IPC Section 500: Punishment for defamation
Indian Penal Code, 1860 · Chapter 21: Defamation
Repealed on 1 July 2024 and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS).
Whoever defames another shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.
CLASSIFICATION OF OFFENCE
Para I
Punishment-Simple imprisonment for 2 years, or fine, or both-Non-cognizable-Bailable-Triable by Court of Session-Compoundable by the person defamed.
Para II
Punishment-Simple imprisonment for 2 years, or fine, or both-Non-cognizable-Bailable-Triable by Magistrate of the first class-Compoundable by the person defamed with the permission of the court.
Bare act text for reference, current to 30 June 2024. It is not legal advice; check the official gazette for authoritative text.