First Information Report (FIR) sets the criminal prosecution in motion. Section 154 of Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 stipulates the process of recording the FIR. This Article discusses the meaning, nature and process of filing of FIR, and its consequences for delay in recording the FIR. Any negligence on the part of police officers in recording the FIR may vitiate the proceedings of the investigation. It can be used for corroboration under section 157 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 by prosecution, and for contradiction under section 145 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 by Defence. This Article also discusses the principles as to the exercise of extra-ordinary and inherent powers of the High Court in quashing the FIR.

To begin any investigation, it is quite obvious that the police need to know that an offence has been committed. This is possible if someone approaches the police station and gives the details of the offence committed. This is called as the First Information Report (FIR) and has been contemplated under Section 154 of the Criminal Procedure Code of 1973 (hereinafter referred to as CrPC).

The information with respect to a non-cognizable offence can be given under Section 155 of CrPC. The police officer can start the investigation in the reported offence after such information is received under Sections 156 and 157 of CrPC.

Case laws have been developed to establish various principles with respect to FIR such as: it is sufficient if an FIR indicates that an offence has been committed, the names of offenders or witnesses are not required to be disclosed while filing an FIR. Every minute detail is not required, informant need not have personal knowledge of the incident, it may be given by anyone who witnesses the crime or hears from someone that a crime has been committed, etc. Basically, an FIR commences the investigation in a criminal case.

Law Review Journal, First Information Report, Criminal Procedure Code, Criminal Investigation, Cognizable Offence, Cryptic Information, Cryptic Messages, Telephone Messages, Criminal Investigation Commences, Judicial Authorities.