Legal Remedies When Police Refuse to Register FIR

If the police refuse to register an FIR, the law provides several clear remedies under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1973 and supported by landmark judgments.
Here’s a step-by-step guide.

 Legal Remedies When Police Refuse to Register FIR

1. Approach the Senior Police Officer (Section 154(3) CrPC)

1. Provision: Section 154(3) CrPC
2. Remedy: Write a complaint to the Superintendent of Police (SP) or Deputy Inspector General (DIG).
3. Process: 
   1. Submit a written application explaining that the local police refused to register your FIR.
   1. The SP can investigate the matter himself or direct a subordinate officer to do so.

2. File a Complaint Before the Magistrate (Section 156(3) CrPC)

1. Provision: Section 156(3) CrPC empowers the Judicial Magistrate to direct the police to register and investigate the case.
2. Process: 
   1. File a written criminal complaint before the Magistrate.
   1. Attach evidence or any supporting material (if available).
   1. The Magistrate can order the police to register the FIR and conduct investigation.

3. File a Private Complaint (Section 200 CrPC)

• If both police and higher officers fail to act, you can file a private complaint under Section 200 CrPC before the Magistrate.
• The Magistrate can:
  • Record your statement and witnesses, and
  • Take cognizance of the offence directly.

4. Approach Human Rights or Vigilance Authorities

• For serious misconduct or corruption, complaint can be made to:
  • State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) or National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
  • State Police Complaints Authority

5. File a Writ Petition (Article 226, Constitution of India)

• As a last resort, file a writ petition (Mandamus) in the High Court seeking directions for:
  • Registration of FIR, and
  • Proper investigation.

Landmark Judgments

Summary Table