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How to File a FIR Online in India: Step-by-Step Guide under BNSS 2025
With the introduction of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2025, the process of filing a First Information Report (FIR) in India has undergone significant modernization. The law now encourages the use of digital platforms for lodging complaints, making the criminal justice system faster, more transparent, and citizen-friendly.
If you have been a victim of a crime or have knowledge of a criminal offence, you no longer need to always visit a police station physically. Instead, you can file an FIR online through state police portals or mobile applications, in line with the BNSS framework.
This guide will explain who can file an FIR, the online filing process, and your rights under BNSS 2025.
Table of Contents
1. What is an FIR under BNSS 2025?
Under BNSS 2025, an FIR is the official record of information given to the police regarding the commission of a cognizable offence—crimes where police can register the case and investigate without prior court approval (e.g., murder, theft, sexual assault).
The BNSS has digitized many procedural requirements, enabling electronic submission and acknowledgment of FIRs to improve accessibility and reduce delays.
2. Who Can File an FIR Online?
BNSS allows any person—the victim, a relative, a witness, or even a bystander—to file an FIR. You can file an FIR online if:
- You have access to a state police online FIR system.
- The offence occurred within the jurisdiction of that state.
- You can provide accurate details of the incident.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Filing an FIR Online under BNSS 2025
Step 1: Identify the Right Platform
Every Indian state has its own police department website or mobile app for online FIR registration. For example:
BNSS also mandates a national-level digital interface in collaboration with the NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau).
Step 2: Select the FIR Registration Option
On the portal, look for “Lodge Complaint” or “Register FIR” options. Some states have a two-step verification process where you must first submit a general complaint, which is then converted into an FIR after police verification.
Step 3: Provide Required Information
You will need to enter:
- Your details (name, address, phone, email)
- Date & time of incident
- Location of the crime
- Details of the accused (if known)
- Description of the incident
BNSS allows digital signatures or Aadhaar-based e-authentication to ensure authenticity.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
You can attach photographs, videos, or scanned documents relevant to the case. This helps the police initiate the investigation promptly.
Step 5: Submit & Get Acknowledgment
Once submitted, the portal will generate a unique FIR number. Under BNSS 2025, the police must:
- Send you an electronic acknowledgment immediately.
- Share a copy of the FIR within 24 hours via email/SMS.
4. Key BNSS 2025 Provisions for Online FIRs
BNSS includes several citizen-friendly changes:
- Digital FIR acceptance is legally valid.
- Mandatory e-acknowledgment within 24 hours.
- Online tracking of case status through the same portal.
- Video conferencing provisions for recording statements in certain cases.
5. Important Tips Before Filing an Online FIR
- Ensure jurisdiction: FIRs must be filed with the police station where the crime occurred.
- Be accurate & truthful: False FIRs are punishable under law.
- Save acknowledgment: It is proof of your filing and protects your legal rights.
- Follow up: Use the FIR number to check the progress of the investigation.
6. What Happens After You File an FIR Online?
Once the FIR is registered:
- Police will start an investigation.
- They may contact you for more information.
- In certain serious offences, they must inform you about the arrest of the accused.
7. Common Challenges & Solutions
- Portal downtime – If the online system is unavailable, visit the police station.
- Jurisdiction issues – Contact the correct district/state portal.
- Delayed action – Use RTI or approach a magistrate if police fail to act within reasonable time.
8. Conclusion
The BNSS 2025 marks a new era in digital policing in India. By enabling citizens to file FIRs online, it saves time, reduces harassment, and ensures faster action. Whether you are in a metro city or a small town, the online FIR system empowers you to seek justice without unnecessary delays.
If you ever witness or experience a cognizable offence, use the online FIR system—it’s your legal right under BNSS 2025.
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