SHORT ANSWER:
Indian courts differentiate between freedom of speech and defamation based on the intent and the truth of the statement made.
DETAILS:
- Freedom of speech is protected under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
- Defamation is defined under Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and involves making false statements that harm a person's reputation.
- Courts assess whether the statement was made with malicious intent and if it can be proven true.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Defamation can lead to imprisonment for up to two years or a fine under IPC Section 500.
SOURCE:
- Indian Constitution, Article 19; Indian Penal Code, Section 499 and Section 500.
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