Whoever malignantly 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 two years, or with fine, or with both.
IPC Section 270: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 270 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with malignant acts that are likely to spread infections or diseases that are dangerous to life. This section is an aggravated form of Section 269, targeting those intentionally engaging in harmful actions that endanger public health. The key elements include:
Malignant Intent: The individual must act with malicious intent.
Act or Omission: The person must engage in an act or omission likely to spread infection.
Dangerous to Life: The infectious disease must seriously threaten life.
This section is invoked when a person, with malicious intent, engages in behaviour that knowingly puts others at risk of contracting a dangerous disease.
Is IPC Section 270 bailable?
Yes, IPC Section 270 is a bailable offence. This means the accused has the right to be released on bail. 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 270 Punishment
The punishment for committing an offence under IPC Section 270 includes:
Imprisonment: The individual can be punished with imprisonment of either description (simple or rigorous) for a term extending to two years.
Fine: Additionally, the individual can be fined.
Imprisonment and Fine: The court may impose both imprisonment and a fine, depending on the severity and circumstances of the offence.
This harsher penalty reflects the seriousness of acting with malignant intent to endanger public health.
Example of IPC Section 270
During an outbreak of a highly contagious and dangerous virus, a person aware of their infection deliberately coughs and sneezes in crowded public places, intending to spread the virus. They also refuse to follow quarantine measures and engage in behaviour that infects others.
In this scenario, the individual’s deliberate and malicious actions to spread the infection constitute a malignant act likely to spread a disease dangerous to life. Depending on the court’s decision, authorities can charge the person under IPC Section 270, leading to potential imprisonment of up to two years, court’s, or both.
