The Law Commission of India, in its Report No. 264, has recommended life imprisonment for those convicted of manufacturing and selling adulterated food.
“After detailed discussions, the Commission felt that the punishment provided for is too inadequate in the present scenario. Therefore, the Commission is of the view that there must be more stringent punishment in offences relating to adulteration of food, which is a threat to human life. The Commission feels that the punishment must be seen in the light of the harm caused to the consumer by consuming adultered food items and drinks”.
The Commission has adopted the principle of proportionality to grade the injury caused due to consumption of adultered food products, and recommends different jail terms and fines accordingly.
As per the recommendations, while non grievous injury may attract jail term of one year and a fine of Rs 3 lakh, a grievous injury may lead to a jail term of 6 years and a fine of Rs 5 lakh. In case of death of a person after consuming adulterated food items, the panel has recommended life imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10 lakh.
In addition, the Commission has also proposed compensation for victims of food adulteration.
