IPC Section 471 = BNS Section 340

Using as Genuine a Forged Document

कूटरचित दस्तावेज को असली के रूप में उपयोग

Forgery & Document Offences No Change in Punishment Non-Cognizable Non-Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 471 of the IPC dealt with fraudulently or dishonestly using a forged document as genuine. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 340.

Hindi IPC की धारा 471 कूटरचित दस्तावेज को असली के रूप में उपयोग करने से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 340 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 471 Section 340
Title Using as Genuine a Forged Document Using Forged Document as Genuine
Punishment Same punishment as for forging the document Same punishment as for forging the document
Cognizable No — Warrant required for arrest
Bailable No — Bail at the discretion of the court
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Same as for forgery of that document

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 471 to BNS 340
  • Punishment principle remains the same
  • No substantive changes

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused used a forged document as if it were genuine
  2. 2 The accused knew or had reason to believe the document was forged
  3. 3 The use was fraudulent or dishonest

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 471?

IPC Section 471 (Using as Genuine a Forged Document) is now BNS Section 340 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 471 to BNS 340?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 340: Same punishment as for forging the document.

Is BNS Section 340 cognizable?

No, BNS Section 340 is a non-cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offence.

Legal Disclaimer

This IPC-to-BNS section comparison is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The mapping may not cover all nuances introduced by the new law. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before relying on this information. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

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