Whoever with intent to affect the result of an election makes or publishes any statement purporting to be a statement of fact which is false and which he either knows or believes to be false or does not believe to be true, in relation to the personal character or conduct of any candidate shall be punished with fine.

Classification of Offence as per Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)

• Punishment:
  • Fine.
• Non-cognizable
• Bailable
• Triable by Magistrate of the first class.