The rupee turned weak by 2 paise to 66.95 against the US dollar in early trade at the Interbank Foreign Exchange market after the American currency gained ground following a spurt in demand from importers.

Forex dealers said the US dollar’s gains against some currencies overseas following upbeat remarks on the US economy by Federal Reserve Chief Janet Yellen and a weak domestic equity market put the rupee on the back foot.

Yesterday, the rupee had recovered by 9 paise to end at 66.93 on fresh selling of dollar by banks and exporters amid weakness in American currency in the overseas market.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell by 69.39 points, or 0.24 per cent, to 28.269.92 in early trade.