By IANS
New Delhi : The ICICI Bank has once again come under the scrutiny of a Delhi consumer forum. This time it is for issuing two outdated cheques as a fine imposed by the forum.
The Consumer Dispute Redressal Forum in Sheikh Sarai, south Delhi, had imposed a fine of Rs.5,000 on the ICICI Bank in Connaught Place Nov 26 last year after its representative failed to appear before it on two consecutive dates on a complaint from a consumer.
The bank issued two cheques of Rs.4,000 and Rs.1,000 Dec 12 with a validity of one month. However, the cheques were submitted only Jan 24 this year, 12 days after they had expired.
Taking serious note of the matter, the forum Tuesday decided to bring the matter to the notice of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
The forum also ordered the manager of the Connaught Place branch to appear before it on the next hearing Feb 19 and explain why “out-dated” cheques were issued.
“It may be noted that if the bank manager does not appear on the next date, the forum shall take action against him,” the order said.
The forum was hearing a case filed by complainant Sushil Kumari, who alleged that the bank sanctioned her a loan for Rs.100,000 but was taking a monthly instalment for a Rs.150,000 loan. She had requested for a Rs.150,000 loan, which had been refused. The bank later deposited Rs.40,917 in her account without informing her.
Kumari wanted the forum to direct ICICI Bank to deposit the remaining sum of Rs.9,000.
In November last year, the bank had been penalised by the Delhi Consumer Forum for employing goons for recovery of a Rs.550,000 loan and injuring a customer.