SHORT ANSWER:
Yes, police can refuse to register an FIR under certain circumstances.
DETAILS:
- According to Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), police must register an FIR if the information relates to a cognizable offense.
- If the information does not disclose a cognizable offense, the police may refuse to register the FIR and may direct the complainant to approach a magistrate.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- If a police officer refuses to register an FIR without valid reasons, they may face departmental action.
SOURCE:
- Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
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