An FIR (First Information Report) is a document prepared by the police when they receive information about a cognizable offence. It is a document that initiates the criminal investigation process. After an FIR is registered, it becomes a public document and can be accessed by anyone through a formal request.
To get a copy of an FIR, you need to follow the steps given below:
- Visit the police station where the FIR was filed: You need to go to the police station where the FIR was filed to get a copy of the same. The police station will have a record of all the FIRs that have been filed there.
- Make a formal request: Once you are at the police station, you need to make a formal request for a copy of the FIR. You can do this by writing an application addressed to the Station House Officer (SHO) of the police station. The application should include details such as the FIR number, the date and time of the incident, the name of the complainant, and the name of the accused (if known).
- Provide a reason for obtaining a copy: You need to provide a reason for obtaining a copy of the FIR, which could be for personal record or for legal proceedings.
- Pay the required fee: There is a fee for getting a copy of an FIR. The fee amount may vary from state to state. You need to pay the fee at the police station where the FIR was filed.
- Collect the copy of the FIR: After you have made the request and paid the fee, the police station will provide you with a copy of the FIR. You need to collect the copy from the police station.
It is important to note that the police may not provide a copy of the FIR if the case is under investigation or if the court has issued an order restricting access to the FIR. In such cases, you may need to seek legal advice to get a copy of the FIR.
