IPC Section 501
IPC Section 501 – Printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory
This section deals with defamation through printing or engraving. It makes it a crime to publish defamatory material in written, printed, or engraved form.
Key Points:
Who is liable?
Any person who prints or engraves any material (book, newspaper, poster, article, etc.)
Knowing or having reason to believe that such material is defamatory.
What is “defamatory”?
Any statement that harms the reputation of a person, lowers their character in the eyes of others, or exposes them to hatred, ridicule, or contempt.
Punishment
Simple imprisonment for up to 2 years, or
Fine, or
Both.
Illustrations / Examples
If a person prints a pamphlet accusing another person of theft (without truth or lawful justification), it is defamation under Sec. 501.
If a printing press knowingly publishes a false scandalous article about a politician, the printer is liable under this section.
Important Notes
Section 501 focuses on the printer or engraver, not the writer/author.
(The author or publisher of defamatory matter is dealt with separately under Section 500 IPC).
The key element is knowledge → the person must know or have reason to believe that the content is defamatory.
If the printer was unaware of the defamatory nature (e.g., unknowingly printing as part of bulk orders), liability may not arise.
Conclusion
Section 501 IPC punishes those who print or engrave defamatory material knowingly, with imprisonment up to 2 years, fine, or both. It ensures that not just the author, but also the printer/engraver of defamatory content is held accountable.
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