PIL Challenges Punjab Police's Rs 80 FIR Download Fee in High Court
Synopsis
A Public Interest Litigation has been filed against the Punjab Police's controversial Rs 80 charge for downloading FIRs. Advocates argue this fee infringes on constitutional rights and violates legal provisions, creating barriers to justice, especially for the economically disadvantaged.
Key Takeaways
PIL filed against Punjab Police's service charge Charges deemed illegal and unconstitutional Advocates seek restoration of free FIR access Concerns raised for economically weaker sections Case highlights the importance of transparency in justice
Chandigarh/New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been initiated in the Punjab and Haryana High Court contesting the implementation of a service fee for retrieving First Information Reports (FIRs) via the Punjab Police’s PP Saanjh Portal.
The petition, presented by lawyers Abhishek Malhotra and Vasu Ranjan Shandilya, argued that the Punjab government's decision to impose an Rs 80 fee for FIR downloads is unlawful, beyond authority, and infringes upon Articles 14, 19(1)(a), and 21 of the Constitution of India.
The petition claims that this charge is a clear breach of Section 173(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), which stipulates that a copy must be provided immediately and free of charge to the informant or victim.
Furthermore, the plea references the Supreme Court ruling in Youth Bar Association of India v. Union of India, which mandated that FIRs be made available online within 24 hours to facilitate free and transparent access.
The petitioners cite that their grievance arose on March 24, 2026, when they tried to download an FIR from the PP Saanjh Portal and were forced to pay an unlawful ‘service charge’ of Rs 80.
They further contend that this policy monetizes a fundamental right to justice, creating obstacles, especially for the economically disadvantaged.
The petition states, “This policy undermines transparency, contravenes the Digital India initiative, and violates Article 21 rights, acting as a barrier to justice for the impoverished.”
The petitioners, who are both practicing lawyers and social activists, emphasized that they approached the P&H High Court solely in public interest to uphold the statutory and constitutional rights of millions of citizens.
Despite submitting a detailed request to the authorities on March 24 for the withdrawal of the fee, they received “no response”, prompting them to escalate the matter to the High Court.
Seeking various forms of relief, the PIL requests the annulment of the controversial notification imposing the service fee, restoration of free digital access to FIRs and Daily Diary Reports (DDRs), and strict adherence to statutory provisions and Supreme Court directives.
Additionally, the petition seeks a directive for the refund of the “illegally charged” fees along with interest, and an interim stay on the enforcement of the disputed policy until the final decision is made.
Point of View
The PIL highlights significant concerns regarding access to justice and the legality of imposing charges for essential services like FIR downloads. It underscores the importance of safeguarding constitutional rights and ensuring transparency in law enforcement processes.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of the PIL filed in the High Court?
The PIL challenges the legality of the Rs 80 service charge imposed by the Punjab Police for downloading FIRs, claiming it violates constitutional rights.
What are the constitutional articles cited in the PIL?
The PIL cites Articles 14, 19(1)(a), and 21 of the Constitution of India.
What relief is being sought in the PIL?
The PIL seeks to quash the service charge notification, restore free access to FIRs, and refund the illegally charged fees.
What impact could this PIL have?
If successful, this PIL could ensure free access to FIRs, reinforcing citizens' rights and promoting transparency in law enforcement.
