Assam launches e-zero FIR system to fast-track action against cyber financial frauds

Guwahati, June 23 (IANS) Assam on Tuesday rolled out the “e-Zero FIR” initiative, becoming one of the first states in the country to implement an automated system that converts cyber financial crime complaints registered through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) and the 1930 cyber helpline into First Information Reports (FIRs).

Announcing the launch, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the initiative is aimed at ensuring quicker police intervention, seamless registration of cases, and faster recovery of money lost in cyber frauds.

The Chief Minister added that the move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of building a “Cyber Secure Bharat” and strengthening the country’s response to the growing threat of online financial crimes.

“Assam has officially rolled out the e-Zero FIR initiative, a system that will automatically convert cyber financial crimes lodged at NCRP or 1930 into FIRs,” CM Sarma said in a post on social media platform X.

According to the Chief Minister, the new mechanism will enable jurisdiction-free and hassle-free registration of cyber crime cases, eliminating delays often caused by procedural requirements and territorial limitations.

He said the system is designed to facilitate faster police action and improve the chances of recovering defrauded funds before they are siphoned off through multiple accounts.

Chief Minister Sarma also noted that cyber financial fraud cases involving amounts above Rs 10 lakh will be automatically converted into zero FIRs, enabling prompt investigation and action irrespective of the location where the complaint is initially registered.

A zero FIR allows police to register a case without regard to territorial jurisdiction, after which it can be transferred to the appropriate police station for investigation.

The Chief Minister credited the Union Home Minister Amit Shah for guiding the initiative and praised the efforts of the Assam Police in ensuring its swift implementation.

Cyber fraud has emerged as one of the fastest-growing categories of crime in India, with thousands of complaints being reported every month.

Officials believe the e-zero FIR system will significantly strengthen Assam’s cyber policing framework and enhance protection for citizens against online financial scams.

–IANS

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