Forged identity card holders among migrant workers in Kozhikode under scanner

Following complaints about migrant workers allegedly using forged identity documents to secure employment, the police have launched stringent verification drives across Kozhikode district to identify and trace suspected offenders.

The silent crackdown follows the recent detection of four individuals working in different fields using forged Aadhaar cards.

Police sources confirm that the recent series of flash inspections at a few spas and wellness clinics across the State has already identified several such fake identity card holders, and that stringent legal action has been initiated against them. Many of those who were exposed during the special drives were suspected Bangladeshi nationals, they add.

As part of the continuing investigation, police officers have sought the support of various local bodies and residents’ forums to monitor suspected persons and exchange their details with the local police to complete the verification process. The support of various coastal vigilance committees and welfare organisations will also be sought to expose alleged fake identity card holders.

“There are many employers who do not even do the basic check to verify details in identity documents. Most fake cards reportedly carry partial information and noticeable errors,” says a police officer.

Building owners warned

The police have also warned building owners to be watchful of those who present fake cards to secure accommodation. Rental agreements prepared using such forged documents will not have any legal validity, they say.

Fake cards, according to Akshaya centre operators, can be easily detected using QR code scanners. As the information in the QR code is secure and tamper-proof, having been digitally signed by UIDAI, fraudsters cannot bypass this simple screening measure, said the police.

Members of coastal vigilance committees in Kozhikode point out that biometric identity cards were introduced earlier as an effective measure to prevent fake identity card holders from entering coastal areas as fishers. However, the floating population of migrant workers made it difficult to continue with the process, which was discontinued midway, they say.

Police officers say that the verification of identity documents is also linked to the ongoing special drive to track drug traffickers under Operation Toofan. Many previously arrested drug pushers have been found covering up their real names and using fake identity documents to mislead investigators, they add.