Losing a bike due to theft or misplacement can be a stressful experience, but taking immediate action can increase the chances of recovery and ensure legal documentation for insurance claims. In India, filing a police complaint (FIR) is the first and most crucial step. This guide provides a step-by-step process for lodging a complaint, required documents, eligibility criteria, online complaint options, and insurance claim procedures.
Step-by-Step Procedure to File a Complaint
Visit the Nearest Police Station
Lodge an FIR under Section 379 of IPC (for theft) or a General Diary (GD) Entry (for lost bikes).
Provide Necessary Details
Mention the bike’s registration number, make, model, chassis & engine number, color, and last known location.
Get a Copy of the FIR
This is mandatory for insurance claims and legal proof.
Inform the Regional Transport Office (RTO)
Notify the RTO where your bike is registered to prevent misuse.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the theft to your insurer and submit a claim with the FIR copy.
Follow Up with the Police
Track updates and provide additional information if required.
Documents Required
Bike’s Registration Certificate (RC)
Insurance Policy Copy
Driving License (DL)
Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN, etc.)
Address Proof
Bike Purchase Invoice (if available)
FIR Copy
Eligibility to File a Complaint
The bike owner or an authorized person can file the complaint.
If the bike is under finance/loan, inform the lender.
Online Complaint Filing (e-FIR)
Many states provide online FIR options. Visit the official state police website (e.g., Delhi Police, Maharashtra Police) and select the ‘Lost/Stolen Vehicle’ category. Fill in the details, upload necessary documents, and submit the complaint to receive a tracking reference number.
Insurance Claim Process for a Stolen Bike
File an FIR and collect a copy
Inform the insurer and submit necessary documents
Obtain a ‘Non-Traceable Certificate’ from the police if the bike is not recovered within 90 days
Submit claim papers to the insurance company (RC, policy, FIR, Non-Traceable Certificate)
Claim Approval: The insurance company verifies documents and processes compensation.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Bike Theft
Use high-security locks (disc lock/U-lock).
Install a GPS tracker for real-time monitoring.
Park in CCTV-monitored areas.
Engrave unique identification marks on the bike.
