Penalty for use and possession of weight, measure, etc., not authorized

Whoever uses or has in his possession for use for trade any weight or measure or weighing or measuring instrument [which he knows to be false or defective or which is not authorised], verified [or re-verified] or stamped under or in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the rules shall, on conviction, be punishable with fine which may extend to rupees five hundred and any trade had or made by such weight or measure or weighing or measuring instrument shall be void. Explanation 1.—When any such weight or measure or weighing or measuring instrument is found in the possession of any trader or of any employee or agent of such trader, such trader, [employee or agent] shall be presumed, until the contrary is proved, to have had it in his possession for use for trade. Explanation 2.—Where any weight or measure or weighing or measuring instrument is used or possessed in contravention of this section by any employee or agent of a trader on behalf of such trader, such trader shall, unless he proves that the offence under this section was committed by his employee or agent without his knowledge or consent be also deemed to be guilty of such offence.