Parliament is set to debate an urgent proposal calling for the establishment of a specialised government committee to review and verify academic certificates issued by India, amidst growing concerns over forged qualifications and their impact on Bahrain’s labour market.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs, comes in the wake of a major breakthrough by the Kerala Police earlier this month, when authorities dismantled a pan-India racket engaged in the manufacture and distribution of forged university degree certificates, including fake foreign qualifications.
Investigators revealed the network allegedly supplied counterfeit credentials to more than one million individuals, recovering nearly 100,000 fake certificates linked to around 22 universities.
So far, 11 suspects have been arrested in connection with the illegal operation.
The proposal has been submitted by five MPs – Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman Khalid Bu Onk, bloc president and Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman Ahmed Al Salloom, the committee’s vice-chairwoman Zainab Abdulamir, Parliament second deputy speaker Ahmed Qarata and Hisham Al Awadhi.
They stressed that the move is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of academic qualifications, maintaining confidence in national expertise and ensuring equal opportunities based on merit.
“This proposal is about protecting the credibility of qualifications and the rights of those who have earned their degrees honestly,” said Mr Bu Onk.
“Any manipulation of academic certificates undermines trust in institutions and creates unfair competition in the labour market.”
Under the proposal, a dedicated committee comprising relevant authorities would be tasked with verifying certificates through official channels, co-ordinating with concerned bodies inside and outside Bahrain, and taking legal action against those found to have submitted forged documents.
Mr Al Salloom stressed the need for urgent action.
“Recent developments abroad have shown the existence of organised networks producing forged university certificates on a massive scale,” he said.
“This poses real risks to public sector employment, professional standards and economic efficiency,” he added.
He added that Parliament had a clear oversight responsibility to act decisively.
“Transparency and accountability are essential. Academic qualifications must genuinely reflect competence and merit,” Mr Al Salloom added.
Mr Al Awadhi and Ms Abdulamir said such revelations highlighted the need for stronger verification mechanisms.
“The existence of forged certificates is not just a legal issue; it is a social and ethical one too,” Ms Abdulamir said.
“Allowing unqualified individuals to occupy positions based on fake credentials harms institutions and those who are truly deserving.”
Mr Qarata said the proposal aimed to protect the public interest and restore confidence in qualification systems.
“We want to ensure justice and fairness,” he said. “No one should gain undue advantage or secure a position through deception. Clear procedures and strict legal measures are essential.”
The MPs stressed that the proposed committee would work through official and diplomatic channels to verify credentials, ensuring due process while pursuing violators in accordance with the law.
The urgent proposal, submitted yesterday, is expected to be scheduled for debate at the next parliamentary session.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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