How to Check FIR Status

Understanding how to check FIR status is a critical skill for anyone involved in legal proceedings, whether as a complainant, accused, family member, or legal professional. FIR, or First Information Report, is the foundational document that initiates criminal investigations in jurisdictions following the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and similar legal frameworks. Its creation marks the official start of police action, and tracking its status ensures transparency, accountability, and timely resolution. Many individuals face delays, confusion, or lack of communication after filing an FIR, making it essential to know how to verify its progress independently. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to checking FIR status, including best practices, digital tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions—all designed to empower users with accurate, actionable knowledge.

Step-by-Step Guide

Checking the status of an FIR requires navigating both digital and physical systems, depending on the state or region where the report was filed. While procedures vary slightly across Indian states, the core methodology remains consistent. Follow these detailed steps to accurately determine the status of your FIR.

1. Locate Your FIR Number and Police Station Details

Before initiating any status check, you must have two critical pieces of information: the FIR number and the name or code of the police station where the report was registered. The FIR number is typically a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned at the time of registration. It may appear on the receipt provided by the police station or in any written communication you received. If you do not have this information, return to the police station where the FIR was filed and request a copy of the acknowledgment slip. Most stations now issue digital receipts with QR codes or reference numbers. Without the FIR number, most online portals will not allow you to proceed.

Additionally, note the exact name of the police station—some states use abbreviations or jurisdictional codes (e.g., “DSP Office, Sector 17” or “Kolkata West PS”). This detail is crucial for selecting the correct portal or database during online searches.

2. Visit the Official State Police Website

Each state in India has developed its own online portal for public access to law enforcement records. These portals are the most reliable source for checking FIR status. Start by searching for “[State Name] Police Online Services” or “State Police FIR Status Portal.” For example:

• Uttar Pradesh: uppolice.up.gov.in
• Maharashtra: mahapolice.gov.in
• Tamil Nadu: tnpolice.gov.in
• Delhi: delhipolice.gov.in
• Karnataka: ksp.karnataka.gov.in

Once on the official website, navigate to the “Citizen Services,” “FIR Status,” or “Online Services” section. Avoid third-party websites or unverified apps—these may collect personal data or provide outdated information.

3. Use the FIR Status Search Tool

Most state portals offer a dedicated search interface for FIR tracking. Typically, you will be prompted to enter:

• FIR Number
• Year of Registration
• Police Station Name or Code
• Captcha Code

Some portals may also ask for your mobile number or email address for verification purposes. Ensure the details you enter exactly match the information recorded at the time of filing. Even a single digit error in the FIR number can result in “No Record Found.”

After submitting the form, the system will display the FIR status. Common status labels include:

• Registered – FIR has been filed and logged.
• Investigation Underway – Police are actively gathering evidence.
• Charge Sheet Filed – Investigation completed; case forwarded to court.
• Closed – Case resolved, either through charges, compromise, or lack of evidence.
• Transfer Pending – FIR has been moved to another jurisdiction.

Some portals also provide additional details such as the name of the investigating officer, date of registration, and next hearing date if applicable.

4. Check via National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) Portal

While state portals are primary, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) offers a centralized platform called the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS). This system aggregates data from police stations across India. Access the CCTNS portal at https://cctns.nic.in.

On the homepage, select “Public Services” and then “FIR Status.” You will be directed to a search page similar to state portals. Enter your FIR number, year, and police station. Note that CCTNS may not update in real time—some entries lag by 24 to 72 hours. However, it serves as a valuable backup if the state portal is down or unresponsive.

5. Use Mobile Applications

Many state police departments now offer dedicated mobile applications for public access. Examples include:

• “UP Police” for Uttar Pradesh
• “Maha Police” for Maharashtra
• “Delhi Police” for the National Capital Territory
• “Tamil Nadu Police” for Tamil Nadu

Download these apps exclusively from official app stores (Google Play Store or Apple App Store). Search for the official app using the exact name of the state police force. Avoid apps with generic names like “FIR Tracker” or “Police Status”—these are often unverified.

Once installed, open the app and select “Check FIR Status.” Log in using your registered mobile number or generate a one-time password (OTP). Enter your FIR number and year. The app will display the same details as the web portal, often with push notifications for status changes.

6. Visit the Police Station in Person

If digital methods fail or you require more detailed information, visit the police station where the FIR was filed. Bring your identification proof and the FIR acknowledgment slip (if available). Request to speak with the Station House Officer (SHO) or the officer in charge of the case.

Be prepared to wait—police stations can be busy, and officers may not immediately retrieve your file. Ask for:

• Copy of the FIR (you are legally entitled to one)
• Name of the investigating officer
• Summary of actions taken so far
• Expected timeline for next steps

It is advisable to make this visit during official working hours (typically 10 AM to 4 PM) and keep a record of the date, time, and officer’s name you spoke with. This documentation may be useful if delays persist.

7. Follow Up with Written Correspondence

If verbal or digital follow-ups yield no results, send a formal written request. Draft a simple letter addressed to the SHO of the concerned police station. Include:

• Your full name and contact details
• FIR number and date of registration
• Request for status update and copy of FIR
• Signature and date

Submit the letter in person and request a stamped acknowledgment. Alternatively, send it via registered post with acknowledgment due (RPAD). Keep a copy for your records. This creates a paper trail that can be referenced in higher authorities if necessary.

Best Practices

Efficiently checking FIR status is not just about using the right tools—it’s about adopting disciplined, proactive habits that ensure accuracy, security, and timely follow-up.

1. Record All Details Immediately After Filing

As soon as you file an FIR, write down the FIR number, date, time, police station name, and name of the officer who registered it. Take a photo of the acknowledgment receipt. Store this information in multiple secure locations: a physical folder, encrypted digital file, and cloud backup. Do not rely on memory or a single device.

2. Verify the Authenticity of Portals and Apps

Always confirm the URL of the website you are visiting. Look for HTTPS encryption and official domain names (e.g., .gov.in). Avoid clicking on links sent via SMS or WhatsApp—these may lead to phishing sites designed to harvest your personal data. Bookmark official portals to avoid accidental visits to lookalike domains.

3. Check Status Regularly, But Not Excessively

Update your FIR status every 7 to 10 days during active investigation. Frequent checks (multiple times daily) may trigger system flags or delay responses from police staff. Conversely, waiting too long can cause you to miss critical developments such as charge sheet filings or court dates.

4. Maintain a Log of All Interactions

Keep a simple spreadsheet or notebook documenting every interaction related to your FIR. Include:

• Date of check
• Method used (portal, app, visit)
• Status displayed
• Name of officer spoken to (if applicable)
• Next steps mentioned

This log becomes invaluable if you need to escalate the matter to higher authorities such as the Superintendent of Police (SP) or State Human Rights Commission.

5. Understand Legal Rights and Timelines

Under Section 157 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), police are required to begin investigation immediately after registering an FIR. While there is no fixed deadline for completion, most cases should progress within 90 days for cognizable offenses. If no action is taken beyond 60 days without justification, you may file a complaint with the State Human Rights Commission or approach a magistrate under Section 156(3) CrPC to direct police to investigate.

6. Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information Publicly

Never post your FIR number, personal details, or case specifics on social media or public forums. This information can be misused for harassment, identity theft, or tampering with evidence. Only share details with authorized legal representatives or law enforcement officials.

7. Escalate Through Proper Channels

If you encounter negligence, delays, or refusal to provide information, escalate the issue systematically:

1. Request a written explanation from the SHO
2. Submit a complaint to the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) of the zone
3. If unresolved, approach the Superintendent of Police (SP) with your log and documentation
4. As a last resort, file a writ petition in the High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution

Each escalation should be documented and dated. Legal recourse is a right, not a threat.

Tools and Resources

A variety of digital tools and official resources can simplify the process of checking FIR status and provide additional support throughout the legal journey.

Official Government Portals

These are the most reliable sources for FIR status updates:

• CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems) – National-level database integrating FIR data from over 16,000 police stations. Accessible at https://cctns.nic.in.
• National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal – For cyber-related FIRs. Visit https://cybercrime.gov.in to file or track online complaints.
• State Police Portals – Each state maintains its own portal. Always use the official domain (.gov.in) and avoid third-party aggregators.

Mobile Applications

Official apps offer convenience and real-time alerts:

• UP Police App – Provides FIR status, crime alerts, and e-services for Uttar Pradesh residents.
• Maha Police App – Allows users to track FIRs, file complaints, and locate nearby police stations in Maharashtra.
• Delhi Police App – Includes FIR tracking, lost & found, and emergency contact features.
• Tamil Nadu Police App – Offers multilingual support and direct access to district-level police contacts.

Download only from official app stores. Check the developer name—only apps published by “State Police Department” or “Government of [State]” are authentic.

Online Legal Aid Platforms

Several non-governmental organizations and legal tech platforms offer free guidance for FIR tracking:

• Legal Services Authority (NALSA) – Provides free legal aid and can assist in navigating FIR procedures. Visit https://nalsa.gov.in.
• MyLawIndia – Offers templates for FIR follow-up letters and legal notices.
• LawRato – Connects users with verified lawyers for consultation on FIR-related issues.

These platforms do not track FIRs directly but provide tools and expert advice to help you manage your case effectively.

Document Management Tools

Organizing your case documents digitally enhances efficiency:

• Google Drive or Dropbox – Store scanned copies of FIR receipts, correspondence, and legal notices with clear naming conventions (e.g., “FIR_2024_Mumbai_00123.pdf”).
• Notion or Evernote – Create a case tracker with timelines, contact details, and status updates.
• WhatsApp Backup – Save digital receipts and official SMS alerts in a dedicated folder labeled “FIR Documents.”

Always encrypt sensitive files and use strong passwords. Avoid storing originals on public or shared devices.

Public Records Search Engines

While not official, some open data platforms aggregate court and police records:

• Indian Kanoon – Search for court cases linked to your FIR number. Useful if the case has moved to trial.
• Case Status (Supreme Court/High Courts) – If a charge sheet has been filed, you can search for case numbers on respective court websites.

These tools are supplementary and should not replace official police portals.

Real Examples

Real-life scenarios illustrate how individuals successfully tracked their FIR status and resolved issues through proper procedures.

Example 1: Cyber Fraud in Bangalore

A 32-year-old woman in Bangalore was targeted by a phishing scam that drained her bank account. She filed an FIR at the Electronic Crimes Police Station on March 5, 2024. The officer provided a receipt with FIR number ECP/2024/00897.

On March 12, she checked the Karnataka Police portal and found the status as “Registered.” On March 20, she noticed it had changed to “Investigation Underway.” She downloaded the FIR copy and shared it with her bank. On April 10, the status updated to “Charge Sheet Filed,” and she received an SMS notification via the Karnataka Police app.

She then used the Karnataka High Court portal to track the case under the assigned case number and attended the first hearing on May 3. Her proactive tracking ensured she received timely updates and could coordinate with financial institutions.

Example 2: Theft in Delhi

A man in Delhi reported the theft of his motorcycle from a parking lot on January 18, 2024. He received an FIR number DL/PS/2024/10234 from the Mehrauli Police Station. He tried checking the status online but received “No Record Found” on the Delhi Police portal.

He visited the station on January 25 and learned the FIR had been mistakenly entered under a different station code due to a clerical error. The officer corrected the record and provided a revised acknowledgment slip. He then successfully tracked the status on the updated portal and received a follow-up call from the investigating officer on February 10.

This case highlights the importance of verifying data accuracy and not assuming digital systems are infallible.

Example 3: Domestic Violence Case in Tamil Nadu

A woman filed an FIR for domestic violence at the Villupuram Women’s Police Station on February 1, 2024. The FIR was registered under Section 498A IPC. After two weeks of no updates, she sent a written request to the SHO and received a reply on February 20 stating the case was under “Investigation with Medical Examination Pending.”

She contacted NALSA, who assigned her a free legal aid lawyer. The lawyer helped her file an application under Section 156(3) CrPC when the investigation stalled beyond 45 days. The magistrate directed the police to submit a progress report. The case moved to charge sheet stage within 15 days.

Her combination of persistence, documentation, and legal support led to a timely resolution.

Example 4: Missing Person in Maharashtra

Parents in Pune filed an FIR for their 19-year-old daughter who went missing on April 1, 2024. The FIR number was MH/PS/2024/0401-007. They checked the Maharashtra Police portal daily but saw no change in status for over a month.

They contacted a local NGO that specializes in missing persons. The NGO advised them to file a separate application with the District Magistrate under the Missing Persons Act. They also shared the FIR number with the CCTNS portal, which revealed the case had been flagged as “High Priority” but was awaiting coordination with neighboring districts.

By cross-referencing data and leveraging community resources, they ensured the case remained active and received national media attention, which ultimately led to their daughter’s safe recovery on May 12.

FAQs

Can I check FIR status without the FIR number?

No, the FIR number is mandatory for online tracking. If you do not have it, return to the police station where you filed the report and request a copy of the acknowledgment slip. Without this number, most systems cannot locate your record.

How long does it take for an FIR to appear in the online system?

Typically, an FIR is uploaded to state portals within 24 to 72 hours of registration. In some rural or high-volume stations, delays of up to 5 days may occur. If it has been more than a week and your FIR is still not visible, visit the station in person.

What if the FIR status shows “Closed” but I believe the case is unresolved?

If you believe the closure is unjustified, you have the right to request a written explanation from the investigating officer. You can also file a revision petition before the Superintendent of Police or approach a magistrate under Section 156(3) CrPC to reopen the investigation. Document all communications.

Is it possible to check FIR status for someone else?

Yes, if you are a close family member or legal representative, you can check the FIR status using the FIR number and police station details. However, some portals may require proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate, affidavit) for sensitive cases such as missing persons or sexual offenses.

What should I do if the FIR portal is down or not working?

If the official portal is unavailable, use the CCTNS portal as an alternative. You can also visit the police station or send a written request. Do not use unofficial websites claiming to offer FIR tracking—they may be fraudulent.

Can I file a complaint if the police refuse to register my FIR?

Yes. Under Section 154(3) CrPC, if a police officer refuses to register your FIR, you can send the information in writing to the Superintendent of Police. The SP is obligated to investigate the matter and may direct the officer to register the FIR. Keep a copy of your written complaint.

Does checking FIR status frequently affect the investigation?

No, checking status does not interfere with the investigation. However, excessive or aggressive follow-ups may strain communication with officers. Stick to regular, respectful inquiries every 7–10 days.

Are FIR status updates available in regional languages?

Yes, most state police portals now offer multilingual support. For example, Maharashtra’s portal supports Marathi, Gujarati, and Hindi. Tamil Nadu’s portal includes Tamil and English. Use the language toggle option on the website or app.

Can I get a copy of the FIR online?

In most states, you can download a PDF copy of the FIR directly from the portal after logging in with your details. If not available, request it in person or via written application. You are legally entitled to a free copy under Section 154(2) CrPC.

What happens after an FIR is filed?

After registration, police begin investigation: collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, examining physical proof, and preparing a charge sheet if sufficient evidence exists. If not, they may file a closure report. The case then moves to court if charges are framed.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check FIR status is not merely a procedural task—it is an act of asserting your rights in the justice system. Whether you are a victim, a concerned family member, or a legal advocate, the ability to independently track the progress of an FIR empowers you to demand accountability, avoid unnecessary delays, and participate meaningfully in legal proceedings. The tools and resources available today—state portals, mobile apps, CCTNS, and legal aid networks—make this process more accessible than ever before.

However, technology alone is not enough. Success depends on vigilance, documentation, and persistence. Record every detail, verify every source, and escalate through proper channels when needed. Never assume silence means inaction—sometimes, the most effective tool is a well-documented, polite, and repeated inquiry.

As public trust in institutions evolves, citizens must become active participants in the justice process. By mastering the steps outlined in this guide, you not only protect your own interests but also contribute to a more transparent and responsive legal system. Whether your FIR is for theft, cybercrime, domestic violence, or missing persons, your right to know—and to act—is absolute. Use this knowledge wisely, and never stop seeking clarity.