In a state already grappling with cases of fake government offices, a fake judge, a bogus toll plaza, and impersonators of police officers, army personnel, teachers, doctors, and even PMO officials, Gujarat has now uncovered another shocking incident. A man who posed as an official from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) has been arrested.
The accused, identified as Nitish Chaudhary from Madhi village in Bardoli taluka of Surat district, was arrested after duping individuals and officials into believing he was part of the CMO.
His fraudulent activities came to light when he contacted Navsari Deputy Collector Devang Thakor via telephone on multiple occasions between October 23, 2024 and January 2, 2025.
During these conversations, Chaudhary issued instructions and sought updates on various tasks, presenting himself as an authoritative figure from the CMO.
Thakor, suspecting foul play, conducted an investigation which revealed that no such individual was associated with the Chief Minister’s Office. Acting on this, a complaint was filed at Navsari Rural Police Station and led to Chaudhary’s arrest.
On January 2, Deputy Collector Thakor directly questioned Chaudhary about his duties. The accused claimed his role primarily involved managing the Chief Minister’s meetings.
When asked if he should be the contact point for scheduling such meetings, Chaudhary replied that others could also be approached, further attempting to bolster his credibility.
Further inquiries revealed that Chaudhary had been masquerading as a CMO official for two decades.
He claimed to have joined the office after completing an MA in Mass Communication and Journalism and clearing the Gujarat Public Service Commission exam.
He also stated he had been awaiting a promotion that he believed would transfer him to Delhi. Throughout his charade, Chaudhary presented himself as a trusted associate of senior officials and added layers of deception to his fabricated persona.
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