SOP & Guidelines for Handling Disguised Identity in GDS Online Engagement

🔹 Summary

This Office Memorandum (dated 21-09-2026) issued by the Department of Posts (GDS Section) provides a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address discrepancies in demographic details and suspected cases of identity disguise during Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Online Engagement.

1. Background & Objective

• Discrepancies have been observed between Class X mark sheets and identity credentials/Aadhaar update history of shortlisted candidates.
• Issues include changes in names, parentage, and dates of birth.
• SOP ensures uniform practice, vigilance, and structured inquiry across Circles.

2. Triggers for Suspected Cases

Engaging Authorities (EAs) must investigate when:

• Age in documents conflicts with physical appearance.
• Cross-state inconsistencies in education, residence, and language proficiency.
• Mismatches in names, parentage, or DOB across certificates and IDs.
• Irregular schooling timelines.
• Photographic/biometric inconsistencies across documents and application.

3. Withholding Engagement

• Provisional engagement is put on hold until inquiry is completed.
• Candidate is informed of reasons for inquiry.

4. Pre-Inquiry Procedure

EAs may demand:

• Aadhaar demographic update history (suo-motu submission).
• Legal documents supporting changes (Gazette notifications, adoption deeds, court decrees, marriage certificates).
• Secondary photo IDs (PAN, Voter ID, Passport, Driving Licence, etc.).
• Educational continuity records (Class 8, Class 12, Transfer Certificates).

5. Inquiry Procedure

If suspicion persists:

• Show Cause Notice issued within 7 days.
• Candidate given 7 days to respond with documents.
• Personal hearing may be arranged.
• Cross-verification of identity and address may be conducted locally.

6. Consequential Actions

• Case A (Bona Fide/Clerical Error): Minor variations legally rectified → engagement allowed.

Case B (Deliberate Concealment/Disguise/Forgery):

• Before final engagement → candidature cancelled.
• After provisional engagement → termination under Rule 8 of GDS Rules, 2020.
• FIR lodged; candidate blacklisted for future GDS cycles.

Click the below link to view PDF
https://utilities.cept.gov.in/dop/pdfbind.ashx?id=15478