IPC 471 → BNS 340: Using Forged Document

Quick Summary: IPC 471 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 471 covers using forged document, 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 471 cover?

IPC 471 dealt with using forged document — using as genuine a 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?

Punishment same as for forgery. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to using forged document 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

Same

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For using forged document, 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 using forged document offence is registered under BNS 340.
• Law students & citizens: Creating or using a forged document — including digital records — to gain an advantage, as in using forged document, is an offence regardless of whether anyone ultimately lost money.