How Did an Imposter Work at Security Paper Mill for Over a Year?
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Synopsis
A shocking breach at India's Security Paper Mill reveals how a man worked for 18 months using fraudulent means. The incident raises serious questions about recruitment protocols in high-security environments. Discover the details of this alarming situation and the implications it holds for security measures in sensitive facilities.
Key Takeaways
- Deepak Kumar Chaudhary worked at SPM using fraudulent means for 18 months.
- The fraud was discovered during a biometric verification.
- Authorities have filed a case against him for fraud and forgery.
- The incident raises significant concerns about security protocols.
- SPM is the only facility in India producing high-grade currency paper.
Bhopal, July 9 (NationPress) In a shocking violation of security protocols at one of India’s most critical facilities, a 31-year-old individual reportedly worked for over 18 months at the Security Paper Mill (SPM) in Narmadapuram (formerly Hoshangabad) through deceitful methods.
The deception was revealed only during a routine biometric verification, raising significant alarms about the recruitment processes in high-security environments.
The suspect, named Deepak Kumar Chaudhary, is from Talhara village in Bihar’s Nalanda district. He allegedly obtained the role of store supervisor through fraudulent tactics and commenced work at SPM on December 17, 2023.
However, it wasn’t until May 2025, during a biometric check conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), that the discrepancies were uncovered.
Officials found that another individual had taken the recruitment exam on Deepak's behalf.
“After an internal investigation, Deepak was promptly dismissed and is believed to have returned to his village. A formal complaint was lodged by SPM’s Deputy Manager,” stated Sanjay Bhavsar in an interview with IANS.
The mill’s management has already alerted the IBPS regarding the fraudulent activity and has also notified the police. Since Deepak was still on probation, he could not secure a permanent position as a store supervisor, Bhavsar mentioned.
He clarified that the entire recruitment framework, including the 2023 examination held in Mumbai, was managed by IBPS.
Candidates are selected based on merit, and final appointments are confirmed only after thorough biometric and document verification.
A case of fraud and forgery was registered at the Kotwali police station on Tuesday. The police have also implicated another individual suspected of impersonating Deepak during the exam.
“We have filed a case against the accused under sections 420, 67, 68, and 71 of IPC (sections 318, 8, 8(a), and 9 of BNS) as of Tuesday night,” noted Saurav Pandey, the investigation officer and Kotwali police station in-charge, while speaking to IANS.
The police revealed that someone else had taken the exam in Deepak's place, and this identity manipulation issue surfaced during the verification process. This incident has raised concerns about recruitment security in vital public sector undertakings.
Established in 1968, SPM Narmadapuram operates under the Ministry of Finance and is the sole facility in the country producing paper for high-grade currency and security documents.
It provides paper for the printing of Indian currency and non-judicial stamps through presses located in Nashik, Dewas, Hyderabad, and other places.
With more than 700 permanent employees and nearly 300 contractual staff, SPM enforces strict entry protocols, including CISF security and biometric surveillance.
This breach has raised serious questions about how an imposter managed to circumvent such stringent safeguards and remain undetected for an extended period. The authorities are continuing their investigation, and as of now, Deepak has not been apprehended.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge that such breaches not only compromise the integrity of sensitive establishments but also raise questions about the vetting process in high-security environments. This incident serves as a wake-up call for authorities to enhance their recruitment protocols and ensure that rigorous checks are in place to prevent such occurrences in the future.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main issue at the Security Paper Mill?
A 31-year-old man, Deepak Kumar Chaudhary, worked for over 18 months using fraudulent means, which was discovered during a biometric verification.
How was the fraud discovered?
The fraud was uncovered during a routine biometric check conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection.
What actions have been taken against the accused?
Deepak was terminated from his position, and a formal complaint was filed with the police, leading to a fraud case being registered.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident raises serious concerns regarding recruitment security in high-security establishments and highlights the need for improved vetting processes.
Is the accused still at large?
As of now, Deepak Kumar Chaudhary has not been arrested and is believed to have fled to his village.
