Farmers cry scam in Koraput Central Cooperative Bank, demand justice

Farmers in Nabarangpur district of Odisha have alleged embezzlement of their hard-earned money deposited in Koraput Central Co-operative Bank of Papadahandi branch in the district.

They alleged that Sanasingh Majhi of Kodabhata under Kosagumuda block in the district died in 2020. However, money from his account was withdrawn multiple times over last couple of years. 

As per his account records, he has withdrawn money from his account several times in 2021 and 2022.

 The matter came to light after his son visited the bank to withdraw money from his father's account. Moreover, KYC of Majhi's account has also been updated.

As per reports, over Rs 3.28 lakh was credited to the KCC bank account of Majhi in 2016-17 financial year towards paddy procured from him. However, after his death in 2020, his son Nikunja visited the bank only to find multiple self cheque withdrawals.

"The bank officials have been lingering over the matter. Money has been withdrawn from my father's account. I need the money back and demand stern action against the culprits," said Nikunja alleging scam in the bank.

At least 29 farmers of Kosagumuda block (who have accounts in KCC bank) have allegedly faced several financial issues. 

It was alleged that the bank staff are not allowing farmers to withdraw money from the bank by citing KYC updation issue. 

Samaru Majhi of Umargaon in the block has Rs 49,000 in his bank account. To withdraw the money to repay his debts (taken from private sources), he has visited the bank several times but he was told to update KYC.

"I updated the KYC once and even the bank manager told me that it was updated. But, the bank staff still harass me and asked me to bring several documents time and again," alleged Samaru.

While farmers allege embezzlement of their money, the KCC bank manager has admitted to fraud (on hidden camera) in the branch in 2016. However, she denied commenting in front of camera.