FROM POLICE STATION TO SMARTPHONE:A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF THE E-FIR SYSTEM IN MODERN CRIME REPORTING

The introduction of Electronic First Information Reports (E-FIRs) has marked a transformative shift in India’s criminal justice system, moving from conventional police-station-based complaint registration to a technologically driven, citizen-centric approach. This paper critically examines the evolution, legal framework, operational mechanisms, and challenges of the E-FIR system within the context of modern crime reporting. The digitalisation of FIR registration aims to promote transparency, reduce delays, eliminate procedural barriers, and enhance accessibility, especially for vulnerable groups such as women, rural populations, and individuals with limited mobility.
The paper analyses statutory developments under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which provides explicit legal recognition for electronic communication of cognizable offences. It also reviews relevant judicial precedents, including State of Punjab v. Gurmit Singh (2009) and contemporary interpretations emphasising procedural safeguards in FIR registration. The study further explores the role of digital platforms, cybersecurity concerns, authentication mechanisms, and the integration of systems such as CCTNS and citizen portals.