Quashing of FIR

Quashing of FIR involves invoking the inherent powers of the High Court under Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure or its writ jurisdiction to prevent abuse of process and secure the ends of justice.

The High Court interferes only where the allegations, even if taken at face value, do not disclose a cognizable offence or where continuation of the proceedings would be legally unsustainable.

Typical grounds for Quashing of FIR

Civil disputes given criminal colour

Purely civil or contractual disputes improperly converted into criminal proceedings.

Absence of essential ingredients

Allegations failing to satisfy mandatory ingredients of the alleged offence.

Malicious or vexatious prosecution

Proceedings initiated with ulterior motives or to harass the accused.

Settlement of disputes

Compromise between parties in compoundable or permissible categories of cases.