BNS Section 274 – Adulteration of food or drink intended for sale
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section – 272
Understanding BNS Section 274: Adulteration of Food or Drink Intended for Sale
Food safety is a critical aspect of public health, and adulterating food or drink intended for sale poses serious risks to consumers. Section 274 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) addresses this issue. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Does Section 274 Say?
Section 274 deals with the act of adulterating food or drink intended for sale, making it harmful for consumption. Here’s what the law states:
- Offense: If a person adulterates any article of food or drink, making it noxious (harmful) for consumption, with the intention to sell it or knowing it is likely to be sold as food or drink, they commit an offense.
- Punishment: The punishment for this offense can include:
- Imprisonment for up to 6 months,
- A fine of up to 5,000 rupees, or
- Both imprisonment and fine.
Key Points to Understand
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What is the Offense? | Adulterating food or drink intended for sale, making it harmful for consumption. |
| Punishment | Up to 6 months in jail, a fine of up to 5,000 rupees, or both. |
| Cognizable or Not? | Non-cognizable: Police cannot arrest without a warrant. |
| Bailable or Not? | Bailable: The accused can seek bail. |
| Court Jurisdiction | Trial can be conducted by any Magistrate. |
Why is This Law Important?
- Protects Public Health: It ensures that food and drink sold to the public are safe for consumption.
- Ensures Accountability: It holds individuals responsible for adulterating food or drink, which can cause harm to consumers.
- Maintains Consumer Trust: It helps maintain trust in the food supply chain by discouraging fraudulent practices.
Examples of Offenses Under Section 274
- Example 1: A vendor adds harmful chemicals to milk to increase its shelf life, intending to sell it to consumers.
- Example 2: A manufacturer mixes low-quality ingredients into packaged food, making it unsafe for consumption.
- Example 3: A restaurant owner uses spoiled ingredients to prepare dishes, knowing it could harm customers.
Conclusion
Section 274 of the BNS is a vital provision to ensure the safety of food and drink intended for sale. Adulterating such products is a punishable offense, as it poses serious risks to public health. Always act responsibly and prioritize the well-being of consumers.
