Section 339 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023:Having possession of document described in section 337 or section 338, knowing it to be forged and intending to use it as genuine.
Having possession of document described in section 337 or section 338, knowing it to be forged and intending to use it as genuine. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023
Whoever has in his possession any document or electronic record, knowing the same to be forged and intending that the same shall fraudulently or dishonestly be used as genuine, shall, if the document or electronic record is one of the description mentioned in section 337 of this Sanhita, be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine; and if the document is one of the description mentioned in section 338, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description, for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.
1. What is the offense under Section 337 and 338 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023?
The offense involves possessing a forged document or electronic record, knowing it’s forged, and intending to use it fraudulently as genuine.
2. What are the punishments under Section 337 for possessing forged documents?
If the forged document is under Section 337, the punishment can be imprisonment for up to 7 years and a fine.
3. What are the punishments under Section 338 for possessing forged documents?
If the forged document is under Section 338, the punishment can be life imprisonment or up to 7 years in prison, along with a fine.
4. What types of forged documents are covered under Sections 337 and 338?
The law applies to specific types of forged documents or electronic records mentioned in Sections 337 and 338, which are typically critical or official documents.
5. What is the purpose of these laws?
The laws are meant to prevent and punish the fraudulent use of forged documents, ensuring public trust and security in legal and official records.