Shabab Ali slams HDFC Bank for false promises made by sales executives about processing fee reversals. He accuses the bank of fraud and plans to escalate the matter to RBI and consumer forums.
Complaint Summary : HDFC Bank Accused by Shabab Ali Over False Processing Fee Reversal Promise
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Complainant Name | Shabab Ali |
| Profession | Assistant Manager |
| Bank Involved | HDFC Bank |
| Platform of Complaint | |
| Date of Complaint | August 2025 |
| Issue Raised | False promise of processing fee refund |
| Amount Involved | Not specified |
| Communication Issue | Verbal assurance by sales executive, now denied |
| Complaint Tone | Strong, alleging fraud and mis selling |
| Resolution Sought | Accountability and full refund of processing fee |
| Original Post URL | Click to view LinkedIn post |
🧾 Full Complaint Overview
Shabab Ali, a verified professional and Assistant Manager, has taken to LinkedIn to express severe dissatisfaction with HDFC Bank’s unethical banking practices, particularly concerning false promises regarding the reversal of a loan processing fee.
According to Shabab, a sales executive from HDFC Bank promised him verbally that the processing fee would be reversed within 90 days. However, once the period passed, the bank denied any such commitment, instead demanding proof, call recordings, and sidestepping the issue with copy-paste scripted replies.
Key Allegations:
- Mis-selling of loan products through verbal false promises
- Non-accountability for actions of HDFC sales staff
- Use of robotic, copy-paste replies to deflect responsibility
- Emotional and mental harassment due to lack of resolution
- Repeated use of “regret” without actual remedial action
Shabab has publicly stated he will escalate the matter to the RBI, consumer courts, and across social media platforms, labelling the practice as fraud disguised as banking.
🔗 Original LinkedIn Post
To view Shabab Ali’s original LinkedIn complaint and public statement, click the post below:
👉 View Full Complaint Here
Frequently Asked Questions & In-Depth Answers
1. Can a bank promise verbal processing fee refunds legally?
No. Banks must document all offers in writing. Verbal assurances are not legally binding, but if mis-selling is proven, the bank can be held accountable under RBI’s Fair Practices Code.
2. What is a processing fee in HDFC Bank loans?
A processing fee is a one time non refundable charge collected during loan disbursal. It typically ranges between 0.5% to 2% of the loan amount, depending on loan type and scheme.
3. Is it legal for banks to deny verbal promises made by sales staff?
While banks aren’t legally bound by verbal statements, if a customer proves that a false promise influenced their financial decision, it may fall under mis-selling or even fraud.
4. What does the RBI say about false promises by bank staff?
As per RBI guidelines, banks are liable for the actions of their representatives. Mis-selling or false commitments are serious violations and customers can approach the Banking Ombudsman.
5. How can I file a complaint against HDFC Bank for mis-selling?
You can:
- Email HDFC at grievance.redressal@hdfcbank.com
- Lodge a complaint via https://cms.rbi.org.in
- File on Choice4Voice.com
- Visit the Consumer Court portal: https://consumerhelpline.gov.in
6. Can I demand call recordings from HDFC Bank for verification?
Yes. Customers have the right to request call logs or recordings under certain circumstances. However, the bank is not legally obligated unless ordered by a court or regulator.
7. What is considered fraud in banking in India?
Fraud includes:
- False assurances
- Misrepresentation
- Non-disclosure of terms
- Unauthorized deductions
Mis-selling falls under this if intent to deceive is proven.
8. Can a sales executive’s verbal statement be used as proof?
It can support your claim but is not primary evidence unless recorded. However, multiple complaints of the same nature strengthen the case of a systemic issue.
9. What if HDFC refuses to refund the processing fee?
Escalate the complaint to:
- Level 2: Grievance Redressal Officer
- Level 3: Principal Nodal Officer
- If unresolved, file with RBI’s Banking Ombudsman
10. Is HDFC Bank liable for its employees’ false claims?
Yes. Under vicarious liability, banks are responsible for actions of their staff conducted during official duties, especially if customer loss occurred due to misleading advice.
11. How to escalate to RBI Banking Ombudsman?
Visit: https://cms.rbi.org.in
File a complaint under the “mis-selling or unfair trade practices” category. Attach email communications, payment receipts, and written complaints.
12. Can Choice4Voice.com help in such bank complaint cases?
Yes. Choice4Voice.com publishes genuine customer complaints, helping pressure companies publicly for resolution. We also guide you to official grievance platforms.
13. How to ensure refund promises are honored by banks?
Always ask for:
- Written commitment
- Official email confirmation
- Documented loan offer letters
Do not trust only verbal discussions, even with senior staff.
14. Is mis-selling a punishable offense in India?
Yes. Under Consumer Protection Act, 2019, mis-selling is considered an unfair trade practice and can lead to:
- Compensation
- Refunds
- Penalties against the bank
15. How long do banks take to reverse wrongly charged fees?
If approved, the bank must refund within 7–14 working days. If not reversed or responded to in 30 days, escalate to RBI or consumer court.
16. What if the bank uses copy-paste replies and avoids resolution?
Escalate immediately and demand personal attention from the Grievance Officer. Persistently generic responses violate banking conduct standards.
17. How to expose such bank scams on social media?
Use platforms like:
- X (Twitter)
- Facebook
Tag the bank, CEO, RBI, and customer support handles. Include screenshots and payment proofs.
18. What are HDFC’s customer care escalation contacts?
- Email: grievance.redressal@hdfcbank.com
- Principal Nodal Officer: nodalofficer@hdfcbank.com
- Phone: 1800 202 6161 / 1860 267 6161
19. Can I file a complaint with the Ministry of Finance or RBI?
Yes. After 30 days without resolution:
- File with RBI’s CMS Portal
- Send a written grievance to the Ministry of Finance (Banking Division)
20. Can I claim compensation for emotional distress in banking frauds?
Yes. Under consumer laws, you can claim damages for mental harassment, especially when fraud, mis-selling, or negligence is proven.
21. Does HDFC have a history of similar complaints?
Yes. Multiple customers have publicly complained about:
- Mis-selling of loans
- Unclear refund policies
- Poor customer grievance handling
These are often reported on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Choice4Voice.com
✅ Final Thoughts
Shabab Ali’s frustration reflects the growing mistrust among Indian consumers toward banking institutions that prioritize sales over transparency. False promises like the 90-day processing fee reversal lead to financial loss and mental stress, especially when followed by scripted, insensitive replies from customer service.
Choice4Voice.com stands in support of Shabab and encourages HDFC Bank to:
- Own up to its staff’s commitments
- Offer immediate written clarification
- Refund any wrongly collected fees
📢 Have you also been misled by bank staff or sales executives?
✅ Raise your voice today on Choice4Voice.com We help make your complaint public and push companies to act responsibly.