What is Section 244 IPC? Person employed in mint causing coin to be of different weight or composition from law

Published on: Lawiz Team

Learn about Section 244 IPC: Person employed in mint causing coin to be of different weight or composition from law

Official Legal Text

Whoever, being employed in any mint lawfully established in India, does any act, or omits what he is legally bound to do, with respect to the coining of any coin, so that the coin coined is of a different weight or composition from that fixed by law, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words

Section 244 punishes any person employed in a mint who makes coins of different weight or composition than prescribed by law.

Purpose

To maintain the integrity of the coinage system and prevent the unauthorized alteration of coins at the mint.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years, and fine.

Key Elements

1. The person must be employed in a mint. 2. They must cause coins to be of different weight or composition. 3. The weight or composition must differ from that prescribed by law.

Punishment Details

Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Legal Defenses

If the person can prove that the deviation in weight or composition was unintentional and due to a technical error.

Judicial Interpretation

Courts focus on whether the person intentionally caused the deviation in weight or composition.

Illustration

If a mint worker produces coins with less silver content than prescribed by law, they can be punished under Section 244.

FAQs

What does Section 244 IPC define?

Person employed in mint causing coin to be of different weight or composition from that fixed by law.

Where is Section 244 IPC applicable?

It deals with offences involving person employed in mint causing coin to be of different weight or composition from that fixed by law and safeguarding judicial and monetary integrity.

Why is Section 244 IPC important?

It protects the authenticity of judicial processes, coinage, and public administration.

Can you provide an example involving Section 244 IPC?

Examples include counterfeiting coins, false judicial acts, and breach of legal procedures.

What punishment is prescribed under Section 244 IPC?

Punishment may include imprisonment, fine, or both, depending on the seriousness of the offence.

Is Section 244 IPC linked with other IPC provisions?

Yes, especially with sections related to fraud, public justice, and financial crimes.

How do courts interpret Section 244 IPC?

Courts interpret these sections strictly to uphold honesty, justice, and trust in legal and financial systems.