IPC 248 to BNS 178: Altering appearance of coin with intent that it shall pass as coin of different description
Section 248 IPC (1860) replaced by Section 178 BNS (2023)
IPC 248 to BNS 178 at a Glance
Section 248 IPC (Altering appearance of coin with intent that it shall pass as coin of different description) is now Section 178 BNS, in force from 1 July 2024. Under the BNS it is non-bailable and cognizable. What changed is set out below.
What Changed From IPC 248 to BNS 178?
Section 248 IPC made altering the appearance of a coin with intent that it shall pass as a coin of a different description an independent offence punishable with imprisonment of either description for up to three years and fine. In Section 178 BNS, this conduct is merged into the general offence of counterfeiting coin through clauses four and five of the Explanation, which state that causing a genuine coin to appear like a different coin and altering the appearance of a coin constitute counterfeiting coin. This consolidation raises the maximum punishment to imprisonment for life, or imprisonment of either description for up to ten years, and fine.
IPC 248 vs BNS 178: Comparison Table
| Aspect | IPC 1860 (repealed) | BNS 2023 (in force) |
|---|---|---|
| Section | 248 | 178 |
| Offence | Altering appearance of coin with intent that it shall pass as coin of different description | Same |
| Punishment | Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years. | Section 178 BNS punishes counterfeiting coin with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years. |
| Fine | The offender shall also be liable to fine. | Under Section 178 BNS, the offender is also liable to fine. |
| Bail | Non-Bailable | Same |
| Cognizance | Cognizable | Same |
| Compoundable | Non-Compoundable | Same |
| Triable By | Magistrate of the first class | Same |
IPC 248 and BNS 178: Bare Act Text Side by Side
Section 248, IPC 1860
Section 178, BNS 2023
Ingredients: IPC 248 vs BNS 178
- Performing on any coin any operation
- The operation alters the appearance of that coin
- Acting with the intention that the said coin shall pass as a coin of a different description
- Performing any operation which alters the appearance of a coin
- Intending that the coin shall pass as a coin of a different description or that deception will be practised
- Conduct defined as counterfeiting coin under clauses four and five of the Explanation to Section 178 BNS
- Punishment of imprisonment for life, or imprisonment of either description for up to ten years, and liability to fine
What IPC 248 to BNS 178 Means for Pending Cases
FAQs: IPC 248 to BNS 178
What changed when Section 248 IPC became Section 178 BNS?▼
Section 248 IPC is merged into Section 178 BNS. Clauses four and five of the Explanation to Section 178 BNS define altering the appearance of a coin to resemble a different coin as counterfeiting coin. The maximum punishment rises from three years imprisonment under the IPC to imprisonment for life or up to ten years under the BNS, and fine.
Where does Section 248 IPC sit in the BNS?▼
In Section 178 BNS, in Chapter X, Of Offences Relating to Coin, Currency-Notes, Bank-Notes, and Government Stamps.
Does Section 248 IPC or Section 178 BNS apply to an act done before 1 July 2024?▼
Section 248 IPC. Section 358 BNS repealed the IPC from 1 July 2024 but saves any liability already incurred under it, so an act done before that date is still dealt with under Section 248 IPC. Section 178 BNS governs acts done on or after 1 July 2024.
Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only. The new criminal laws came into effect on 1 July 2024. Consult a qualified advocate for legal advice.
Sources: Indian Penal Code, 1860 · Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 · Last updated: 16 Oct 2026 ·