The FIR is the cornerstone of criminal procedure in Pakistan. Without it, criminal law remains dormant.

Section 164 Cr.P.C. derives its life from this framework. Where no FIR exists, there is ordinarily no investigation, and therefore no jurisdiction for a Magistrate to record statements.

Attempts to bypass this structure not only violate procedural law but also create long-term legal complications for those relying on such statements.

Five Key Legal Facts

• FIR activates criminal procedure
  
• Investigation flows from FIR
  
• Section 164 depends on investigation
  
• Magistrates act within limits
  
• Bypassing FIR is unlawful