What is Section 474 IPC? Having Possession of Document Described in Section 466 or 467, Knowing it to Be Forged and Intending to Use It as Genuine
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 474 IPC: Meaning, scope, punishment, examples.
Official Legal Text
Whoever has in his possession any document or electronic record, knowing the same to be forged and intending to use it as genuine, and if the document is one described in section 466 or 467, shall be punished according to the provisions of those sections respectively.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 474 punishes anyone who has possession of a forged document covered under Section 466 or 467, knowing it is forged and intending to use it as genuine.
Purpose
To prevent individuals from possessing and using forged important documents like valuable securities, court records, or wills.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to 7 years, and fine.
Punishment Details
Punishment is the same as if the person had committed forgery of that document.
Illustrative Example
If a person has a forged will in their possession, knowing it is forged and intending to use it to claim property, they are punishable under Section 474.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that they did not know the document was forged, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 466 (Forgery of court record) and Section 467 (Forgery of valuable security).
Important Note
The key factor is knowledge that the document is forged and intent to use it as genuine.
FAQs
What does Section 474 IPC define?
Having possession of document described in section 466 or 467, knowing it to be forged and intending to use it as genuine.
How is 'Having possession of document described in section 466 or 467, knowing it to be forged and intending to use it as genuine' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 474 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 474?
Examples include real-life cases involving having possession of document described in section 466 or 467, knowing it to be forged and intending to use it as genuine.
Is Section 474 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 474 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 474 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.