In a startling case of impersonation and fraud, two youths from Munger attempted to secure a government job in the railways through deceit, only to be caught nearly one-and-a-half years later due to biometric verification. The accused, Mukesh Kumar and his neighbour Ranjit Kumar, are now behind bars.

₹6 Lakh Deal to Crack Railway Exam

The case dates back to the 2024 railway technician recruitment examination conducted by the Indian Railways. Mukesh Kumar, who had applied for the post, allegedly doubted his ability to clear the examination. He then struck a deal with his neighbour Ranjit Kumar, who operates a coaching institute in the locality.

According to investigators, it was agreed that Ranjit would appear in the examination on Mukesh’s behalf in exchange for ₹6 lakh in cash.

Hybrid Photo Created to Evade Suspicion

In an attempt to avoid detection, the duo reportedly created a “hybrid” photograph by blending their facial features using online tools and editing software. The manipulated image was designed to resemble both individuals so that any discrepancy could later be explained as a result of natural changes in appearance.

Using this altered photograph, Ranjit allegedly appeared for the Computer Based Test (CBT) in Patna. He subsequently cleared the medical examination conducted in Bhopal.

Appointment, Posting and Training

Mukesh was declared successful and received his appointment in July 2025. He went on to work in railway divisions including Damoh, Sagar and Jabalpur. In October 2025, he was sent to Prayagraj for further training.

For over a year, the alleged fraud went undetected. However, railway regulations mandate random biometric verification of newly appointed employees within a stipulated period.

Biometric Verification Exposes the Fraud

On November 14, 2025, during a routine biometric verification, Mukesh’s thumb impression and facial scan reportedly did not match the data recorded during recruitment — which investigators say belonged to Ranjit. As the mismatch surfaced, Mukesh allegedly fled and returned to Bihar.

CBI Arrests Both Accused

The matter was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). A team from Jabalpur conducted raids in Munger and arrested Mukesh Kumar. Based on his disclosures, Ranjit Kumar was also apprehended.

Officials are now probing whether Ranjit may have facilitated similar impersonation attempts for other candidates in previous examinations.

Biometric Safeguards Under Spotlight

The case has once again highlighted the critical role of Aadhaar-linked biometric authentication in government recruitment processes. Under regulations of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), while demographic details such as address can be updated, biometric data requires physical verification at authorised centres.

Authorities maintain that biometric matching serves as a robust safeguard against impersonation and fraudulent appointments in public services.