Can a second FIR be filed for the same incident?

Generally, courts have held that a second FIR relating to the same cognizable offence and substantially the same facts is not permissible, since it would allow endless, repetitive complaints over the same incident and amount to an abuse of the legal process.

There are recognised exceptions — for instance, where the second FIR is genuinely about a different, distinct offence or incident, even if loosely related, or where new and materially different facts have come to light that weren't part of the original complaint.

If you believe a second FIR against you improperly duplicates an existing case, you (or your advocate) can approach the High Court seeking to have it quashed, on the specific ground that it's barred as a repetitive complaint over the same matter. This determination depends closely on comparing the exact facts of both FIRs, so it's worth having a lawyer review both documents carefully.