Cyber Fraud: ₹57 Lakh Siphoned from TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s Dormant Account Refunded, Culprits Still at Large

Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee’s dormant bank account was targeted by cyber fraudsters who siphoned ₹57 lakh using fake documents. The bank has refunded the amount, but the culprits remain untraced. Kolkata Police are investigating.

Cyber News Nov 8, 2025 0 43 Add to Reading List

Cyber Fraud: ₹57 Lakh Siphoned from TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s Dormant Account Refunded, Culprits Still at Large

Bank Restores ₹57 Lakh Siphoned from TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s Dormant Account; Cyber Fraudsters Still at Large

In a shocking case of cyber fraud, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee revealed that ₹57 lakh was illegally siphoned from his dormant bank account earlier this week. The amount has now been credited back to him by the bank authorities, though the culprits remain untraced.

According to Kolkata Police’s Cybercrime Department, an investigation is underway to identify the fraudsters, who allegedly used forged identification documents to execute the scam.

Details of the Fraud

Banerjee stated that the dormant account in question was opened during his tenure as Asansol South MLA and had remained inactive for several years after he became the Serampore MP.

The miscreants allegedly superimposed his photograph on fake Aadhaar and PAN cards to reactivate the account. They also linked a new mobile number to divert OTPs and transaction alerts. Subsequently, ₹57 lakh was transferred from Banerjee’s active account to the dormant one, and the funds were then siphoned off through multiple fraudulent transactions.

Bank’s Action and Police Probe

Banerjee confirmed that the bank has refunded the full amount to his account. However, he expressed concern that the criminals are yet to be arrested.

“If this can happen to an MP, what will be the condition of a common man? How did they even find out about my dormant account and the funds in it?” Banerjee questioned.

A senior Kolkata Police officer stated that the investigation is ongoing, with teams examining transaction records, phone numbers used, and CCTV footage related to the incident.

Broader Concerns

The case has raised serious questions about digital banking security and the protection of dormant accounts. Experts believe this incident underscores the need for stricter verification protocols, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and public awareness regarding online fraud.

While the bank’s quick refund offers temporary relief, the failure to trace the culprits highlights persistent vulnerabilities in the financial system’s defense against cybercrime.