Hindustan Times says the film has substance, moral complexity and strong performances, but its slow pace and restrained treatment reduce the impact.

Koimoi says the film is gripping throughout, with a strong script, fast pace and powerful performances, and finds almost nothing to fault.

Pinkvilla says the gripping moral conflict, strong writing and performances make the film thought provoking, though its heavy subject can be emotionally exhausting.

News18 says Prithviraj gives a powerful performance and the film has important ideas, but its moral conflict is not explored deeply enough and the final face off disappoints.

Filmibeat says Kareena and Prithviraj are strong and the subject has substance, but slow portions and limited character depth stop the film from becoming more memorable.

The Times of India says the slow burn thriller asks difficult questions about law and justice, with Prithviraj especially strong, though the central debate needed more depth.

India Today says the film raises important questions and has strong performances, but its central conflict and final confrontation do not deliver enough impact.

Bollywood Hungama says Daayra has an intriguing premise and strong performances from Kareena Kapoor and Prithviraj Sukumaran, but the stretched second half and weak, abrupt climax reduce its impact.