Forgery Scandal: Fake Birth Certificates Uncovered in Malegaon

Authorities in Nashik, Maharashtra, have detained two individuals for allegedly using counterfeit documents to procure birth certificates. The arrests follow BJP leader Kirit Somaiya's accusation of mass fraud involving forged documents by Bangladeshi nationals. Investigations continue as two officials face suspension over the alleged irregularities.

In a significant crackdown against document forgery, police in Nashik's Malegaon district have arrested two people for allegedly presenting fake papers to secure birth certificates. The accused were apprehended following a complaint by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, who flagged widespread fraudulent activity impacting the issuance process.

The investigation revealed that the trio involved, Sayyed Sajid Sayyed Wahab, Shabana Bano Sheikh Haneef, and Nazma Bano Abdul Shakoor, submitted forged Aadhaar, ration cards, and other documents in December 2024. Consequently, a case has been filed under multiple charges including forgery and cheating as per the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS).

BJP leader Somaiya accused the suspects of being Bangladeshi nationals and detailed in his submission the issuance of nearly 4,000 birth certificates based on fake credentials. The Maharashtra government has already suspended two revenue officials amid the revelations, as the police continue their interrogation and probe into potential accomplices in the alleged scheme.

(With inputs from agencies.)