CrPC Section 154

CrPC Section 154 is a fundamental provision that requires the police to register a First Information Report (FIR) when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offence. This section ensures that the police act promptly and officially record the complaint, which triggers the criminal investigation process. Understanding this section is crucial for citizens to know their rights and the police's duties in initiating criminal proceedings.

The section plays a vital procedural role by mandating the police to document information about crimes without delay. It prevents arbitrary refusal by police to register complaints and safeguards the complainant’s right to seek justice. Knowing how Section 154 works helps individuals navigate the criminal justice system effectively.

CrPC Section 154 – Exact Provision

This provision mandates that any information about a cognizable offence given to the police must be written down and signed by the informant. The police officer must read it back to the informant to confirm accuracy. The recorded information becomes the FIR, which is the starting point for police investigation. Non-cognizable offences are not registered under this section but may be forwarded to a Magistrate for further action.

• Requires police to record FIR on receiving information about cognizable offences.

• FIR must be written, read back, and signed by the informant.

• Non-cognizable offences are not registered as FIR but forwarded to Magistrate.

• Ensures official documentation to initiate investigation.

• Prescribed format and record-keeping mandated by State Government.

Explanation of CrPC Section 154

Section 154 means that when someone tells the police about a serious crime, the police must write it down as an FIR. This is the first step in starting an investigation and is important for justice to begin.

• Police must record information about cognizable offences.

• Affects the informant, police officers, and accused persons.

• Triggered when information about a cognizable offence is given orally or in writing.

• Police must write, read back, and get signature from informant.

• Police cannot refuse to register FIR for cognizable offences.

Purpose and Rationale of CrPC Section 154

This section exists to ensure that police do not ignore or delay recording complaints about serious crimes. It protects citizens’ rights by making police accountable to register FIRs promptly and accurately. It balances police powers with the need for transparency and procedural fairness.

• Protects complainants’ right to have their information recorded officially.

• Ensures police follow proper procedure in starting investigations.

• Prevents arbitrary refusal or delay by police in registering FIRs.

• Maintains balance between police authority and citizen rights.

When CrPC Section 154 Applies

This section applies whenever information about a cognizable offence is received by a police officer. It is the duty of the police to record the FIR without delay to initiate investigation and legal process.

• Information must relate to a cognizable offence.

• Given to the officer in charge of a police station.

• Applies to both oral and written information.

• Police officer has authority to record FIR.

• Non-cognizable offences handled differently, forwarded to Magistrate.

Cognizance under CrPC Section 154

Cognizance of a cognizable offence begins when the police register the FIR under Section 154. The police officer records the information, reads it to the informant, and signs it. This FIR triggers the police investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.

• Police officer in charge takes cognizance by recording FIR.

• FIR must be signed by the informant to confirm accuracy.

• Initiates investigation and further criminal process.

Bailability under CrPC Section 154

Section 154 itself does not specify bailability but relates to the registration of FIR for cognizable offences. Whether an offence is bailable depends on the nature of the offence under the Indian Penal Code or other laws.

• Bailability depends on the offence registered in the FIR.

• Police must inform accused of their rights after arrest.

• Filing FIR is procedural and does not determine bail status.

Triable By (Court Jurisdiction for CrPC Section 154)

Cases registered under Section 154 relate to cognizable offences and are generally triable by Magistrate courts or Sessions courts depending on the offence’s severity. The FIR initiates the process leading to trial in appropriate courts.

• Trial courts depend on offence severity.

• Magistrate courts handle less serious cognizable offences.

• Sessions courts handle serious offences.

• FIR is the starting point for court proceedings.

Appeal and Revision Path under CrPC Section 154

Appeals or revisions do not directly relate to Section 154 but to orders or judgments arising from cases initiated by FIRs. Complainants or accused can appeal decisions in higher courts following procedural rules.

• Appeals lie against trial court orders or convictions.

• Revisions can be sought in High Courts under certain conditions.

• Timelines depend on specific procedural laws.

Example of CrPC Section 154 in Practical Use

Person X witnesses a theft and informs the police at the local station. The officer records the information as an FIR, reads it back to X, and obtains X’s signature. This FIR starts the police investigation into the theft. Without Section 154, police might refuse to record the complaint, delaying justice.

• Section 154 ensured FIR registration and investigation start.

• Protects complainant’s right to have crime officially recorded.

Historical Relevance of CrPC Section 154

Section 154 has been part of the CrPC since its early versions to formalize the process of complaint registration. Over time, amendments have clarified procedures and reinforced the duty of police to register FIRs without delay.

• Originally included to ensure police accountability.

• Amendments improved clarity on FIR recording and informant rights.

• Strengthened procedural safeguards against police refusal.

Modern Relevance of CrPC Section 154

In 2026, Section 154 remains critical for transparent policing and access to justice. Digital FIR registration and stricter police accountability measures have enhanced its application. It supports victims’ rights and timely investigations in a modern criminal justice system.

• Supports digital and online FIR systems.

• Ensures police accountability with body cams and records.

• Protects citizen rights in an evolving legal environment.

Related Sections to CrPC Section 154

• Section 155 – Information as to non-cognizable cases

• Section 156 – Police officer’s power to investigate cognizable cases

• Section 157 – Procedure for investigation

• Section 160 – Police officer’s power to require attendance of witnesses

• Section 190 – Cognizance of offences by Magistrates

Case References under CrPC Section 154

1. Lalita Kumari v. Govt. of UP (2014, 2 SCC 1)

   – Supreme Court held registration of FIR is mandatory upon receiving information about cognizable offences.

2. State of Haryana v. Bhajan Lal (1992, Supp (1) SCC 335)

   – Guidelines on when FIR registration can be refused or quashed.

3. Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar (2014, 8 SCC 273)

   – Emphasized police responsibility in arrest and FIR registration under CrPC.

Key Facts Summary for CrPC Section 154

• Section:

  154

• Title:

  Registration of FIR

• Nature:

  Procedural

• Applies To:

  Police, Informant, Accused

• Cognizance:

  Taken by police upon FIR registration

• Bailability:

  Depends on offence registered

• Triable By:

  Magistrate or Sessions Court

Conclusion on CrPC Section 154

CrPC Section 154 is a cornerstone of the criminal justice process in India. By mandating the registration of FIRs for cognizable offences, it ensures that police cannot ignore or delay complaints. This protects citizens’ rights and triggers the legal machinery to investigate and prosecute crimes.

Understanding Section 154 empowers individuals to demand proper police action and safeguards against arbitrary refusals. It balances police duties with citizen protections, making it essential knowledge for anyone involved in the criminal justice system.

FAQs on CrPC Section 154

What is an FIR under Section 154?

An FIR is the First Information Report recorded by police when they receive information about a cognizable offence. It starts the investigation process.

Can police refuse to register an FIR?

No, police must register an FIR for cognizable offences. Refusal is illegal and can be challenged in court.

Does Section 154 apply to non-cognizable offences?

No, non-cognizable offences are not registered under Section 154 but may be forwarded to a Magistrate.

Who can give information for FIR registration?

Any person who has information about a cognizable offence can inform the police to register an FIR.

Is FIR registration mandatory before investigation?

Yes, police must register an FIR before starting investigation into a cognizable offence as per Section 154.