64-year-old Mohammed Shanuwaz raises a harassment complaint against HDFC Bank over inflated credit card dues. Despite requesting EMI settlement, he alleges unfair charges and pressure from agents.
Complaint Summary Table : HDFC Bank Harassment Case | Mohammed Shanuwaz Alleges Unfair Credit Card Charges & EMI Issues
| Complainant Name | Mohammed Shanuwaz |
|---|---|
| Brand Involved | HDFC Bank |
| Location | India |
| Nature of Complaint | Harassment by Collection Agents, Unfair Credit Card Charges |
| Key Issue | ₹15,000 card limit escalated to ₹22,000 dues despite EMI request |
| Original Post URL | Complaint publicly posted on LinkedIn |
Detailed Complaint Write-Up
HDFC Bank, one of India’s largest private banks, is facing serious allegations from Mohammed Shanuwaz, a 64-year-old customer. He has accused the bank’s collection agents of harassment and unfair credit card billing practices, raising fresh concerns about consumer protection in India’s banking sector.
Nature of the Complaint
As per the complainant:
- His credit card limit was ₹15,000, but the bank is now demanding ₹22,000.
- He requested an EMI plan of ₹8,000 to repay dues.
- Despite this, he was allegedly harassed by collection agents who demanded higher payments.
- The complainant highlights that such treatment is unacceptable, especially towards a senior citizen.
Impact on the Customer
The issue has caused:
- Emotional stress due to repeated harassment.
- Financial pressure from inflated charges beyond the card limit.
- Lack of empathy towards an elderly customer trying to settle dues in good faith.
Compliance with RBI Guidelines
The complaint raises questions about whether HDFC Bank is adhering to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines:
- RBI prohibits harassment and intimidation by recovery agents.
- Banks are required to provide clear settlement and EMI options to customers.
- Charging beyond approved limits without transparency can amount to unfair trade practice.
Conclusion
This case highlights the urgent need for HDFC Bank to reassess its recovery practices. For senior citizens and vulnerable customers, banks must act with fairness and empathy, while strictly following RBI’s consumer protection guidelines.
About the Complainant
Mohammed Shanuwaz, aged 64, is an Indian customer who has publicly complained that HDFC Bank’s collection practices have left him harassed and financially burdened over a disputed credit card bill.
About the Brand
HDFC Bank is a leading private sector bank in India, offering credit cards, loans, and other financial products. In this case, the complaint revolves around credit card repayment practices and alleged harassment by its recovery agents.
Choice4Voice.com Section
At Choice4Voice.com, we highlight genuine consumer complaints to ensure companies are held accountable. If you have faced harassment or unfair charges from banks, you can:
- Submit your complaint here: Submit Your Complaint
- Share your experience so it can be made public and reach the right authorities for faster resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can HDFC Bank harass customers for non-payment of dues?
No. RBI prohibits harassment or intimidation during recovery. - What should I do if my credit card dues exceed my card limit?
Raise a dispute in writing with the bank and escalate to the RBI Ombudsman if unresolved. - Are banks required to offer EMI plans for repayment?
Yes, banks must consider customer requests for EMI settlement. - Can inflated charges be legally challenged?
Yes. Consumers can dispute unjustified charges under consumer protection laws. - What rights do senior citizens have in loan recovery cases?
They must be treated with sensitivity and given flexible repayment options. - What is the RBI Ombudsman scheme?
A platform for customers to raise unresolved banking complaints directly with RBI. - How can I prove harassment by recovery agents?
Keep call recordings, messages, and other documented evidence. - Can recovery agents visit my home?
Yes, but only during reasonable hours and without intimidation. - What happens if I ignore calls from recovery agents?
Ignoring can escalate the case; better to negotiate and document settlements. - Can banks charge beyond the card limit?
Additional charges may apply, but they must be transparent and justified. - How can I file a complaint against HDFC Bank?
First approach the bank’s grievance cell, then escalate to RBI if unsatisfied. - Can I negotiate a one-time settlement?
Yes, many banks allow one-time settlements for disputed dues. - Do late payment charges keep increasing?
Yes, interest and penalties compound until resolved. - Can harassment be reported to the police?
Yes, customers can lodge complaints of harassment if recovery agents misbehave. - Are collection agents legally bound by RBI rules?
Yes, they must follow RBI’s Fair Practices Code. - Does publicizing complaints help in resolution?
Yes, companies often act faster when complaints gain public visibility. - How long does the Banking Ombudsman take to resolve complaints?
Usually within 30 to 60 days. - Can I demand written communication instead of phone calls?
Yes, you can request written updates to avoid constant calls. - Does Choice4Voice.com publish only banking complaints?
No. We publish genuine complaints across all industries. - What is the benefit of publishing complaints online?
It creates public pressure and increases chances of quicker resolution.
Final Note
This article is based on the public LinkedIn complaint by Mohammed Shanuwaz against HDFC Bank. If the matter has since been resolved, the complainant or HDFC Bank may contact Choice4Voice.com to update the case as Resolved.
