A major embezzlement case has come to light involving ₹1.29 crore at the Gawani branch of Uttarakhand Gramin Bank. The incident reportedly took place under the Patwari Circle Kimgadigad-2 in Tehsil Chaubattakhal. Following a court order, the Revenue Police have registered a case against Sumit Gautam, the branch manager at the time of the alleged misconduct. The Revenue Police are actively investigating the situation.
The Allegations
According to Ankit Agarwal, the bank’s advocate, Sumit Gautam, the then manager of the Gawani branch, transferred ₹1,29,56,788 into his own account at the bank in November and December 2022. This amount was reportedly used for personal expenses, constituting a significant act of embezzlement.
Internal Investigation
The bank conducted a departmental inquiry after noticing irregularities, including an unexpected rise in loans issued by the Gawani branch. The investigation confirmed the misappropriation of funds. As a result, senior officials suspended Gautam and lodged a complaint with the Revenue Police.
Legal Proceedings
When the Revenue Police did not file a report promptly, the bank took the matter to court. In June, the Judicial Magistrate Lansdowne accepted the petition, leading to the Revenue Police registering a case against Gautam on June 26. The charges include fraud and embezzlement of government funds.
Revenue Sub-Inspector Shivdatt Nautiyal of the Patwari Circle Kimgadigad-2 stated that the investigation is nearing completion. The next step will be recording the main witness’s statement, after which a charge sheet will be filed in court against the suspended branch manager.
