A bill has been introduced to Parliament that would allow defamation lawsuits to be filed over illustrations, photographs, or spoken words.
The government-sponsored legislation was submitted to the People’s Majlis by Villimalé MP Mohamed Ismail. The bill outlines a range of actions that could be legally classified as defamation.
Under the proposed law, defamation claims could arise from spoken statements, photographs, or drawings. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that lawsuits could be initiated over the use of effigies, films, or theatrical performances that depict a specific individual.
The legislation also extends to non-verbal communication, stating that defamation charges could be brought if a person’s gestures or physical actions imply or convey a defamatory meaning against another party.
According to the bill, a defamation lawsuit can only be pursued if the actions in question are proven to be false and lack any factual basis.
The bill classifies defamation as a civil offence. If a claim is proven in court, the presiding judge may award damages ranging from MVR 50,000 to MVR 500,000.
The bill also defines specific individuals and circumstances that are exempt from defamation claims. For instance, members of Parliament cannot be sued for statements made during parliamentary sessions or committee meetings. Additionally, the bill protects those who report on such privileged proceedings from facing defamation charges.
