The Law Commission of India, in report No.282, recommended that “in Case where the accused in not known ins not known, registration of e-FIR should be allowed for cognizable offences.

If the accused is Known as a preliminary step, registration of an e-FIR may be allowed for cognizable offences wherein the Punishment provided under the Indian Penal Code(IPC) and other Laws is up to three years.

e-FIR

e-FIR stands for "Electronic First Information Report." It is a digital version of the First Information Report (FIR), which is a formal document prepared by police in response to information about the commission of a cognizable offense. In many countries, including India, an FIR is a crucial document that initiates the criminal investigation process.

Key points about e-FIR:

1. Digital Reporting: e-FIR is a system that allows individuals to file a First Information Report online or through digital means. It eliminates the need for visiting a physical police station to report a crime.
2. Ease of Filing: e-FIR makes it easier for people to report crimes, as they can do so from the convenience of their homes or offices. This can be especially useful for minor offenses or non-emergency situations.
3. Immediate Record: Once an e-FIR is filed, it is recorded in the police database immediately, creating an official record of the complaint.
4. Cognizable Offenses: e-FIR typically pertains to cognizable offenses, which are more serious crimes that warrant immediate police action. Examples include robbery, theft, assault, kidnapping, and more.
5. Procedure: The specific procedure for filing an e-FIR can vary from one jurisdiction to another. It may involve providing details of the incident, the names of the parties involved, and any available evidence.
6. Complement to Traditional FIR: e-FIR is often considered a complement to the traditional process of filing an FIR in person at a police station. Serious crimes may still require a physical visit to the police station for a formal complaint.
7. Verification: In many cases, after filing an e-FIR, a police officer may visit the complainant to verify the information provided and to gather additional details.
8. Accessibility: e-FIR systems aim to make the process more accessible to the general public, including those who may face barriers or difficulties in reaching a physical police station.
9. Jurisdiction: The e-FIR system typically requires individuals to file a report with the police station that has jurisdiction over the location where the incident occurred.
10. Receipt and Acknowledgment: After filing an e-FIR, the complainant should receive a receipt or acknowledgment to confirm that their complaint has been registered.

It's important to note that while e-FIR can be a convenient option for reporting certain crimes, not all police departments may offer this service, and its availability and procedures can vary. For serious crimes or emergencies, it is advisable to contact local law enforcement immediately, whether through e-FIR or by visiting a police station in person, to ensure a swift and appropriate response.

In India, e-FIR (Electronic First Information Report) is a system that allows individuals to register a First Information Report online. The e-FIR system is part of the broader effort to digitize and modernize law enforcement and make it more accessible to the public. Here's how e-FIR works in India:

1. Online Portal: Various states and Union Territories in India have their own online portals or websites where individuals can file an e-FIR. These websites are generally operated by the respective state or local police departments.
2. Eligibility: e-FIR is typically meant for reporting cognizable offenses, which are more serious crimes that require immediate police action. These include offenses such as theft, robbery, assault, kidnapping, and more. For non-cognizable offenses, a general diary entry or non-cognizable report may be filed.
3. Information Submission: To file an e-FIR, the complainant needs to visit the relevant state's or local police department's official website and follow the instructions provided. This usually involves providing details about the incident, the names of the parties involved, and any available evidence.
4. Acknowledgment: After submitting the e-FIR, the complainant should receive an acknowledgment or a reference number. This serves as proof that the complaint has been successfully registered with the police.
5. Verification: In many cases, after an e-FIR is filed, a police officer may visit the complainant to verify the information provided and gather additional details. This verification process helps ensure the accuracy of the complaint.
6. Jurisdiction: It's essential to file an e-FIR with the police station that has jurisdiction over the location where the incident occurred. The online portal typically directs complainants to the appropriate jurisdiction.
7. Status Updates: Some e-FIR systems allow complainants to track the status of their complaint online, providing updates on the progress of the investigation.
8. Supporting Documents: Complainants may be required to upload relevant documents or evidence, such as photographs, identification, or any other information that can aid the investigation.
9. Follow-Up: While e-FIR offers a convenient way to initiate the reporting process, individuals may still be required to visit the police station for further follow-up or to provide additional information, especially in the case of serious crimes.

The availability and procedures for e-FIR can vary from one state or Union Territory to another in India. It's essential to check with the local police department or their official website for specific details and guidelines on how to file an e-FIR in a particular region. E-FIR can be a convenient option for reporting certain crimes and offers the advantage of reducing the need for physical visits to a police station, especially in cases where the complainant might face practical or logistical challenges in doing so.

e-FIR (Electronic First Information Report) systems offer several advantages, both for law enforcement agencies and the public. These advantages contribute to improved efficiency, accessibility, and transparency in the process of reporting and investigating crimes. Here are some of the key benefits of e-FIR:

1. Accessibility: e-FIR systems make it easier for individuals to report crimes, as they can do so from the comfort of their homes, offices, or any location with internet access. This can be particularly useful for people who may have difficulty reaching a physical police station.
2. 24/7 Availability: e-FIR systems are typically available around the clock, allowing people to report incidents at any time, including outside regular business hours.
3. Convenience: e-FIR eliminates the need for individuals to physically visit a police station to file a complaint, saving time and reducing the administrative burden.
4. Reduced Paperwork: Digital filing reduces the need for physical paperwork, making the process more environmentally friendly and reducing the risk of document loss.
5. Immediate Record: Once an e-FIR is filed, it is immediately recorded in the police database, creating an official record of the complaint. This can be crucial for timely police action.
6. Transparency: e-FIR systems provide complainants with a digital record of their complaint, complete with a reference number. This enhances transparency and accountability in the reporting process.
7. Digital Evidence: Complainants can attach digital evidence, such as photographs, videos, or documents, directly to the e-FIR, which can aid in the investigation.
8. Reduced Errors: The digital nature of e-FIR reduces the risk of errors in data entry and ensures that the information is legible and accurate.
9. Faster Response: With immediate electronic registration, law enforcement agencies can respond more quickly to the reported incidents.
10. Status Tracking: Some e-FIR systems allow complainants to track the status of their complaint online, providing updates on the progress of the investigation, which can give them peace of mind and reduce uncertainty.
11. National Integration: In some countries like India, e-FIR systems aim to integrate data and reporting across states and regions, which can improve coordination and response to cross-border and inter-state crimes.
12. Less Personal Risk: In cases where individuals fear personal harm or retaliation, e-FIR can provide a level of anonymity and safety that may not be possible when physically visiting a police station.
13. Efficient Data Management: e-FIR systems facilitate efficient data management for law enforcement agencies, making it easier to search and retrieve information for investigative purposes.

It's important to note that while e-FIR systems offer numerous advantages, they may not be suitable for all types of incidents, especially those requiring immediate attention or where physical evidence needs to be collected. Additionally, the effectiveness of e-FIR systems depends on factors such as the responsiveness of law enforcement agencies and their ability to act promptly on the reported complaints.

The Law Commission of India is a statutory body established by the Government of India. Its primary purpose is to undertake a review of existing laws in India and to recommend reforms and changes in the legal system to keep it updated, efficient, and in accordance with contemporary needs and developments. The Law Commission plays a crucial role in the legal and judicial framework of India. Here are some key points about the Law Commission of India:

1. Constitution: The Law Commission is established under the Law Commission of India Act, 1956. This act empowers the government to constitute the Law Commission and lays down its functions and powers.
2. Composition: The Law Commission typically consists of a full-time chairman, along with various part-time members, including legal experts, academicians, and retired judges. The chairman is often a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India.
3. Tenure: The members of the Law Commission are appointed by the President of India, and their tenure is determined by the government when the commission is constituted.
4. Functions:
• The primary function of the Law Commission is to review and examine the existing laws of India and make recommendations for their reform, amendment, or repeal.
• It takes into account developments in jurisprudence, international conventions, judicial decisions, and societal changes in its assessments.
• The commission can also be tasked with specific reference to examine and provide advice on legal matters by the central government.
5. Reports: The Law Commission prepares reports containing its recommendations, findings, and proposed legal reforms. These reports are submitted to the central government for consideration.
6. Advisory Role: The recommendations and reports of the Law Commission are advisory in nature. They do not have the force of law, but they serve as valuable inputs for the government and the legislature in the process of legal reform.
7. Relevance: The Law Commission's work is essential for keeping the legal system in India up to date and in line with contemporary legal principles. It contributes to the enhancement of the justice system, the removal of obsolete laws, and the development of new laws as needed.
8. Independence: While the Law Commission is a government-appointed body, it operates independently and objectively to ensure that its recommendations are not influenced by political or other external factors.
9. Legal Reforms: Over the years, the Law Commission has played a pivotal role in suggesting and influencing significant legal reforms in India, ranging from criminal law to family law, property law, and administrative law.
10. Engagement with Stakeholders: The commission often engages with various stakeholders, including legal experts, practitioners, civil society organizations, and the general public, to gather input and insights when conducting its reviews.

The Law Commission of India has been instrumental in guiding legal reforms in the country, and its work helps ensure that the legal framework in India remains relevant and aligned with evolving societal needs and international standards.