Delhi cops to launch online registration of petty crimes

The Delhi Police has announced that Delhi residents will soon be able to file charges or First Information Reports (FIRs) online for crimes like theft or forgery, without needing to visit a police station.

Speaking at an event to mark the 67th Raising Day of Delhi Police on Sunday, Police Commissioner B S Bassi said the step would help people register ''minor'' crimes with fewer hassles, and help control petty street crimes. The facility is likely to be formally announced in a day or two, he added.

Pointing to the other facilities which have been introduced by his force to enhance policing in Delhi, Bassi referred to the 1093 anti-racism helpline number which was launched in the wake of the fatal attack on Arunachal Pradesh youth Nido Tania in the city. He also mentioned a special cell which has been set up to deal with matters related to foreigners.

Basu said most people normally shy away from registering minor crimes at police stations as they do not feel comfortable with the situation, and the new initiative seeks to address this.

''A non-cognisable report would be registered online without visiting police station. First information report (FIR) for crimes such as theft and forgery could be filed online through our website sitting at home," Bassi said.

The Centre's minister of home for state R P N Singh, who was present at the occasion, stressed the importance of friendly relations between police and public. He said a citizen should be able to approach the police unhesitatingly and share information.

"The cooperation of people is of paramount importance to check crime. There has to be zero tolerance to crime against women and corruption,'' he claimed, in the face of rising crimes against women and racially different people in India's capital.

The Delhi police has often been criticised for not registering FIRs and discouraging people from reporting minor thefts or lost valuables.

A spokesperson for the police said they would look at the response to the new 'helpline' and consider expanding the facilities.