Section 273 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
Section 273 of the Bharatiya Nyāya Saṃhitā (BNS), 2023:
🦠 Section 273 – Disobedience to Quarantine Rule
📜 Statutory Text (Summarized):
Whoever knowingly disobeys any government rule regarding:
Placing any mode of transport (e.g., vehicles, trains, ships) into quarantine,
Regulating movement of such transport while quarantined, or
Managing movement between places affected by infectious diseases and other areas,
shall be punished with imprisonment up to six months, or fine, or both.
(sudhirrao.com, lawx.in)
🔍 Key Highlights
Scope & Applicability:
Applies to any individual (or entity) aware of legally binding quarantine rules.
Particularly relevant for transport operators, carriers, logistics services, and port/terminal authorities.
Requires knowledge of the rules and intentional violation.
Chapter Context:
Falls under Chapter XV – Offences affecting Public Health, Safety, Convenience, Decency, and Morals, aligning with public safety and epidemic-control measures.
(lawx.in, sudhirrao.com)
Penalty:
Up to 6 months’ imprisonment, or a fine, or both.
⚖️ Comparison with IPC
Reflects and formalizes public health measures historically found under IPC Section 271 (quarantine disobedience).
The BNS version retains core intent but likely modernizes definitions and integrates it within a dedicated chapter.
🧭 Practical Insights
Ensures accountability during health crises: anyone violating transport or travel restrictions may face criminal consequences.
Especially significant during epidemics/pandemics—covers both intentional violations and systemic lapses.
Supports enforcement by local health officers and agencies—non-compliance can lead to legal action quickly.
✅ Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Actus Reus | Knowingly disobeying gov’t quarantine rules |
| Mens Rea | Awareness and intentional violation |
| Punishment | ≤ 6 months’ jail and/or fine |
| Purpose | Safeguard public health via legal compliance |
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