IPC Section 501: Printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory
Indian Penal Code, 1860 · Chapter 21: Defamation
Repealed on 1 July 2024 and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS).
¶Whoever prints or engraves any matter, knowing or having good reason to believe that such matter is defamatory of any person, 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-Non-compoundable.
Study: explanations and related material
Now BNS 356(3) (changed). IPC → BNS converterSource: BPR&D BNS–IPC corresponding section table (UP Police, 2024-06-28), p23
Official reference: Delhi District & Sessions Judge: government historical reference — source link checked: 2 October 2026.Recorded edition / snapshot date: 2024-06-30.Mobile-app reference import; the recorded snapshot date is not a fresh legal-currency guarantee. The linked government text is an independent authoritative reference, not certification that this website reproduces the same edition. The source link was checked, not every provision or subsequent amendment. Check commencement notifications, savings and jurisdiction-specific variations separately. Historical code retained for reference; read the repeal/savings provisions in the successor code.
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