IPC 470 → BNS 340: Forged Document Def

Quick Summary: IPC 470 vs BNS 340

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 470 covers forged document def, among the IPC's offences relating to documents and currency marks — forgery, making false documents, counterfeiting marks and currency-note offences. Carried into the BNS as BNS 340, its modernised definitions squarely cover electronic records and digital forgery.

What did IPC 470 cover?

IPC 470 dealt with forged document def — definition of forged document. 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 340: What changed in the new law?

Consolidated definition. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to forged document def are filed under BNS Section 340, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 340

N/A - Definition

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For forged document def, whether the document is 'false' and was made to cause damage or fraud is decisive — anchor the defence in BNS 340 and the document's purpose.
• Police officers: Seize and exhibit the forged document or instrument; the forged document def offence is registered under BNS 340.
• Law students & citizens: Creating or using a forged document — including digital records — to gain an advantage, as in forged document def, is an offence regardless of whether anyone ultimately lost money.