WHAT AMOUNTS TO DEFAMATION
Defamation may be by words, either spoken or intended to be read,
or by signs or visible representation. Any person who makes or
publishes any imputation concerning any person, knowing or having
reason to believe that such imputation will harm, the reputation of
such person, is said, to defame that person.
HOWEVER THERE ARE CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS
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It is not defamation to impute anything which is true
concerning any person, if it is for public good that the
imputation should be made or published.
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It is not defamation to express in good faith any opinion
whatever regarding the conduct or character of a public servant in
discharge of his public function.
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It is not defamation to express in good faith any opinion
regarding the conduct or character of any person touching any
public question.
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It is not defamation to publish a substantially true report or
result of a Court of Justice of any such proceedings.
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It is not defamation to express in good faith any opinion
regarding the merits of any case, which has been decided by a
Court of Justice, or the conduct of any person as a party, or the
witness or the agent, in such case.
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It is not defamation to express in good faith any opinion
regarding the merits of any performance which an author has
submitted to the judgement of the public.
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It is not defamation if a person having any authority over
another person, either conferred by law or arising out of a lawful
contract, to pass in good faith any censure on the conduct of that
other in matters to which such lawful authority relates.
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It is not defamation to prefer in good faith an accusation
against any person to any of those who have lawful authority over
that person with respect to the subject matter of accusation.
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It is not defamation to make an imputation on the character of
another person, provided it is made in good faith by person for
protection of his or other's interests.
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It is not defamation to convey a caution, intended for the good
of a person to whom conveyed or for public good.
PUNISHMENT FOR DEFAMATION
Whoever defames another shall be punished with simple
imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or fine, or
both.
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