Madhya Pradesh’s Special Task Force is investigating a suspected illegal passport racket in which foreign nationals, including suspected Bangladeshi citizens, allegedly obtained Indian passports using forged residential documents and addresses in the state. Investigators have found that around 40 passports were issued using the address of a monastery in Anna Nagar, Bhopal, while about 70 passports are currently under scrutiny.
Officials are examining whether the network helped foreign nationals establish Indian identities through forged documents and facilitated their passport applications. Around 100 people linked to the alleged racket could come under action as the investigation expands.
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Around 70 Passports Under Investigation
Investigating teams are tracing passport holders and verifying the identities and addresses submitted with their applications. Most of the passports under examination were reportedly issued during 2021 and 2022.
The inquiry is also focusing on the field verification carried out by police personnel responsible for confirming applicants’ identities and addresses. Investigators have found significant discrepancies in the verification process and are examining whether checks were properly conducted or whether documents were accepted without adequate physical verification.
Municipal and other government employees have also come under scrutiny. Investigators are examining whether any officials helped prepare, certify or process documents used to establish false identities or residential addresses.
The probe has found that several applicants used documents showing addresses in Madhya Pradesh to obtain passports. Investigators are trying to establish how these documents were prepared, who assisted the applicants and how they were able to clear mandatory verification procedures.
Two suspects have been arrested so far after the STF registered a case on receiving information about the alleged network. The accused are suspected of being involved in preparing and using forged documents to establish fake residential addresses for passport applications.
Passport Holders Traced to Foreign Countries
The investigation has expanded beyond Madhya Pradesh after authorities found that several passport holders had travelled abroad. Travel records under examination include visits to Cambodia, Spain, Thailand and Indonesia.
Investigators are trying to determine whether the passports were obtained simply to create Indian identities or whether they were connected to a wider organised network facilitating international movement.
The authorities are also examining why applicants selected addresses in Madhya Pradesh, who brought them into the alleged network and whether the passports were subsequently used for travel, migration or other purposes.
Teams have been sent to Assam and other locations to verify the identities and addresses of passport holders. Officials are checking whether individuals listed in government records actually lived at the addresses mentioned in their applications.
Travel histories of people who have already left India are also being examined to establish their current locations and activities. Investigators are trying to determine whether the suspected racket was limited to obtaining passports or formed part of a broader cross-border network.
Anna Nagar Address Used for Around 40 Passports
A key focus of the investigation is an address linked to a monastery in Anna Nagar, Bhopal, which was allegedly used for passport applications involving around 40 people.
The STF has found indications that the suspected network allegedly assisted people who had come to India from Bangladesh and wanted to establish themselves as Indian citizens using forged documents.
Investigators are now examining the entire verification chain, including the preparation of documents, certification of addresses, police verification and processing of passport applications.
Officials expect the number of suspects to increase as scrutiny of the 70 passports continues. The investigation is also examining the role of people who allegedly arranged addresses, prepared supporting documents and assisted applicants in clearing verification procedures.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
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