Difference Between Regular FIR & Zero FIR

A Regular FIR is registered at the police station that has jurisdiction over the place where the crime occurred. For example, cases like theft, assault, or housebreaking must be reported to the local police station in the incident area.

A Zero FIR, as per Section 173(1) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, can be filed at any police station, regardless of where the offence took place.

This is especially useful for serious and time-sensitive cases like rape, acid attacks, or kidnapping. The Zero FIR is later transferred to the correct jurisdiction, ensuring no delay in police action.

This provision ensures prompt police response and immediate legal assistance to victims.