Shri Nath 03 April 2020

Leaving home during lockdown to buy groceries

I am resident of Chennai and left home to buy daily supplies and vegetables on 1st April. However, while returning back, Police put barricades on the road and caught hold of more than 100 people seeking information about address, age, vehicle and phone number, identity etc. Further my identity card was seized along with many others and we were asked to collect the same from near by Police Station. On going to collect the Id card the next day, I was informed that some case will be charged against us and summon shall be sent from Court. In this regard, I seek solution regarding the following matters: 1. I had the bill of groceries that I purchased which has time stamp on it and I tried to convey them that I left home to buy daily supplies only which is permitted during morning 6 am to 2.30 pm. 2. I was alone (not accompanied by anyone else from family) and was wearing proper N95 mask. 3. I did not resist or tried to obstruct any actions of Police personnel. So, what could be the matter for charging case against me and what could be the remedy if such summon is received? Also, can the grocery bill be sufficient to prove that I went out only to buy daily supplies and can or shall there be any other requirement to prove my purpose. Quick reply in this regard shall be highly appreciated.

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1 Replies

Aruanbh Rajan 03 April 2020

Dear Shri Nath

Sit back and relax, the present situation is such that even the police officers are under tremendous pressure to maintain the situation and have to submit periodic reports regarding the lockdown

The possibility is that you might be booked under section 270 of the IPC that prescribes punishment for a malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life wherein imprisonment of two years or fine or both is mentioned.

Though section 144 of the Crpc is not maintainable against you since you went alone.

Things in your favour

During the lockdown, only essential services will be allowed which makes it pertinent to look into the essential The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 which was enacted to ensure the easy availability of essential commodities to consumers and recently the government has put masks and sanitisers under the act along with other food products therefore you must keep the bill with you which might help you during the reply to the summon which has to filed within 30 days from the date of service of summon which in my opinion is sufficient in your case

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/masks-sanitisers-put-under-essential-commodities-act/article31062832.ece#

3. https://www.lawyersclubindia.com/forum/Family-violence-208930.asp