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Section 273: Knowingly Disobeying Quarantine Rule

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita • Chapter XV: Of Offences Affecting Public Health, Safety & Morals • Official Statutory Text & Legal Guide

Chapter XV: Of Offences Affecting Public Health, Safety & Morals
Any Magistrate
Bailable
Non-Cognizable
Formerly Sec 271 IPC
Section 272 All 358 Sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 274

Legal Commentary & Landmark Judgments: Section 273

Section 273 punishes knowingly disobeying any rule made and promulgated by the Government for putting any vessel into a state of quarantine, or for regulating intercourse of vessels or persons in quarantine.

  • Promulgated Quarantine Rule: A formal quarantine order or regulation issued by competent government authority.
  • Knowledge of Regulation: The accused knows of the quarantine restriction.
  • Disobedience: Breaking quarantine boundaries, evading screening, or escaping isolation centers.
Key Landmark Precedents:
  • In Re: Distribution of Essential Supplies and Health Services during Pandemic (2021) 6 SCC 771: The Supreme Court emphasised that strict observance of isolation rules during health emergencies is legally binding on all citizens.
  • State of Gujarat v. Kansara Manilal Bhikhalal AIR 1964 SC 1893: Reaffirmed the validity of public health emergency regulations promulgated for public safety.
Courtroom Practice & Strategic Litigation Guidance:

Check whether the quarantine order was officially notified in the Government Gazette or through statutory emergency notifications under the Epidemic Diseases Act.

Section 272 All 358 Sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 274