Customers harassed, banking comes to a standstill at Union Bank Focal Point Branch, Jalandhar

Jalandhar(The Uttam Hindu): Customers of Union Bank of India, Focal Point Branch, Jalandhar, are seething with anger over what they describe as utter mismanagement, indifferent staff behavior and complete disregard for customer service. For months, account holders have been facing severe inconvenience due to non-availability of cash, shortage of staff and an unresponsive attitude of bank officials, turning routine banking into a nightmare.

One of the most glaring examples of negligence came to light when a customer submitted a written request on 14 January to increase the online fund transfer limit,a process that usually takes only a few hours. Shockingly, even after 10 days, the limit was not enhanced, causing the customer financial losses, harassment and operational disruptions.

When contacted, Assistant Manager Mr. Deepak allegedly washed his hands of the matter, stating that the request had been forwarded to another branch and that “nothing can be done now because bank is closed for next 3-4 days.” Such a casual response to a serious issue has further enraged customers.

Even more disturbing is the fact that Dainik Uttam Hindu newspaper, a reputed media house, submitted a formal request on 14 January 2026 to increase its online transfer limit from Rs.5 lakh to Rs.25 lakh, addressed to Mr. Rithik at the branch. Despite repeated follow-ups, no action was taken.

“If a newspaper house is being treated in this manner, one can only imagine the plight of an ordinary citizen,” said Ritin Khanna, CEO of the group. He added that last year the Branch Manager had personally visited and persuaded them to open the account in Union Bank, assuring quality service. “The promises, however have proved hollow. The service is extremely poor and unacceptable,” he remarked.

To assess ground realities, the reporter spoke to several other customers at the branch, all of whom echoed similar concerns. Acute staff shortage and frequent non-availability of cash emerged as the most basic and persistent problems.

One customer Kapil revealed that bank officials often ask customers to inform at least a day in advance for cash withdrawal. “At times, cash is required urgently. Even with sufficient balance, the branch refuses to release cash,” the customer said.

Another customer, Deepak shared that due to staff shortage, the existing staff members are often rude and uncooperative, particularly towards senior citizens. “Many elderly customers have complained to the Branch Manager, but nothing has changed,” he alleged. Shockingly, customers also claimed that the complaint box is never opened, rendering the grievance redressal mechanism meaningless.

Customers recalled that the earlier Branch Manager was vigilant and maintained strict control over the functioning of the branch, ensuring smoother operations and better customer service. Since the change in leadership, however the situation has reportedly deteriorated rapidly.

The mounting complaints raise serious questions about accountability, supervision and customer welfare at Union Bank’s Focal Point Branch. Customers are now demanding immediate intervention by higher authorities, warning that continued neglect may force them to approach banking ombudsmen and regulatory bodies.

For now, trust in the system stands shaken and customers remain fed up, frustrated & angry.