Document Forgery: A Growing Threat in India

Document forgery, the intentional alteration or creation of false documents to deceive, is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue in India. From fake property deeds to fraudulent government IDs, this crime disrupts businesses, individuals, and institutional trust. As India undergoes rapid digitisation, forgers have adapted, employing sophisticated techniques that exploit vulnerabilities in both physical and digital systems. Historically tied to land disputes in the colonial era, document forgery has now infiltrated a variety of sectors, including banking, education, and real estate. High-profile cases such as the Punjab National Bank fraud (2018) and the Adarsh Housing Society scam (2010) demonstrate the far-reaching consequences, not only in terms of financial losses but also in the erosion of public trust in institutions.

With the rise of cyber-enabled forgery, the threat has grown significantly. Recent cases, such as the Aadhaar fraud incident in Maharashtra (2024) and the fake educational certificate syndicate in Delhi (2023), highlight the urgent need to strengthen verification systems. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reported over 1,70,901 forgery-related cases in 2022, with a notable increase in crimes involving digital tools. As more people rely on digital identities and transactions, the challenge of ensuring the authenticity of documents becomes even more pressing. Fake property documents, for example, have led to fraudulent real estate sales and legal disputes, underscoring the need for stronger safeguards across various industries.

The Supreme Court of India has repeatedly recognised the significance of forensic evidence in verifying document authenticity. In the State of Maharashtra v. Suresh, the court emphasised the importance of expert testimony in forensic document examination. The judgement noted, "Forensic document analysis is a specialised skill that provides indispensable support to the judiciary in discerning the truth." This acknowledgement underscores the judiciary’s reliance on scientific tools to ensure justice.

To address the growing threat, innovative technological solutions are playing a vital role. Indian researchers are exploring Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain to improve document security and tampering detection. AI applications, such as signature verification, are being developed at institutions like IIT Delhi, while blockchain technology is being utilised to create tamper-proof systems for authenticating digital documents. Blockchain’s decentralised, immutable nature ensures that sensitive information remains secure, reducing the risk of unauthorised alterations. These technologies are not only helping detect forgery but also preventing it by safeguarding digital records and restricting access to authorised individuals.

Institutions like the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) and Truth Labs are leading efforts to combat document forgery in India. The CFSL, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, specialises in document examination, handwriting analysis, and ink verification. Private entities like Truth Labs have resolved numerous high-profile cases, providing critical forensic support in areas such as banking and real estate. These institutions, working closely with law enforcement, are essential in the fight against forgeries. Additionally, international cooperation with organisations like Interpol and the UNODC strengthens India’s forensic capabilities, addressing cross-border forgeries, such as passport fraud and international financial crimes.

Document forgery remains a significant issue in today’s interconnected world. Public awareness plays a crucial role in reducing the prevalence of document forgery. By educating citizens on the importance of document security, verifying credentials, and recognising signs of tampering, vulnerabilities can be minimised. Simple measures, such as checking the authenticity of official documents with issuing authorities, can significantly reduce the risk of fraud. In conclusion, tackling document forgery in India requires a multifaceted approach—combining legal enforcement, scientific innovation, and global collaboration. By adopting advanced technologies, fostering international partnerships, and raising awareness, India can create a more secure and trustworthy environment for its citizens, businesses, and institutions.

(Dr. Keshav Kumar is a retired IPS officer and forensic advisor to the Assam Government. Bimrisha Boruah is a student of National Forensic Science University, Guwahati. Views personal.)