Worried Depositors Await Answers After PNB Branch Probe

Concern is growing among depositors at a Punjab National Bank branch in Greater Noida's Pai-1 sector following reports of an alleged scam. Early information indicates that irregularities of over Rs 35 crore may have occurred at the branch.

News of the alleged scam quickly reached customers, who gathered at the branch to ask about the status of their savings. Many said their fixed deposits and account balances appeared to be missing, placing them under severe financial pressure.

Chief Manager Rajesh Nigam told reporters that every depositor would receive their money and that an inquiry was in progress. He said checks were being carried out at the bank and that payments were being made to customers. Nigam described the bank as very large and said no one would be harmed.

When pressed for details, the manager said he was unable to comment on the matter and asked for time. He also said that only this branch had been affected.

Amarpal, a customer with three fixed deposits of Rs 80 lakh each, alleged that his deposits had been closed and the money taken without his knowledge. He said he had approached the police with a written complaint but had not received a hearing. He said bank officials were telling people the funds would arrive in 10 to 15 days, and called on state and central governments to transfer the money to account holders immediately.

Another customer, Brijesh Kumar, said he had Rs 1.18 crore in his account, but when he came to withdraw it, the balance showed zero. He said the manager had indicated the money would be returned before Diwali, but he was not optimistic.

Beena, a woman depositor, said her family had put their savings into a government bank believing it was safe. She said staff had asked her to submit an application to recover the money, but nobody could say when it would be returned.

Bank management continues to tell customers that their deposits are secure and that the position will be clearer after the investigation is finished. Account holders remain hopeful that their savings will be returned soon as they wait for the probe's findings.