The FIR Number is a unique serial number assigned to a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the police. An FIR is a written document prepared by the police when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offense (like theft, assault, or murder). The FIR Number is crucial because it initiates the criminal justice process. Without this number, the police cannot legally start the investigation. It acts as the reference point for the entire case in the court of law, police records, and for the complainant.
Understanding what is FIR Number is essential for anyone facing legal trouble or reporting a crime. When you file a complaint, you must ask for a copy of the FIR free of cost, and this copy will prominently display the FIR Number (e.g., 0123/2023). This number is linked to the specific Police Station and the Year.
What Does FIR Number Mean
It represents the chronological entry of the crime in the station’s records.
Structure: FIR No. 0045 dated 12/05/2023
This means it is the 45th FIR registered in that specific police station in the year 2023. It serves as the primary index key in the CCTNS Number database.
Why FIR Number is Important
You need the FIR Number for:
- Insurance Claims: For stolen vehicles or mobile phones, insurers strictly require the FIR Number to process claims.
- Court Proceedings: Lawyers use this number to file bail applications or track the charge sheet status.
- Status Tracking: To check online if the police have arrested the accused or filed a closure report.
- Passport Issues: If you lose a passport, the new application requires the FIR Number of the lost report.
Where is FIR Number Used
It is used in:
- Police Stations: To inquire about the Investigating Officer (IO).
- District Courts: To locate the case file.
- Citizen Portals: To download the FIR copy.
How to Find or Check FIR Number
If you have filed a complaint:
- Ask the Duty Officer: The police must provide a copy of the FIR to the complainant immediately. The number is on the top right.
- Online Check: Visit your state police portal (e.g., “CCTNS UP” or “Delhi Police”).
- Search: Go to “View FIR” > Select District > Select Police Station > Enter Name or Date.
- Result: The list will show the FIR Number alongside the details.
Example of FIR Number
Format:
- FIR No: 0156
- Year: 2023
- Police Station: Hauz Khas, New Delhi
- Section: 379 IPC (Theft)
Common Problems or Errors
Citizens often face:
- NCR vs FIR: Police sometimes file a Non-Cognizable Report (NCR) instead of FIR for minor issues. NCR also has a number, but it doesn’t trigger an investigation. Solution: Check if the document says “First Information Report” or “NCR.”
- FIR Not Uploaded: FIR details not found online. Solution: Sensitive FIRs (sexual offenses/terrorism) are not uploaded. For others, approach the SP/DCP if not uploaded within 24 hours.
Important Things to Remember
- Refusal to register an FIR is illegal. If denied, you can send the complaint to the Superintendent of Police (SP) by post.
- An “e-FIR” number (for vehicle theft) is as valid as a physical FIR number.
- Keep this number safe for Police Verification checks later.
FAQs
What is the difference between FIR Number and DD Number?
DD (Daily Diary) Number or General Diary (GD) entry is just a record that you visited the station. The FIR Number is a formal registration of a cognizable crime. FIR triggers investigation; DD entry might not.
Can I check FIR online with the number?
Yes, following the Supreme Court’s order, most FIRs (except sensitive ones) must be uploaded to the state police or CCTNS portal within 24-72 hours. You can search using the FIR Number.
Is FIR Number required for a lost mobile phone?
Yes. To block the IMEI number on the CEIR portal or to claim insurance, you need to upload a copy of the police complaint/FIR, which must have a valid number.
What if I lose my FIR copy?
You can download a duplicate copy from the state police website using the Date and Police Station details, or visit the police station and request a copy by providing the date of the incident.
How is FIR numbering done?
FIRs are numbered serially starting from 0001 at the beginning of every calendar year (January 1st) for each police station independently.
Search for FIRs at digitalpolice.gov.in.