What is Section 472 IPC? Making or Possessing Counterfeit Seal, etc., with Intent to Commit Forgery Punishable under Section 467
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 472 IPC: Meaning, scope, punishment, examples.
Official Legal Text
Whoever makes or counterfeits any seal, plate or other instrument for making an impression, intending that the same shall be used for committing any forgery which would be punishable under section 467, or, with such intent, has in his possession any such seal, plate or other instrument, knowing the same to be counterfeit, 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.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 472 punishes anyone who makes, possesses, or uses a counterfeit seal, plate, or other instrument with the intent to commit forgery of valuable security, will, or similar important documents under Section 467.
Purpose
To prevent individuals from creating or possessing counterfeit tools to forge important documents.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to 10 years, and fine.
Key Elements
1. The seal, plate, or instrument must be counterfeit. 2. It must be made, possessed, or used by the accused. 3. The intent must be to commit forgery under Section 467.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and a fine.
Illustrative Example
If a person creates a fake government seal to forge a will, they are punishable under Section 472.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that the seal was not counterfeit or was used for a lawful purpose, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 467 (Forgery of valuable security) and Section 473 (Counterfeit seal for other forgery).
Important Note
This section applies only to forgery of important documents like valuable security or wills.
FAQs
What does Section 472 IPC define?
Making or possessing counterfeit seal, etc., with intent to commit forgery punishable under section 467.
How is 'Making or possessing counterfeit seal, etc., with intent to commit forgery punishable under section 467' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 472 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 472?
Examples include real-life cases involving making or possessing counterfeit seal, etc., with intent to commit forgery punishable under section 467.
Is Section 472 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 472 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 472 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.