{"id":21943,"date":"2026-04-13T11:27:43","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T11:27:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=21943"},"modified":"2026-04-13T11:30:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T11:30:23","slug":"sop-for-investigation-of-cases-relating-to-lpg","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/sop-for-investigation-of-cases-relating-to-lpg\/","title":{"rendered":"SOP for Investigation of Cases relating to LPG"},"content":{"rendered":"
    \n
  1. Objective<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    To ensure a uniform, lawful, and effective investigation of offences relating to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), including illegal storage, diversion, black marketing, adulteration, and unauthorized refilling, while maintaining safety, evidence integrity, and successful prosecution.<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Legal Framework<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Investigations shall be guided by:<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Essential Commodities Act, 1955<\/li>\n
      • Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order<\/li>\n
      • Any subsequent Control Order<\/li>\n
      • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (relevant sections)<\/li>\n
      • Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023<\/li>\n
      • Explosives Act, 1884 and Gas Cylinder Rules, 2016 (where applicable)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
          \n
        1. Receipt of Information<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
            \n
          • Record source information (complaint, intelligence input, or inspection report).<\/li>\n
          • Enter details in the General Diary\/Station Diary.<\/li>\n
          • Conduct preliminary verification discreetly, if required. Maintain discretion to avoid tipping off.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
              \n
            1. Registration of Case<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                \n
              • Register FIR under appropriate legal provisions upon confirmation of a cognizable offence.<\/li>\n
              • Clearly mention nature of offence (e.g., illegal storage, diversion, black marketing, adulteration, and unauthorized refilling).<\/li>\n
              • FIR is recorded generally under Section 3\/7 ECA + relevant BNS sections (e.g., 287 for negligent machinery, 125\/318 for endangering life\/cheating).<\/li>\n
              • Gas Cylinders Rules, 2016 (under Explosives Act) prohibit unauthorized filling\/refilling\/possession without licence\u2014reference specific rules on filling (manufacture includes transfer), storage, and bar-coding where applicable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                  \n
                1. Planning of Raid\/Inspection<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                    \n
                  • Obtain necessary authorization\/search warrant where required.<\/li>\n
                  • Form a raiding team including:\n
                      \n
                    • Investigating Officer<\/li>\n
                    • Independent witnesses (panchas)<\/li>\n
                    • Technical expert (if possible, e.g., from oil company)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                    • Ensure safety measures due to flammable nature of LPG.<\/li>\n
                    • Carry equipment: camera, weighing scale, sealing material, PPE kits. PPE kit ensures the raiding team is protected against skin burns (from liquid LPG) or inhalation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                        \n
                      1. Conduct of Raid<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                          \n
                        • Secure the premises immediately to prevent leakage or tampering.<\/li>\n
                        • Identify and detain suspects present.<\/li>\n
                        • Search premises systematically in presence of witnesses.<\/li>\n
                        • Look for:\n
                            \n
                          • Unauthorized cylinders<\/li>\n
                          • Refilling equipment (pipes, adapters, regulators)<\/li>\n
                          • Stock registers or records<\/li>\n
                          • Fake seals or tampered cylinders<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                          • While Section 105 BNSS uses “shall” (mandatory where facilities available), courts treat it as best practice. Forward recording promptly to the Magistrate. Use intrinsically safe devices in high-risk zones to avoid sparks.<\/li>\n
                          • Emphasize quick coordination with OMCs for decanting into safe storage\u2014police malkhana is unsuitable for long-term due to explosion risk.<\/li>\n
                          • Panchnama\/Seizure Memo<\/strong>: Include serial numbers, condition, and witnesses’ signatures. Note any discrepancies in stock registers vs. physical stock (common in dealer fraud cases).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                              \n
                            1. Seizure of Evidence<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                \n
                              • Seize all incriminating materials:\n
                                  \n
                                • LPG cylinders (domestic\/commercial)<\/li>\n
                                • Refilling apparatus<\/li>\n
                                • Vehicles used for transport<\/li>\n
                                • Documents, registers, digital records<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                                • Prepare a detailed seizure memo (panchnama) with:\n
                                    \n
                                  • Description, quantity, serial numbers<\/li>\n
                                  • Condition of items<\/li>\n
                                  • Signatures of witnesses and accused<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                                  • Use geo-tagged photographs\/videos for location-based evidence.<\/li>\n
                                  • Wherever possible, the use of intrinsically safe cameras<\/strong> or maintaining a safe distance for videography should be ensured. The video must capture the seals<\/strong> and serial numbers<\/strong> of the cylinders in a continuous, unedited shot to satisfy the requirements of Section 105 of BNSS<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
                                  • Seized LPG cannot be kept in a police malkhana indefinitely due to risk. Coordination with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for safe decanting or bonded storage<\/strong> is required.<\/li>\n
                                  • Weight Verification (Tare vs. Gross):<\/strong> The Investigating Officer must record the Tare Weight embossed on the cylinder and measure its Gross Weight using a certified digital scale. The calculated net content must be documented in the seizure memo; any significant shortfall from statutory requirements (e.g., 14.2 kg for domestic) serves as primary mathematical evidence of illegal diversion and short-weighting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                    Physical Integrity & Seal Inspection:<\/strong> Inspect the plastic seals and O-rings for signs of heat application, prying, or duplication. The officer should also check for “sweating” (moisture) on the cylinder body\u2014a hydrostatic indicator of rapid, recent decanting\u2014and examine the valve for mechanical scratches or the use of unauthorized “U-bend” adapters used in gravity-based gas transfers.<\/p>\n

                                    Legal Significance:<\/strong> Documenting these discrepancies is vital for establishing the corpus delicti under the Essential Commodities Act and the BNS. While possession proves illegal storage, the weight discrepancy and physical tampering provide the necessary proof of fraudulent intent and the actual act of diversion required for a successful prosecution.<\/p>\n

                                    BNSS Compliance & Mandatory Videography: <\/strong>Under the modernized procedural framework, all search and seizure operations must strictly comply with Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023<\/strong>. This section mandates that the entire process of search and seizure\u2014including the preparation of the seizure list\u2014must be recorded through audio-video electronic means<\/strong>, preferably using a mobile phone or a digital camera.<\/p>\n

                                    Investigating Officers must ensure that this recording is geo-tagged and captured in a continuous, unedited shot to maintain the integrity of the scene and establish the authenticity of the evidence before the court, as any failure to record the proceedings without a valid justification may weaken the prosecution’s case.<\/p>\n

                                      \n
                                    1. Safety and Handling<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                        \n
                                      • Ensure no ignition sources near seized LPG.<\/li>\n
                                      • Inform fire authorities if large stock is found.<\/li>\n
                                      • Store seized cylinders safely in coordination with authorized agencies or oil companies.<\/li>\n
                                      • The prohibition of non-intrinsically safe electronic devices<\/strong> (like standard mobile phones or flash cameras) in the immediate vicinity of a suspected leak or high-volume storage area is necessary to prevent sparks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                          \n
                                        1. Examination of Witnesses<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                            \n
                                          • Record statements of:\n
                                              \n
                                            • Independent witnesses<\/li>\n
                                            • Neighbours\/shopkeepers<\/li>\n
                                            • Customers (if available)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                                            • Focus on modus operandi and supply chain links.<\/li>\n
                                            • Document modus operandi (e.g., illegal refilling, diversion).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                \n
                                              1. Interrogation of Accused<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                  \n
                                                • Ascertain:\n
                                                    \n
                                                  • Source of LPG supply<\/li>\n
                                                  • Distribution network<\/li>\n
                                                  • Involvement of dealers or transporters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                                                  • Identify larger syndicates or supply chains.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                      \n
                                                    1. Technical Verification<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                        \n
                                                      • Seek assistance from authorized LPG companies (e.g., IOCL, BPCL, HPCL) to:\n
                                                          \n
                                                        • Verify cylinder ownership<\/li>\n
                                                        • Identify tampering or unauthorized use<\/li>\n
                                                        • Provide expert opinion reports<\/li>\n
                                                        • Check for bar codes (as per recent Gas Cylinders Rules amendments) and involve PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation) if needed for expert input on licensing violations.<\/li>\n
                                                        • Document any shortfall in the LPG cylinder as strong evidence of diversion\/short-weighting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                            \n
                                                          1. Documentation and Digital Evidence<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                              \n
                                                            • Preserve CCTV footage, mobile data, call records if relevant.<\/li>\n
                                                            • Maintain proper chain of custody.<\/li>\n
                                                            • Obtain certificate under Section 63 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 for electronic records.<\/li>\n
                                                            • Since LPG diversion often involves digital bookings or WhatsApp-based black marketing, 63 BSA Certificate (formerly 65B IE Act) is mandatory for the admissibility of these records.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                \n
                                                              1. Arrest and Legal Action<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                  \n
                                                                • Arrest accused as per legal provisions if necessary.<\/li>\n
                                                                • Ensure compliance with arrest guidelines and rights of accused.<\/li>\n
                                                                • Produce before Magistrate within stipulated time.<\/li>\n
                                                                • No coercion during interrogation and ensure rights of the accused.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                    \n
                                                                  1. Case Diary and Reporting<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                      \n
                                                                    • Maintain detailed case diary entries.<\/li>\n
                                                                    • Case Diary entries must be aligned with the digital filing requirements if your jurisdiction has migrated to an e-Prisons\/e-Forensics integrated system (Align with any e-Forensics or digital police systems in the jurisdiction).<\/li>\n
                                                                    • Record each step of investigation chronologically.<\/li>\n
                                                                    • Include:\n
                                                                        \n
                                                                      • Raid details<\/li>\n
                                                                      • Seizure list<\/li>\n
                                                                      • Statements<\/li>\n
                                                                      • Expert reports<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                          \n
                                                                        1. Filing of Charge Sheet<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                            \n
                                                                          • Compile all evidence:\n
                                                                              \n
                                                                            • FIR<\/li>\n
                                                                            • Seizure memos<\/li>\n
                                                                            • Witness statements<\/li>\n
                                                                            • Expert opinions<\/li>\n
                                                                            • Documentary and electronic evidence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
                                                                            • File charge sheet within prescribed time limit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                                \n
                                                                              1. Court Presentation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                                  \n
                                                                                • Present material evidence clearly with proper identification.<\/li>\n
                                                                                • Produce expert witnesses to explain technical aspects.<\/li>\n
                                                                                • Demonstrate chain of custody and authenticity of evidence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                                    \n
                                                                                  1. Safety and Ethical Considerations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                                      \n
                                                                                    • Prioritize public safety at all stages.<\/li>\n
                                                                                    • Avoid leakage, explosion risks.<\/li>\n
                                                                                    • Ensure transparency and fairness in investigation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                                        \n
                                                                                      1. Coordination<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                                          \n
                                                                                        • Coordinate with:\n
                                                                                            \n
                                                                                          • Oil Marketing Companies<\/li>\n
                                                                                          • District Supply Officer<\/li>\n
                                                                                          • Fire Department<\/li>\n
                                                                                          • Local administration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
                                                                                              \n
                                                                                            1. The PMLA Angle<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                                                                                              In cases involving large-scale black marketing or organized syndicates, interrogation must focus on identifying the “proceeds of crime” to determine if the scale of illegal profit warrants action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Investigating Officers should trace the financial trail, including unexplained wealth or assets acquired through LPG diversion, as these findings can trigger specialized recovery protocols and strengthen the case against high-level racketeers beyond standard regulatory violations.<\/p>\n

                                                                                                \n
                                                                                              1. Monitoring and Follow-up<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
                                                                                                  \n
                                                                                                • Track prosecution progress.<\/li>\n
                                                                                                • Identify repeat offenders.<\/li>\n
                                                                                                • Share intelligence for preventive enforcement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                                                                                  This SOP ensures that LPG-related offences are investigated systematically, safely, and in compliance with legal standards, thereby strengthening enforcement and ensuring successful prosecution.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                                                                                                  Objective To ensure a uniform, lawful, and effective investigation of offences relating to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), including illegal storage, diversion, black marketing, adulteration, and unauthorized refilling, while maintaining safety, evidence integrity, and successful prosecution. Legal Framework Investigations shall be guided by: Essential Commodities Act, 1955 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":21942,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[4798,28],"class_list":{"0":"post-21943","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-criminal-law","8":"tag-criminal-law","9":"tag-top-news"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/LPG-INVESTIGATION.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21943","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21943"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21943\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21969,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21943\/revisions\/21969"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21942"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21943"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21943"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21943"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}