Question

Principle : Defamation is the publication of a statement which tends to lower reputation of a person in the estimation of other members of the society generally.
Facts : 'A' writes a highly offensive and derogatory letter about 'B', and sends it directly to 'B' in a sealed cover.

• A. 'A' is liable to 'B' for defamation, as the letter is highly offensive and derogatory and is directly sent to 'B'.
• B. 'A' is liable to 'B' for defamation, as the letter is highly offensive and derogatory.
• C. 'A' is liable to 'B' for defamation, as it has hurt his ('B's) self-esteem.
• D. 'A' is liable to 'B' for defamation, since there is no publication to any other person in whose estimation the reputation of 'B' could be brought down.

Answer 1

The correct option is D 'A' is liable to 'B' for defamation, since there is no publication to any other person in whose estimation the reputation of 'B' could be brought down.

There are three essential conditions of defamation
1. The words must be defamatory & false
2. The said words must refer to the plaintiff
3. The words must be published.
The reasonable conclusion drawn that A is not liable for defamation, because there is no publication to any other person in whose estimation reputation is brought down.