Punjab National Bank (PNB) has settled three claims totaling ₹43 lakh following allegations of financial irregularities at its Greater Noida branch. The bank assured customers that all genuine and valid claims will be paid as it investigates the missing deposits reported by account holders.
- Alleged fraud involves over ₹11.24 crore from 21 account holders.
- Police estimate the suspected fraud could exceed ₹12 crore.
- Some local estimates place the total misappropriation near ₹35 crore.
- Several bank employees, including the branch manager, have been suspended.
- PNB is strengthening internal controls to prevent future incidents.
What happened at the PNB Greater Noida branch?
Account holders at the PNB Accher branch in Greater Noida discovered that significant amounts were missing from their savings accounts and fixed deposits. The alleged fraud reportedly began in 2023 and involves multiple accounts. Customers visiting the branch to withdraw money found discrepancies in their balances, prompting complaints and police involvement.
How much money is involved in the fraud?
The complaints involve more than ₹11.24 crore belonging to 21 account holders. Police investigations suggest the fraud could exceed ₹12 crore. However, some local account holders estimate the total misappropriation to be around ₹35 crore, indicating the scale of the issue may be larger than initially reported.
Who are the affected account holders?
Many affected customers include farmers who received compensation for land acquired for the Noida International Airport project. For example, Shrichand from Surajpur reported ₹1.16 crore missing from his fixed deposit. Bijendra Singh's savings account balance dropped from ₹87-88 lakh to just ₹1 lakh. Other customers like Haneep Khan and Zakir also reported missing amounts of ₹39 lakh and ₹9.5 lakh respectively.
What actions have been taken by the bank and authorities?
PNB has prioritized investigating the complaints and verifying facts. The bank has suspended several employees, including the branch manager, and is cooperating with police investigations. An FIR was filed under Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for criminal breach of trust against unidentified bank staff. The bank stated it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud and is strengthening internal controls and monitoring mechanisms to protect customers and prevent recurrence.
What is the current status of the investigation and reimbursements?
Authorities, including the bank's internal committee and other investigative agencies, are working to identify those responsible. The process of returning money to affected customers has begun. The bank's Lead District Manager, Ram Vinod Kumar, confirmed that actions are underway and grievances are being examined carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many account holders are affected by the fraud?
A: At least 21 account holders have reported missing deposits totaling over ₹11.24 crore.
Q: Has the bank reimbursed any of the lost funds?
A: Yes, PNB has settled three claims amounting to ₹43 lakh and plans to pay all genuine and valid claims.
Q: What measures is PNB taking to prevent future fraud?
A: The bank is strengthening its internal controls and monitoring systems to safeguard customers' interests and maintain operational integrity.
