Lucknow. A bizarre case of impersonation has emerged from Lucknow, where a 38- year-old man allegedly posed as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and attempted to mislead both civilians and police personnel. The accused reportedly went as far as questioning officers for not saluting him and not following formal protocol, creating confusion at public places before being exposed and arrested.
Fake IPS Claim Exposed
The accused has been identified as Mithilesh Shukla, a resident of Lucknow. Police said he was taken into custody by the Mahanagar police station team after multiple complaints and repeated instances of suspicious behaviour.
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According to police officials, the incident dates back to the night of June 13, when a dispute over payment was reported at a tea stall near Gol Market crossing. When the police team reached the spot, they found Shukla engaged in an argument with the shopkeeper. During questioning, he allegedly claimed to be an IPS officer posted in Noida and began instructing police personnel on discipline and protocol.
The accused reportedly questioned the officers for not saluting him and not wearing caps while on duty. When asked to produce identification or official documents, he failed to provide any proof and left the spot, stating that he would return with the necessary documents later.
Second Complaint Triggered Action
The matter did not end there. On June 15, police received another complaint involving similar disruptive behaviour by the same individual at another tea stall. Acting on repeated reports, police summoned him for questioning.
During interrogation, Shukla allegedly admitted that he was not an IPS officer and actually worked as an account executive in a private company located in Sector 18, Noida. Police said he deliberately misrepresented his identity to exert influence over both civilians and law enforcement personnel.
Meanwhile, a video of the incident went viral on social media, showing the accused arguing and making authority-like claims. The clip triggered wider attention, leading to additional complaints and verification by police authorities.
Digital Records Under Probe
A case has been registered against him under relevant sections related to impersonation of a public servant, cheating, and obstruction of government duty. Officials said such offences carry strict legal consequences, including imprisonment and fines depending on the severity of the act.
Investigators are now examining whether the accused used fake identity cards, forged documents, or social media profiles to support his false claim. His mobile phone and digital communication records are also being analysed for further evidence.
Police officials noted that impersonation cases are increasingly being reported, where individuals misuse government identities to intimidate people or gain undue influence. Authorities emphasized that such acts damage public trust in law enforcement institutions and create unnecessary confusion in public spaces.
Impersonation Angle Examined
The investigation is also focused on determining whether the accused has been involved in similar incidents in the past or acted alone in this case. Officials have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges if further evidence emerges.
Law enforcement agencies reiterated that strict action is taken against anyone falsely claiming to be a government official, as such actions are considered serious criminal offences under Indian law.
Authorities further urged citizens to verify the identity of individuals claiming official positions and immediately report suspicious behaviour to prevent misuse of authority.
The incident highlights growing concerns over impersonation-related offences in urban areas, where individuals exploit symbols of authority such as titles and perceived power for attention or intimidation. Police said the situation at the tea stall has since normalized following the arrest, and no further disturbances have been reported.
