Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 469
repealedForgery for purpose of harming reputation
Whoever commits forgery, intending that the document or electronic record forged shall harm the reputation of any party, or knowing that it is likely to be used for that purpose, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Why this exists
Reputation was recognised as a distinct interest worth protecting even in the original 1860 Indian Penal Code, alongside property and physical safety. This section addresses forgery aimed specifically at defaming someone -- for example, a fake letter or document designed to make a person look dishonest, immoral, or criminal in the eyes of others. The IPC was repealed on 1 July 2024 and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which now governs these offences.