🏠 Mumbai Society Secretary Booked for Defamatory Remarks

A housing society in Thakur Village, Kandivali, has come under the spotlight after its secretary was booked for making defamatory and objectionable remarks about a resident’s wife in an official email. The case has raised serious questions about how digital communication is managed within housing societies.

⚖️ The Case

According to reports, a 41-year-old financial consultant raised concerns during a society meeting. Following this, the society secretary allegedly sent an email to the managing committee and residents, containing remarks targeting the resident’s wife. The email, shared with multiple members, soon spread further across online groups.

The complainant then approached the Samta Nagar Police Station, leading to an FIR being registered under sections related to defamation, insulting the modesty of a woman, and electronic communication misuse under the IT Act.

🚔 Police & Legal Stand

Officials have clarified that digital communication on society platforms — including emails, WhatsApp groups, or circulars — are not exempt from law.

If such communication contains defamatory or personal remarks, it can amount to a criminal offence. The police have also reminded housing committees to ensure transparency and professionalism while handling internal disputes.

💡 What This Means for Housing Societies

This incident serves as a wake-up call for all cooperative housing societies. Internal disagreements should be handled through proper channels — not through public messages or defaming remarks.

The growing use of digital platforms for communication requires committees to adopt ethical online behavior and safeguard residents’ privacy.

🧭 Society Consultant’s Guidance

To avoid similar conflicts, here are some essential guidelines for societies:

1. Maintain professionalism in all digital communication.
2. Avoid personal or defamatory statements about any member.
3. Create a digital code of conduct approved by the managing committee.
4. Train members on cyber safety and responsible communication.
5. Ensure all internal disputes are handled through official resolutions, not informal chats.
6. Designate a moderator for WhatsApp or email groups.
7. Take legal advice before circulating sensitive information.

📰 Source & Reference

Reported by: PTI | Mid-Day

📅 Date:  14 October,2025 

https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-crime-news/article/mumbai-housing-society-secretary-booked-for-defamatory-comments-on-residents-wife-23598625?button=next#google_vignette