Whoever adulterates any article of food or drink, so as to make such article noxious as food or drink, intending to sell such article as food or drink, or knowing it to be likely that the same will be sold as food or drink, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
IPC Section 272: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 272 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) addresses the offence of adulterating food or drink items intended for sale. Adulteration involves mixing or contaminating food or drink with harmful substances, reducing quality, safety, or efficacy. The primary elements of this section are:
- Adulteration: Altering the food or drink by adding harmful substances.
- Intended for Sale: The contaminated food or beverages must be designed for sale to consumers.
- Knowledge: The individual must know that the adulteration makes the food or drink harmful to health.
This section aims to protect public health by penalising and penalising those who compromise the safety and quality of consumable goods.
Is IPC Section 272 bailable?
Yes, IPC Section 272 is a bailable offence. This means that 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 272 Punishment
The punishment for committing an offence under IPC Section 272 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 up to one thousand rupees.
- Imprisonment and Fine: The court may impose both imprisonment and a fine, depending on the severity and circumstances of the offence.
This penalty aims to deter individuals from engaging in the harmful practice of adulterating consumable goods, thereby ensuring public health and safety.
Example of IPC Section 272
A dairy owner mixes water with milk before selling it to increase profits. Furthermore, to maintain the milk’s appearance, the owner adds a harmful chemical preservative known to cause health issues. Customers who consume this adulterated milk fall ill and report the matter to health authorities.
In this scenario, the dairy owner’s act of degrading the milk intended for sale with harmful substances constitutes an offence under IPC Section 272. The authorities can charge the owner, leading to potential imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to one thousand rupees, or both, depending on the court’s decision.
