BHULLAN RAM Vs. STATE OF U T , CHANDIGARH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This is an appeal directed by the accused convict against the judgment and order dated 7.2.2001 passed by Sh. Lakhbir Singh, Special Judge, Chandigarh, vide which the accused has been convicted under Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 (hereinafter to be referred to as 'the Act') and sentenced to undergo rigorous imprisonment for a period of one year and to pay a fine of Rs. 1,000/- and in default of payment of fine to further undergo rigorous imprisonment for a period of two months.

(2.) Sho Police Station Manimajra, Chandigarh, has sent accused Bhullan Ram to stand trial under Section 7 of the Act, for having been found in possession of 180 liters of kerosene oil meant for Public Distribution System without any licence or permit.

(3.) The case of the prosecution, in brief is that on 28.2.1997 Amar Nath, Inspector Food and Supplies, alongwith P.K. Dhawan and Mangal Singh, Inspectors Food and Supplies went to Motor Market, U.T., Chandigarh, in connection with illegal sale of Public Distribution System Kerosene (Blue dyed). They found that accused was keeping about 200 litres kerosene (Public Distribution System Blue dyed) in front of booth No. 143 for sale without holding any valid licence issued by the Food and Supplies Department, Chandigarh. On enquiry by Amar Nath the accused told that he has purchased commodity from one Billu @ Madan Lal, proprietor M/s Karam Chand Madan Lal, Depot Holder, Indira Colony, Manimajra for Rs. 1,300/- and he has already paid Rs. 1,200/- for the commodity.