Note Burning Viral Video: The long weekend of Diwali celebrations has wrapped up, and social media is abuzz with videos capturing the festivities, particularly the iconic bursts of firecrackers. Among these, a controversial viral video has emerged, showing ₹100 and ₹500 banknotes being burned. Although these notes are confirmed as counterfeit, the clip has sparked significant debate online. The question on everyone’s mind: Is burning banknotes legal in India? Let’s delve into the details.
Viral Video of Note Burning: What’s the Story?
The video was posted on an Instagram account named “kumardineshbhai049.” It showcases multiple ₹100 and ₹500 notes being set aflame. Upon close inspection, it becomes evident that these notes are counterfeit, marked with “Full of Fun” instead of official markings. Despite this, the video has amassed over 3 million views and more than 63,000 likes, with users flooding the comments section with their thoughts. One user commented, “Fake note,” while another remarked, “Full of Fun.” However, not everyone realized the notes were fake, with some saying, “Give it to someone needy,” and others warning, “Destroying Indian currency is a crime.”
Is Burning Indian Currency Legal?
Now, the pressing question: Is burning Indian currency against the law? In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) strictly prohibits the destruction or damage of real currency notes. The RBI, as the central monetary authority, enforces stringent regulations on the handling and disposal of genuine currency, ensuring that it is neither defaced nor destroyed under any circumstances.
Legal Consequences of Destroying Currency in India
According to Indian law, specifically under Section 477 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), destroying or mutilating any form of Indian currency is a punishable offense. This section, which deals with the destruction of valuable securities, stipulates that intentional destruction of currency—whether to deface, disfigure, or damage—can lead to severe legal repercussions, including imprisonment. The RBI advises that if banknotes are damaged or deemed unfit for circulation, they should be returned to banks for proper disposal rather than being destroyed.
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