When Is Filing an FIR Necessary for Lost Marksheets?

Sometimes, it is not always necessary to file an FIR (First Information Report) with the police for lost marksheets. Universities and institutions often have their own procedures for obtaining duplicates, making an FIR neither necessary nor mandatory, although pursuing this step adds an extra layer of security.

University Requirements vs. FIR

It is important to understand that filing an FIR is not barred by your university's request for obtaining a duplicate of your marksheets. Universities typically only require you to file an affidavit and pay relevant fees. However, if you are seeking a duplicate of a lost degree, it is recommended to file an FIR anyway, given the potential misuse of your academic credentials.

Why File an FIR?

Filing an FIR is essential if someone could potentially misuse your degree or marksheets. By filing an FIR, you create a record of the incident, which can deter any fraudulent activities. Additionally, your local police station will issue a General Diary (GD) entry, providing further evidence of the report and safeguarding your credentials.

Steps to File an FIR

To file an FIR, you need to visit your local police station and request a GD entry. Make sure to keep a photocopy of the GD along with the police station's stamp. Then, you can draft a similar application for your university, attaching a copy of the GD and paying the required fees. You should also be aware that if your university retains your paper copy of the notification, it may be helpful to keep a photocopy yourself.

Security and Assurance

While filing an FIR is not mandatory, it is suggested as a precautionary measure. The sophisticated background checks in place today make it difficult for someone to misuse your degree or marksheets, but taking the extra step can provide you with peace of mind. Your university's requirement for an affidavit and a fee is a sufficient measure to obtain a duplicate copy without an FIR.

It is also noteworthy that once you collect a new duplicate marksheet, the original marksheet will be marked as lost. This means that you won't face any issues in the future if you follow the university's procedure, even if you do not file an FIR.

Professional Drafting

If you are concerned, it is advisable to have your affidavit drafted by a legal professional. An advocate can ensure that all relevant points are covered in your document, providing a stronger case for the issuance of a duplicate marksheet.

Conclusion

In summary, while filing an FIR is not mandatory for obtaining duplicates of marksheets, it is a prudent step to take for added security. Not filing an FIR will not cause any issues, but it is recommended to file an FIR to protect your academic credentials from potential misuse. Always ensure that the paper records are retained and properly preserved for future reference.