Fines and prison terms related 68 offences increased

The government has decided to increase fines and prison terms for 68 offences listed under the Penal Code.

Accordingly, the Rs. 100 fine that had earlier been imposed for some offences has been increased to above Rs. 1000.

Cabinet has approved a draft amendment submitted by Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe to increase fines and prison terms for these offences. The amended fines and prison terms will not apply to offences committed prior to the regulations coming into effect.

As per existing regulations, only six months imprisonment or a fine of Rs. 100 can be imposed on a person found guilty of driving a vehicle or riding an animal recklessly in a manner that endangers lives and property. The new amendments will introduce a three tier system of punishments for this offence.

Accordingly, a fine not less than Rs. 25, 000 and not exceeding Rs. 50, 000 will be imposed for the first offence. For a second offence, a fine not less than Rs. 30, 000 and not exceeding Rs. 75, 000 may be imposed, while the offender’s driver’s license will be suspended. For the third offence, a fine not less than Rs. 75, 000 or a six month prison term or both will be imposed on the offender. Their driver’s license too will be cancelled.

Fines for adulterating food or drink or any drug or medical preparation intended for sale will be increased from Rs. 100 to Rs. 100, 000 under the new laws.

Meanwhile, the fine for bribery in connection with an election will be increased from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1 million under the proposed amendments.

By Ranjith Padmasiri