IPC Section 489A = BNS Section 178

Counterfeiting Currency Notes or Bank Notes

मुद्रा नोट या बैंक नोट की कूटरचना

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

Overview

Section 489A of the IPC dealt with counterfeiting of currency notes or bank notes. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 178.

Hindi IPC की धारा 489A मुद्रा नोट या बैंक नोट की कूटरचना से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 178 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 489A Section 178
Title Counterfeiting Currency Notes or Bank Notes Counterfeiting Currency Notes or Bank Notes
Punishment Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to 10 years and fine Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to 10 years and fine
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable No — Bail at the discretion of the court
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Court of Session

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 489A to BNS 178
  • Punishment remains the same
  • No substantive changes

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused counterfeited or knowingly performed any part of counterfeiting
  2. 2 The subject was a currency note or bank note

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 489A?

IPC Section 489A (Counterfeiting Currency Notes or Bank Notes) is now BNS Section 178 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 489A to BNS 178?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 178: Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to 10 years and fine.

Is BNS Section 178 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 178 is a 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.

Need Help With Your Legal Matter?

Search court cases, track case status, or get in touch with us for assistance.