High Court of Karnataka · Bengaluru
Defamation suits, free speech advocacy, press freedom matters, and reputation management for individuals, businesses, and media organisations.
Overview
Media law sits at the intersection of constitutional rights and personal reputation. Advocate Pallavi Srivastava advises and represents clients in defamation cases, content takedown disputes, press freedom matters, and online reputation issues — both in court and through strategic legal notices.
With experience in both civil and criminal defamation proceedings, Advocate Pallavi understands the nuances of free speech law in India and helps clients achieve the right balance between protecting their reputation and respecting legitimate public interest expression.
Get Legal Advice →What We Handle
Filing suits for damages and injunctions against defamatory publications in print, broadcast, or online media under the law of torts.
Advising on and filing criminal defamation complaints under Section 356 BNS (formerly Section 499/500 IPC) in appropriate cases.
Representing journalists, publishers, and individuals accused of defamation, including asserting defences of truth, fair comment, and privilege.
Obtaining court orders and intermediary notices for removal of defamatory, privacy-violating, or illegal content from websites and social media platforms.
Challenging government censorship orders and advocating for journalistic freedom under Articles 19(1)(a) and 19(2) of the Constitution.
Legal strategy for individuals and businesses facing reputation attacks through online reviews, social media posts, or coordinated campaigns.
FAQ
Civil defamation is a tort where you sue for damages and injunction. Criminal defamation under the BNS is a criminal complaint where the accused can face imprisonment. Both can be pursued simultaneously. Advocate Pallavi advises on which route best suits your situation.
Yes. Defamatory posts on social media are actionable in India. You can file a civil suit for damages, a criminal complaint, and also seek takedown orders from the platform. Courts have granted injunctions against social media defamation.
The main defences are: truth (justification), fair comment on matters of public interest, qualified privilege (e.g., parliamentary proceedings), and absolute privilege. Advocate Pallavi assesses the strength of each defence before advising on strategy.
In urgent cases, courts can grant ex-parte interim injunctions within days of filing. Additionally, platforms can be sent legal notices under IT Rules requiring takedown within 36 hours for some categories of content.
Get in Touch
Send an enquiry and Advocate Pallavi will respond within one business day
Chambers
High Court of Karnataka
Bengaluru 560001
Hours
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
All enquiries are treated with complete confidentiality. Consultations available in-person or via video call.
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