Rights group flags non-uploading of FIRs, cites violation of SC’s directions

The letter also cited the Supreme Court’s (SC’s) ruling in Youth Bar Association of India versus Union of India (2016) 9 SCC 473, which requires states and police forces to upload all non-sensitive FIRs within 24 hours, with the window extendable to 48 or 72 hours only in cases of connectivity issues.

Aggarwal said several recently registered FIRs had not been uploaded even after the permissible period, terming it a violation of binding directions and the police’s own SOP. He warned that the delay undermines transparency and deprives the accused, victims and the public of timely access to crucial information.

The letter specifically flagged four FIRs that are allegedly missing from the public domain: FIR No. 23 dated November 7, FIR No. 176 dated November 8, FIR No. 124 dated October 18, and FIR No. 126 dated October 20.

Seeking corrective action, LFHRI urged the police chiefs to issue instructions to all stations to ensure strict adherence to SOP 53 of 2013 and the SC’s ruling, and to communicate the action taken to the organisation.

IGP Pushpendra Kumar said that he is yet to look into the communication sent by the concerned group, and will do the needful as per law as the application is received.