BNS Section 276
What is the punishment for adulterating a drug intended for sale?
Short answer
Adulterating a drug can lead to up to one year imprisonment, a fine up to ₹5,000, or both.
In detail
Section 276 makes it a crime to tamper with any drug or medical preparation in a way that reduces its effectiveness, changes how it works, or makes it harmful, when the person does this knowing or intending that the product will be sold or used for medical purposes as if it were unchanged. The law covers any substance meant for treatment, whether it is a medicine, vaccine, or other health product. If someone carries out such adulteration, the court can impose a prison term of up to one year, levy a fine that can reach five thousand rupees, or order both imprisonment and a fine. The punishment applies regardless of whether the adulterated product actually reaches patients, as long as the offender had the intention or knowledge that it would be used medicinally. This provision aims to protect public health by deterring the production and distribution of unsafe or ineffective medicines.
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People also ask
- What actions are considered drug adulteration under this law?
- Is there a higher penalty for repeat drug adulteration offenses?
Not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts — speak to a lawyer about your situation.