IPC 242 → BNS 180: Possession of Counterfeit

Quick Summary: IPC 242 vs BNS 180

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 242 (Possession of 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 possession of counterfeit continues as BNS 180, frequently overlapping with special economic-offence statutes.

What did IPC 242 cover?

IPC 242 dealt with possession of counterfeit — possession of counterfeit coin by person who knew it to be counterfeit when he became possessed thereof. 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 180: What changed in the new law?

Merged into Section 182. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to possession of counterfeit are filed under BNS Section 180, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 180

Same - Up to 3 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: Confirm whether the possession of counterfeit matter proceeds under BNS 180 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 possession of counterfeit offence is registered under BNS 180.
• Law students & citizens: Knowingly dealing in counterfeit currency or rigged weights — the conduct behind possession of counterfeit — is an offence even if you were not the maker.