Many people confuse a police complaint with an FIR (First Information Report), but they are not the same.

Police Complaint

• Written or oral information given to the police.

• Can be about any matter, even non-cognizable offences (where police cannot arrest without court order).

• Police may record it in their diary but not necessarily register an FIR.

FIR (First Information Report)

• Formal document registered under Section 154 CrPC for cognizable offences (e.g., murder, theft, rape).

• Police are duty-bound to investigate once an FIR is registered.

• Must contain details of the offence, time, place, and persons involved.

When to file which:

• Non-serious or civil disputes – File a police complaint.

• Serious cognizable crimes – Insist on FIR registration.

Tip: If police refuse to register an FIR, you can approach the Superintendent of Police or file a complaint under Section 156(3) CrPC in the magistrate’s court.