Whoever unlawfully or negligently does any act which is, and which he knows or has reason to believe to be, likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both.
IPC Section 269: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 269 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) pertains to acts of negligence likely to spread infection or diseases dangerous to life. This section is designed to penalise those who, through their negligent actions, endanger public health by spreading infectious diseases. The critical elements of this section include:
- Act of Negligence: The individual must commit a negligent act or omission.
- Knowledge or Reason to Believe: The person must have knowledge or a reasonable belief that their actions could spread an infectious disease.
- Dangerous to Life: The disease in question must be hazardous to life, posing a severe health risk to the public.
Examples of actions that might fall under this section include:
- Not following quarantine protocols.
- Handling contaminated objects without proper precautions.
- Knowingly mingling with the public when infected with a contagious disease.
Is IPC Section 269 bailable?
Yes, IPC Section 269 is a bailable offence. A bailable offence allows the accused to be released on bail as a matter of right. When arrested, the accused can apply for bail directly to the police officer in charge of the police station or to the court.
IPC Section 269 Punishment
The punishment for committing an offence under IPC Section 269 includes:
- Imprisonment: The individual can be punished with imprisonment of either description (simple or rigorous) for a term extending to six months.
- Fine: Additionally, the individual can be fined.
- Imprisonment and Fine: Depending on the severity and circumstances of the offence, the court may also impose both imprisonment and a fine.
The objective is to penalise negligent behaviour that endangers public health and deters individuals from irresponsible actions.
Example of IPC Section 269
During the COVID-19 pandemic, an individual tested positive for the virus was instructed to remain in home quarantine. Despite knowing the risks, the person ignored these instructions and attended a large public gathering. As a result, several attendees contracted the virus.
In this case, the individual’s attendance at the gathering despite knowing they were infected constitutes a negligent act likely to spread an infection dangerous to life. Depending on the court’s decision, authorities could charge the individual under IPC Section 269, leading to potential imprisonment, a fine, or both.
