My classmate is bullying me online on Instagram with memes about my appearance, can my parents file a complaint?
PR Asked by Priya Sharma from India
Quick Answer
Yes, cyber bullying is actionable and your parents can file a complaint on your behalf. While Section 66A of the IT Act was struck down by the Supreme Court in Shreya Singhal v.
Detailed Legal Analysis
Yes, cyber bullying is actionable and your parents can file a complaint on your behalf. While Section 66A of the IT Act was struck down by the Supreme Court in Shreya Singhal v.
Union of India (2015), cyber bullying is prosecuted under Section 67 of the Information Technology Act for publishing obscene or harassing content, and under Sections 503, 506 and 509 IPC for criminal intimidation and insult to modesty. If you are a minor, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 applies and the offender can be dealt with under its provisions.
Report the account to Instagram using the report option for bullying and harassment, and block the person. File a complaint at the cyber crime cell or on cybercrime.gov.in with screenshots of the memes, the account handle, and the dates of posting, and the school can also take disciplinary action under the anti-ragging and anti-bullying guidelines of the CBSE or the relevant board.
Legal Provisions Referenced
Verify the current statutory text at India Code (the official repository of Indian legislation) or the Legislative Department. This answer is general legal information, not advice on your specific matter.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.