Gold Loan Fraud Sparks Uproar at Agartala Axis Bank: Customer Alleges Original Gold Replaced with Imitation Jewellery

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, July 23, 2025

A major controversy has erupted at the Agartala branch of Axis Bank after a customer alleged serious fraud involving his pledged gold jewellery. The shocking incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of public assets even in reputed banking institutions.

The complainant, Rana Debnath, a resident of Reshambagan area in Agartala, had taken a gold loan of Rs.9,02,600 from Axis Bank’s Agartala branch nearly a year ago. However, when he recently approached the bank to reclaim his pledged gold after repaying the loan, he was shocked to find that his original gold ornaments had allegedly been replaced with low-quality "city gold" imitation jewellery.

Following this discovery, a major commotion ensued inside the bank premises, with Rana Debnath demanding immediate answers. Eyewitnesses reported a chaotic scene as customers voiced their anger, and several questioned the trustworthiness of financial institutions.

As per sources, this is not an isolated case. At least five to seven employees had reportedly resigned from the Agartala branch of Axis Bank over the past few months after similar irregularities came to light internally. Allegations are now surfacing that a group of four to five employees, including the current branch manager, might be involved in the malpractice.

So far, the bank has not issued any official statement regarding the incident. The absence of a formal response has only added fuel to the public’s growing suspicion and anger. Local residents and activists are now demanding a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible for this betrayal of trust.

This incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for enhanced security protocols and transparency in gold loan procedures in banking institutions, particularly those involving physical assets of the public.

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