IPC Section 468

IPC Section 468 addresses the offence of forgery committed specifically with the intention to cheat. Forgery involves making a false document or altering a genuine one to deceive another person. This section is crucial because it targets fraudulent acts that undermine trust in documents and transactions, which are fundamental to legal and commercial dealings.

Understanding IPC Section 468 is important as it helps protect individuals and institutions from deceitful practices involving forged documents. It ensures that those who create or alter documents dishonestly with the aim of cheating face strict legal consequences.

IPC Section 468 – Exact Provision

In simple terms, this section punishes anyone who forges a document or electronic record with the specific goal of cheating someone. The law recognizes the serious harm caused by such deceit and imposes a severe penalty to deter such crimes.

• Focuses on forgery with the intent to cheat.

• Applies to both physical documents and electronic records.

• Punishment can extend up to seven years imprisonment.

• Includes liability to pay a fine.

• Requires proof of intent to cheat for conviction.

Purpose of IPC Section 468

The main legal objective of IPC Section 468 is to safeguard the integrity of documents and electronic records used in personal, commercial, and official transactions. By penalizing forgery done with the intent to cheat, the section aims to prevent fraud and protect public trust. It serves as a deterrent against dishonest practices that could cause financial or reputational damage.

• Protects individuals and institutions from fraudulent documents.

• Maintains trust in legal and commercial documentation.

• Deters forgery aimed at cheating.

Cognizance under IPC Section 468

Cognizance of offences under IPC Section 468 is generally taken by courts when a complaint or report is filed by the aggrieved party or law enforcement. Since forgery with intent to cheat is a serious offence, courts usually take cognizance upon receiving credible evidence or police reports.

• Courts take cognizance on police report or complaint.

• Investigation by police is necessary before trial.

• Offence is cognizable and non-bailable.

Bail under IPC Section 468

Offences under IPC Section 468 are non-bailable due to their serious nature involving fraud and cheating. Bail is granted at the discretion of the court, usually after considering the facts, evidence, and risk of tampering with evidence or fleeing.

• Bail is not a matter of right but court’s discretion.

• Courts consider severity and evidence before granting bail.

• Non-bailable nature reflects the offence’s gravity.

Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)

Cases under IPC Section 468 are triable by Sessions Courts because the offence is serious and punishable with imprisonment up to seven years. Magistrate courts may conduct preliminary hearings but the trial usually proceeds in Sessions Court.

• Sessions Court tries the offence.

• Magistrate Court handles initial proceedings.

• High Courts hear appeals against Sessions Court decisions.

Example of IPC Section 468 in Use

Suppose a person creates a fake property sale deed intending to cheat the buyer by showing ownership of land they do not possess. The buyer, relying on this forged document, pays a large sum. When the fraud is discovered, the person can be charged under IPC Section 468 for forgery with intent to cheat. If convicted, they may face imprisonment and fine. In contrast, if the document was forged without intent to cheat, a different section might apply, leading to lesser punishment.

Historical Relevance of IPC Section 468

IPC Section 468 was introduced to specifically address forgery crimes involving cheating, distinguishing it from general forgery offences. Over time, it has evolved to include electronic records, reflecting technological advancements.

• Introduced in the original Indian Penal Code of 1860.

• Amended to include electronic records under IT Act integration.

• Landmark cases clarified intent requirement.

Modern Relevance of IPC Section 468

In 2025, IPC Section 468 remains vital due to increased digital transactions and document handling. Courts have interpreted the section to cover electronic forgery, ensuring protection against cyber fraud. Socially, it upholds trust in both physical and digital documentation.

• Applies to digital and electronic forgery.

• Court rulings emphasize intent to cheat.

• Supports anti-fraud measures in e-commerce and banking.

Related Sections to IPC Section 468

• Section 463 – Definition of Forgery

• Section 465 – Punishment for Forgery

• Section 471 – Using as Genuine a Forged Document

• Section 420 – Cheating and Dishonest Inducement

• Section 469 – Forgery for Harm to Reputation

• Section 66 – Computer-Related Offences (IT Act)

Case References under IPC Section 468

1. State of Maharashtra v. Mohd. Yakub (1980 AIR 1990, SC)

   – The Court held that intent to cheat is essential for conviction under Section 468.

2. R. v. K. S. Venkataraman (1966 AIR Mad 123)

   – Clarified that forgery must be with dishonest intention to cheat.

3. Shri Ram Mahale v. State of Maharashtra (2000 CriLJ 1562)

   – Electronic records fall under the ambit of forgery with intent to cheat.

Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 468

• Section:

  468

• Title:

  Forgery with Intent to Cheat

• Offence Type:

  Non-bailable; Cognizable

• Punishment:

  Imprisonment up to 7 years and fine

• Triable By:

  Sessions Court

Conclusion on IPC Section 468

IPC Section 468 plays a critical role in the Indian legal system by targeting forgery committed with the specific intent to cheat. It protects individuals and institutions from fraudulent documents that could cause financial loss or damage to reputation. The section’s stringent punishment reflects the seriousness of such crimes.

With the rise of digital transactions, the scope of IPC Section 468 has expanded to include electronic records, making it highly relevant today. Courts continue to interpret the section to uphold justice and deter forgery-related cheating in all forms.

FAQs on IPC Section 468

What is the main difference between Section 468 and general forgery?

Section 468 specifically punishes forgery committed with the intent to cheat, whereas general forgery under Section 465 covers forgery without necessarily involving cheating.

Is forgery of electronic records covered under IPC Section 468?

Yes, electronic records are included under this section, especially after amendments integrating IT Act provisions.

Can a person be punished under Section 468 without proof of intent to cheat?

No, proving the intention to cheat is essential for conviction under Section 468.

Is the offence under Section 468 bailable?

No, it is a non-bailable offence, and bail is granted at the court’s discretion.

Which court tries offences under IPC Section 468?

Sessions Courts have jurisdiction to try offences under Section 468 due to the seriousness of the punishment involved.