What is Section 273 IPC? Sale of noxious food or drink
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 273 IPC: Sale of noxious food or drink
Official Legal Text
Whoever sells, or offers or exposes for sale, as food or drink, any article which has been rendered or has become noxious, or is in a state unfit for food or drink, knowing or having reason to believe that the same is noxious and unfit, 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.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 273 punishes anyone who sells or offers for sale any food or drink that is harmful, dangerous, or noxious to health.
Purpose
To protect public health by preventing the sale of harmful or dangerous food and beverages.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
1. The person must sell or offer for sale food or drink. 2. The food or drink must be noxious, harmful, or dangerous to health. 3. The person must know that the food or drink is harmful.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both.
Legal Defenses
If the person can prove they were unaware of the harmful nature of the food or drink.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on whether the food or drink was harmful and whether the seller knew about its dangerous nature.
Illustration
If a shopkeeper sells spoiled meat to customers, they can be punished under Section 273.
FAQs
What does Section 273 IPC define?
Sale of noxious food or drink.
When is Section 273 IPC applicable?
It applies to offences like sale of noxious food or drink, fraud, negligence, or disruption of public safety.
Why is Section 273 IPC important?
It ensures accountability and prevents fraudulent, negligent, or dangerous activities.
Give an example involving Section 273 IPC.
Examples include counterfeit government stamps, adulterated food, negligent public danger acts, etc.
What is the punishment under Section 273 IPC?
Punishment may include imprisonment, fine, or both depending on the gravity of the act.
How do courts deal with Section 273 IPC violations?
Courts view these violations seriously to maintain public trust, health, and law and order.
How can offences under Section 273 IPC be prevented?
Awareness, regulatory compliance, and strict law enforcement can prevent such offences.