AIRRBOF Seeks Action After Alleged Coercion of Bank Officers in Loan Review Meeting

The All India Regional Rural Bank Officers’ Federation (AIRRBOF), Uttar Pradesh unit, has submitted a formal complaint to the Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh regarding an incident in Hardoi district where bank officers were allegedly subjected to coercive practices during a loan review meeting. The letter, dated 30 November 2025, highlights concerns about the treatment of officers and the impact such pressure could have on banking procedures.



Image - Federation Seeks Action After Hardoi Loan Meeting Incident.

According to the federation, the incident occurred during a review meeting for the Chief Minister Yuva Udyami Yojana, where the District Magistrate of Hardoi, Anunay Jha, allegedly instructed bank managers to remain inside the auditorium until loan sanction targets were met. Officers were reportedly not permitted to leave the venue and were urged to approve loans immediately. AIRRBOF stated that such actions amounted to undue pressure, harassment, and interference in banking autonomy.

The organisation noted that the issue is not isolated to Hardoi. Similar instances of administrative pressure were reported in districts such as Ghaziabad and Hapur, where officials allegedly attempted to compel officers to approve loans without proper due diligence. In certain cases, officers left meetings in protest.

AIRRBOF emphasised that bank officers are responsible for public funds and are required to follow Reserve Bank of India guidelines, KYC norms, risk assessment procedures, and internal credit appraisal systems. The federation stated that forced loan sanctions could lead to increased non-performing assets, fraudulent accounts, misuse of public money, disciplinary consequences, and long-term financial risks.

In its submission, the organisation requested several actions from the state government. These include an immediate inquiry into the Hardoi incident, appropriate action against the responsible official, and clear instructions to district authorities to avoid coercive or threatening behaviour during review meetings. It also called for meetings to be conducted in a professional and cooperative atmosphere and sought assurances that banking autonomy and officer dignity would be protected.

AIRRBOF and its affiliated body AIBOC reiterated their commitment to supporting government development schemes but stated that such cooperation must occur within a respectful and lawful working environment. The federation expressed confidence that the state government would act to prevent similar occurrences and ensure a safe and dignified workspace for banking personnel across Uttar Pradesh.