Law & Order: ‘FIR Your Rights’ initiative boosts transparency and access for complainants in Kanniyakumari

In a significant effort towards strengthening trust and transparency between the police and the public, Kanniyakumari district police have handed over 3,000 FIR (first information report) copies to complainants and victims at their doorsteps.

The Bharatiya Nagaraik Suraksh Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) 173(2) is a legal provision that mandates the police to provide free copies of the FIR to the complainants. However, in some cases, complainants often perceive obtaining an FIR copy after its registration as a cumbersome process that requires repeated visits to the police station.

To address this concern and improve public access to police services, the Kanniyakumari district police launched “FIR Your Right” initiative in January, 2026. As part of this initiative, the Superintendent of Police of Kanniyakumari district, R. Stalin has directed the officials to hand over the document to the complainants between 24 and 48 hours of registration, either at their doorstep through village-level police personnel appointed in “Oorkaaval Kankanippu” programme or through Whatsapp.

The process seeks to reassure the complainant that the FIR has been registered, while providing them with an official record of their complaint without delay. By ensuring timely delivery, the police aim to improve access to legal remedies, reduce inconvenience for complainants and enhance public confidence in the system.

Mr. Stalin told The Hindu that the speedier provision of FIR copies to the complainants had strengthened public trust in the police by assuring that their grievances were being acted upon. He added that as the initiative’s primary objective is transparency, the timely case registration and handing over of the copies helps to eliminate favouritism and ensure that every complaint is treated equally.

Mr. Stalin further emphasised “People in the district are now highly aware of their right to receive an FIR copy. In cases of delay, they directly contact me or police feedback centres, to ensure that they receive it.”

According to him, the increased public awareness and accountability have also helped strengthen policing and contributed to a reduction in crime in the district.