Defamation: publications harming reputation may be penalised; truth and good faith public interest exceptions apply for publishers and distributors The provision defines defamation as imputations published with intent or knowledge likely to harm reputation, including imputations about the deceased, companies, or ironic expressions, and measures harm by lowered moral, intellectual, professional, caste or credit standing. Ten exceptions limit liability: truth for the public good; good faith opinion on public servants or public questions; fair court reporting; opinions on decided cases and works submitted to public judgment; lawful authority to censure; good faith accusations to competent authorities; protection of interests; and good faith cautions. Penal sanctions attach to authors, printers and sellers of defamatory matter.