PNB Kullu Loan Scam: 5 Convicted in ₹1.83 Crore Fraud Case

Shimla, July 31, 2025 – A CBI special court in Shimla has sentenced five individuals, including a retired Punjab National Bank (PNB) manager, in a fake Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loan scam involving ₹1.83 crore. The scam relates to 41 fraudulent crop loans disbursed using forged documents from PNB’s Dhalpur branch in Kullu between 2010 and 2012.

Retired manager Amar Singh Bodh was sentenced to 3 years in jail and fined ₹70,000. Accused Lekh Raj, Dharm Chand, and Tashi Phunchog received 4-year terms, while Babli Sharma, a customer facilitator, was sentenced to 3 years. The total fine imposed across the accused is ₹2.65 lakh, with four months’ additional imprisonment in case of default.

The scam was uncovered following a complaint by Mandi Circle Head Rajeev Khanna and investigated by CBI ACB Shimla. Forged land records and NEC certificates were used to approve loans without due verification. One charge sheet has been decided, while verdicts on 39 more are pending.