IPC 266 vs BNS 266
● Retained in BNSMaking or selling instrument for counterfeiting postage stamps
Section 266 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with the making or selling instruments specifically intended for counterfeiting government postage stamps. This provision targets not just counterfeiters but also those who enable the creation of fake stamps by supplying tools or devices.
Key points:
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Criminalizes the manufacture, offer for sale, or distribution of instruments used for making counterfeit postage stamps.
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Requires knowledge and intent that the instruments will be used to produce fake stamps.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine.
Example: If a person produces and sells printing plates designed for forging postal stamps, IPC 266 applies. This ensures accountability not only for the counterfeiters but also for those facilitating postal fraud.
Making or selling instrument for counterfeiting postage stamps
Section 266 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 266. It punishes individuals who make, possess, or sell tools for counterfeiting postage stamps, ensuring preventive measures against postal fraud at the source.
Key points:
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Covers manufacturers, sellers, and suppliers of instruments for postal stamp forgery.
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Knowledge and fraudulent intent are required.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine.
Example: A supplier selling dies, plates, or embossing tools designed exclusively for fake postal stamps would be liable under BNS 266. This ensures the integrity of the postal system and government revenue.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 266 to BNS BNS 266.