IPC Section 499

BNS Section 356— Defamation

Effective for any FIR, charge sheet, or filing on or after 1 July 2024. Matters that arose before that date continue under the IPC.

Defamation consists of making or publishing any imputation—by words (spoken or written), signs, or visible representations—concerning any person with intent to harm, or knowing or having reason to believe it will harm, that person's reputation. The section provides an extensive list of exceptions (including truth for public good, fair comment on public servants, court proceedings, literary criticism, and good-faith accusations) and explanations covering imputations against deceased persons, companies, and ironic or alternative statements.

Punishment

Simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both (see s.356(2) — punishment provision is contained within the section's sub-sections not reproduced in full above; practitioners should verify the complete text).

Triable by

Magistrate of First Class

Cognizable

No

Bailable

Yes