APCrRPCO Section 234 : Disposal of Counterfeit Coins and Forged Currency Notes

Explanation using Example

Example 1: Disposal of Counterfeit Coins

Introduction: A local police station in Andhra Pradesh conducts a raid and seizes a large number of counterfeit coins along with the dies used to produce them. The case is brought before the Criminal Court, which must decide on the disposal of these items.

Application: According to Section 234(1) of The Andhra Pradesh Criminal Rules Of Practice And Circular Orders, 1990, the court is required to forward the counterfeit coins and any related implements, such as dies and moulds, to the nearest Treasury or Sub-Treasury. The Treasury is then responsible for sending these items to the Mint for examination. The court must also send a concise report detailing the case and the sentence imposed.

Outcome: By following this procedure, the court ensures that the counterfeit coins are properly examined and disposed of, preventing them from re-entering circulation. Non-compliance with this provision could result in administrative issues or legal repercussions for failing to adhere to the prescribed disposal process.

Conclusion: This example illustrates the importance of following legal procedures for the disposal of counterfeit currency to maintain the integrity of the financial system.

Example 2: Disposal of Forged Currency Notes

Introduction: During an investigation, the police uncover a forgery operation involving counterfeit currency notes. The court confiscates the implements used for forgery, such as moulds and dies, and must decide on their disposal.

Application: As per Section 234(2) of the Act, the court has the discretion to decide the fate of the confiscated implements. If the court orders these items to be destroyed, the police are responsible for arranging their destruction. However, if the police believe certain implements have special interest, they may hand them over to the Criminal Investigation Department for preservation.

Outcome: The forged currency notes themselves are to be handed over to the police, who will forward them to the Issue Department of the Reserve Bank of India, as stated in Section 234(3). This ensures that the forged notes are removed from circulation and properly accounted for.

Conclusion: This scenario highlights the court's role in deciding the disposal of forgery implements and the importance of securely handling forged currency notes to prevent economic harm.

Example 3: Confiscated Arms and Ammunition

Introduction: A criminal case involves the confiscation of illegal arms and ammunition. The court must determine how to dispose of these items.

Application: According to Section 234(4) of the Act, all confiscated arms and ammunition of preserved bore should be sent to the nearest Arsenal for disposal. This ensures that dangerous weapons are handled by appropriate authorities and disposed of safely.

Outcome: Proper disposal of arms and ammunition prevents them from falling into the wrong hands and ensures compliance with legal safety standards. Failure to follow this procedure could lead to legal liability for mishandling dangerous items.

Conclusion: This example demonstrates the necessity of adhering to legal protocols for the disposal of confiscated weapons to maintain public safety.