How to Obtain a Copy of FIR through RTI Application

According to the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.P.C), the police department is bound to provide a copy of FIR (First Information Report) to the complainant at the time of filing the report. Also, a defendant can ask for FIR at the time of arrest. But, can an individual, who is not involved in a case, ask for a copy of the FIR?

Obtaining a Copy of FIR to Examine Cases

Cr.P.C. considers an FIR as a public property. It is accessible to all the citizens of India. In the past, there have been several instances when police administration refused an FIR copy on the grounds of pending trial. However, in the infamous Batla House encounter, the Delhi High Court upheld that a copy of FIR can be obtained under the provisions of the RTI Act (Right to Information). The copy can be used by individuals, other than involved parties, for purely informational purposes, such as academic resear

ch, case study and to examine administrative transparency.

Obtain an FIR Copy through RTI Application

To obtain a copy of FIR, you have to file an RTI application with the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the local police department. It includes the following steps:

• Obtain 

  details of the PIO for the local police department by visiting their website or local police station to know the details.

• Prepare an RTI application in the format approved under the RTI Act, 2005. To download a sample RTI application format, please click http://lawisgreek.com/SAMPLE_RTI_APPLICATION_FORM.doc 

• After reviewing your application, the police department may or may not agree to provide the information. If the department agrees to provide information, you will be asked to submit photocopy charges (Rs.2 per A4 size paper).