BNS Section 275 – Sale of noxious food or drink
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section – 273
Understanding BNS Section 275: Sale of Noxious Food or Drink
The sale of unsafe or harmful food and drink poses a significant risk to public health. Section 275 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) addresses this issue. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Does Section 275 Say?
Section 275 deals with the act of selling, offering, or exposing for sale any food or drink that is noxious (harmful) or unfit for consumption. Here’s what the law states:
- Offense: If a person sells, offers, or exposes for sale any food or drink that:
- Has been made noxious, or
- Has become noxious, or
- Is unfit for consumption,
and they know or have reason to believe that it is harmful, 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? | Selling, offering, or exposing for sale food or drink that is harmful or unfit 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 sellers responsible for knowingly selling harmful or unfit products.
- Maintains Consumer Trust: It helps maintain trust in the food supply chain by discouraging the sale of unsafe products.
Examples of Offenses Under Section 275
- Example 1: A shopkeeper sells expired packaged food, knowing it is no longer safe to eat.
- Example 2: A vendor offers spoiled fruits for sale, aware that they are unfit for consumption.
- Example 3: A restaurant serves contaminated water to customers, knowing it could cause illness.
Conclusion
Section 275 of the BNS is a vital provision to ensure the safety of food and drink sold to the public. Selling noxious or unfit products is a punishable offense, as it poses serious risks to public health. Always act responsibly and prioritize the well-being of consumers.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to a legal professional. Stay informed, stay lawful!
