E-FIR
Definition
An FIR registered electronically by a complainant; now expressly recognised under Section 173 BNSS, with a 3-day window to record the complainant's signature.
- Governing provision
- Section 173, BNSS 2023
- Filing method
- Electronic, by the complainant
- Signature window
- 3 days to record complainant's signature
- Jurisdiction
- India
Common questions
Why does e-FIR require a follow-up signature within 3 days?+
Electronic registration alone does not complete the legal formality of an FIR under Indian criminal procedure. The complainant must appear or otherwise confirm the report in writing within the statutory window for it to stand as a properly recorded first information report.
How does e-FIR differ from a zero FIR?+
A zero FIR is filed at any police station regardless of territorial jurisdiction and later transferred to the competent station, while an e-FIR is defined by its electronic mode of lodging. The two concepts can overlap but address different procedural problems.
Related terms
- BNSS 2023
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, the statute that replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure. It introduced a mandatory forensic-scene-visit requirement for offences...
- Charge Sheet (Section 193)
- The police report at the close of investigation, filed within 60 or 90 days of arrest depending on the punishment band. Forensic...
- Section 105 BNSS
- Provision making audio-video recording of search and seizure operations mandatory, with the recording forming part of the case file.
- Section 176(3) BNSS
- Provision making FSL team presence at the scene mandatory for offences punishable with 7+ years' imprisonment.
- Zero FIR
- FIR registered at any police station regardless of territorial jurisdiction, then transferred to the station with jurisdiction. BNSS 173(1) proviso codifies the...