1. Know your two rights at the counter
For a cognizable offence, the Supreme Court (Lalita Kumari) makes FIR registration mandatory. And a "Zero FIR" can be lodged at any police station regardless of where the offence happened — jurisdiction is transferred later, not used as a refusal excuse.
2. Always complain in writing
Hand over a written, signed complaint and ask for a stamped/acknowledged copy. Verbal refusals leave no trail; a written complaint starts one.
3. Escalate to the SP/DCP by registered post
If refused, send the same complaint to the Superintendent of Police / Deputy Commissioner in writing. They are empowered to direct registration or investigate themselves.
4. Approach the Magistrate
The next lever is an application to the Magistrate seeking a direction to police to register and investigate — under Section 156(3) CrPC, now Section 175(3) of the BNSS. Attach your written complaint and postal proofs; this paper trail is exactly why steps 2–3 matter.
5. Check your state’s e-FIR facility
Several states allow online FIR/e-FIR for specified offences through the state police portal — useful in parallel, and it generates its own acknowledgement.