Section 14 of CAQM : Section 14: Penalty For Contravention Of Provisions Of Act, Rules, Order Or Direction

Explanation using Example

Example Application of Section 14:

Imagine a manufacturing company within the National Capital Region has been found to release pollutants into the air beyond the permissible limits set by the Commission for Air Quality Management. Despite receiving multiple directives from the Commission to install proper filtration systems, the company fails to comply.

Under Section 14(1), this act of noncompliance is an offence punishable by law. The company could face a fine of up to one crore rupees, imprisonment of its responsible personnel for up to five years, or both. However, a farmer in the same region who burns stubble, leading to air pollution, would not be penalized under this provision.

If the offence was carried out without the knowledge of the person in charge, or if due diligence was exercised to prevent the violation, as per Section 14(3), that individual may not be held liable. Conversely, if it's proven that the offence occurred with the knowledge or neglect of any director or officer of the company, they would also be deemed guilty under Section 14(4).

Similarly, if a Government Department is found guilty of such an offence, the Head of the Department would be held responsible under Section 14(5), unless they can prove the offence occurred without their knowledge or that they exercised all due diligence to prevent it. Any other officer found to be complicit could also be held liable under Section 14(6).