A viral video from an HDFC Bank branch in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur has triggered widespread outrage after a female employee Aastha Singh was allegedly heard making a caste-referenced remark during a heated exchange with a customer. The incident, which reportedly occurred at the bank’s Panki branch, has sparked intense debate around professional conduct, workplace ethics, and caste sensitivity in corporate environments.
The video, which is around 43 seconds long, shows the employee, identified in multiple reports as Aastha Singh, arguing aggressively with a male customer inside the branch. In the footage circulating widely on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, and WhatsApp, the employee is seen standing up from her seat, shouting, and pointing a laptop toward the customer in what appears to be an intimidating manner. The argument escalates quickly, drawing attention from others present inside the bank.
What has drawn the sharpest criticism is her alleged statement, “Thakur hoon main” (I am a Thakur). The remark has been widely interpreted by viewers as an attempt to assert dominance or intimidate the customer by invoking caste identity. Many users have described the statement as inappropriate and unacceptable, particularly in a customer-facing role at a leading private bank.
The confrontation reportedly involved abusive language from both sides, turning a routine banking interaction into a public spectacle. Social media users were quick to condemn the behaviour, calling it unprofessional and contrary to the values expected from employees of a major financial institution. Several posts directly tagged HDFC Bank, demanding an immediate inquiry and strict disciplinary action against the staff member involved.
The incident has also reignited broader discussions around caste consciousness in everyday public interactions and the responsibility of private sector organisations to enforce zero tolerance toward discriminatory or provocative behaviour. Many users stressed that banks, as public-facing institutions, must ensure an environment of respect and neutrality for all customers, regardless of background.
As of the latest update, HDFC Bank has not issued an official public statement on the matter. There has also been no confirmation of any police complaint being filed in connection with the incident. However, public pressure continues to build, with growing calls for the bank to clarify its position and outline the steps being taken to address the controversy.
The viral episode has underscored how quickly individual conduct can escalate into a reputational challenge for large organisations in the digital age. Whether the bank initiates internal action or releases an official response in the coming days will be closely watched, as the incident continues to dominate online conversations and news discussions.