Lucknow: What began as a grand wedding celebration in Gorakhpur soon turned into a shocking case of alleged fraud, impersonation, dowry extraction, molestation, and suspected human trafficking after the groom—who claimed to be an IAS officer—was exposed as an impostor within hours of the marriage.
The bride’s family, who reportedly spent nearly ₹30 lakh on the wedding, has accused the groom, identified as Pritam Kumar Nishad, of posing as an IAS officer to deceive them, extort money, and allegedly attempt to traffic their daughter after marriage.
An FIR has now been registered, and police have launched an investigation into what officers suspect could be a larger marriage fraud network.
Groom Introduced as ‘IAS Officer’ Posted in Manikpur
According to the complaint filed by the bride’s father, Pritam Kumar Nishad, a resident of Etawah, was introduced to the family through a matrimonial social circle.
In the biodata shared with the family, he claimed to be an IAS officer posted in Manikpur.
To make his identity appear genuine, he allegedly circulated:
• Photos seated in an office environment
• Videos styled like media interviews
• Pictures with political figures
• Visuals claiming administrative status
The family says these materials convinced them that the match was genuine.
Family Avoided Verification Fearing Marriage Might Collapse
The bride’s father stated that although doubts existed, the family did not conduct a full background check.
Their reason, according to the complaint, was fear that verification could disrupt or delay the marriage negotiations.
This hesitation later proved costly.
Dowry Promise Broken, ₹15 Lakh Demanded Before Wedding
Initially, the accused reportedly claimed he would marry without dowry.
However, later he allegedly demanded money under the pretext of wedding arrangements.
According to the FIR:
• ₹10 lakh cash was paid during engagement
• ₹5 lakh was paid during the Tilak ceremony
The accused also reportedly told the family that household goods and furniture could be sent later because he was likely to be posted abroad.
Wedding Held with Full Ceremony, Family Spends ₹30 Lakh
The marriage took place on March 11, 2026, at a marriage lawn in Nanda Nagar, Gorakhpur.
The bride’s family made extensive arrangements:
• Hotel accommodation for the groom’s side in Mohaddipur
• Full ceremonial wedding setup
• Hospitality for guests
• Traditional dowry and ceremonial expenses
The total expenditure reportedly reached nearly ₹30 lakh.
Bride Alleges Harassment During Journey After Vidai
According to the complaint, trouble began immediately after the bride left her parental home.
The bride later informed her family that she had been molested throughout the journey to her matrimonial home.
This prompted immediate concern and intervention by her family.
Family Finds Bride Locked Inside a Room
After receiving a distress call, family members rushed to the groom’s house in Etawah.
There, they allegedly found their daughter confined inside a small room.
According to the complaint:
• The groom and his sister fled after seeing the bride’s family arrive
• The bride appeared frightened and distressed
• The family immediately took her back
Bride Alleges Attempt to Sell Her
The most serious allegation emerged after the bride returned home.
She reportedly told her father that the groom and his family were planning to sell her.
According to the complaint, the family believes timely intervention prevented a possible trafficking attempt.
This has led investigators to consider whether the case may involve a broader human trafficking pattern.
Locals Reveal Suspicious Marriage History
The bride’s father further claimed that local residents informed him that Pritam Kumar Nishad had allegedly married twice earlier using false identities.
Police are now examining whether similar complaints exist elsewhere.
If confirmed, the case may indicate a repeated pattern of matrimonial fraud.
FIR Registered Under Serious Charges
A formal FIR has been lodged at Cantt Police Station.
The complaint reportedly includes serious charges related to:
• Cheating
• Criminal conspiracy
• Dowry-related offences
• Molestation
• Wrongful confinement
• Suspected trafficking attempt
Police Begin Investigation, Arrest Expected Soon
Kaustubh, Senior Superintendent of Police, confirmed that the case is under active investigation.
Police have stated that efforts are underway to arrest the accused soon.
Investigators are also examining:
• Financial transactions
• Identity records
• Previous matrimonial links
• Digital evidence used to impersonate an IAS officer
Fake Civil Service Identity Raises Serious Concern
The case has also revived concern over repeated misuse of prestigious civil service identities such as Indian Administrative Service for matrimonial fraud.
Police officials note that fake officer profiles are increasingly used to:
• Gain trust quickly
• Demand money
• Avoid background scrutiny
• Create social pressure
Marriage Fraud Networks Under Scanner
Because of allegations involving repeated marriages and trafficking intent, investigators may now probe whether the accused acted alone or as part of a wider network.
Such cases often involve:
• Fake identities
• Social media deception
• False government postings
• Financial extraction through marriage
Warning for Families During Matrimonial Verification
Police sources say the case highlights the importance of verifying:
• Service records
• Posting details
• Official identity
• Cadre details
• Government contact records
Especially when claims involve elite services like IAS or IPS.
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