What is a Closure Report (Frustrated/False/Untraced) by Police?

Updated: July 15, 2026Published: July 13, 2026

Quick Answer

A Closure Report is filed by the police when an investigation fails to find sufficient evidence to prosecute the accused. It is categorised into 'Untraced' (accused unknown), 'False' (fake complaint), or 'Frustrated' (lack of evidence), effectively requesting the Magistrate to close the case.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • A Closure Report is the opposite of a Chargesheet; it asks the court to end the case.
  • Common types include Untraced, False, and Frustrated reports, depending on the investigation's outcome.
  • The Magistrate is not bound to accept the report and can reject it or order further investigation.
  • Complainants have the right to challenge a Closure Report by filing a Protest Petition.

Introduction

When a First Information Report (FIR) is registered, the police are legally mandated to conduct a thorough investigation under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. If the police find sufficient evidence against the accused, they file a Chargesheet. However, if the investigation yields no solid proof, or proves the complaint was fabricated, the police file a "Closure Report." Understanding the different types of closure reports is essential for both complainants seeking justice and those falsely accused of crimes.

Types of Closure Reports

Police use specific terminology to classify why an investigation is being closed:

  • Untraced Report: Filed when the police confirm that a crime occurred, but despite their best efforts, the culprits could not be identified or traced.
  • False Report (B-Report): Filed when the investigating officer concludes that the FIR was entirely fabricated, malicious, or based on false information. In such cases, the police may even initiate proceedings against the complainant for giving false information.
  • Frustrated Report (Insufficient Evidence): Filed when a crime may have occurred, but the police lack the necessary witnesses, forensic proof, or digital evidence under the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023, to successfully prosecute the accused.
  • Civil Nature: Filed when the police determine that the dispute is purely a civil breach of contract or property issue, mistakenly or intentionally disguised as a criminal offence.

The Magistrate's Role

The police cannot unilaterally close a case. The Closure Report is submitted to the jurisdictional Judicial Magistrate. The Magistrate has several options:

  1. Accept the Report: If satisfied with the police's reasoning, the Magistrate accepts the report and formally closes the case.
  2. Order Further Investigation: If the investigation appears sloppy, the Magistrate can order the police to reopen the case and investigate specific angles.
  3. Reject the Report: The Magistrate can completely reject the police's conclusion, take "cognizance" of the offence based on the available case diary, and issue summons to the accused to start the trial.

Time Limits

  • Notice to Complainant: Before a Magistrate accepts a Closure Report, the law mandates that a notice must be sent to the original complainant, giving them an opportunity to object.
  • Filing Objections: Upon receiving notice, the complainant typically has a few weeks (as determined by the court dates) to prepare and file a formal "Protest Petition" to challenge the police's findings.

Practical Tips

  • Track the Investigation: Do not wait passively after filing an FIR. Regularly follow up with the investigating officer. If you sense they are preparing to file a closure report, start gathering independent evidence.
  • Beware of False Reports: If you are the complainant and the police file a "False" closure report, you must aggressively contest it. Accepting it could lead to criminal charges against you for filing a fake FIR.
  • Right to Documents: If a closure report is filed, the complainant has the right to demand copies of the investigation report and witness statements to prepare their protest.

When Should You Consult a Criminal Lawyer?

  • To File a Protest Petition: The moment you receive notice that the police have filed a closure report, you need an expert lawyer to draft a Protest Petition challenging the police's legal logic.
  • If You Are Falsely Accused: If the police filed a "False" report exonerating you, you need a lawyer to ensure the Magistrate officially accepts it so your legal ordeal formally ends.
  • To Pursue Perjury Charges: If a closure report proves the FIR against you was purely malicious, a lawyer can help you file a counter-case against the complainant for malicious prosecution and defamation.

Conclusion

A Closure Report is not the absolute end of a criminal case; it is merely the police's final opinion. The ultimate authority rests with the Judicial Magistrate. By understanding the nuances of Untraced, False, and Frustrated reports, complainants can prepare to fight back with Protest Petitions, while the accused can finally seek relief from baseless allegations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the police close an FIR without telling the complainant?

A: No. By law, the Magistrate must issue a formal notice to the complainant/informant before accepting a Closure Report, allowing them a chance to object.

Q: What happens if a Closure Report is accepted?

A: If the Magistrate accepts the Closure Report, the criminal proceedings are officially terminated, and the accused (if any) is discharged from all allegations.

Q: Can an 'Untraced' case be reopened later?

A: Yes. If the police file an 'Untraced' report but later discover new, compelling evidence or find the culprit, they can request the court's permission to reopen the investigation.

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