Central Govt Invites Comments On Proposal To Decriminalize Minor Offences Under Legal Metrology Act By August 12

The Central Government proposes to decriminalize 'minor offences' under the Act and to substitute criminal liability with stiff compoundable monetary penalties of a civil nature that can act as "adequate deterrent" without compromising public interest.

In view thereof, the Government has invited all the stakeholders, including the State Governments/ UT Administrations, Civil Societies/ NGOs, Academicians, Public and Private Sector Organizations, Multilateral Institutions and members of the public, to submit their comments on the proposed amendments.

The consultation process will close on August 12, 2020.

The Government proposes to decriminalize offences under Sections 25-39, 41-43, 45-47, 49, 52-53, 56A.

Most of these provisions stipulate incarceration for conviction of repeat offenders. However, the Government proposes to substitute criminal punishment with stringent penalties, ranging between 1 lakh to 10 lakh.

Comments/ suggestions may be submitted to the Ministry at the following address: Joint Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi- 110001, upto August 12, 2020.

The comments may also be emailed at: js.ca@nic.in

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