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IPC Section 500 - Punishment for defamation
Last Updated: 01 Mar, 2025
By Advocate Chikirsha Mohanty
(IPC section is included as a sub-section in BNS sans heading. “or with community service” is added as an alternate punishment.)
Please refer to BNS 356 for updated procedures & punishments.
IPC 500 in Simple Words
If someone defames another person, they can be punished with up to two years of simple imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Punishment for defamation
| Offence | Punishment | Cognizance | Bail | Triable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Defamation against the President or the Vice-president or the Governor of a State or Administrator of a Union Territory or a Minister in respect of his conduct in the discharge of his public functions when instituted upon a complaint made by the Public Prosecutor | Simple Imprisonment for 2 Years or Fine or Both | Non-Cognizable | Bailable | Court of Session |
| Defamation in any other case | Simple Imprisonment for 2 Years or Fine or Both | Non-Cognizable | Bailable | Magistrate First Class |
Offence : Defamation against the President or the Vice-president or the Governor of a State or Administrator of a Union Territory or a Minister in respect of his conduct in the discharge of his public functions when instituted upon a complaint made by the Public Prosecutor
Punishment : Simple Imprisonment for 2 Years or Fine or Both
Cognizance : Non-Cognizable
Bail : Bailable
Triable : Court of Session
Offence : Defamation in any other case
Punishment : Simple Imprisonment for 2 Years or Fine or Both
Cognizance : Non-Cognizable
Bail : Bailable
Triable : Magistrate First Class
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Section 500 of the IPC?
The IPC section 500 deals with the punishment for defamation. This section says that anyone who defames someone else will be punished by simple imprisonment of a period up to two years or a fine or both. This section allows for a maximum punishment of two years. 23 Mar 2023
Is IPC Section 509 bailable?
This section of the IPC, 509, was enacted to protect women in general. This offence is cognizable and bailable as well as not compoundable. It can be tried by any Magistrate. A person may also be sentenced to 3 years simple imprisonment, including a fine.
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What is the section of defamation?
IPC Section 499: Defamation
