BNS Section 333 - Benami Transactions

Whoever enters into, abets, or facilitates a benami transaction by holding property in the name of another person for the benefit of the real owner to conceal ownership or evade law.

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Non-bailable, Cognizable

Official Text

Holding property in the name of another person without adequate consideration, where the property is held for the immediate or future benefit, direct or indirect, of the person who has provided the consideration.

Legal Analysis

Elements to Prove:

  • Property acquisition with consideration from another.
  • Beneficial interest retained by provider of consideration.
  • Intention to conceal or evade law.

Potential Defenses:

  • Statutorily permitted nominee/trustee relationship.
  • Full disclosure and compliance.
  • Adequate consideration and independent ownership.

Practical Examples

What Constitutes the Offense:

Buying real estate in a proxy name to hide wealth, layering ownership to evade seizure.

What Doesn't Constitute:

Nominee holdings with statutory disclosures, trustee arrangements per law, guardians holding for minors duly disclosed.

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 7 years, and Fine