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:
Detailed Explanation:
Statement 1 — Correct. Under Section 173(1) of BNSS, 2023, a Zero FIR can be lodged at any police station regardless of territorial jurisdiction for cognizable offences. The receiving station must forward it to the jurisdictionally competent station after registration.
Statement 2 — Incorrect. While Section 173(3) of BNSS allows for a preliminary enquiry, it is not specifically tied to Zero FIR registration. It applies to cognizable offences punishable by 3 to 7 years of imprisonment and requires prior permission of a competent authority — the statement incorrectly links it exclusively to Zero FIR.
Statement 3 — Incorrect. Electronic submission of information is not mandatory. Section 173(1) allows information to be given either orally OR by electronic communication — it is an option, not an obligation.
Key Distinctions:
| Aspect | Correct Position |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Any police station — Zero FIR covers cognizable offences |
| Preliminary enquiry | Not exclusive to Zero FIR; requires specific conditions |
| Mode of information | Oral OR electronic — not mandatory to be electronic |
Question 1 of 4 New Criminal Laws — BNS, BNSS & BSA
Practice PYQ questions from this topic across all years
First question in this topic
With reference to India, Consider the following pairs: Action : The Act under which...