IPC 258 vs BNS 258
● Retained in BNSSale of counterfeit Government stamp
Section 258 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, criminalizes the sale of counterfeit government stamps. This provision targets individuals who knowingly sell or attempt to sell fake stamps, thereby committing fraud against the government and the public.
Key points:
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The offence covers selling, attempting to sell, or offering counterfeit stamps for sale.
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Knowledge or reasonable belief that the stamps are counterfeit is necessary.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine.
Example: If a person knowingly sells counterfeit postal or revenue stamps in a market, IPC 258 applies. This provision ensures not just the makers of fake stamps but also distributors and sellers are held accountable, thereby dismantling the entire chain of forgery.
Sale of counterfeit Government stamp
Section 258 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, corresponds to IPC 258 and deals with the sale of counterfeit government stamps. The section ensures that those who circulate fake stamps into the market face legal consequences.
Key points:
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Covers sale, attempt to sell, or offering counterfeit stamps.
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Requires proof of knowledge or reasonable belief of the stamps being counterfeit.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine (same as IPC).
Example: A shopkeeper selling bundles of fake revenue stamps, knowing they are counterfeit, will be punished under BNS 258. This law helps protect government revenue and maintain the authenticity of stamp circulation.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 258 to BNS BNS 258.