Section 5B. Power to prescribe compulsory grade designations in respect of certain articles.

1[5B. Power to prescribe compulsory grade designations in respect of certain articles.--(1) Where the Central Government is of opinion that it is necessary in the public interest or for the protection of consumers that any scheduled article or class of articles shall not be sold or distributed except after such article or class of articles is marked with the grade designation mark, it may, by notification in the Official Gazette, make a declaration to that effect. (2) Any notification issued under sub-section (1) shall specify the area or areas in relation to which the notification shall have effect. (3) Where a notification under sub-section (1) is issued in respect of any area or areas, no person shall sell or offer to sell or distribute or offer to distribute any scheduled article or class thereof in the area or areas except in accordance with the provisions of this Act or the rules made thereunder. (4) Whoever contravenes the provisions of this section shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months and fine not exceeding five thousand rupees.]