Short weight? False scales are a crime.

Myth or fact?

What people often think.

• Myth: A rigged scale is just bad business, not a crime.
• Fact: Fraudulently using a false scale, weight or measure is an offence under the PPC (ss.264, 265).

The law.

Section 265, PPC.

“Whoever fraudulently uses any false weight or false measure of length or capacity, or fraudulently uses any weight or any measure of length or capacity as a different weight or measure from what it is, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine or with both.”

Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 · Section 265, Fraudulent use of false weight or measure

Four offences.

Sections 264 to 267, PPC.

• False scale, s.264Fraudulently using a scale he knows is false.
• False weight, s.265Fraudulently using a false weight or measure.
• Keeping it, s.266Possessing one, meaning to use it fraudulently.
• Making it, s.267Making or selling one he knows is false.

How serious?

The prison term.

• Each sectionImprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
• Either descriptionSimple or rigorous, as the Court decides.

Quick quiz. Under the counter.

Guess first, then swipe for the answer.

• A. No, not until he uses it
• B. Yes, if he means to use it
• C. Only if a buyer complains

Answer: B. Section 266.

Possession with intent.

• The rulePossessing it, knowing it is false and intending fraudulent use.
• SoUsing it is not needed. Keeping it with that intent is enough.

The procedure.

Sections 264 to 267, CrPC Schedule II.

• ArrestShall not arrest without warrant.
• CaseSummons. Bailable. Not compoundable.
• CourtMagistrate of the first or second class.

Check before you pay.

Simple habits at any shop.

• ZeroThe scale reads zero before anything goes on it.
• RecheckWeigh a sealed packet whose weight you already know.
• ReceiptAsk for a bill showing the weight and the rate.

What to do.

Three steps, in this order.

• NoteThe shop, the date, what you bought and the weight.
• WitnessSomeone who saw it, and the bill if you have one.
• MagistrateA complaint under ss.264 to 267 PPC (CrPC s.200).

Short changed?

Ask FAI in your own words. It answers with the exact section and the judgments behind it.

• A shop in my area uses a rigged scale. Which law applies and where do I complain?
• What is the punishment for using false weights under section 265 PPC?

Example questions

Sources

• Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 · Section 265
  Fraudulent use of false weight or measure Pakistan Code