IPC Section 501 — Printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory

defamation

Criminal

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both

As the section puts it: “shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both”

Summary

If a person prints or engraves something that they know, or have strong reason to believe, is defamatory about someone else, they can be punished. The punishment for this offence can be simple imprisonment for up to two years, or a fine, or both.

Official Text

Whoever prints or engraves any matter, knowing or having good reason to believe that such matter is defamatory of any person, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.

Related Judgments

  • Nandlal A. Paliwal and Ors. vs The State of Maharashtra & Ors — Bombay High Court (Mumbai Principal Seat) (2007)
  • VINOD DUA vs UNION OF INDIA & ORS — Supreme Court of India (2021)
  • ABHIJIT PAWAR vs HEMANT MADHUKAR NIMBALKAR & ANR — Supreme Court of India (2016)

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