Understanding the First Offence Report (FOR/POR) in Forest Law Enforcement
The First Offence Report (FOR)—also known as the Preliminary Offence Report (POR) or First Report—is a critical document in forest law enforcement. It ensures that every forest offence detected in the field is recorded properly, quickly, and transparently. This system helps maintain accurate legal records and supports timely investigation and prosecution of forest-related crimes.
What is a First Report (POR/FOR)?
A First Report Book contains printed forms in quadruplicate (four copies). These forms are prescribed by the State Government and are required to be maintained at least up to the level of Forest Guards, who are usually the first responders to any forest offence.
The purpose of this book is to:
Record every forest offence immediately,
Maintain transparency in field operations,
Ensure timely forwarding of the report to higher officers.
How Forest Guards Register an Offence
When a forest guard detects an offence—such as illegal felling, grazing, encroachment, fire, or wildlife violation—he must record it in the First Report Book without delay.
If the information comes from an informer, the forest guard must:
1. Proceed immediately to the location,
2. Verify the facts on ground,
3. Prepare and register the First Report.
This quick procedure ensures that no offence goes unrecorded and the evidence remains intact.
Dispatch of POR Copies
Once the First Report is written, the forest guard keeps the first copy (counterfoil) with himself for records.
The remaining three copies must be dispatched within 24 hours to:
1. Round Officer
2. Division Office
3. Range Office
This system ensures that all supervisory levels are informed promptly for further action.
When an Officer Other Than Forest Guard Registers an Offence
If a forest offence is registered by another forest officer, he must ensure that authenticated copies of the POR reach the Round Officer, Range Office, and Division Office without delay. Maintaining a timely flow of information is essential for coordinated departmental action.
Mandatory Carrying of the First Report Book
Every forest guard must always carry the First Report Book while on duty. Senior officers may inspect it at any time. This requirement ensures:
Accountability in field operations,
Transparency in offence detection,
Immediate action whenever an offence is noticed.
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