Defamation Laws in Pakistan | Punishment in PPC

Defamation

Followings are ingredients of defamation u/s 499 PPC

1. by words, signs or visible representation
2. marks or publish any imputation
3. intended to harm the reputation of any person

Explanations

• imputation about deceased person which hurt the feelings of his family
• imputation concerning company
• imputation made ironically or alternative
• imputation must lower the morale, credit or respect of person

Exceptions of Defamation

Followings are the 10 exceptions of defamation

• imputation of truth in public good
• public conduct of public servant
• conduct of person touching public question
• merits of public performance
• publishing the reports or proceedings of court of law
• merits of case in court of law
• censure of person having authority over another (master and servant)
• accusation to authorized person i.e. person having authority (accusation to master of servant)
• imputation for protecting the interest of other
• to caution other person against some loss

Punishment of defamation u/s 500 PPC

• may extend to 2 year or fine or both
• originator of defamatory imputation may extend to 5 year or fine minimum 100,000/- or both

Offence is bailable, non-cognizable and compoundable

Trial of offences by court of Sessions and must decide within period of 90 days – 502A

Printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory; Punishment up to 2 year or fine or both – 501

Sale of printed or engraved substance containing defamatory material; Punishment up to 2 year