BNS Section 187 – Person employed in mint causing coin to be of different weight or composition from that fixed by law
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section – 244
Person Employed in Mint Causing Coin to Be of Different Weight or Composition from That Fixed by Law
This section outlines the offense committed by employees working in any lawfully established mint in India, who intentionally alter the weight or composition of coins issued from the mint. Such actions disrupt the integrity of the currency system and are punishable under the law.
Offense Description
The offense involves any employee working at a mint that is legally authorized to produce coins in India. If the employee intentionally causes a coin to differ in weight or composition from what is specified by law, they are committing a criminal act.
This can happen in two ways:
- By doing something wrong (an act) that results in the coin having the wrong weight or composition.
- By failing to do something (an omission) they are legally bound to do, which leads to the same unlawful result.
Key Points to Understand
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Offense | Causing a coin to have a different weight or composition from what is legally mandated. |
| Mint Employee | Applies only to employees working in legally established mints in India, which are authorized by the government to produce currency. |
| Intention | The employee must act with deliberate intent to cause the change in weight or composition. |
| Weight and Composition | Coins must conform to specific standards set by law, including their weight and metal content. Any deviation is considered illegal. |
| Act or Omission | The offense can be committed either by actively altering the coin or by failing to take required actions to prevent such changes. |
Punishment for the Offense
The law prescribes serious punishment for employees who intentionally alter the weight or composition of coins. The punishment includes:
| Punishment | Details |
|---|---|
| Imprisonment | A term of imprisonment of either description (rigorous or simple), which may extend to 7 years. |
| Fine | The offender may also be liable to pay a fine, the amount of which will be determined based on the case. |
Why Is This a Serious Offense?
The weight and composition of coins are critical for the stability and trust in the currency system. If employees at mints intentionally alter the coins, they undermine the integrity of the national currency. This could lead to financial instability and loss of public confidence in the currency issued by the Government.
By penalizing such acts, the law ensures that the currency standards set by the Government are maintained, and the public trust in the monetary system is preserved.
Legal Classification
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cognizable or Non-cognizable | Cognizable – The police can arrest the individual without a warrant. |
| Bailable or Non-bailable | Non-bailable – The accused cannot be granted bail automatically. |
| Court | Magistrate of the First Class – The case is triable in a Magistrate court of the first class. |
Conclusion
This section imposes strict penalties on employees working in government mints who intentionally alter the weight or composition of coins. The offense is treated seriously due to its potential to harm the currency system and public confidence in the national currency. Those found guilty face up to 7 years of imprisonment, a fine, or both. This law is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the currency system in India.
