Train passengers can now file FIRs from any place

If you are a victim of theft or any other offence during train journey, need not worry about the jurisdictions as you can file an first information report from anywhere during or after travel.

As per a recent decision, passengers can lodge a 'zero FIR' in any railway station and seek swift action.

The concerned police station where the FIR is lodged will fax a copy immediately to the police station under whose jurisdiction the incident has taken place, Joint Commissioner of Police, New Delhi Range, Mukesh Meena said.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by him and attended by IGs of neighbouring states.

"The move will help in better coordination

between the police, ensure quick action and less harassment to the complainant," Meena said.

The issue of jurisdiction has been a contentious point among the complainants travelling in trains, as police are usually reluctant to file an FIR if the incident has happened in a different place.

Besides, the issue of jurisdiction between the Government Railway Police, the Railway Protection Force and the state police prevents swift action in case of crime.

The high-level meeting, Meena said, agreed that there should be enhanced coordination and better patrolling in trains to check the rising crimes in trains.

Best practices followed by different police stations and information about criminals will be shared, he said.

Meena hoped the new system will help more and more passengers lodge complaints.