Whoever, knowing any drug or medical preparation to have been adulterated in such a manner as to lessen its efficacy, to change its operation, or to render it noxious, sells the same, or offers or exposes it for sale, or issues it from any dispensary for medicinal purposes as unadulterated, or causes it to be used for medicinal purposes by any person not knowing of the adulteration, 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 275: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 275 pertains to the sale of adulterated drugs. This section is designed to protect consumers from the harmful effects of adulterated or spurious drugs. Adulteration of drugs not only reduces their efficacy but can also cause serious health risks, including adverse reactions or worsening of medical conditions. This law aims to penalise those who sell or offer for sale any drug or medical preparation that is degraded, thus ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.
Legal Provisions:
- This section applies to anyone who sells, offers or exposes any drug or medical preparation they know to be adulterated.
- The seller’s knowledge of the impurity that constitutes the offence is emphasised.
Is IPC Section 275 bailable?
Yes, IPC Section 275 is a bailable offence. This means the accused can be released on bail, subject to the court’s discretion or the police officer in charge.
IPC Section 275 Punishment
The punishment for the offence under IPC Section 275 is:
- Imprisonment of either description (rigorous or straightforward) for a term that may extend to six months.
- A fine which may extend to one thousand rupees.
- Or both imprisonment and fine.
The punishment underscores the severe nature of selling adulterated drugs, which poses significant health risks to consumers.
Example of IPC Section 275
A local pharmacy was found selling pain relief tablets that were adulterated with a harmful chemical to increase their weight and volume. Upon a routine inspection by the drug control authorities, the tablets were tested and found to be dangerous for consumption. The pharmacist was aware of the adulteration but continued to sell the tablets to unsuspecting customers. The authorities charged the pharmacist under IPC Section 275 for selling adulterated drugs. The court imposed a fine and sentenced the pharmacist to imprisonment, highlighting the importance of ensuring the safety and efficacy of medications sold to the public.
This example illustrates the practical application of IPC Section 275 in safeguarding public health from the dangers of adulterated drugs.
