Is an FIR required to file a Domestic Violence case?

No. An FIR is not required to seek relief under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. An aggrieved woman can directly file an application before the Magistrate under Section 12 of the Protection Of Women from Domestic Violence Act or seek assistance through a Protection Officer or a registered Service Provider. However, if a cognizable offence is committed, a separate criminal complaint may also be lodged under Section 85 of The Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita,2023.