Law is a vast subject, with new changes almost every day, making it nearly impossible for the general public to keep up with it. Being unaware of the law regarding every small thing, people end up breaking many laws daily without even knowing it.
10 Laws you break every day in India
Here are 10 Laws you break every day in India without knowing them.
Playing Loud Music
Playing loud music in India is not illegal as long as it does not exceed the permissible noise levels and does not disturb the peace and tranquillity of the neighbourhood. However, The Supreme Court has banned loud music playing between 10 pm and 6 am without permission from the authorities.
The permissible noise level for loud music depends on the area and the time of the day. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has laid down the permissible noise levels in India for different areas. In industrial areas, the permissible limit is 75 dB for daytime and 70 dB at night. In commercial areas, it is 65 dB and 55 dB, while in residential areas, it is 55 dB and 45 dB during daytime and night, respectively.
According to the Environment Protection Act, 1986, playing loud music that causes significant harm to the environment and surroundings can be punished with jail time up to 5 years and/or a fine up to Rs. 1 Lakh (Section 15).
A public nuisance is also punishable under Section 290 of the Indian Penal Code with a fine of up to Rs. 200.
Downloading images/videos/music from the internet
Downloading images, videos, music, or anything copyrighted without permission violates the Copyright Act of 1957 and results in fines or jail time.
Downloading videos from YouTube or other sites may also be illegal if copyrighted.
The penalty for violating copyright is imprisonment for a minimum of 6 months and a penalty charge of 50,000/-; both punishments will be doubled if the violation is repeated.
Using non-prescribed medication
In India, there is no defined list of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that can be bought without a prescription. However, some categories of drugs are classified as Schedule H (Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945) and require a prescription from a qualified doctor. These include antibiotics, steroids, hormones, narcotics, and psychotropic substances.
Using non-prescribed medication in India can be risky and illegal, especially if the drug falls under Schedule H or is banned in the country. It can also lead to health problems such as resistance, side effects, overdose, or interactions with other drugs.
The punishment for this offence, covered under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940, varies greatly depending on the type of medication.
Parking in no parking area
Parking in a parking area in India is a traffic offence that can attract fines and vehicle towing. The penalty amount depends on the city and the type of vehicle, but it can range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 15,000 under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Parking in a no-parking area can also obstruct emergency vehicles, pedestrians, and other road users.
Using plastic bag
Using plastic bags in India is subject to different rules and regulations depending on the type of plastic, the state, and the city. In general, single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery, packaging films, and cigarette packets have been banned nationwide since July 1, 2022.
However, some states and cities may have exemptions or restrictions for other types of plastic bags or items. Therefore, it is advisable to check the local laws before using any plastic bag in India.
Connecting to Wi-Fi without permission
Connecting to Wi-Fi without permission in India may be considered illegal or unethical, depending on the circumstances. According to the Information Technology Act 2000, accessing or using any computer resource without the owner's permission is a punishable offence.
More than 1 pillion rider
A pillion rider is a person who sits behind the main rider on a two-wheeler. The rules under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 provide for only 1 pillion rider on a motorcycle. The fine for seating more than 1 pillion riders is 100 rupees, and the license can be cancelled for up to 3 months under the Act.
Flying Kite
Flying Kites in India is illegal without a permit. According to the Indian Aircraft Act of 1934, amended in 2008, you need a permit to fly an aircraft. The Act classifies a kite as an aircraft and hence the requirement of a permit to fly a kite.
If you fly a kite without a permit, you may face imprisonment for 2 years, pay a fine of 10,00,000 rupees, or both.
Littering
Littering is illegal in India under Section 278 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Environment Protection Act, 1986. A person found littering a public place in India can be fined up to ₹500.
Jaywalking
Jaywalking is not explicitly included as an offence in Indian law, but it is covered under the broader term ‘obstruction of traffic' in state and metropolitan laws.
Pedestrians can be booked for obstructing traffic under Section 283 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 201 of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the maximum punishment under Indian Law?
A1. Punishments to which an accused can be liable are provided under Section 53 of the Indian Penal Code 1860. The Maximum punishment under Indian Law is 'Death punishment,' but it is awarded in only the "rarest of rare cases."
Q2. What is the minimum punishment under Indian Law?
A2. Punishments to which an accused can be liable are provided under Section 53 of the Indian Penal Code 1860. The Minimum punishment under Indian Law is that of a 'Fine,' the amount of which varies depending on the offence and its severity.
Q3. What is the fine for not wearing a helmet?
A3. Rs 1,000/- fine and the suspension or seizure of driver's license for three months is provided for not wearing a protective headgear (Helmet) while driving or riding a two-wheeler. The punishment is provided under Section 194D of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Q4. What is the fine for not wearing a seatbelt?
A4. Rs 1,000/- fine is provided for not wearing a seatbelt. The fine is still chargeable to the driver if the passenger is not wearing a seatbelt. This fine is provided under Section 194B of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Q5. Can a person go to jail for violating traffic rules?
A5. Yes, a person can go to jail for violating traffic rules. Some examples include driving under the influence of alcohol, dangerous driving, etc.
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