BNS Section 294 - Using Counterfeit Currency

Whoever fraudulently or dishonestly uses as genuine any currency note or bank note or coin, knowing or having reason to believe the same to be counterfeit, shall be punished.

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Non-bailable, Cognizable

Official Text

“Whoever fraudulently or dishonestly uses as genuine any currency note or bank note or coin, knowing or having reason to believe the same to be counterfeit, shall be punished.”

Legal Analysis

Elements to Prove:

  • Fraudulently or dishonestly using.
  • Counterfeit currency.
  • Knowing it to be counterfeit.

Potential Defenses:

  • No fraudulent use.
  • Unaware of counterfeit nature.
  • Acting in good faith.

Practical Examples

What Constitutes the Offense:

Spending fake money, using counterfeit coins, passing false currency notes.

What Doesn't Constitute:

Using genuine currency, unaware of counterfeit nature, or acting in good faith.

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 7 years, and Fine

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