Northeast Desk, 22nd May: Sikkimey Nagarik Samaj has unveiled a major financial scam at the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS), involving unauthorized transactions totaling Rs. 69 crore. An internal audit conducted on March 31, 2024, revealed the fraudulent activities, but it took nearly three months for the bank to file a First Information Report (FIR), highlighting severe negligence by officials.
The scam has sparked widespread concern among customers, particularly pension holders, due to the potential impact on their savings. Names of three SBS subordinates have surfaced as suspects, but there is speculation that more individuals within the bank might be involved, suggesting a broader conspiracy.
This incident is not isolated; in 2011, a bank official at Rabongla was accused of embezzling interest money from account holders, only discovered after customer complaints.
In response to the recent scam, SBS’s Managing Director downplayed the situation as “a very small issue,” exacerbating public concern. Sikkimey Nagarik Samaj has called for a thorough and impartial investigation, urging SBS to initiate legal action against all loan defaulters and enhance transparency.
The organization stressed the need for SBS to strengthen internal security protocols through regular audits and stricter procedures. They requested clarity from the bank’s board of directors on actions taken and raised questions about the bank’s financial sustainability, especially regarding loan interests deducted from government employees’ salaries.
The public demands that SBS and investigating agencies act without political bias to protect the interests of the Sikkimese people.
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