Fake Cops or Traditional Behrupiyas? Pune Residents Raise Concerns

Reported by Shradha Panda
Pune, 27th February 2025: Pune residents have reported multiple incidents of individuals dressed as police officers approaching citizens and asking for donations for charities, NGOs, or underprivileged children. Many locals, particularly in Wakad, Hinjawadi, and Baner, have expressed concerns over the lack of proper police insignia, such as badges, stars, and name tags.

While some suspect these individuals to be fraudsters, others believe they might belong to the Behrupiya community, a traditional group of performers known for their mimicry and disguises. For decades, Behrupiyas have entertained audiences in Maharashtra by impersonating various characters—often police officers—to earn small donations. However, they typically reveal their true identity and do not forcibly demand large sums.

Behrupiyas or Scammers?
According to several residents, some of these individuals refused to disclose their identity when questioned, making it difficult to differentiate between traditional performers and potential fraudsters. Traditionally, Behrupiyas accept small amounts as a token of appreciation—usually between ₹10 and ₹50. However, recent reports indicate that some impersonators have been demanding donations ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 and rejecting smaller contributions.

While genuine Behrupiyas either entertain people or simply reveal their disguise before requesting minor donations, these recent incidents suggest a departure from conventional practices, raising doubts about the authenticity of these individuals.

A Case of Fake Cops Reported
Amidst this confusion, a verified case of police impersonation was recently reported in Pune. A 71-year-old woman from Tingre Nagar was deceived by three fraudsters posing as police officers near Joshi Wadewale on Airport Road in Vishrantwadi.

According to reports, the scammers approached the elderly woman and warned her about the risk of theft, instructing her to remove her gold ornaments for safety. Once she complied, the fraudsters stole jewelry worth ₹2.75 lakh and fled the scene.

Need for Clarity and Awareness
As such encounters become increasingly common, citizens are calling for clarity on how to distinguish between genuine Behrupiyas and potential scammers. There is a need to prevent fraud while also safeguarding traditional performers from false accusations.

Many suggest that the best way to identify a Behrupiya is to ask them directly about their identity. Authentic Behrupiyas typically reveal who they are and request minimal donations. However, if someone demands a large sum and appears suspicious, they should be reported to the authorities.