Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 282
repealedConveying person by water for hire in unsafe or overloaded vessel
Whoever knowingly or negligently conveys, or causes to be conveyed for hire, any person by water in any vessel, when that vessel is in such a state or so loaded as to endanger the life of that person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
Why this exists
Ferry and boat accidents from overloading have historically caused mass casualties in India, especially during festivals and religious gatherings. This section holds boat operators criminally responsible for knowingly risking passenger lives for profit. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, this offence continues under a renumbered section.