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Police refusing to register your FIR: what you can do

In short: when your complaint discloses a cognizable offence, the police must register an FIR. You can file at any police station (Zero FIR), and for many offences online (e-FIR). If they refuse, send your complaint in writing to the Superintendent of Police, and if that fails, apply to the magistrate, who can direct the police to register and investigate.

Your right to an FIR

Under Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (earlier CrPC 154), the officer in charge must record information about a cognizable offence, read it back to you, and give you a free copy. The Supreme Court, in Lalita Kumari (2013), held that registration is mandatory where a cognizable offence is disclosed; a preliminary inquiry is allowed only in limited categories.

Zero FIR and e-FIR

  • Zero FIR: you can report at any police station, whatever the place of the crime. The FIR is then transferred to the police station with jurisdiction.
  • e-FIR: information can be given electronically; it must be signed by you within three days to be taken on record.

If the police still refuse

  1. Write to the Superintendent of Police (or Deputy Commissioner) under BNSS Section 173(4), sending your complaint by post or email, and keep proof.
  2. Apply to the magistrate under BNSS Section 175(3) (earlier CrPC 156(3)), with an affidavit and proof that you approached the police and the SP. The magistrate can direct registration and investigation.
  3. File a private complaint before the magistrate, who can take cognizance directly.

Questions people ask

What can I do if the police refuse to register my FIR?

Send your complaint in writing to the Superintendent of Police under BNSS 173(4). If no action follows, apply to the magistrate under BNSS 175(3), who can order the police to register the FIR and investigate.

What is a Zero FIR?

An FIR registered at any police station, regardless of where the offence happened, and then transferred to the right police station. It prevents delay when the matter is urgent.

Can I file an FIR online in India?

Yes, many states accept e-FIRs, and the BNSS recognises information given electronically, which must be signed within three days. Cyber crimes can be reported at cybercrime.gov.in.

Do I get a copy of the FIR?

Yes. You are entitled to a free copy of the FIR immediately. In most states, FIRs can also be downloaded from the state police website.

What is a cognizable offence?

One where the police can arrest without a warrant and must register an FIR, such as theft, cheating, assault or cyber fraud. For non-cognizable offences, the police record the information and refer you to the magistrate.

Related guides

Facing a criminal case or arrest?

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This guide gives general information about the law in India as on 11 November 2026. It is not legal advice for your situation, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Rules and limits change; please take advice on your own facts.