Union Bank Manager Attacked in Thoothukudi: Case Filed Against Four Including Local DMK Leader
A Union Bank manager in Thoothukudi was assaulted inside his branch cabin by four individuals over a loan recovery dispute; police have arrested one accused while others remain absconding.
Author: Abhivad
Published: May 22, 2025
A shocking incident of physical assault on a bank official was reported at the Union Bank of India’s Thoothukudi Beach Road branch on 20 May 2025. The Branch Manager, Bharat Desai (45), a native of Belgaum, Karnataka, was allegedly attacked by four individuals, including a local DMK functionary, Jayakumar. The assault occurred inside the bank manager’s cabin and has led to serious injuries. Even after two days of the incident, not many media houses have covered the incident.
Manager Assaulted Over Loan Recovery
The attack followed a loan recovery visit made by Bharat Desai and his staff to Jayakumar’s residence, where they attempted to remind him of his pending housing loan dues. As Jayakumar was not at home at the time, his family members were informed of the overdue payment.
Subsequently, around 6 PM the same day, Jayakumar along with his brother Kamaraj, and two others reportedly entered the branch and confronted the manager. Following a heated argument, the group allegedly used a fire extinguisher to assault Desai, causing grievous injuries. The manager was immediately rushed to the Thoothukudi Government Hospital for treatment.
Police Action and Arrests
Thoothukudi police have registered a case against all four accused. Kamaraj has been arrested, while Jayakumar and the other two suspects are currently absconding. Authorities are conducting search operations to locate the remaining accused.
Eyewitness Account
Kanal spoke to an employee of the same branch who witnessed the incident. The employee described the scene as “a shocking act of violence inside the bank premises” and expressed concern over the growing risks bank staff face while performing their duties.
Statement from BEFI
In a press release dated 22 May 2025, the Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI), Tamil Nadu unit, strongly condemned the assault on the branch manager. The statement noted that such incidents have sent shock waves through the banking community. BEFI urged the Tamil Nadu Government and Union Bank management to take strict action against the accused and ensure protection for bank staff.
BEFI has also demanded armed security in bank branches and the installation of boards warning that abuse of staff will invite severe legal consequences.
Ongoing Investigation
The case remains under investigation. Police officials stated that efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining accused. Meanwhile, security has been increased at the Thoothukudi branch to prevent further incidents.
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