ISSUE:
Whether a servant can be held liable under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, for selling adulterated food on behalf of an employer without proof of mens rea?
Whether the minimum prescribed punishment for a second offence can be reduced based on special and adequate reasons?
Whether a servant is exempt from liability under the Act due to lack of personal benefit or knowledge of adulteration?
RULE:
Section 7 of the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act prohibits any person (employer or servant) from selling adulterated food.
Section 16(1) of the Act prescribes penalties for violations of Section 7, regardless of knowledge or intent.
The Act's prohibition applies to all individuals involved in the sale of adulterated food to protect public health.