IPC 263 vs BNS 263
● Retained in BNSFraudulent cancellation or alteration of government security
Section 263 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with the fraudulent cancellation, alteration, or destruction of a government security. Government securities, including bonds, promissory notes, or treasury receipts, are critical financial instruments. Any tampering with them can cause significant loss to the government or public.
Key points:
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Applies to any person who fraudulently cancels, alters, or destroys a government security.
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Requires intent to defraud or deceive.
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Punishment: Imprisonment for life or imprisonment up to 10 years, and fine.
Example: If someone alters the value of a government bond by tampering with its printed details, IPC 263 is applicable. The law ensures protection of public funds and prevents manipulation of official financial instruments.
Fraudulent cancellation or alteration of government security
Section 263 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 263. It punishes any individual who fraudulently cancels, alters, or destroys a government security with the intent to deceive or cause loss.
Key points:
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Covers both direct alteration and facilitation by third parties.
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Knowledge of fraud and intent to deceive are essential for prosecution.
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Punishment: Imprisonment for life or imprisonment up to 10 years, and fine.
Example: A person deliberately changes the details on a treasury bond to misappropriate funds would be liable under BNS 263. The law ensures the integrity of government-issued financial instruments and public confidence in state-issued securities.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 263 to BNS BNS 263.