BNS Section 313 - Cyber Defamation

Whoever publishes or circulates defamatory content through electronic means, including social media, websites, or digital platforms, with intent to harm reputation.

Share:
Bailable, Cognizable

Official Text

Whoever publishes or circulates defamatory content through electronic means, including social media, websites, or digital platforms, with intent to harm reputation.

Legal Analysis

Elements to Prove:

  • Publishing or circulating defamatory content.
  • Through electronic means.
  • With intent to harm reputation.

Potential Defenses:

  • Truth of the statement.
  • No intent to harm reputation.
  • Legitimate criticism.

Practical Examples

What Constitutes the Offense:

Posting defamatory content online, spreading false information digitally, cyber character assassination.

What Doesn't Constitute:

Truthful statements, legitimate criticism, or authorized publications.

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 2 years, and Fine