CrPC Section 153: Inspection of Weights and Measures – Legal Guide

1. State the Code

Section 153 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) deals with the power of a police officer to inspect weights and measures.

2. Explain it

Section 153 empowers a police officer, not below the rank of a Sub-Inspector, to inspect any weights and measures used in any trade or business within his jurisdiction. This power is granted to ensure fair trade practices and prevent cheating of consumers.

The police officer has the authority to:

• Seize any weights and measures that are found to be inaccurate or defective.
• Take possession of any weights and measures that are used in contravention of any law relating to weights and measures.
• If necessary, arrest the person who is in possession of such weights and measures.

3. Illustrate it

Imagine a vegetable vendor is using a faulty weighing scale that shows a higher weight than the actual weight, thereby charging customers more. A police officer, upon noticing this, can use the powers granted under Section 153 to seize the faulty scale and take appropriate action against the vendor.

4. Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can any police officer inspect weights and measures?

A: No, only a police officer not below the rank of Sub-Inspector is authorized under Section 153.

Q: What happens if a person refuses to allow inspection?

A: Refusal to allow inspection can be considered an offense under the relevant law relating to weights and measures.

Q: What if the weights and measures are found to be accurate?

A: If the inspection reveals that the weights and measures are accurate, they will be returned to the owner.