IPC 501 vs BNS 501
● Retained in BNSPrinting or engraving matter known to be defamatory
Section 501 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with printing or engraving any matter known to be defamatory. This section complements IPC 499 and IPC 500 by addressing defamation through printed or engraved publications, ensuring that those who spread harmful content in a tangible form are held accountable.
Key points:
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
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Applies to persons who knowingly print or engrave content that damages another person’s reputation.
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Reinforces the principle that freedom of expression should not infringe upon individual dignity and reputation.
For example, a publisher printing false statements or defamatory material about a person can be prosecuted under IPC 501. The section ensures responsibility in publishing and disseminating information, protecting individuals from malicious publications.
Printing or engraving matter known to be defamatory
Section 501 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 501. It criminalizes printing or engraving defamatory material, maintaining the same scope, intent, and punishment.
Key aspects of BNS 501:
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Punishment: Up to 2 years imprisonment, or fine, or both, identical to IPC 501.
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Covers all printed or engraved content knowingly intended to harm another person’s reputation.
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Emphasizes responsible communication and accountability in publishing.
BNS 501 continues the principles of IPC 501, ensuring that defamatory publications in tangible forms are punishable, thereby protecting individuals and maintaining social order.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 501 to BNS BNS 501.