IPC 502 - Sale of printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter, knowing it to contain such matter against the President or the Vice-President or the Governor of a State or Administrator of a Union territory or a Minister in respect of his conduct in the discharge of his public functions when instituted upon a complaint made by the Public Prosecutor
Description of IPC 502
Description of IPC Section 502
According to section 502 of Indian penal code, 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 502
| Offence | Sale of printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter, knowing it to contain such matter against the President or the Vice-President or the Governor of a State or Administrator of a Union territory or a Minister in respect of his conduct in the discharge of his public functions when instituted upon a complaint made by the Public Prosecutor |
| Punishment | Simple Imprisonment for 2 Years or Fine or Both |
| Cognizance | Cognizable |
| Bail | Bailable |
| Triable | Magistrate Court |
Imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.
IPC 502 in Simple Words
If someone knowingly sells or offers for sale any printed or engraved material containing defamatory content, they can be punished with up to two years of simple imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Importance and Practical application
Addresses the distribution of defamatory material through sales.
Practical application:
For instance, if a publisher sells a book that contains false and damaging statements about a business, and the publisher is aware of the defamatory nature of the content, they could be prosecuted under IPC Section 502. If convicted, the publisher could face up to two years of imprisonment, a fine, or both. This provision serves to deter the commercialization of defamatory material, promoting a more ethical approach to content distribution in the marketplace.Conclusion
IPC Section 502 holds individuals accountable for the sale or distribution of defamatory material. This section underscores the importance of responsible behavior in the marketplace, ensuring that those who knowingly sell harmful content face legal consequences.