How to File FIR Online in India 2026: E-FIR and Zero FIR Under BNSS Explained

Filing a First Information Report (FIR) in India is now governed by Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which replaced Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The BNSS has introduced two significant reforms: the statutory codification of the zero FIR (allowing filing at any police station regardless of jurisdiction) and the formal recognition of electronic FIR (e-FIR) filing. This guide explains the complete process for filing an FIR online, the documents required, and the rights of the informant.

What Is an E-FIR Under Section 173 BNSS

Section 173(1) of the BNSS provides that information relating to the commission of a cognizable offence may be given orally or by electronic communication to the officer in charge of a police station. This statutory provision formalises the concept of e-FIR. When information is given electronically, the informant must sign the recorded information within three days of submission for it to be officially registered as an FIR. Most state police departments now operate online portals where citizens can file e-FIRs for specified categories of offences, typically property-related crimes such as lost property, mobile theft, and vehicle theft.

What Is a Zero FIR

The zero FIR is one of the most citizen-friendly reforms in the BNSS. Section 173(1) uses the phrase "irrespective of the area where the offence is committed," which means any police station in India must accept and register an FIR, even if the offence did not occur within that station's jurisdiction. The receiving police station cannot refuse to register the FIR on jurisdictional grounds. After registration, the zero FIR is forwarded to the police station having territorial jurisdiction over the area where the offence was committed, which then re-registers it as a regular FIR and assigns it to an investigating officer.

Step-by-Step Process for Filing E-FIR

The process for filing an e-FIR involves the following steps. First, visit the official police website of the relevant state (each state has its own portal). Second, navigate to the Citizen Services or e-Services section and select the Online FIR or Lodge Complaint option. Third, register using a mobile number and verify with OTP. Fourth, select the type of complaint or offence from the available categories. Fifth, enter the incident details, including the date, time, location, district, police station area, and a description of the incident. Sixth, provide details of the accused or suspect if known. Seventh, upload any supporting documents such as photographs or receipts. Eighth, review all details and submit the complaint. Ninth, download or note the FIR or complaint reference number for future tracking.

For cyber crimes specifically, the complaint can be filed through the national portal at cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the helpline number 1930. The cyber crime portal handles a range of offences including financial fraud, social media harassment, identity theft, and data breaches.

What If the Police Refuse to Register an FIR

If a police station refuses to register an FIR for a cognizable offence, the informant has several remedies. The complaint can be sent by post to the Superintendent of Police (SP) of the district, who can either direct the investigation or order the station to register the FIR. Alternatively, the informant can approach the Judicial Magistrate under Section 175 of the BNSS and file a complaint directly. The Magistrate can then direct the police to register the FIR and investigate the matter. Refusing to register an FIR for a cognizable offence is itself a dereliction of duty, and the erring officer can face disciplinary action.

Key Takeaways

FIR registration is governed by Section 173 of the BNSS, 2023. E-FIR allows electronic filing, but the informant must sign the information within three days. Zero FIR means any police station must register the FIR regardless of where the offence occurred. Online FIR portals are available in most states for specified offences such as theft and property loss. For cyber crimes, the dedicated portal cybercrime.gov.in and helpline 1930 are available. If police refuse to register an FIR, the informant can approach the SP or the Judicial Magistrate under Section 175 BNSS. Under Section 173(2) of the BNSS, a copy of the FIR must be provided to the informant free of cost.