e-Zero FIR Initiative:
The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has launched the e-Zero FIR initiative, which automatically converts financial cybercrime complaints over ₹10 lakh into First Information Reports (FIRs).
- The e-Zero FIR initiative is a new mechanism where financial cybercrime complaints involving fraud above ₹10 lakh are automatically converted into FIRs if reported via the 1930 helpline or the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP).
- This system has been launched on a pilot basis in Delhi by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
- The initiative aims to speed up investigations into large-scale cyber frauds and ensure swift action against cybercriminals.
- It addresses the longstanding grievance of victims who face delays in FIR registration and difficulty recovering stolen money.
- The system is aligned with the provisions of Sections 173(1) and 1(ii) of the newly enacted Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
- The e-Crime Police Station of Delhi has been officially notified for e-FIR registration and case transfer under these legal provisions.
- A Zero FIR can be registered at any police station, regardless of the place of the crime.
- It ensures that jurisdictional issues do not delay investigation and provides legal urgency for prompt action.
- Introduced following the Justice Verma Committee recommendations post the Nirbhaya case (2012), it reinforces victim-centric policing and quick redressal.
