Whoever makes use of any such false mark in any manner prohibited by the last foregoing section shall, unless he proves that he acted without intent to defraud, be punished as if he had committed an offence against that section.
IPC Section 488: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 488 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with the offence of using any such false mark. Similar to the provisions outlined in Section 487, this section specifically targets individuals who use any false mark upon any receptacle containing goods. The key aspect here is the utilisation of false marks, which involves using containers or packages that bear false or misleading marks about the contents, quality, or other attributes of the goods inside.
This section aims to prevent the distribution, sale, or transport of goods in receptacles that have been misleadingly marked, thereby protecting consumers from being deceived and ensuring the integrity of product information in the market.
Is IPC Section 488 Bailable?
IPC Section 488 is bailable. This means that the accused has the right to be released on bail, usually upon furnishing a bond or surety as determined by the police or court, based on the case’s specifics.
IPC Section 488 Punishment
Under IPC Section 488, the Punishment for using any such false mark is imprisonment for a term extending to one year, a fine, or both. This penalty reflects the need to deter misleading marks on goods containers, promoting transparency and consumer protection.
Example of IPC Section 488
A real-life example of an offence under IPC Section 488 could involve a retailer knowingly selling products in containers falsely labelled to suggest a higher quality than the actual contents. For instance, a store owner might sell beverages in bottles falsely marked as containing premium imported water when the bottles contain regular tap water. If this deceptive practice is uncovered, the retailer would be prosecuted under IPC Section 488 for using containers with a false mark, addressing the deception and protecting consumer rights.
