Whoever sells or offers for sale any printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter, knowing that it contains such matter, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.
IPC Section 502: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 502 deals with the “Sale of printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter.” This section extends the legal accountability for defamation to those who sell or offer for sale any printed or engraved material containing defamatory content. It emphasizes that the creators and distributors of such content can be held responsible if they knowingly disseminate defamatory materials.
This provision is crucial in preventing the spread of defamatory information by making those involved in its commercial distribution liable under the law.
Is IPC Section 502 bailable?
IPC Section 502 is bailable. This means that an individual accused under this section has the right to be released on bail, provided they meet the conditions set by the court.
IPC Section 502 Punishment
Under IPC Section 502, the punishment for an offence is imprisonment for a term that may extend to two years, a fine, or both. This reflects the legal system’s intention to discourage the distribution of material that can damage individuals’ reputations and hold accountable those who profit from or facilitate the circulation of such content.
Example of IPC Section 502
A real-life example of IPC Section 502 could involve a bookstore owner who stocks and sells books that contain unfounded and damaging accusations against a public figure. If the bookstore owner is aware of the defamatory nature of the content but continues to sell the books to the public, they could be charged under Section 502 for their role in spreading defamatory material. This scenario shows the law’s reach in addressing the creation and distribution of content that can harm reputations.
