A Zero FIR is a type of FIR that can be filed in any police station, regardless of the place where the crime is committed or the jurisdiction of the police station. It is called a "zero" FIR because it is assigned the number 0 instead of a serial number like regular FIRs. The concept of a Zero FIR is relatively new and was introduced on the recommendation of the Justice Verma Committee in the aftermath of the Nirbhaya gang rape case in 2012 to put a legal obligation on police to take quick action and prevent them from delaying investigations and the administration of justice.

The purpose of a Zero FIR is to help victims of serious crimes, especially women and children, to lodge a complaint quickly and conveniently, without having to go from one police station to another. It is also useful when you know or suspect a serious crime has been committed and urgently need an FIR registered so that police can start their investigation. The procedure to file a Zero FIR is the same as a regular FIR, and once it is transferred to the police station with jurisdiction, it will be assigned a number. The legal basis of a Zero FIR is supported by various judgments of the Supreme Court and High Courts.