location

• Details of accused (if known)

• Complete factual description

📌 Under BNSS, information given electronically must later be signed (digitally or physically) if required.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach:

• ID proof

• Bills (for stolen property)

• Screenshots (for cyber fraud)

• Photos/videos

Step 6: Submit & Save Registration Number

After submission:

• You receive a Complaint/FIR number

• Download acknowledgement

• Track status online

BNSS promotes time-bound investigation and transparency, improving follow-up mechanisms.

Legal Rights of the Complainant under BNSS

Mandatory Registration of FIR

Police cannot refuse to register an FIR for a cognizable offence.

This principle was affirmed in:

⚖️ Lalita Kumari v. Government of Uttar Pradesh

The Supreme Court held:

Registration of FIR is mandatory in cognizable offences.

This principle continues under BNSS.

Zero FIR under BNSS

BNSS continues the concept of Zero FIR.

You can file FIR at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction.
It will later be transferred to the appropriate police station.

If Police Refuse to Register FIR

Under BNSS, you can:

• Approach the Superintendent of Police

• File application before Magistrate

• Send complaint in writing

• Approach High Court (in rare cases)

These remedies are similar to the previous CrPC framework but continue under the new code.

Example: Filing Online FIR in Maharashtra

On the Maharashtra Police website:

1. Open Citizen Portal

2. Click on e-Complaint

3. Register mobile number

4. Fill complaint details

5. Upload documents

6. Track status

For cyber fraud cases:

Use the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal

 When Should You Use the Cyber Crime Portal?

Use it for:

• Online payment fraud

• UPI scams

• Social media blackmail

• OTP fraud

• Identity theft

It directly forwards complaints to your state cyber cell.

 Documents Required

Important Practical Tips under BNSS

✔ File complaint immediately
✔ Preserve digital evidence
✔ Keep complaint number safely
✔ Follow up regularly
✔ Do not delay reporting serious crimes

Conclusion

With the implementation of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, India’s criminal procedure system has moved toward a more digital, citizen-friendly, and transparent framework.

Online FIR registration is legally recognized and encouraged. However:

• 🚨 For serious offences → Visit police station immediately

• 💻 For cyber and theft cases → Online filing is effective

• 📜 Know your rights under BNSS