JURISPRUDENTIAL ANALYSIS OF DEFAMATION IN TORT LAW: AN ANGLO INDIAN PERSPECTIVE
Keywords:
Defamation, Libel, Slander, Freedom of Speech, Indian Constitutional Law, English Property and Personal Rights, Judicial RemediesAbstract
This article comparatively examines the tort of defamation in English common law and Indian law, focusing on reputation as an interest connected with dignity, personal liberty and social standing. It discusses the principal elements of civil defamation, the reference to the claimant and publication, the historical distinction between libel and slander, and the principal defences of truth, honest opinion and privilege. It also considers the constitutional relationship between freedom of expression and reputation, including Articles 19(1)(a), 19(2) and 21 of the Constitution of India and Articles 8 and 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights as applied in England and Wales. Finally, it evaluates damages and injunctive relief, with attention to the challenges created by contemporary digital communications.
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