IPC Section 277
IPC Section 277: Fouling water of a public spring or reservoir
Text (in simple terms):
“Whoever knowingly contaminates or fouls any water used for drinking, washing, irrigation, or any public purpose, so as to make it less fit for use, shall be punished under this section.”
Explanation:
Nature of Offense:
This section is aimed at protecting public health and hygiene.
It deals with intentional contamination of water that is meant for public use.
Ingredients of the Offense:
To constitute an offense under Section 277, the following elements must be present:
Action: The person must foul or contaminate water.
Knowledge/Intent: The person must know that their act contaminates the water or makes it less fit for use.
Public Use: The water must be used by the public or community, such as a public well, tank, or reservoir.
Result: The contamination should make the water less fit for drinking, washing, or irrigation.
Punishment:
The offender can be punished with imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine, or both.
The punishment depends on the severity and consequences of the contamination.
Key Points:
The act must be voluntary and intentional, not accidental.
Even if no one actually gets sick, the act itself is punishable because it affects public utility.
This section protects public resources, especially water, which is essential for life.
Example:
A person throws garbage or chemicals into a village pond used for drinking and washing.
Even if no one drinks the water immediately, he can be punished under Section 277 because he fouled water meant for public use.
RELATED Blog
0 comments