Here is a clear legal difference between FIR and NCR (commonly used in Indian criminal law).
| Basis | FIR | NCR |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | First Information Report | Non-Cognizable Report |
| Type of Offence | Filed for Cognizable offences | Filed for Non-cognizable offences |
| Police Power | Police can register case and start investigation immediately | Police cannot investigate without court permission |
| Arrest | Police can arrest without warrant | Police cannot arrest without warrant |
| Permission of Court | Not required for investigation | Required from Magistrate before investigation |
| Seriousness | Used for serious crimes | Used for minor offences |
| Legal Provision | Registered under Code of Criminal Procedure Section 154 | Recorded under Code of Criminal Procedure Section 155 |
Examples
FIR (Cognizable offences)
- Murder
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- Robbery
- Serious assault
NCR (Non-Cognizable offences)
- Minor assault
- Defamation
- Public nuisance
- Simple hurt
Key Practical Difference (Very Important)
- FIR → Police directly investigate the case.
- NCR → Police only make entry and advise the complainant to approach the Magistrate.
Advocate Practice Tip
In many police stations, when the offence appears minor, police register NCR instead of FIR. In such situations, the complainant can file an application under Code of Criminal Procedure Section 156(3) before the Magistrate seeking directions for registration of FIR.
