A crucial step in the Pakistani criminal justice system is filing an FIR (First Information Report). The process of investigating a crime begins with this document. This blog post will cover what an FIR is, how to file an FIR step by step, the significance of FIRs, and online FIR registration.
What Is An FIR?
An FIR or First Information Report is a written document prepared by police when they receive information about the commission of any cognizable offense. It is usually the initial information reaching police regarding such offense thereby earning the name first information report. Essentially, it’s a complaint by a victim of a cognizable offense or someone on his behalf.
Step-by-Step Guide on online FIR registration
Step 1: Police Website Visit
Go to the police’s respective province's official website:
- Punjab Police: Punjab Police Website
- Sindh Police: Sindh Police Website
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police: KPK Police Website
- Balochistan Police: Balochistan Police Website
Step 2: Navigate to FIR Section
Look for the “Online FIR” or “Register FIR” section. This section is normally well-displayed on the front end of the website or under the services tab.
Step 3: Account Creation (if necessary)
Some provincial police websites may require you to sign up before you have an opportunity to register an FIR. Fill in the required details including your Full Name, CNIC Number, Email Address, and Phone Number.
Step 4. Complete FIR Form
Fill out the FIR online form with exact details. The form generally seeks information such as:
Personal Information – name, CNIC number, address, and contact details;
Incident Details – date, time, and location of the incident; nature of the crime; detailed description;
Suspect Information (if known) – name, address, and any additional identifying information about suspects.
Step 5. Attach Supporting Documents (if any)
Attach supporting documents/evidence related to the complaint such as photographs, videos, scanned copies, etc.
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Important Points to Keep in Mind Regarding FIR Complaint Online
- Eligibility: Anyone can report the commission of a cognizable offense to the police, not just the victim.
- Oral FIR: A telephonic message can be treated as an FIR.
- Registration: Police must register the FIR without delay or excuses. Non-registration without a valid reason can lead to disciplinary action.
- Timeliness: Filing an FIR as soon as possible is crucial. Delays can negatively impact the case.
- Accuracy: Providing false information or filing a false complaint can result in prosecution.
- Evidence: An FIR is a signed document and is admissible in court as evidence.
Cancellation of an FIR
An FIR lodged initiates criminal justice proceedings. However, sometimes the person who lodges an FIR may want to cancel it.
The process of canceling an FIR:
- He/She should approach the appropriate police station and make a formal request for its cancellation.
- The police will investigate the truth of the matter if they wish.
- In case it is found that there are enough grounds for cancellation, the police will submit a report to the court seeking approval to cancel FIR.
- At this stage, however, the court reads through it and decides. If allowed; then, the concerned law enforcement agency takes up from there and cancels it out with their own records.
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What Is the Punishment for Filing a False FIR in Pakistan?
Under Section 182 of the Pakistan Penal Code, deliberately filing a false FIR is a serious offense. The punishment for this can include a maximum penalty of six months in prison, a fine, or both.
Filing Online Complaints in Pakistan
Islamabad
Here’s how to Register an online FIR in Islamabad:
Website: Visit the Islamabad Police website.
- Click ‘Submit a Complaint’ on the top navigation panel.
- Fill in your name, address, contact number, CNIC, city, and complaint details.
- Click ‘Submit’.
Punjab
Website: Visit the Punjab Police website.
- Scroll down to click ‘Lodge e-Complaint’.
- Choose to track or register a complaint.
- For new complaints, fill in your name, CNIC, and phone number.
- Click ‘Submit’.
- Call or text 8787 to complain.
FIR Copy:
Go to ‘Request’ > ‘Copy of FIR’ on the website.
Sindh
Website: Visit the Sindh Police website.
- Click ‘Complaint Management System’ from quick links for complaints to the Sindh police.
- Enter your CNIC and click ‘Next’.
- Fill out the details and submit.
- To Check the Status Use the same portal.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Website: Visit the KPK Police website.
- Click ‘Online FIR’ from the left-hand navigation panel.
- Fill in the details: name, father’s name, CNIC, contact numbers, address, home district, police station, date, and incident details.
- Submit your application and your FIR will be registered online.
Conclusion:
Understanding the process and importance of filing an FIR is crucial for every citizen. Whether you are a victim, a witness, or someone who knows about the commission of a cognizable offense, knowing how to lodge an FIR and ensuring it is done correctly can significantly impact the pursuit of justice. With online FIR registration, filing an FIR has become more accessible, ensuring that justice is within reach for all.
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