Police complaint format to request an FIR (sample)

Updated 2026-10

A written complaint with clear facts is the base of an FIR. Take two copies and ask the station to stamp one as received.

To,
The Station House Officer,
[POLICE STATION NAME AND ADDRESS]
(If the station has refused: The Superintendent of Police, [DISTRICT])

Subject: Complaint regarding [OFFENCE IN PLAIN WORDS] and request to register an FIR

Complainant: [YOUR NAME]
Address: [YOUR ADDRESS]
Phone: [YOUR PHONE]

Person(s) involved: [NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE, ONLINE IDS IF KNOWN; OTHERWISE "UNKNOWN PERSON(S)"]

Facts:
1. On [DATE] at about [TIME], at [PLACE], [WHAT HAPPENED].
2. [NEXT EVENT, WITH DATE, TIME AND PLACE.]
3. [NEXT EVENT.]

Witnesses and evidence: [NAMES OF WITNESSES; DOCUMENTS, PHOTOS, MESSAGES, BANK STATEMENTS].

(Only if sending to the SP) I gave this complaint at [POLICE STATION] on [DATE], and the station refused or failed to register it.

I request you to register an FIR, investigate the matter and give me a free copy of the FIR.

Place: [PLACE]
Date: [DATE]
[YOUR SIGNATURE]
[YOUR NAME]

A sample for understanding the format. It is general information, not legal advice. An advocate should check a notice before it is sent.

How to fill it in

• Write facts in date order with place and time; use only what you know
• Name the offence in plain words; you do not need to quote sections
• Attach copies of proof and keep the originals
• Take two copies and ask for a stamped receipt
• If the station refuses, send the same complaint to the Superintendent of Police by post or email

Key facts

• You are entitled to a free copy of the FIR
• Emergency: 112. Women in distress: 181
• For cyber crime, use cybercrime.gov.in and 1930

Read the full guide: Police not registering your FIR? What to do in India

Common questions