Procedure for FIR or Criminal Complaint
Step-by-step process for filing complaints and FIR
Filing a Complaint for Cruelty (Section 85)
To initiate criminal proceedings against a husband or his relatives for the offence of cruelty, a First Information Report (FIR) or a formal complaint under the relevant section is mandatory.
Authorized Persons to File Complaint
The following persons are authorized to file such a complaint:
The aggrieved person: The married woman herself
Immediate family: Her father, mother, brother, or sister
Father's relatives: Her father's brother or sister
Mother's relatives: Her mother's brother or sister
Other relatives: Any other person related to the woman by blood, marriage, or adoption, provided they have obtained prior permission from the court
Mandatory Requirement
Filing an FIR or formal complaint is mandatory to commence criminal proceedings. The complaint must be filed by authorized persons as specified under the law.