Bollywood actress Preity Zinta has denied allegations that a loan of Rs 18 crore in her name was written off by the financially troubled New India Cooperative Bank Ltd.
The controversy erupted following a report that exposed large-scale financial mismanagement at the bank, revealing how corporate loans—some as large as Rs 25 crore—were sanctioned without the knowledge of branch managers. The article suggested that Zinta’s loan had been written off without proper recovery procedures, sparking widespread media attention.
The report raised concerns over the irregularities at the bank, which ultimately led the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to step in and crack down on its operations.
In an effort to clear her name, Zinta issued a firm clarification through her legal team, stating that she had availed of an overdraft facility from the bank over 12 years ago but had fully repaid the amount more than 10 years ago.
“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, categorically denying any connection to the alleged loan write-off.
Not stopping there, Zinta took to Twitter to further address the allegations, hitting back at those spreading false claims.
“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 wrote, expressing her frustration over the misinformation.
She also called out political entities for allegedly misusing her name and image for their own agendas
“I’m shocked that a political party or their representative is promoting fake news and indulging in vile gossip & clickbait using my name & images,” she added.
Clarifying once again, she wrote, “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 against Zinta are just one part of a broader banking scandal. The Moneylife report also revealed that over 80 senior staff members of New India Cooperative Bank were forced to resign in 2019.
These revelations have led bank employees to demand a forensic audit by the RBI, dissolution of the bank’s board of directors, recovery of losses from the personal assets of those responsible for the alleged mismanagement.
