IPC 275 vs BNS 275
● Retained in BNSUsing forged or counterfeit government seal
Section 275 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with the use of a forged or counterfeit government seal as genuine. This law punishes individuals who knowingly apply or use fake seals to authenticate documents or transactions fraudulently, thereby deceiving the government or public.
Key points:
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Applies to anyone using a forged, counterfeit, or altered government seal.
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Knowledge that the seal is fake and intent to defraud are essential.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine.
Example: A person affixes a counterfeit government seal on a certificate to claim benefits unlawfully. IPC 275 ensures that both the creation and fraudulent use of fake seals are penalized, maintaining the authenticity of official documents.
Using forged or counterfeit government seal
Section 275 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 275. It punishes any individual who uses a forged or counterfeit government seal as genuine with knowledge of its falsity and intent to defraud.
Key points:
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Covers direct use or attempted use of fake seals on documents.
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Requires knowledge and fraudulent intent.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine (same as IPC).
Example: A person using a forged government seal on property-related documents would be liable under BNS 275. This provision ensures the integrity of government-issued documents and prevents fraudulent manipulation.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 275 to BNS BNS 275.