A former colleague posted defamatory comments about me on a Darjeeling local news Facebook group, calling me a fraudster. Can I sue?
GA Asked by Gayatri Rao from India
Quick Answer
You can file an FIR under Section 356(2) BNS, 2023 for defamation, which carries imprisonment up to two years, and under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000 since the offence was committed through an online intermediary.
Detailed Legal Analysis
You can file an FIR under Section 356(2) BNS, 2023 for defamation, which carries imprisonment up to two years, and under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000 since the offence was committed through an online intermediary. Civil defamation suit for damages is also maintainable before the competent court in Darjeeling.
Issue a legal notice demanding removal of the post and a public apology before litigation. Preserve screenshots, URLs, and witness testimonies as electronic evidence under Section 63B BSA, 2023.
Report the post to the platform under IT Rules, 2021 for expeditious removal. If police do not act, approach Calcutta High Court for a direction or file before the Magistrate under Section 175 BNSS, 2023.
Refer to any specific procedural rules under West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 for filing such complaints locally.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.