In the quiet lanes of Kottayam, Kerala, a dangerous racket was operating under the illusion of legitimacy—offering counterfeit degrees to unsuspecting individuals, complete with mark sheets, migration certificates, and university seals. This deceptive operation was run by a so-called “degree agent” who promised fast-track degrees that looked even more authentic than the real ones.
But it all came to a crashing end when two individuals decided to verify their “degrees” at the very university they claimed to graduate from.
The Degree Agent Behind the Scam
The operation was run under the name Eduance, led by:
Sandeep, Managing Director
P.O. Box 686532, Kurichy, Kottayam – INDIA
With promises of Bachelor’s degrees from well-known institutions, this agent created a convincing illusion. The package typically included:
All-year mark sheets
Degree certificate
Migration certificate
Everything appeared so authentic that the victims were confident enough to approach the university itself.
The Fake Degree Holders
Two individuals fell into the trap:
Rameez P. Shamsudden, resident of Pappad, Pallickachirakavala, who purchased a BBA degree supposedly earned in 2012.
Thipen Punush Punushothaman, of Meethaele Keloth, Kottayam, who obtained a fake BSc degree backdated to 2010.
They believed their degrees from Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune would pass every scrutiny.
University Confirmation: It’s Fake
When the forged documents were submitted to Bharati Vidyapeeth for verification, the university promptly responded with a strong statement. In an official letter by the Controller of Examinations I/C, Dr. Anthony Rose, declared:
“this is to confirm that the copy of mark sheets of
Rameez P. Shamsudden – Bachelor of Business Administration
Shipun Purush T.P. – Bachelor of Science
submitted by your office has not been issued by our university, and it is fake.”
The university requested to be informed about any legal action taken against the individuals involved in such acts of forgery.
Key Officials at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune:
Chancellor: Prof. Dr. Shivajirao Kadam (M.Sc., Ph.D)
Vice Chancellor: Prof. Dr. Vivek A. Saoji (M.B.B.S., M.S.)
Pro Vice Chancellor: Dr. Vishwajeet Kadam (B.Tech., M.B.A., Ph.D)
Registrar: G. Jayakumar (M.Com., Dip. Pub Admn.)
Bharati Vidyapeeth is a highly reputed institution:
Accredited with ‘A++’ Grade (2017) by NAAC
Category-I University status by UGC
Ranked 76 by NIRF
Motto: “Social Transformation Through Dynamic Education”
What Happened Next?
Upon discovery, legal proceedings were immediately initiated against Rameez and Thipen. The so-called degree agent, Sandeep, went absconding, shutting down his operations and disappearing without a trace. His office in Kottayam was found locked, and a Look Out Circular (LOC) was issued by Kerala Police.
Authorities are currently investigating further leads to uncover how many more individuals may have been victimized by this degree scam.
The Takeaway: No Shortcuts in Education
This incident serves as a critical reminder: Fake degrees don’t pay off. Forged educational documents can lead to criminal charges, public shame, and the loss of future opportunities. Institutions are now more vigilant than ever, and verification procedures are iron-clad.
If you or someone you know is being offered a fake degree or involved in such activities, report it immediately. Say no to shortcuts and yes to genuine education.
