Delhi Court Fines Man ₹60,000 for Defaming Retired Army Officer on WhatsApp

A Delhi court has imposed a ₹60,000 fine on a man for defaming a retired army officer in a WhatsApp group, citing harm to the officer’s reputation and dignity.

The defendant posted false allegations, leading to mental anguish and social humiliation. The court emphasised that digital platforms are not immune to defamation laws and ordered the fine as compensation alongside a public apology.

The court noted that such false accusations, especially against a person of the officer’s stature, led to social humiliation and mental anguish, warranting both compensation and corrective measures.

[Col BS Chaudhary and Another v RN Yadav]