IPC 464 → BNS 335: Making False Document

Quick Summary: IPC 464 vs BNS 335

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 464 covers making false document, 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 335, its modernised definitions squarely cover electronic records and digital forgery.

What did IPC 464 cover?

IPC 464 dealt with making false document — making a false document (component of forgery). 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 335: What changed in the new law?

Consolidated with punishment. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to making false document are filed under BNS Section 335, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 335

N/A - Definition

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For making false document, whether the document is 'false' and was made to cause damage or fraud is decisive — anchor the defence in BNS 335 and the document's purpose.
• Police officers: Seize and exhibit the forged document or instrument; the making false document offence is registered under BNS 335.
• Law students & citizens: Creating or using a forged document — including digital records — to gain an advantage, as in making false document, is an offence regardless of whether anyone ultimately lost money.