IPC 258 → BNS 179: Sale of Counterfeit Stamp

Quick Summary: IPC 258 vs BNS 179

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 258 (Sale of Counterfeit Stamp) is one of the IPC's offences relating to coin, stamps, weights and measures. Counterfeiting of coin and government stamps and the use of false weights and measures are preserved in the BNS, so sale of counterfeit stamp continues as BNS 179, frequently overlapping with special economic-offence statutes.

What did IPC 258 cover?

IPC 258 dealt with sale of counterfeit stamp — sale of counterfeit government stamp. Until 30 June 2024, every FIR and criminal trial for this offence was registered and prosecuted under this provision of the Indian Penal Code 1860.

BNS 179: What changed in the new law?

Treated as trafficking of counterfeit items. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to sale of counterfeit stamp are filed under BNS Section 179, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 179

Same - Up to 7 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: Confirm whether the sale of counterfeit stamp matter proceeds under BNS 179 or a special law on currency and stamps before advising on bail and forum.
• Police officers: Seize and exhibit the counterfeit or false instrument; the sale of counterfeit stamp offence is registered under BNS 179.
• Law students & citizens: Knowingly dealing in counterfeit currency or rigged weights — the conduct behind sale of counterfeit stamp — is an offence even if you were not the maker.