Bombay High Court Refuses to Quash FIR Over Objectionable Social Media Posts Defaming Woman

The Bombay High Court (Nagpur Bench) refused to quash an FIR filed against a man for posting objectionable content online to defame a woman.

The Court held that such posts can attract offences under Section 354 IPC (assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and Section 354-D IPC (stalking).

The Court observed that a prior relationship or financial dispute does not give anyone the right to harass a woman online.

The Bench noted that powers under Section 482 CrPC should not be used to stifle a legitimate prosecution.

[Tukaram v. State of Maharashtra & Ors.]