Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 269
repealedNegligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life
Whoever unlawfully or negligently does any act which is, and which he knows or has reason to believe to be, likely to spread the infection of any disease dangerous to life, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both.
Why this exists
Public health depends on individuals not knowingly or carelessly exposing others to serious disease. This section punishes negligent conduct, such as ignoring medical advice to isolate, that risks spreading a dangerous infection, even without any intention to harm anyone. It gained renewed public attention during disease outbreaks, when authorities used it against people who broke isolation or quarantine guidance despite knowing the risk. Replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, effective 1 July 2024.