IPC 284 vs BNS 284
● Retained in BNSNegligent act with respect to poisonous substance
Section 284 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with doing any act negligently with respect to poisonous substances so as to endanger human life or health. The provision is aimed at preventing harm due to careless handling or administration of toxic or hazardous materials.
Key points:
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Applies to negligent acts involving poisonous or harmful substances.
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Knowledge or intention to cause harm is not required; mere negligence suffices.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to ₹1,000, or both.
Example: A shopkeeper storing poisonous chemicals without proper labeling or safety measures, leading to a person getting harmed, falls under IPC 284. This law ensures responsible handling of dangerous substances to prevent accidental injuries or health hazards.
Negligent act with respect to poisonous substance
Section 284 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 284. It punishes any individual who negligently handles, stores, or administers poisonous substances in a manner that endangers human life or health.
Key points:
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Covers all acts of negligence involving toxic or poisonous materials.
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No intent to harm is required; negligence alone is sufficient.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to ₹1,000, or both (same as IPC).
Example: A restaurant owner using toxic cleaning chemicals near food preparation areas, causing customers to fall ill, would be liable under BNS 284. This ensures public safety and responsible handling of hazardous substances.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 284 to BNS BNS 284.