Bollywood actress Preity Zinta has strongly reacted to allegations that an Rs 18 crore loan in her name was written off by the financially troubled New India Cooperative Bank Ltd. The controversy began following a report by Moneylife, which exposed large-scale financial mismanagement at the bank. The report detailed how corporate loans, some as large as Rs 25 crore, were sanctioned without the knowledge of branch managers, leading to these loans turning into non-performing assets (NPAs) due to alleged fund diversions.
One of the most high-profile cases mentioned in the report was the Rs 18 crore loan allegedly linked to Preity Zinta. The article suggested that the loan was written off without following proper recovery procedures, stirring up significant media attention. The report raised concerns about the irregularities at the bank, which ultimately led to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) stepping in and cracking down on the bank’s operations.
In a bid to clear her name, Preity Zinta issued a strong clarification through her legal team. She explained that over 12 years ago, she had availed of an overdraft facility from New India Cooperative Bank, but more than 10 years ago, she had fully repaid the entire amount. "More than 12 years ago, I had an overdraft facility with the New India Cooperative Bank. More than 10 years ago, I repaid in full the entire dues in respect of this overdraft facility, and the account stands closed," she stated, effectively denying any involvement with the loan write-off.
Preity Zinta didn’t stop there and took to Twitter to further clarify the matter. She addressed the allegations head-on, stating, "No I operate my social media accounts myself and shame on you for promoting FAKE NEWS! No one wrote off anything or any loan for me." She expressed her shock over the false narrative being circulated, emphasizing that her name and image were being misused for political agendas. "I’m shocked that a political party or their representative is promoting fake news & indulging in vile gossip & click baits using my name & images," she wrote.
She continued, "For the record a loan was taken and FULLY PAID BACK – over 10 years ago. Hope this clarifies and helps so there are no misunderstandings in the future ."
The allegations did not end with Zinta. The Moneylife report also claimed that more than 80 senior staff members of the bank were forced to resign in 2019. This prompted employees to call for a forensic audit by the RBI, the dissolution of the bank’s board of directors, and a recovery of the losses from the personal assets of those responsible for the alleged mismanagement.
On a personal note, Preity Zinta recently made headlines with her appearance at the Maha Kumbh. She shared a picture from Prayagraj, where she was seen with a tilak on her forehead, symbolizing her participation in the spiritual event. “All roads lead to the Maha Kumbh. Satyam Shivam Sundaram,” she captioned the image, reflecting her connection to the holy gathering.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
