Bailabel Type : bailable

Description

Section 473 of the Indian Penal Code deals with the offense of making or possessing counterfeit seals, stamps, or other official marks with the intent to commit forgery. This section is aimed at preventing the creation or possession of forged materials that could be used in the commission of other offenses, particularly those related to fraud, such as falsifying documents or impersonating authority.

Description of IPC Section 473:

Section 473 criminalizes:

1. Making or Possessing Counterfeit Seals or Stamps:

   • The act of making or possessing forged or counterfeit seals, stamps, or other official marks that are used to authenticate documents. These could include official government seals, corporate seals, or any other type of stamp that is used to validate documents.

2. Intent to Commit Forgery:

   • The key element of this offense is the intent to commit forgery. The individual involved must have the intention to use the counterfeit seals or stamps to produce forged documents (which could involve altering documents, impersonating authority, or committing fraud).

3. Related to Other Punishable Forgery Acts:

   • This section is directly related to the forgery of documents under other sections (like Section 467 or 468), making it applicable when a person uses counterfeit seals or stamps with the intent to commit forgery, which would result in punishment under the relevant forgery sections.

Punishment

Imprisonment: The punishment may include imprisonment for up to 3 years.

Fine: A fine may also be imposed, or

Both: The offender can be sentenced to imprisonment, a fine, or both.