Chandigarh, March 24 -- The Punjab Police has introduced a fee of Rs.80 for downloading FIRs from its online portals, ending the earlier free access, which has drawn criticism from legal experts and activists. The police have also introduced a Rs.100 charge for a copy of the daily dairy reports (DDR).

The new system came into effect on Monday following a government notification. Officials clarified that only the complainant can obtain a free copy, and that too strictly from the concerned police station. Any download through the online portal, even by the complainant, will attract the Rs.80 fee.

Special director general of police (community affairs division and women's affairs) Gurpreet Kaur Deo said the decision is in line with governme...