In a striking incident that underscores the growing impact of artificial intelligence on employment, a teenager in India has been arrested after allegedly attempting to carry out a heist inspired by the popular Bollywood film “Bunty Aur Babli.” The 19-year-old, identified as Rohan Sharma, reportedly lost his job at a local retail store due to automation and AI technologies, which have increasingly replaced human labor in various sectors.
The incident occurred on December 25, 2025, when Sharma attempted to execute a plan reminiscent of the film’s protagonists, who are known for their clever and humorous scams. According to police reports, Sharma devised a scheme to rob a bank in his hometown of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, using tactics he had seen in the movie. Authorities say he intended to use disguises and a fake identity to carry out the heist, believing that he could evade capture by mimicking the film’s characters.
Sharma’s motivations appear to stem from his recent unemployment. He had been working at a retail outlet for over a year before being laid off as the store transitioned to an AI-driven inventory management system. This shift, which is part of a broader trend in the retail industry, has led to significant job losses, particularly among young workers who often occupy entry-level positions. The rise of AI and automation has sparked widespread debate about the future of work, with many advocating for policies to protect vulnerable workers.
The teenager’s plan was thwarted when local law enforcement received a tip-off about his intentions. Officers apprehended Sharma before he could execute the heist, and he was charged with conspiracy to commit robbery. During questioning, he expressed frustration over his job loss and the perceived unfairness of being replaced by machines. “I just wanted to make some quick money,” he reportedly told investigators, referencing the film’s themes of desperation and cunning.
The “Bunty Aur Babli” franchise, which includes a 2005 film and its 2021 sequel, has resonated with audiences for its portrayal of two con artists who outsmart their targets with elaborate schemes. The films have become cultural touchstones in India, often cited in discussions about crime and morality. However, Sharma’s attempt to emulate the characters has raised concerns about the influence of popular media on young people’s behavior, particularly in times of economic hardship.
This incident highlights a growing trend among young people in India, where unemployment rates have surged in recent years. According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, the unemployment rate for youth aged 15-29 was approximately 23% in 2025, significantly higher than the national average. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, leading to widespread job losses and a shift towards automation in various industries.
The implications of Sharma’s actions extend beyond his personal circumstances. They reflect a broader societal issue regarding the intersection of technology and employment. As AI continues to evolve and integrate into various sectors, workers face increasing pressure to adapt to new technologies or risk obsolescence. This situation has prompted calls for educational reforms and reskilling programs aimed at preparing the workforce for a rapidly changing job market.
In response to the incident, local officials have emphasized the need for community support systems to assist those affected by job losses due to automation. “We must ensure that our youth have access to training and employment opportunities that align with the demands of the modern economy,” said a spokesperson for the Agra district administration. “We cannot allow desperation to drive individuals to crime.”
As the story of Rohan Sharma unfolds, it serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of economic displacement and the allure of quick fixes in a challenging job market. The intersection of technology, employment, and crime is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of corporations, governments, and society as a whole in addressing the challenges posed by automation and ensuring a fair transition for workers in an increasingly digital world.
