A student from Mumbai has landed in serious trouble after intentionally damaging their passport in a bid to conceal a recent trip to Thailand from their educational institution. The student, who received funding from the institution for an overseas internship, allegedly didn’t want their personal travel plans to be known, fearing it might affect their funding.
According to sources, the student had traveled to Thailand during their internship period without informing their institution. Upon returning, they attempted to cover their tracks by mutilating their passport, specifically removing or altering the pages containing the entry and exit stamps from Thailand.
However, this attempt to deceive their institution has backfired, and the student now faces severe consequences. Tampering with a passport is a serious offense under Indian law, punishable under the Passport Act, 1967. The student may face fines, imprisonment, or both.
Moreover, the damaged passport may be rendered invalid, causing significant difficulties for the student’s future travel plans. The institution may also take disciplinary action, including revoking their funding or even expelling the student.
This incident highlights the importance of honesty and transparency, especially when it comes to official documents and institutional funding. The student’s actions, although perhaps well-intentioned, have ultimately put them in a difficult spot, and they may now face significant repercussions.
