BNS Section 346 – Tampering with property mark with intent to cause injury

The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section – 489

Understanding Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 346: Tampering with Property Marks

This law deals with removing, destroying, or defacing property marks with the intent to cause harm to someone. Here’s a simple breakdown:

What is the Crime?

If a person:

• Removes, destroys, or defaces a property mark,
• Or adds something to a property mark,
• With the intention or knowledge that it may cause harm to someone,

they are committing a crime under this section.

Punishment: Up to 1 year in jail OR fine OR both.

Key Points in Simple Table

What Does “Tampering with Property Mark” Mean?

• Property Mark: A symbol, label, or sign used to show ownership of movable items like goods or packages.
• Tampering: Removing, destroying, defacing, or altering the mark.
• Intent to Cause Injury: Doing this with the intention to harm someone or knowing it could cause harm.

Why is This Law Important?

• Property marks help identify the owner of goods.
• Tampering with these marks can lead to confusion, financial loss, or harm to individuals or businesses.
• This law ensures that such actions are punished.

Real-Life Examples

1. Example 1: Ramesh removes the brand label from a product and replaces it with a fake one to harm the reputation of the original brand. He can face up to 1 year in jail or a fine or both.
2. Example 2: Priya scratches off the serial number on a package to make it untraceable, knowing it could cause financial loss to the owner. She can be punished with up to 1 year in jail or a fine or both.

Conclusion

BNS Section 346 strictly punishes those who tamper with property marks with the intent to cause harm. The punishment can be up to 1 year in jail, a fine, or both. Always respect property marks to avoid legal trouble.