Defamation refers to any false statement—spoken, written, or published—that harms the reputation of an individual, company, or group. It can expose the subject to ridicule, hatred, or contempt and may lead to social, personal, or professional harm. In Pakistan, both civil and criminal remedies are available under:
Section 3: Any false representation (oral, written, or visual) that injures someone’s reputation or subjects them to ridicule, contempt, or hatred is actionable as defamation.
Section 4: Defamation is actionable even without proof of specific financial loss—general damage is presumed.
A defendant can avoid liability by proving:
They are not the author, publisher, or printer.
The statement is true and made for the public good.
The statement was fair comment on a matter of public interest.
It was a privileged communication (e.g. between lawyer and client).
An apology or retraction was offered but rejected by the plaintiff.
Absolute Privilege (Section 6): Covers official legislative, judicial, or governmental communications.
Qualified Privilege (Section 7): Covers fair reporting of court or parliamentary proceedings, or complaints made in good faith to appropriate authorities.
Notice (Section 8): Plaintiff must notify the defendant within 2 months of learning about the defamatory content.
Remedies (Section 9): Court may order:
A formal apology.
Retraction published with similar prominence.
Minimum compensation of Rs. 50,000 and any proven special damages.
Jurisdiction: The District Court has authority (Section 13).
Timelines: Case must be decided within 90 days; appeals within 30 days (Section 14–15).
Section 499 defines defamation as making or publishing any imputation intending to harm a person’s reputation.
Punishment (Section 500–502):
Up to 2 years imprisonment, fine, or both.
Also applies to printing, engraving, or selling defamatory content.
Key Exceptions Under PPC:
Truth for public good.
Opinions on public officials or public matters expressed in good faith.
Fair reporting of court proceedings.
Criticism of public performances or conduct.
Complaints made to authorities in good faith.
Authors, editors, publishers, or printers.
Owners of media or broadcasting platforms.
Any individual who repeats or republishes defamatory statements.
Judges are protected for statements made in court proceedings.
Lawyers may be liable if they act with express malice and without instruction.
Defamation claims must be filed within six months from when the defamatory content comes to the knowledge of the victim.
At International Immigration Law Firm, we offer expert legal counsel and representation in civil and criminal defamation cases across Pakistan. Whether you’re a private individual, public figure, journalist, or corporate entity—we protect your right to reputation and offer remedies through litigation, mediation, and legal notices.
Our team can assist with:
Drafting legal notices for defamation
Filing civil suits under the Defamation Ordinance, 2002
Pursuing criminal complaints under PPC
Defense strategies for accused parties
Negotiating out-of-court settlements
If you believe your reputation has been unfairly attacked—or you’re facing a defamation claim—speak to our experienced defamation lawyers for professional guidance and swift legal action.
Offices in: Pakistan, UK, Canada, USA, Australia, and EU
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