Question

Principle: Any person who publishes false statements that result in significant financial losses to a business shall be guilty of an offense.
Facts: Jatin publishes a news article claiming that a popular restaurant has been serving unsafe food. Jatin sincerely believes this to be true. The restaurant suffers significant financial losses as a result. However, it is later revealed that the statements in Jatin’s article were false.
Has Jatin committed an offence?

• A. Yes, because he published false statements that caused financial losses, and his intention or knowledge is immaterial
• B. No, because he was unaware of the consequences
• C. Yes, if it can be proven that his false statements directly led to financial losses
• D. There is insufficient information to decide

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Yes, because he published false statements that caused financial losses, and his intention or knowledge is immaterial

Answer 2

The principle makes it clear that the focus is on the publication of false statements leading to financial losses, regardless of the individual’s intention or knowledge. Therefore, Jatin has committed an offense.