Police Uncover Fake Degree Network, Seals of 25 Universities Used

Lucknow authorities have dismantled a sophisticated network producing counterfeit academic degrees and certificates, allegedly supplying fake credentials to job seekers across multiple Indian states. The operation, uncovered after a police raid, involved documents bearing the names and insignia of at least 25 universities, including Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Kalinga University, and Sabarmati University.

Three men—Satyendra Dwivedi of Ayodhya, Akhilesh Kumar of Unnao, and Saurabh Sharma of Lakhimpur Kheri—were arrested for running the forgery operation. Investigators describe the network as highly organized, producing certificates sophisticated enough to pass casual checks by employers, particularly in the private sector.

How the Counterfeit Scheme Worked

Police recovered over 900 forged degrees, 15 fake seals, multiple letterheads, and six laptops believed to have been used to design and print the documents. Certificates were reportedly customized to match the buyer’s claimed academic background.

Pricing varied by qualification:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees: ₹15,000–₹25,000
• Engineering or management degrees: ₹50,000–₹1,00,000
• PhDs: up to ₹4,00,000

Authorities estimate the operation had been active since 2021, meeting consistent demand from individuals seeking to bypass formal education requirements. Investigators noted that Dwivedi, who holds a doctorate in sociology, may have lent credibility and technical know-how to the scheme.

Tracking the Buyers

The police investigation has expanded to include approximately 1,500 individuals who purchased fake degrees, many of whom reportedly used the documents to secure employment. Deputy Commissioner of Police (East), Shashank Singh, warned that “strict legal action will be taken against them as well.”

Authorities face the challenge of determining how widely the fake credentials circulated and the extent to which employers failed to verify academic claims. The fallout could affect thousands of jobs if fraudulent degrees are invalidated.

Implications for Education and Employment

The case has highlighted vulnerabilities in systems meant to protect academic and professional standards. The recovery of fake seals and letterheads from reputed institutions demonstrates how easily symbols of legitimacy can be replicated. For now, authorities are focused on verification, documentation, and accountability as the full scope of the network comes to light.