In Indian criminal law, an FIR (First Information Report) is registered by the police when information about a cognizable offence is received under the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (now replaced by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023). ⚖️
Although the statute mainly describes FIR procedure under Section 154 CrPC, in practice and judicial interpretation there are several recognized types of FIRs.
Types of FIR in Criminal Law (India)
1️. Regular FIR
This is the most common type of FIR.
It is registered when a person reports a cognizable offence at a police station.
Example
A person reports theft, assault, or murder.
Features:
- Registered under Section 154 CrPC
- Police must investigate.
2️. Zero FIR
A Zero FIR can be filed at any police station regardless of jurisdiction.
The FIR is registered first and later transferred to the concerned police station.
Example
A woman assaulted in one city can file FIR in another city.
Important judgment:
Lalita Kumari v. Government of Uttar Pradesh (2014)
The Supreme Court held that registration of FIR is mandatory for cognizable offences.
3️. Cross FIR
When both parties file FIRs against each other regarding the same incident, it is called a Cross FIR.
Example
Two groups fight and both accuse each other of assault.
Both FIRs are investigated separately.
4️. Counter FIR
A Counter FIR is similar to Cross FIR but usually filed as a defensive complaint by the opposite party after the first FIR.
Example
After A files FIR against B, B files another FIR claiming A was the aggressor.
5️. Multiple FIR
When more than one FIR is registered for the same offence or incident.
However, courts generally discourage multiple FIRs for the same occurrence.
Important case:
T.T. Antony v. State of Kerala (2001)
The Supreme Court held that multiple FIRs for the same incident are generally not permissible.
6️. Delayed FIR
An FIR filed after a significant delay from the time of the incident.
Courts examine the reason for delay.
Example
Victim files FIR several days after the crime due to fear or trauma.
Delayed FIR is not automatically invalid but may affect credibility.
7️. Online FIR / E-FIR
Many states now allow online FIR registration through police portals.
These are commonly used for:
- theft of mobile phones
- cyber crimes
- lost documents.
Important Points About FIR
✔ FIR must be registered for cognizable offences
✔ It starts the criminal investigation process
✔ It can be lodged by victim, witness, or any person aware of the crime.
Simple Chart of FIR Types
| Type of FIR | Meaning |
| Regular FIR | Normal FIR at police station |
| Zero FIR | FIR filed without jurisdiction restriction |
| Cross FIR | FIRs filed by both parties |
| Counter FIR | Opposite party files FIR in response |
| Multiple FIR | More than one FIR for same offence |
| Delayed FIR | FIR filed after delay |
| Online FIR | FIR registered through internet |
Conclusion
The concept of different types of FIRs has developed through judicial interpretation and police practice. They help ensure that victims can report crimes easily and police can begin investigations promptly.
For Educational & Legal Awareness
Website: www.ushavatsassociates.in
