Controversy Erupts Over Preity Zinta’s Loan Waiver Claims
Thiruvananthapuram/Mumbai – A heated debate has emerged after the Kerala unit of the Congress party alleged that Bollywood actress Preity Zinta benefited from an Rs 18 crore loan waiver from the New India Cooperative Bank. The party claimed this during a recent social media post, which sparked significant backlash.
Zinta quickly responded to the allegations, labeling them as "fake news" and criticizing both the Congress and various media outlets for spreading what she called misinformation. She took to social media to clarify, stating, "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. I’m shocked that a political party or their representative is promoting fake news while using my name and images."
In her post, Zinta emphasized, "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."
In response to the backlash, the Congress party defended its statement, asserting that they were simply sharing information based on media reports. They acknowledged the need for clarity and stated, "We are glad to accept mistakes if we have made any. We shared the news as reported by media outlets." The Congress also pointed out that former employees of the New India Cooperative Bank had warned the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) about alleged corrupt practices, mentioning Zinta’s name among others in this context.
The Congress party reiterated its commitment to the depositors who had lost their savings and urged Zinta to provide evidence to support her claims, stating, "If the reports are wrong, we request you to clear the air with proof once and for all and raise your voice in their interest too."
Meanwhile, an officer from the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) mentioned that the ongoing investigation surrounding New India Cooperative Bank does not involve Zinta. The officer stated, "We’re investigating the disappearance of Rs 122 crore between 2019 and 2024. We have arrested three individuals related to the misappropriation of funds. So far, we have not received any complaints regarding the Preity Zinta issue."
The unfolding drama highlights the intersection of celebrity, politics, and financial controversies, leaving many observers eager for further developments.
