Section 500, IPC 1860 — replaced by Section 356, BNS 2023 (in force 1 Jul 2024). The prior code continues to govern matters arising before that date (savings: Section 358, BNS 2023).
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.