Forgery

Forgery is covered under Section 463 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Forgery under IPC refers to the act of creating or altering a document or an electronic record with the intent to deceive or defraud another person. This offence includes creating false documents or altering existing ones, such as certificates, cheques, or wills. The offender may use forgery to gain access to someone’s property, to deceive someone into giving them money or goods, or to evade legal obligations.

In simple words, forgery under IPC refers to the act of creating or altering a document or an electronic record with the intent to deceive or defraud another person.

Essential Elements of Forgery under IPC

1. Creation or alteration of a document or electronic record.
2. The document or electronic record must be false or fabricated.
3. The act of forgery must be committed with the intent to defraud or deceive another person.

Punishment of Forgery under IPC

1. Punishment for forging valuable security or will:

• Imprisonment for up to 2 years, or
• Fine, or
• Both

2. Punishment for forging a document to cheat or cause harm:

• Imprisonment for up to 3 years, or
• Fine, or
• Both

3. Punishment for forging currency notes or banknotes:

• Imprisonment for up to 7 years

4. Punishment for forgery resulting in the death of a person:

• Imprisonment for life