IPC Section 272
IPC Section 272: Adulteration of food or drink intended for sale
Textual Meaning (in simple terms):
Section 272 deals with the act of adulterating food or drink, making it unfit for human consumption, when it is intended for sale.
In simpler words, if someone adds a harmful or unsuitable substance to food or drink to sell it, it falls under this section.
Essentials/Ingredients of Section 272:
Food or Drink:
The object of adulteration must be something that people eat or drink.
Adulteration:
The person must add, mix, or keep any substance in the food or drink which makes it injurious to health.
This can be poisonous, harmful, or simply unfit for consumption.
Intention to Sell:
The adulterated food or drink must be intended for sale.
If someone adulterates food for personal use only, it does not fall under Section 272.
Knowledge:
The person should know that the substance is harmful or unfit.
Ignorance may sometimes be a defense, but generally, there must be reckless or deliberate action.
Punishment under Section 272:
Imprisonment: Up to six months, or
Fine, or
Both
This shows that the law protects public health and ensures that people are not sold harmful food or drink.
Illustrations/Examples:
A sweet seller mixes non-edible chemicals in sweets to increase weight or color and sells them.
→ Punishable under Section 272.
A milkman adds water mixed with harmful chemicals to milk to sell it.
→ Punishable under Section 272.
A vendor knowingly sells spoiled fruits or contaminated juice.
→ Punishable under Section 272.
Key Points to Remember:
The section is focused on public health and preventing harm to consumers.
Only applies when the adulterated food or drink is intended for sale.
Section 272 is often read with Section 273 IPC, which deals with selling food or drink that is known to be harmful.
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