WHAT IS FIR?

 FirstInformation Report is the information that a police officer receives about the commission of a crime. An FIR must be lodged in writing and duly signed, and the copy must be handed over to the informant. It is not essential that only the victim can file an FIR. Moreover, a police officer who comes to know about the cognisable offence can file an FIR. It must contain the place, date and time of the incident. A detailed description of the incident is not necessary. The FIR has to be filed at the police station under whose jurisdiction it falls. The FIR should have the narration correctly. Incorrect documentation may weaken the case.

The courts and the police play a vital role in administration of justice. But, their role is quiet different to each other. The courts try to provide justice to the people and punish the guilty. They try to verify the facts and hear the arguments of both the parties. If one party is not satisfied with the verdict, it can appeal the next higher court.

Public prosecutors are the gazette officers appointed by the state to help in the prosecution of offenders to keep the society free from crimes. The present criminal system is based on the principle that any crime committed by an individual is a crime against the society. Therefore, the prosecution and punishment of the crime is the responsibility of the state. Such prosecution on behalf of the state is performed by a public prosecutor. During the investigation stage and till the filing of the charge sheet, the investigating agency is in control of the proceedings. Both play a complementary role in the judicial system.

Another category of cases that have caused much controversy in recent times are PIL. Due to financial crunch, poor people lack the ability to go to court to get justice. A socially concerned organization or group can approach the court on behalf of the poor, even a post card or letter written to court could serve as a writ petition. The court after investigation can pass necessary orders. This kind of litigation has helped the poor to get speedy and inexpensive justice. Although, it has led to confrontation between the executive and judiciary. This is due to increasing  Judicial activism.