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 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• A Zero FIR lets a victim register a cognizable offence at any police station regardless of where the crime occurred; the FIR is numbered '0' and transferred to the station with jurisdiction. Section 173(1) of the BNSS gives this statutory footing.
• Statement 1 is wrong because it extends Zero FIR to non-cognizable offences; FIRs, including Zero FIRs, are registered only for cognizable offences.
• Statement 2 is correct: Section 173(3) allows the officer in charge, with the prior permission of an officer not below Deputy Superintendent of Police, to conduct a preliminary enquiry within 14 days for offences punishable with three to seven years' imprisonment.
• Statement 3 is wrong: BNSS permits information to be given orally or electronically; electronic filing is an option, not an obligation (an e-FIR must be signed within three days).
• Hence 2 only, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- Statements 1 and 3 are wrong: Zero FIR covers only cognizable offences and electronic filing is optional.
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- Statement 3 is wrong: electronic information is permitted, not obligatory.
- (c) 1 only
- Statement 1 is wrong (non-cognizable offences are not covered) and statement 2 is correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, held on 24 May 2026. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.