IPC 231 vs BNS 231
● Retained in BNSPublic servant framing false certificate or record with intent to cause wrongful gain
Section 231 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, addresses the offence committed by a public servant who knowingly frames, signs, or issues a false certificate or record intending to provide wrongful gain to themselves or another person. This ensures that official documents remain accurate and legally valid, and prevents misuse of official authority for personal advantage.
Key aspects:
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Only public servants are liable.
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The act involves creating or endorsing false certificates or official records.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
Example: A government officer issues a falsified income certificate to help someone qualify for a government benefit unlawfully. IPC 231 safeguards public trust and integrity of administrative processes by penalizing misuse of office.
Public servant framing false certificate or record with intent to cause wrongful gain
Section 231 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 231. It punishes public servants who knowingly issue or frame false certificates or records intending to provide unlawful gain to themselves or others.
Key aspects:
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Applies exclusively to public officials performing official duties.
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Punishment remains: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
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Example: A municipal officer falsifies land occupancy certificates to allow a private party to gain financial advantage unlawfully.
BNS 231 strengthens accountability and anti-corruption measures, ensuring public servants cannot exploit official records for personal gain.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 231 to BNS BNS 231.