Which of the following statements about a Zero First Information Report (Zero FIR) under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 is/are correct ? 1. 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. 2. 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. 3. Under Zero FIR, it is obligatory for the informant to furnish information electronically. Select the answer using the code given below :
A
1, 2 and 3
B
2 and 3 only
C
1 only
D
2 only
Correct answer
Explanation
Under Section 173 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, information about a cognizable offence can be given at any police station whatever the place of the offence. A Zero FIR does not cover non-cognizable offences, so statement 1 is wrong. Section 173(3) lets the officer-in-charge, with the permission of an officer not below the rank of DSP, hold a preliminary enquiry (for offences punishable with three to seven years), which UPSC treats as statement 2 being correct. Information may be given orally or electronically, but electronic filing is optional, so statement 3 is wrong.
Criminal JusticeZero FIR under BNSS, 2023Zero FIRBNSS 2023Section 173Preliminary enquiryCognizable offence