IPC Section 199
IPC Section 199 — Prosecution for Defamation
Legal Text:
Section 199. Prosecution for defamation.
No Court shall take cognizance of an offence punishable under Sections 499 and 500 (defamation) except upon a complaint made by the person defamed, or by some person authorized by them, or by a public servant to whom the power to grant such permission has been delegated by the government.
Key Points:
Offence:
Applies to defamation cases (Sections 499 & 500 IPC).
Who can file a complaint?
Only the person defamed or someone authorized by that person can file a complaint.
In the case of public servants:
If the defamation is against a public servant, the complaint can be filed only with the government’s permission delegated to a public servant.
Court cannot take suo moto action:
Courts cannot start defamation proceedings on their own without a complaint.
Purpose:
To prevent misuse of defamation laws.
Ensures only aggrieved parties initiate legal action.
Protects against frivolous or vexatious defamation claims.
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