Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Section 280
Making atmosphere noxious to health
Whoever voluntarily vitiates the atmosphere in any place so as to make it noxious to the health of persons in general dwelling or carrying on business in the neighbourhood or passing along a public way, shall be punished with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees.
Why this exists
Clean air in shared spaces is a basic public health concern, and this section, continuing the old IPC Section 278, addresses deliberate air pollution that harms a community's health, though it is treated as a comparatively minor offence, punishable only by a modest fine rather than imprisonment.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: This section allows for jail time like most other offences in this chapter.
Fact: This particular section only provides for a fine (up to one thousand rupees), with no imprisonment as a possible punishment.