Introduction of 476 IPC
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) is the official criminal code of India, which covers a wide range of offenses. Section 476 of the IPC deals with the offense of counterfeiting a device or mark used for authenticating documents or goods, after it has been used for the purpose intended.
What is IPC 476 ?
IPC 476 deals with making fake seals, stamps, or marks to certify documents, aiming to prevent their misuse and safeguard the authenticity of official papers.

IPC Section 476 Overview
“IPC 476 pertains to the act of counterfeiting any device or mark used for authenticating documents. This means creating or using fake seals, stamps, or any other marks that are intended to certify or validate documents. The law aims to prevent the misuse of such counterfeit tools to protect the authenticity of official and legal documents.
Key Points: IPC 476 in Simple Terms
- Definition of the Offense: IPC 476 involves making or using fake devices or marks that are supposed to authenticate documents. This means creating or using counterfeit seals, stamps, or marks to falsely validate documents.
- Types of Devices Covered: This section includes any device or mark used for the authentication of documents, such as seals, stamps, and signatures.
- Protection of Authenticity: IPC 476 helps protect the authenticity of documents by penalizing the creation and use of counterfeit authentication devices.
- Preventing Fraud: The section aims to prevent fraud and deception by ensuring that only genuine devices and marks are used for validating documents.
- Impact on Legal Proceedings: Using counterfeit authentication devices can undermine the integrity of legal proceedings, making IPC 476 crucial for maintaining trust in official documents.
- Severity of the Crime: Counterfeiting authentication devices is considered a serious offense because it can lead to widespread fraud and misuse of official document.
476 IPC Punishment
- Imprisonment: Offenders under IPC 476 can face imprisonment for a term extending up to 7 years.
- Fine: In addition to imprisonment, the court may impose a monetary fine on the convicted individual.

476 IPC bailable or non bailable ?
IPC 476 is generally a non-bailable offense. This means that individuals accused of violating IPC 476 may not be automatically eligible for bail and may have to petition the court for release pending trial. However, bail provisions can vary based on the specific circumstances of the case and the discretion of the court.
Section 476 IPC in short information
Aspect | Definition |
---|---|
Definition | Making or using fake seals, stamps, or marks intended to certify or validate documents. |
Offence | Creating counterfeit devices or marks used for authenticating documents. |
Punishment | Imprisonment for up to 7 years and a monetary fine, as determined by the court. |
Bailability | Generally non-bailable, meaning individuals accused may not be automatically eligible for bail. |
IPC 476 FAQs
Is IPC 476 Bailable or Not?
IPC 476 is generally a non-bailable offense. This means that obtaining bail is not automatic and depends on the court’s discretion. The court will consider the nature and severity of the offense before deciding whether to grant bail.
What does IPC 476 cover?
IPC 476 covers the counterfeiting of devices or marks used to authenticate documents, such as seals, stamps, and signatures.
What is the punishment for IPC 476?
The punishment can include imprisonment for up to 7 years, a fine, or both.
What is the difference between IPC 476 and IPC 475?
IPC 475 deals with the counterfeiting or possession of authentication devices or marks before they are used for their intended purpose, while IPC 476 covers the counterfeiting or possession of such devices or marks after they have been used for authentication.
Can a person be convicted under IPC 476 if they were unaware that the authentication device or mark in their possession was counterfeit?
The offense under IPC 476 does not explicitly require the element of knowledge or intent. However, in practice, the prosecution may need to establish some level of knowledge or intent to possess the counterfeited device or mark.
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