Filing a Police Complaint / FIR

Every citizen has the right to have a cognizable offence recorded as an FIR under Sec. 173 BNSS.

Your rights

Any cognizable offence must be registered as an FIR — the police cannot refuse.
FIR can be filed at ANY police station (zero FIR); it is later transferred.
You are entitled to a free copy of the FIR (Sec. 173(2) BNSS).
If police refuse, escalate to the Superintendent of Police, then to a Magistrate under Sec. 175(3) BNSS.

Go to the police station with a written complaint (or dictate it).
Include: date, time, place, description of incident, accused details, witnesses.
Sign the FIR and take an acknowledged copy home.
Many states now support e-FIR portals for non-serious offences.

Want to ask about your specific situation?

This is general legal information, not legal advice. Please consult a qualified advocate for your specific situation.