Section 341 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) applies when a person creates, counterfeits, or possesses a fake seal, plate, or instrument intended for forgery.
This includes using or intending to use such counterfeit instruments for creating fraudulent documents, government seals, or financial records.
The law ensures strict punishment for those involved in producing, possessing, or using forged materials.
Punishment:
Whoever makes or possesses a counterfeit seal or instrument intending to commit forgery under Section 338 shall be punished with imprisonment for life or up to seven years, along with a fine.
If the intent is to commit forgery under any other section in this chapter, the punishment extends to seven years of imprisonment and a fine.
Whoever possesses a counterfeit seal or instrument knowing it to be fake shall be punished with imprisonment of up to three years, along with a fine.
Whoever fraudulently or dishonestly uses a counterfeit seal or instrument as genuine, knowing or having reason to believe it is fake, shall face the same punishment as the person who created or counterfeited it.
How It Protects:
This section protects against document fraud, financial fraud, and misuse of official seals or marks.
It ensures that counterfeiting official seals, government records, or financial documents is severely punished, safeguarding the authenticity of legal and administrative processes.
Example:
If a person creates a fake government seal to forge an official document, they are guilty under this section.
Similarly, if someone knowingly possesses or uses a counterfeit corporate stamp for fraudulent purposes, they are liable for strict punishment.