IPC 484 → BNS 347(2): Counterfeiting Public Mark

Quick Summary: IPC 484 vs BNS 347(2)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 484 covers counterfeiting public mark, 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 347(2), its modernised definitions squarely cover electronic records and digital forgery.

What did IPC 484 cover?

IPC 484 dealt with counterfeiting public mark — counterfeiting a mark used by a public servant. 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 347(2): What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to counterfeiting public mark are filed under BNS Section 347(2), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 347(2)

Same - Up to 3 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For counterfeiting public mark, whether the document is 'false' and was made to cause damage or fraud is decisive — anchor the defence in BNS 347(2) and the document's purpose.
• Police officers: Seize and exhibit the forged document or instrument; the counterfeiting public mark offence is registered under BNS 347(2).
• Law students & citizens: Creating or using a forged document — including digital records — to gain an advantage, as in counterfeiting public mark, is an offence regardless of whether anyone ultimately lost money.