IPC Section 274 — Adulteration of drugs

offences affecting the public health, safety, convenience, decency and morals

Criminal

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to ₹1,000, or both

As the section puts it: “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”

Summary

If a person mixes something into a drug or medicine in a way that makes it less effective, changes how it works, or makes it harmful, and they do this knowing or intending that the drug will be sold or used for medical treatment as if it were still pure, that person can be punished. The punishment can be imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to one thousand rupees, or both.

Official 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 it to be likely that it will be sold or used for, any medicinal purpose, as 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.

Referred to by

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