Only forging a document is illegal; using a forged one you did not make is safe.

Knowingly using a false certificate as genuine is itself punishable, at the same level as giving false evidence.

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023

Section 235

Using as true a certificate known to be false

Whoever corruptly uses or attempts to use any such certificate as a true certificate, knowing the same to be false in any material point, shall be punished in the same manner as if he gave false evidence.§

Why this exists

This provision works together with Section 234: while that section punishes the person who signs a false certificate, this one (earlier Section 198 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860) punishes whoever later relies on and presents that false certificate as genuine, ensuring both the maker and the user of fabricated official documents can be held accountable.

Common misconceptions

Myth: Only forging a document is illegal; using a forged one you did not make is safe.
Fact: Knowingly using a false certificate as genuine is itself punishable, at the same level as giving false evidence.