IPC 487 → BNS 350(1): False Mark on Receptacle

Quick Summary: IPC 487 vs BNS 350(1)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 487 covers false mark on receptacle, 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 350(1), its modernised definitions squarely cover electronic records and digital forgery.

What did IPC 487 cover?

IPC 487 dealt with false mark on receptacle — making a false mark on any receptacle containing goods. 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 350(1): What changed in the new law?

Merged into BNS 350 (false marks on receptacles). From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to false mark on receptacle are filed under BNS Section 350(1), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 350(1)

Enhanced - Up to 3 years (was 1 year)

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For false mark on receptacle, whether the document is 'false' and was made to cause damage or fraud is decisive — anchor the defence in BNS 350(1) and the document's purpose.
• Police officers: Seize and exhibit the forged document or instrument; the false mark on receptacle offence is registered under BNS 350(1).
• Law students & citizens: Creating or using a forged document — including digital records — to gain an advantage, as in false mark on receptacle, is an offence regardless of whether anyone ultimately lost money.