For numerous customers of Punjab National Bank (PNB) in Greater Noida, significant amounts of savings have reportedly vanished from their accounts. Many individuals claim they only became aware of the issue when checking their balances or attempting to access their funds. The alleged loss amounts to approximately Rs 35 crore, affecting both savings accounts and fixed deposits at a PNB branch located in the Aichhar area. Customers assert that they neither authorised the transactions nor received any notifications regarding the movement of their money.

The situation has led to a police investigation and the suspension of several bank employees, including the branch manager. Haneef Khan, one of the affected customers, expressed his disbelief at the disappearance of his savings. He stated that his account previously held Rs 39 lakh, but now shows no balance. Khan emphasised that he had not received any messages or signed any documents permitting the transfer of funds, raising serious questions about the bank’s operations.

Impact on Customers with Compensation Funds

The alleged financial losses are particularly troubling for customers who had received compensation for land acquisition. Vijendra Singh, a local farmer, reported that his savings account balance had plummeted from approximately Rs 87 lakh to just Rs 1 lakh. Singh had received this compensation from the authorities, and the sudden reduction has left him in a precarious situation.

Another case involves Santosh, a 60-year-old vendor from Bironda village. Her account had received Rs 1.29 crore in compensation for land acquired for the Jewar Airport project. Upon discovering that Rs 1.18 crore was missing, her family was alarmed, as this amount represented her entire savings. The issue came to light when her son attempted to withdraw funds, prompting Santosh and her sister to seek answers outside the bank.

These cases illustrate the distress experienced by customers, particularly those who relied on the compensation for financial security and future expenses. The allegations have left many seeking clarity on the fate of their funds and whether they will be reimbursed.

Lack of Notifications and Suspensions Follow Allegations

Customers have also raised concerns regarding the lack of alerts related to the disputed transactions. Zakir, another account holder, claimed that Rs 9.5 lakh had disappeared from his account without any notification. He only discovered the alleged fraud upon visiting the branch, highlighting a significant communication gap between the bank and its customers.

The complaints involve both savings accounts and fixed deposits, with many customers reporting drastically reduced balances. Some individuals noted that funds they expected to be available were no longer reflected in their accounts. However, the exact path taken by the missing money remains unclear, complicating the investigation.

In response to the complaints, PNB management has suspended several employees, including the branch manager. A case has been registered at the Beta-2 police station, which oversees the branch’s jurisdiction. Police authorities have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. The bank management has assured the authorities that it will address the complaints raised by account holders, but customers remain anxious about the resolution of their issues.

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