What is Section 274 IPC? Adulteration of drugs
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 274 IPC: Adulteration of drugs
Official Legal Text
Whoever adulterates any drug or medical preparation in such a manner as to lessen the efficacy or change the operation of such drug or medical preparation, or to make it noxious, intending that it shall be sold or used for, or knowing that it will be sold or used for, any medicinal purpose as if it had not undergone such adulteration,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 274 punishes anyone who adulterates drugs, making them less effective or harmful to health.
Purpose
To protect public health by ensuring that drugs are safe, effective, and free from harmful adulteration.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
1. The person must adulterate a drug. 2. The adulteration must reduce the quality, strength, or purity of the drug. 3. The adulteration must make the drug harmful to health.
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 adulteration.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on whether the drug was adulterated and whether it posed a risk to health.
Illustration
If a manufacturer adds harmful chemicals to a medicinal syrup, making it dangerous for patients, they can be punished under Section 274.
FAQs
What does Section 274 IPC define?
Adulteration of drugs.
When is Section 274 IPC applicable?
It applies to offences like adulteration of drugs, fraud, negligence, or disruption of public safety.
Why is Section 274 IPC important?
It ensures accountability and prevents fraudulent, negligent, or dangerous activities.
Give an example involving Section 274 IPC.
Examples include counterfeit government stamps, adulterated food, negligent public danger acts, etc.
What is the punishment under Section 274 IPC?
Punishment may include imprisonment, fine, or both depending on the gravity of the act.
How do courts deal with Section 274 IPC violations?
Courts view these violations seriously to maintain public trust, health, and law and order.
How can offences under Section 274 IPC be prevented?
Awareness, regulatory compliance, and strict law enforcement can prevent such offences.