Distinguish between the following: First Information Report (FIR) and Complaint.

Difference between First Information Report (FIR) and Complaint The First Information Report is different from a Complaint and the following are the points of distinction between them: A Complaint is an allegation orally or in writing to a Magistrate. The First Information Report is given in writing or orally to a Police Officer. The Magistrate can take cognizance of an offence on a Complaint, but not on First Information Report. Any person can give the First Information, but a Complaint can be given only by a person authorized under law under certain circumstances. The First Information Report on the other hand, only empowers the Police officer to start investigation in cases of cognizable offences. A Complaint can be made for Cognizable and Non Cognizable offence while First Information Report can be made for cognizable offence only.