What is Section 487 IPC? Making a False Mark Upon Any Receptacle Containing Goods

Published on: Lawiz Team

Learn about Section 487 IPC: Meaning, scope, punishment, examples.

Official Legal Text

Whoever makes any false mark upon any case, package or receptacle containing goods, with intent to cause it to be believed that the goods are of a nature or quality different from what they are, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.

What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words

Section 487 punishes anyone who marks a false property mark on any receptacle containing goods with the intention to deceive.

Purpose

To prevent individuals from falsely marking containers or packaging of goods to deceive buyers.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both.

Key Elements

1. The mark must be false. 2. It must be placed on a receptacle containing goods. 3. The intent must be to deceive or mislead buyers.

Punishment Details

Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.

Illustrative Example

If a person labels a container as 'Pure Honey' when it contains a mix of sugar syrup, they are punishable under Section 487.

Legal Defenses

If the accused can prove that the mark was genuine or used with proper authorization, they may be acquitted.

Related Sections

Related to Section 486 (Selling goods with counterfeit mark) and Section 488 (Using such false mark).

Important Note

This section applies to false marks on containers or packaging of goods.

FAQs

What does Section 487 IPC define?

Making a false mark upon any receptacle containing goods.

How is 'Making a false mark upon any receptacle containing goods' interpreted in law?

It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.

Where is Section 487 IPC applicable?

Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.

Can you give a practical example for Section 487?

Examples include real-life cases involving making a false mark upon any receptacle containing goods.

Is Section 487 used along with other IPC sections?

Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.

How do courts interpret Section 487 IPC?

Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.

Why is Section 487 significant?

It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.