UP Police Chief Calls for Preliminary Probes Before Registering FIRs Against Entrepreneurs

Uttar Pradesh police chief Prashant Kumar has directed that a preliminary investigation be conducted before registering cases against entrepreneurs and businesses. This measure aims to prevent 'baseless' FIRs that misuse the judicial process and discourage investment. The directive emphasizes balancing genuine grievances with preventing unfounded complaints.

Uttar Pradesh police chief Prashant Kumar has instructed that a preliminary investigation be conducted before lodging FIRs against entrepreneurs and businesses. He stated that 'baseless' FIRs, stemming from the misuse of judicial processes, deter investment in the state.

In directives issued to senior police officials, including zonal ADGs and police commissioners, Kumar emphasized caution before registering cases based on complaints against business establishments. These include builders, factory operators, hotels, hospitals, and educational institutions.

Kumar highlighted that the government's policy aims to attract entrepreneurs and promote MSMEs. Misusing the judicial process to file unfounded FIRs against businesspeople contradicts this policy and can discourage investment. He cited representations from business organizations that have shown a tendency to criminalize civil business disputes through frivolous FIRs. He also noted the Supreme Court's directives for investigations before registering FIRs in specific types of cases to prevent misuse.