IPC 238 → BNS 179: Import of Indian Counterfeit

Quick Summary: IPC 238 vs BNS 179

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 238 (Import of Indian Counterfeit) is one of the IPC's offences relating to coin, stamps, weights and measures. Counterfeiting of coin and government stamps and the use of false weights and measures are preserved in the BNS, so import of indian counterfeit continues as BNS 179, frequently overlapping with special economic-offence statutes.

What did IPC 238 cover?

IPC 238 dealt with import of indian counterfeit — import or export of counterfeits of the indian coin. 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 179: What changed in the new law?

Merged into Section 181. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to import of indian counterfeit are filed under BNS Section 179, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 179

Same - Life or up to 10 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: Confirm whether the import of indian counterfeit matter proceeds under BNS 179 or a special law on currency and stamps before advising on bail and forum.
• Police officers: Seize and exhibit the counterfeit or false instrument; the import of indian counterfeit offence is registered under BNS 179.
• Law students & citizens: Knowingly dealing in counterfeit currency or rigged weights — the conduct behind import of indian counterfeit — is an offence even if you were not the maker.