Digital India impact: Uttar Pradesh Police allows users to file e-FIR online through a mobile app called UPCOP

Uttar Pradesh Police allows citizens to file some complaints online through a mobile app, without having to visit police stations. With nearly 1,500 FIRs registered though it, the UPCOP app is gaining popularity. UPCOP app supports Modi government's Digital India initiative and reduces paperwork by providing services electronically.

"Gradually its popularity is growing," Pandey said. "It has witnessed registration of nearly 1,500 FIRs so far."

Explaining benefits of UPCOP app to general public, UP Police's ADG Technical Services Ashutosh Pandey said the app lets users file e-FIRs and offers 26 other services and people can file FIRs irrespective of their location. UPCOP is available to download from Google Play for Android and App Store for iOS.

UPCOP app alerts people about accidents in their area. Meanwhile, senior citizens and Divyaang people can report incidents of abusive behaviour in the form of text, audio or sign language. It also lets users view and download their character certificate. Some other in-app features include verification of tenants, domestic help and employees done.

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"Some of the major benefits are that it expedites police verification processes and saves cost of commuting to police stations and time because of automated report," Pandey said.

If you are a very close relative of a deceased, you can view details of the post-mortem report online. UPCOP app also has provisions to seek police permission for organising procession and other events like shooting movies.

Uttar Pradesh Police currently offers e-FIR service only for vehicle theft, snatching, cybercrime and missing child complaints in the first phase. What's moe, FIR can only be filed against unknown criminals and not named. More services will be added soon.

UPCOP app has complete security guidelines. "Through Cyber Awareness tab, citizens can protect themselves from cybercrimes by following the guidelines issued by RBI," Pandey said.

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"There is automatic generation of reports and saving resources thereby reducing paperwork, effective and efficient investigation with mobile application by field officers," Pandey added.

(With inputs from PTI)