E-FIR
- POLITY
News: 22nd Law Commission submits report
on e-FIR
What's
in the news?
●
The 22nd Law Commission of India has given
several suggestions related to the electronic first information reports
(e-FIR).
e-FIR:
●
An e-FIR is the electronic version of a
First Information Report.
●
FIR importance: It serves as the initial
report that activates the criminal justice system.
Recommendations
by Law Commission:
●
The proposed solution involves the
creation of a centralized national
portal designed to facilitate e-FIR registration.
●
The report recommends allowing e-FIR
registration for:
○
All
cognizable offenses, even when the accused is unknown.
○
Cognizable offenses with a maximum
punishment of three years, even when the accused is known.
●
Suggested amendments span various
legislations, including the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, Indian Evidence
Act, 1872, Information Technology Act, 2000, Indian Penal Code, 1860, and other
relevant laws.
●
States
are granted additional powers to expand the list of
eligible offenses for e- FIR based on the effectiveness of the system.
Significance
of e-FIR:
●
e-FIRs aim to tackle the persistent issue
of delays in FIR registration.
●
They enable real-time crime reporting for citizens, ensuring a faster response
from law enforcement agencies.
●
The adoption of e-FIRs aligns with key
government initiatives, including the Digital India mission and the National
e-Governance Plan.