The first information is different from a complaint, and the following are the points of distinction between two:
1. A complaint is an allegation made orally or in writing to a Magistrate. The first information is given in writing or orally to a Police Officer.
2. The Magistrate can take cognizance of an offence on a complaint, but not on a first information.
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3. Any person can give the first information, but a complaint can be given only by a person authorised under law under certain circumstances.
It is only when a valid complaint is given that the Court can take cognizance of it. The first information, on the other hand, only empowers the Police Officer to start investigation in cases of cognizable offences.