{"id":32046,"date":"2026-09-13T05:36:27","date_gmt":"2026-09-13T05:36:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=32046"},"modified":"2026-09-13T05:41:52","modified_gmt":"2026-09-13T05:41:52","slug":"zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Zero FIR Under Section 173 BNSS: Can You File an FIR at Any Police Station in India?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 id=\"h-zero-fir-under-section-173-bnss-can-you-file-an-fir-at-any-police-station-in-india\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Zero_FIR_Under_Section_173_BNSS_Can_You_File_an_FIR_at_Any_Police_Station_in_India\"><\/span>Zero FIR Under Section 173 BNSS: Can You File an FIR at Any Police Station in India?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-introduction\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imagine that a serious crime takes place in Mumbai, but the victim is currently in Delhi. The victim approaches a Delhi police station, only to be told, \u201cThis incident did not happen in our area. Go to the police station where the offense occurred.\u201d<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_87_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Zero_FIR_Under_Section_173_BNSS_Can_You_File_an_FIR_at_Any_Police_Station_in_India\" >Zero FIR Under Section 173 BNSS: Can You File an FIR at Any Police Station in India?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#What_Is_a_Zero_FIR\" >What Is a Zero FIR?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Can_a_Zero_FIR_Be_Filed_at_Any_Police_Station\" >Can a Zero FIR Be Filed at Any Police Station?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Is_Zero_FIR_Only_for_Women\" >Is Zero FIR Only for Women?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#What_Has_Section_173_BNSS_Changed\" >What Has Section 173 BNSS Changed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Supreme_Court_on_Territorial_Jurisdiction_and_FIR_Registration\" >Supreme Court on Territorial Jurisdiction and FIR Registration<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#2026_Jharkhand_High_Court_Zero_FIR_Is_%E2%80%9CObligatory%E2%80%9D\" >2026 Jharkhand High Court: Zero FIR Is \u201cObligatory\u201d<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Zero_FIR_Does_Not_Apply_to_Every_Complaint\" >Zero FIR Does Not Apply to Every Complaint<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#The_Practical_Distinction\" >The Practical Distinction<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Can_Police_Conduct_a_Preliminary_Inquiry_Before_Registering_an_FIR\" >Can Police Conduct a Preliminary Inquiry Before Registering an FIR?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#How_Does_a_Zero_FIR_Work_in_Practice\" >How Does a Zero FIR Work in Practice?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Information_to_Include_in_the_Complaint\" >Information to Include in the Complaint<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#What_If_the_Police_Refuse_to_Register_a_Zero_FIR\" >What If the Police Refuse to Register a Zero FIR?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#The_Practical_Lesson\" >The Practical Lesson<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Does_Registration_of_a_Zero_FIR_Mean_the_Accused_Is_Guilty\" >Does Registration of a Zero FIR Mean the Accused Is Guilty?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Zero_FIR_vs_Regular_FIR_What_Is_the_Difference\" >Zero FIR vs Regular FIR: What Is the Difference?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Key_Legal_Takeaways_on_Zero_FIR_in_2026\" >Key Legal Takeaways on Zero FIR in 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Can_I_file_a_zero_FIR_at_any_police_station_in_India\" >Can I file a zero FIR at any police station in India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Can_Police_Refuse_an_FIR_Because_the_Crime_Occurred_in_Another_State\" >Can Police Refuse an FIR Because the Crime Occurred in Another State?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Can_a_Man_File_a_Zero_FIR\" >Can a Man File a Zero FIR?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Can_a_Zero_FIR_Be_Filed_Electronically\" >Can a Zero FIR Be Filed Electronically?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#What_Should_I_Do_if_Police_Refuse_to_Register_a_Zero_FIR\" >What Should I Do if Police Refuse to Register a Zero FIR?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#Does_a_Zero_FIR_Mean_the_Accused_Is_Guilty\" >Does a Zero FIR Mean the Accused Is Guilty?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-section-173-bnss-any-police-station-india\/#What_Happens_to_a_Zero_FIR_After_Registration\" >What Happens to a Zero FIR After Registration?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That response may sound plausible, but in a case involving a cognizable offense, territorial jurisdiction cannot simply be used as a reason to turn the complainant away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The law now makes this position particularly clear. Section 173(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), permits information relating to a cognizable offense to be given to the officer in charge of a police station irrespective of the area where the offense was committed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This statutory provision provides the present legal foundation for what is commonly known as a zero FIR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In practical terms, a person reporting a cognizable offense should not have to travel from one police station to another merely because the police station first approached does not have territorial jurisdiction. The information can be recorded, and the case can subsequently be transferred to the police station having the appropriate territorial jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there is an important qualification: Zero FIR does not apply to every complaint. The nature of the alleged offense, the provisions of the BNSS, and the circumstances of the case remain important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-is-a-zero-fir\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Zero_FIR\"><\/span>What Is a Zero FIR?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A zero FIR is an FIR registered by a police station even though that police station does not have ordinary territorial jurisdiction over the place where the alleged offense occurred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The idea is straightforward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of telling the complainant:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cGo to the police station where the incident happened.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The police station receiving the information can record the FIR and subsequently transfer it to the police station that has territorial jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The purpose is not to permanently shift jurisdiction. It is to prevent territorial boundaries from delaying the commencement of criminal proceedings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Delhi High Court explained this principle in Neelu Shrivastava v. State &amp; Ors., W.P.(CRL) 481\/2020, recognizing that where information discloses a cognizable offense but the occurrence took place outside the receiving police station&#8217;s jurisdiction, a Zero FIR may be registered and thereafter transferred to the concerned police station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thus, the essential feature of a Zero FIR is initial registration despite lack of territorial jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-can-a-zero-fir-be-filed-at-any-police-station\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_Zero_FIR_Be_Filed_at_Any_Police_Station\"><\/span>Can a Zero FIR Be Filed at Any Police Station?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a cognizable offense, the answer is generally yes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 173(1) BNSS uses particularly significant language by providing for information relating to the commission of a cognizable offense irrespective of the area where the offense is committed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Suppose a person is assaulted in Mumbai but reaches Delhi immediately afterwards. If the facts disclosed constitute a cognizable offense, the Delhi police station cannot simply refuse to receive the information on the ground that the incident occurred in Maharashtra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The same principle can operate across state boundaries because the BNSS is a central criminal-procedure statute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The important point is that territorial jurisdiction and registration of information are not necessarily the same question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Territorial jurisdiction may ultimately determine which police station investigates the case. It should not automatically prevent the initial recording of information disclosing a cognizable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-is-zero-fir-only-for-women\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Zero_FIR_Only_for_Women\"><\/span>Is Zero FIR Only for Women?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is a widespread misconception that Zero FIR is principally or exclusively a remedy available to women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is incorrect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The general rule under Section 173(1) BNSS concerns information relating to a cognizable offense and is not restricted to the gender of the informant. A man can also seek registration of a zero FIR when the information discloses a cognizable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the same time, the BNSS contains special procedural safeguards applicable to women in relation to specified offenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are separate issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The availability of a zero FIR depends principally upon the nature of the offense and the statutory requirements, not upon whether the person approaching the police is male or female.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-has-section-173-bnss-changed\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Has_Section_173_BNSS_Changed\"><\/span>What Has Section 173 BNSS Changed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The concept of zero FIR did not suddenly appear with the BNSS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before the present criminal laws came into force, the principle had already developed through judicial decisions, administrative instructions, and police practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What Section 173(1) BNSS has done is to place the territorial principle directly into the statutory framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The provision also recognizes the use of electronic communication for furnishing information. Where information is given electronically, the statutory requirement relating to signing within three days becomes relevant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, it is oversimplified to say that Zero FIR was \u201ccreated\u201d by the 2013 criminal-law changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A more accurate legal history is that judicial decisions had already established that territorial jurisdiction should not prevent recording information concerning a cognizable offense. Administrative directions subsequently reinforced the principle, and the BNSS has now expressly incorporated the territorial rule into Section 173(1).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-supreme-court-on-territorial-jurisdiction-and-fir-registration\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Supreme_Court_on_Territorial_Jurisdiction_and_FIR_Registration\"><\/span>Supreme Court on Territorial Jurisdiction and FIR Registration<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The principle that territorial jurisdiction should not become an excuse for refusing information about a cognizable offense is not new.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In State of A.P. v. Punati Ramulu, AIR 1993 SC 2644; 1994 Supp (1) SCC 590, the Supreme Court considered a situation in which a police officer refused to record information because the offense had occurred outside the police station&#8217;s territorial jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court strongly disapproved of such conduct and characterized it as a dereliction of duty. The Court made it clear that the absence of territorial jurisdiction did not justify refusing to record information relating to a cognizable offense. The information could instead be recorded and forwarded to the police station having jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court reiterated the principle in Satvinder Kaur v. State (Govt. of NCT of Delhi), (1999) 8 SCC 728.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The basic proposition remained the same: a dispute regarding territorial jurisdiction should not ordinarily be used to prevent the criminal process from commencing where the information discloses a cognizable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The territorial question can subsequently be resolved through the appropriate police machinery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-2026-jharkhand-high-court-zero-fir-is-obligatory\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2026_Jharkhand_High_Court_Zero_FIR_Is_%E2%80%9CObligatory%E2%80%9D\"><\/span>2026 Jharkhand High Court: Zero FIR Is \u201cObligatory\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A particularly significant development in 2026 came from the Jharkhand High Court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Court on its Own Motion v. State of Jharkhand &amp; Ors., W.P.(PIL) No. 2253 of 2024, reported as 2026:JHHC:16350-DB, the Division Bench examined the issue of failure to register Zero FIRs on territorial grounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After considering Supreme Court precedent, the BNSS, and applicable police procedures, the High Court held that the lodging of a Zero FIR is obligatory upon police authorities irrespective of territorial jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Court also considered submissions concerning accountability for police officers who failed to comply with the requirement and found substance in the suggestion that penal and departmental consequences could be considered in appropriate cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The significance of this decision lies in its timing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is not merely an old principle being repeated from the pre-BNSS era. It is a 2026 judicial application of the territorial-jurisdiction principle within the current criminal-procedure framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For complainants facing the familiar response\u2014\u201cThis is outside our jurisdiction\u201d\u2014the judgment is therefore particularly relevant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-zero-fir-does-not-apply-to-every-complaint\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Zero_FIR_Does_Not_Apply_to_Every_Complaint\"><\/span>Zero FIR Does Not Apply to Every Complaint<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is perhaps the most important qualification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A complainant cannot transform an ordinary complaint into a Zero FIR simply by using the words \u201cZero FIR.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The underlying information must disclose a cognizable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For purely non-cognizable offenses, Section 174 BNSS provides the applicable procedure. Ordinarily, the police cannot investigate such an offense without the order of a magistrate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is also an important statutory rule where several offenses are alleged and at least one of them is cognizable. Section 174(4) BNSS treats such a case as cognizable for the purposes of the provision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-the-practical-distinction\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Practical_Distinction\"><\/span>The Practical Distinction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Situation<\/th><th>Position<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Cognizable offense + wrong territorial jurisdiction<\/td><td>Zero FIR may apply.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Purely non-cognizable offense<\/td><td>Zero FIR is not automatically available.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Multiple offenses, including a cognizable offense<\/td><td>Section 174(4) becomes relevant.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This distinction is essential because legal advice based merely on the phrase \u201cZero FIR\u201d can be misleading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-can-police-conduct-a-preliminary-inquiry-before-registering-an-fir\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Police_Conduct_a_Preliminary_Inquiry_Before_Registering_an_FIR\"><\/span>Can Police Conduct a Preliminary Inquiry Before Registering an FIR?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, in specified circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is an important aspect of the BNSS that older articles on Zero FIR may overlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under Section 173(3) BNSS, where information concerns a cognizable offense punishable with imprisonment of three years or more but less than seven years, the officer in charge may, having regard to the nature and gravity of the offense and after obtaining prior permission from an officer not below the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police, conduct a preliminary inquiry to determine whether a prima facie case exists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The enquiry is required to be completed within 14 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court considered the provision in Imran Pratapgadhi v. State of Gujarat, 2025 INSC 410.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Court explained that Section 173(3) operates as an exception to the general rule contained in Section 173(1). Where Section 173(3) applies, a preliminary inquiry may be undertaken to determine whether a prima facie case exists. If such a case is found, the FIR should then be registered, and the investigation should proceed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This creates an important balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Territorial jurisdiction should not be used to block a genuine cognizable complaint. At the same time, the statutory scheme does not make every allegation immune from the safeguards provided by law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-does-a-zero-fir-work-in-practice\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_a_Zero_FIR_Work_in_Practice\"><\/span>How Does a Zero FIR Work in Practice?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person seeking registration of a zero FIR should approach the police station and clearly communicate the facts constituting the alleged cognizable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the police station says that it lacks territorial jurisdiction, the complainant should specifically request that the information be recorded as a Zero FIR rather than simply accepting a verbal direction to go elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A written complaint is generally useful because it creates a contemporaneous record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-information-to-include-in-the-complaint\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Information_to_Include_in_the_Complaint\"><\/span>Information to Include in the Complaint<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The complaint should, where applicable, clearly identify:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the date and approximate time of the incident;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the place or places connected with the incident;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>persons involved;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>relevant communications;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>names of potential witnesses;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>documents and other evidence;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>electronic evidence that may require preservation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The complainant should state the facts accurately rather than exaggerating allegations merely to invoke more serious offenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under Section 173(2) BNSS, the informant or victim is entitled to a free copy of the FIR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once registered, the Zero FIR can be transferred to the police station having territorial jurisdiction, where investigation can proceed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The complainant should preserve the acknowledgement of the complaint, the FIR copy, and documents showing when the information was supplied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-if-the-police-refuse-to-register-a-zero-fir\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_If_the_Police_Refuse_to_Register_a_Zero_FIR\"><\/span>What If the Police Refuse to Register a Zero FIR?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A refusal should be documented rather than turned into an argument at the police station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The BNSS provides a statutory escalation mechanism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under Section 173(4) BNSS, where the officer in charge refuses to record the information, the aggrieved person may send the substance of the information in writing and by post to the concerned Superintendent of Police.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the Superintendent of Police is satisfied that the information discloses a cognizable offense, the SP may investigate personally or direct a subordinate police officer to investigate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If this remedy does not result in appropriate action, the complainant may approach the competent magistrate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 175(3) BNSS empowers the magistrate, subject to the statutory requirements, to order an investigation after considering the application, the supporting affidavit, any inquiry considered necessary, and the submissions of the police officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-the-practical-lesson\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Practical_Lesson\"><\/span>The Practical Lesson<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not allow a refusal to remain merely verbal. Create a documentary record and then use the statutory remedies available under the BNSS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-does-registration-of-a-zero-fir-mean-the-accused-is-guilty\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_Registration_of_a_Zero_FIR_Mean_the_Accused_Is_Guilty\"><\/span>Does Registration of a Zero FIR Mean the Accused Is Guilty?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Absolutely not.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A zero FIR is a mechanism for registration and commencement of the criminal process. It is not a judicial finding that the allegations are true.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This distinction is especially important in matrimonial, relationship, financial, and other disputes where allegations may later be contested on facts, documents, electronic evidence, jurisdiction, or the ingredients of the alleged offenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court&#8217;s discussion in Imran Pratapgadhi also demonstrates why the statutory safeguards surrounding preliminary inquiry must be understood alongside the right to report cognizable offenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An accused facing a Zero FIR should therefore respond through lawful means.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Relevant evidence such as chats, emails, financial records, travel records, photographs, and other legitimate defense material should be preserved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Evidence should never be destroyed or fabricated, and witnesses should not be improperly influenced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right of a complainant to approach the criminal justice system does not mean that the accused loses the right to due process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-zero-fir-vs-regular-fir-what-is-the-difference\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Zero_FIR_vs_Regular_FIR_What_Is_the_Difference\"><\/span>Zero FIR vs Regular FIR: What Is the Difference?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The distinction is primarily one of territorial jurisdiction and administration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A regular FIR is ordinarily registered at the police station having the relevant territorial connection with the alleged offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Zero FIR, by contrast, permits the initial registration of the information at another police station so that the criminal process is not delayed merely because the complainant has approached a police station outside the place of occurrence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Delhi High Court&#8217;s decision in Neelu Shrivastava also highlights the converse position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the police station receiving the complaint actually has territorial jurisdiction over the alleged incident, there is ordinarily no reason to unnecessarily label the matter a Zero FIR and transfer it elsewhere. In such circumstances, the appropriate course is registration of a regular FIR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Regular FIR<\/th><th>Zero FIR<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Ordinarily registered at the police station having the relevant territorial connection with the alleged offense.<\/td><td>May initially be registered at another police station irrespective of the area where the offense occurred.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Territorial jurisdiction is ordinarily established at the stage of registration.<\/td><td>Territorial jurisdiction can be addressed subsequently through transfer to the appropriate police station.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Investigation proceeds through the police station having jurisdiction.<\/td><td>The Zero FIR may subsequently be transferred to the police station having territorial jurisdiction.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, Zero FIR is intended to solve a jurisdictional problem, not create another one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-key-legal-takeaways-on-zero-fir-in-2026\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Legal_Takeaways_on_Zero_FIR_in_2026\"><\/span>Key Legal Takeaways on Zero FIR in 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The present legal position can be summarized in a few points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Section 173(1) BNSS expressly recognizes the territorial principle underlying Zero FIR.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A cognizable offense can be reported irrespective of the area where the offense was committed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Territorial jurisdiction alone should not be used as a reason to refuse recording of information concerning a cognizable offense.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A Zero FIR is not restricted to women; it is generally available irrespective of gender where the statutory requirements are satisfied.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zero FIR does not automatically apply to purely non-cognizable offenses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Section 173(3) BNSS permits preliminary inquiry in specified cognizable cases subject to statutory safeguards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A Zero FIR may subsequently be transferred to the police station having territorial jurisdiction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If police refuse to record the information, Section 173(4) BNSS provides a remedy before the Superintendent of Police.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A magistrate may be approached under the applicable BNSS procedure where statutory police remedies do not produce appropriate action.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Registration of a Zero FIR does not establish the guilt of the accused.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The legal position on Zero FIR in India in 2026 is considerably clearer than it was when the concept developed primarily through judicial decisions and administrative directions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 173(1) BNSS now expressly provides that information relating to a cognizable offense may be given to a police station irrespective of the area where the offense was committed. Territorial jurisdiction therefore cannot, by itself, become a reason for refusing to record such information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court had recognized the underlying principle decades ago, and the 2026 Jharkhand High Court decision has reaffirmed its importance under the present BNSS framework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the law must be understood in its entirety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Zero FIR is not available for every grievance. The complaint must disclose a cognizable offense, the statutory provisions concerning non-cognizable offenses must be respected, and Section 173(3) must be considered where its requirements are attracted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most importantly, registration of an FIR is not a declaration of guilt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The criminal justice system must protect two principles at the same time: a genuine complainant should not be denied access to the law merely because of a territorial-jurisdiction objection, while an accused should not be treated as guilty merely because an FIR has been registered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That balance is at the heart of fair criminal procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-can-i-file-a-zero-fir-at-any-police-station-in-india\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_file_a_zero_FIR_at_any_police_station_in_India\"><\/span>Can I file a zero FIR at any police station in India?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, where the information discloses a cognizable offense, Section 173(1) BNSS permits the information to be given irrespective of where the offense occurred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-can-police-refuse-an-fir-because-the-crime-occurred-in-another-state\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Police_Refuse_an_FIR_Because_the_Crime_Occurred_in_Another_State\"><\/span>Can Police Refuse an FIR Because the Crime Occurred in Another State?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They cannot refuse it merely because of territorial jurisdiction where the information discloses a cognizable offense. The matter may subsequently be transferred to the police station having jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-can-a-man-file-a-zero-fir\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_Man_File_a_Zero_FIR\"><\/span>Can a Man File a Zero FIR?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Zero FIR is not a women-only remedy. A man can seek registration where the complaint discloses a cognizable offense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-can-a-zero-fir-be-filed-electronically\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_Zero_FIR_Be_Filed_Electronically\"><\/span>Can a Zero FIR Be Filed Electronically?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Section 173 BNSS permits information to be provided through electronic communication, subject to the statutory requirement concerning signature within three days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-what-should-i-do-if-police-refuse-to-register-a-zero-fir\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_I_Do_if_Police_Refuse_to_Register_a_Zero_FIR\"><\/span>What Should I Do if Police Refuse to Register a Zero FIR?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The complainant can invoke Section 173(4) BNSS by sending the substance of the information to the concerned Superintendent of Police. Where appropriate, the statutory magistrate remedy may subsequently be pursued.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-does-a-zero-fir-mean-the-accused-is-guilty\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_a_Zero_FIR_Mean_the_Accused_Is_Guilty\"><\/span>Does a Zero FIR Mean the Accused Is Guilty?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Registration of an FIR starts or facilitates the criminal process; it does not amount to a judicial determination of guilt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-what-happens-to-a-zero-fir-after-registration\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_to_a_Zero_FIR_After_Registration\"><\/span>What Happens to a Zero FIR After Registration?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can be transferred to the police station having territorial jurisdiction, which can then proceed with the investigation in accordance with law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-related-links yoast-seo-related-links\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/standard-operating-procedure-for-zero-fir-registration\/\">Standard Operating Procedure for Zero FIR Registration<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/zero-fir-under-bnss-2023-meaning-procedure-police-duties-legal-rights-explained\/\">Zero FIR Under BNSS 2023: Meaning, Procedure, Police Duties &amp; Legal Rights Explained<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/legal-framework-governing-firs-under-indias-new-criminal-laws\/\">Legal Framework Governing FIRs Under India\u2019s New Criminal Laws<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/filing-an-fir-from-abroad-electronic-reporting-zero-fir-and-legal-rights-under-bnss-2023\/\">Filing an FIR from Abroad: Electronic Reporting, Zero FIR, and Legal Rights Under BNSS, 2023<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/how-to-file-fir-in-india-police-refuse-complaint-remedies\/\">How to File FIR in Police Station in India (2026 Guide) | Remedies If Police Refuse Complaint<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Zero FIR Under Section 173 BNSS: Can You File an FIR at Any Police Station in India? Introduction Imagine that a serious crime takes place in Mumbai, but the victim is currently in Delhi. The victim approaches a Delhi police station, only to be told, \u201cThis incident did not happen in our area. Go to<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1411,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[4798],"class_list":["post-32046","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-criminal-law","tag-criminal-law"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.4 (Yoast SEO v28.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Zero FIR Under Section 173 BNSS: Can You File an FIR at Any Police Station in India? - Legal Service India - Articles<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Can you file a Zero FIR at any police station in India? 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