IPC Section 284: Negligent conduct with respect to poisonous substance

Whoever does, with any poisonous substance, any act in a manner so rash or negligent as to endanger human life, or to be likely to cause hurt or injury to any person, or knowingly or negligently omits to take such order with any poisonous substance in his possession as is sufficient to guard against probable danger to human life from such poisonous substance, 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 284: Simplified Explanation 

IPC Section 284 deals with offences related to the negligent conduct with respect to poisonous substances. This section aims to prevent harm caused by the improper handling, storage, or disposal of toxic substances, ensuring that individuals who are responsible for such materials take appropriate precautions to avoid endangering human life or causing injury.  

Is IPC Section 284 bailable? 

Yes, IPC Section 284 is a bailable offence. In the Indian legal system, bailable offences are those for which the accused can obtain bail as a matter of right. This means that if a person is charged under Section 284, they can apply for bail and are likely to be granted it by the court. 

IPC Section 284 Punishment 

The punishment for an offence under IPC Section 284 includes: 

  • Imprisonment: The offender can be sentenced to imprisonment of either description (rigorous or straightforward) for a term that may extend to six months. 
  • Fine: The offender may be fined an amount which may extend to one thousand rupees. 
  • Both: In some cases, the court may decide to impose both imprisonment and a fine on the offender. 

Example of IPC Section 284 

A chemical factory worker is responsible for handling a highly toxic substance used in the manufacturing process. Instead of storing the substance in a secure and designated area, he leaves it in an unmarked container in a standard storage room. Another worker, unaware of the substance’s toxic nature, handles it without proper protective gear and suffers severe injuries. The negligent worker is charged under IPC Section 284 for rashly and negligently handling the poisonous substance in a manner that endangered human life and caused injury. The court, considering the severity of the negligence and the harm caused, sentences him to three months of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of 700 rupees.

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