Polity & Governance2026
Which of the following statements about a Zero First Information Report (Zero FIR) under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 is/are correct?
- A Zero FIR can be lodged at a police station, even though the place of commission of a cognizable/non-cognizable offence is outside the territorial jurisdiction of that police station.
- The Officer-in-Charge of the police station where a Zero FIR has been lodged may, with the permission of the competent authority, initiate a preliminary enquiry.
- Under Zero FIR, it is obligatory for the informant to furnish information electronically.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Explanation
The correct option is 2 only. A Zero FIR allows an individual to lodge a complaint at any police station, regardless of the territorial jurisdiction, which is crucial in ensuring timely intervention in emergencies. The provision for a preliminary inquiry by the Officer-in-Charge enhances accountability and ensures that the complaint is thoroughly assessed before formal registration, aligning with the objectives of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. However, the statement about obligatory electronic information submission does not align with the intent of Zero FIRs, which prioritize accessibility and expediency in reporting crimes.