Defamation Case in Bangladesh: Criminal and Civil

Illustration of a cracked speech bubble and a phone, for a defamation case in Bangladesh

At a glance

Criminal defamation: up to two years, a fine or both (s.500).
Only the person defamed can file the criminal complaint, before a Magistrate.
A civil suit claims money for the harm to reputation; file within one year of publication.
Truth for the public good, fair comment and good-faith complaints are recognised exceptions.

In this guide: Criminal or civil: which route · What you must prove · Defences the other side will use · Facebook and online posts

The short answer

Section 499 of the Penal Code defines defamation as making or publishing an imputation about a person, intending or knowing it will harm their reputation. Section 500 punishes it with up to two years, a fine, or both. It is a complaint-only offence: the police cannot start it on their own, and under section 198 CrPC only the person aggrieved can complain to the Magistrate.

Separately, you can sue for damages in the civil court. Many people do both: the criminal complaint for pressure and accountability, the civil suit for compensation.

Criminal or civil: which route

	Criminal complaint	Civil suit for damages
Where	Magistrate court	Civil court (by claim value)
Who files	The person defamed	The person defamed
Outcome	Imprisonment up to 2 years, fine or both	Money compensation, sometimes an injunction
Cost	Small court fee and lawyer’s fee	Court fee on the amount claimed
Time limit	File promptly	One year from publication

What you must prove

The words, picture or post were about you and identify you.
They were published to at least one other person.
They lowered your reputation in the eyes of others.

Keep evidence early: screenshots with the link, date and time, witness statements, and copies of any newspaper or flyer.

Illustration: defamatory words can be challenged in court

Defences the other side will use

Section 499 lists ten exceptions. The common ones are: a true statement made for the public good; fair comment on public conduct; a fair report of court proceedings; and an accusation made in good faith to a person with lawful authority, such as a complaint to the police or an employer. A good case anticipates these.

Facebook and online posts

The former standalone cyber-defamation offence (section 29 of the Cyber Security Act 2023) was removed in 2025. The current Cyber Protection Act 2026 does not create a general offence of online defamation. Even so, an online statement may be criminal defamation under sections 499 and 500 of the Penal Code, subject to their requirements and exceptions, and you can also sue for damages.

Separate cyber offences may apply where the conduct involves blackmail, sexual harassment or other specifically prohibited acts. Damage to reputation alone is not enough for those. For harassment, fake IDs or threats, see our cyber guide.

General information, not advice on your case. This guide explains the law and the usual practice. Your documents, your facts and your court’s practice decide what applies to you.

If you have been defamed

1

Save the evidence

Screenshots with link and time, copies, witnesses.

2

Ask for a retraction

A legal notice demanding removal and apology often works.

3

Choose the route

Criminal complaint, civil suit, or both.

4

File in time

Civil claims within one year of publication.

Do not reply with defamatory words of your own; it weakens your case.Book a Consultation

Common questions

How do I file a defamation case in Bangladesh?

File a complaint before the Magistrate under sections 499 and 500 of the Penal Code, as the person defamed, with your evidence. For money damages, file a civil suit.

What is the punishment for defamation?

Up to two years' imprisonment, a fine, or both, under section 500.

Can someone else file a defamation case for me?

Generally no. Under section 198 CrPC only the person aggrieved can complain, with limited exceptions.

Is defamation bailable?

Yes. Defamation under section 500 is bailable and can be compounded by the person defamed.

How long do I have to file?

A civil damages suit must be filed within one year of publication. File a criminal complaint promptly as well.

Can I file a case for a Facebook post?

Yes, as criminal defamation under sections 499 and 500 of the Penal Code, or by a civil suit for damages. The Cyber Protection Act 2026 has no general online defamation offence; its cyber offences apply only to specific conduct such as blackmail or sexual harassment.

Is truth a defence to defamation?

Truth alone is not enough under the Penal Code; the statement must also be for the public good. Other exceptions include fair comment and good-faith complaints.

Should I send a legal notice first?

Often yes. A notice demanding removal and an apology can end the matter and shows the court you acted reasonably.

More in Criminal, Police & Cyber

Arrest and bail, GD and FIR, false cases and cyber harassment.

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