IPC Section 478
IPC Section 478 – Counterfeiting a Seal or Trademark used in Government or Public Service
Purpose
This section is meant to punish anyone who counterfeits or uses a false seal, mark, or sign that is officially used by the government or public offices. The law protects the authenticity of official documents, seals, and marks.
Provision
Whoever makes, sells, or uses any fake seal, mark, or token that is used for official purposes,
With the intention to cause wrongful loss to someone, or wrongful gain to himself or another,
Shall be punished with imprisonment up to 7 years, and may also be liable to a fine.
Key Points
Applies to seals, marks, tokens, or stamps used in:
Government offices,
Public offices, or
Legal documents.
The offence requires intent to cheat, cause wrongful gain, or loss.
Punishment is severe (up to 7 years imprisonment) because it threatens public trust and official processes.
Example
A person makes a fake government revenue stamp to defraud the government or a person paying a fee.
Or, someone uses a fake official seal to approve a document illegally.
This person can be prosecuted under Section 478 IPC, and if convicted, can face up to 7 years in jail plus a fine.
In Short
Section 478 IPC punishes counterfeiting official seals or marks.
It protects the integrity of government documents and public transactions.
Maximum punishment = 7 years imprisonment + fine.
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