Bank Allegedly Denies Court-Ordered Refund to Fraud Victim

By A Staff Reporter

A major bank is facing allegations of negligence and non-compliance with a court order after it allegedly refused to return ₹20 lakh to a fraud victim, despite the funds being frozen under judicial direction. The victim, Satarupa Chaudhuri, claims she has been left in financial distress due to the bank’s inaction and mismanagement.

According to the complaint, fraudsters opened an account under the name Favsys Technology at the bank’s Prayagraj branch and illicitly transferred ₹20 lakh from Chaudhuri’s company account. Following an investigation, a Faridabad court directed the bank to refund the money, with Chaudhuri complying by providing an indemnity bond as required. However, when authorities attempted to retrieve the funds, the bank reportedly stated that the money had already been given to other claimants, citing a "first-come, first-served" basis.

This development has raised serious concerns about the bank's internal policies regarding fraud protection and victim compensation. While the institution has been running advertisements on television promoting its role in protecting fraud victims and ensuring their money is returned, this case paints a contrasting picture.

Adding to the controversy, the primary accused in the fraud, Digvijay Mishra, was released on bail and is allegedly threatening the victim. The Haryana Cyber Police have also been accused of siding with the fraudster instead of ensuring justice for the victim.

Despite multiple attempts to recover the funds, Chaudhuri has not received a single rupee. She has now appealed to the bank’s authorities, urging them to honor the court's directive. The case underscores the urgent need for stricter fraud-handling policies and greater accountability in the banking system.