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A First Information Report (FIR) is a written document prepared by the police when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offense. Filing an FIR is the first step in the criminal justice process.
Under Section 154 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), any person who has knowledge about a cognizable offense can file an FIR at the nearest police station.
Go to the police station that has jurisdiction over the area where the crime occurred. In case of emergency, you can file an FIR at any police station (Zero FIR), which will later be transferred to the appropriate station.
Narrate the incident in detail to the officer in charge. Be factual and provide all relevant information such as time, date, location, description of the incident, and identification of suspects (if known).
The officer will record your statement in the FIR. Read it carefully before signing to ensure all details are accurately captured. If you cannot read, the officer should read it aloud to you.
You have the right to get a free copy of the FIR immediately. Keep this copy safe as it's an important document for the case proceedings.
Note the FIR number and the name of the investigating officer for future reference and follow-ups on the progress of the investigation.
Bail is a provision that allows a person accused of a crime to be temporarily released from custody while awaiting trial, usually on the condition that they provide a guarantee (in cash or property) that they will appear for their trial.
For bail applications, you can approach the court where the crime was committed or the accused is currently being held.
Collect documents such as the FIR, medical reports (if applicable), and any other relevant evidence.