IPC 481 vs BNS 481
● Retained in BNSCounterfeiting government stamps or marks
Section 481 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with counterfeiting government stamps or official marks with intent to defraud. This section addresses acts where an individual fraudulently imitates or creates government-issued instruments, emphasizing protection of public revenue, administrative integrity, and official documentation.
Key points:
-
Applies when a person counterfeits, possesses, or uses government stamps or marks with intent to deceive or defraud.
-
Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both, reflecting the severity of the offence.
-
Protects government authority, official documents, and public trust in government instruments.
For example, producing fake revenue stamps to avoid tax payment constitutes an offence under IPC 481. This provision ensures strict deterrence against acts that compromise government instruments and public trust.
Counterfeiting government stamps or marks
Section 481 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 481, punishing acts where a person counterfeits, possesses, or uses government stamps or official marks with intent to defraud. This provision safeguards government revenue, administrative authority, and public trust against fraudulent acts.
Key points:
-
Covers creating, possessing, or using counterfeit government stamps or marks for fraudulent purposes.
-
Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both, same as IPC.
-
Ensures accountability for acts undermining government authority and official documentation.
For instance, using forged postage stamps to commit financial fraud falls under BNS 481. This aligns with IPC 481 to protect governmental authority and prevent misuse of official instruments.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 481 to BNS BNS 481.