Section 14 of SA, 1966 : Section 14: Powers Of Seed Inspector

Explanation using Example

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario to demonstrate the application of Section 14 of The Seeds Act, 1966:

Mrs. Sharma operates a small gardening shop in a town where she sells various kinds of seeds. One day, a Seed Inspector visits her shop on a routine inspection to ensure compliance with The Seeds Act, 1966. The inspector is there to check if the seeds being sold are of the notified kind or variety and meet the quality standards set by the Act.

As per Section 14(1)(a), the inspector takes samples of different seed packets from Mrs. Sharma's shop. He then follows Section 14(1)(b) and sends these samples to the Seed Analyst of the area for analysis.

During the inspection, the inspector suspects that some of the seeds being sold are not as per the statutory requirements. Invoking Section 14(1)(c), he searches the premises and finds unlabelled packets of seeds, which is a violation of the Act. He orders Mrs. Sharma in writing not to sell any more of those specific seed packets until further notice, as per the powers given to him to prevent the continuation of the offence.

While searching, under Section 14(1)(d), the inspector examines Mrs. Sharma's records and finds discrepancies. He seizes those documents as they may serve as evidence of the offence.

For the seeds taken as samples, Mrs. Sharma is entitled to be paid their cost as per Section 14(2). The inspector calculates the cost and pays Mrs. Sharma accordingly.

If Mrs. Sharma had refused to cooperate, the inspector could have exercised the power under Section 14(3) to break open containers or even the door to her shop, if necessary.

Ensuring transparency, as per Section 14(4), the inspector calls two independent witnesses during the search and takes their signatures on a memorandum that records the details of the action taken.

Finally, as stated in Section 14(5), if any legal issues arise from the search or seizure, they will be dealt with according to the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898.