Siliguri: The scam at the Punjab National Bank involving diamond merchant Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi has its effects in Siliguri also.

A jeweller, who used to run a franchise of Gitanjali Jewels, has changed the name of his outlet as he is apprehending that his business might be affected. Another jewel merchant, who is also the BJP president of Siliguri (organisational) district, has accused Choksi's company of cheating.

Praveen Agarwal, the BJP leader, who is also a prominent jewel merchant of the town, said on Wednesday that back in 2016, he had decided to take franchise of two brands of Gitanjali Jewels.

"I was asked to send Rs 5 lakh which I did. However, as I learnt about the terms and conditions, I changed my mind and informed them. I also requested them to refund my money," said Agarwal.

However, he did not receive money so far, despite repeatedly communicating with the company. Finally, he has filed a case at a local court here, accusing the company of cheating him.

In another incident, Neeraj Periwal, another jeweller merchant of the city, had taken franchise of Gitanjali Jewels and had opened an outlet at Bidhan Road. Periwal, who owns a private limited company Periwal Gems Private Limited, entered into an agreement with Choksi's company in 2008. He however, did not renew the contract after 2013.

However, till Tuesday, the signboard of the shop was that of Gitanjali Jewels.

"We did not renew the agreement. The board was there but when we learnt about the case (scam) through media, we felt it would affect our business and reputation. That is why we have removed it. Our private limited company is there since 2008 and thus, we have decided to run the shop in its name," said Periwal.