A video showcasing an HDFC Bank employee verbally abusing a customer with casteist remarks has gone viral, triggering a wave of outrage on social media. The incident, which reportedly took place at an HDFC Bank branch in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, has raised serious questions about workplace conduct, professionalism, and the persistence of caste-related discrimination in everyday interactions.
The Incident: Casteist Remarks and Aggressive Behavior
The incident occurred at the HDFC Bank branch in Kanpur after an account holder filed a complaint. The video shows the employee, identified as Aastha, arguing with the customer following the grievance. During this heated exchange, Aastha can be heard using foul language and invoking her caste, repeatedly stating, “I am a Thakur,” while warning the customer, “Don’t mess with me.”
As the confrontation escalates, Aastha aggressively raises her laptop, seemingly attempting to throw it at the customer. Despite efforts by her colleagues to intervene, Aastha’s conduct remained unprofessional and intimidating. She further escalates the situation by shouting, “Aisi ki taisi kardenge” (I’ll ruin you), intensifying the already tense encounter.
“Thakur hoon, bakc**di mat karna!”
HDFC Bank staffer loses her cool inside the bank branch in Kanpur, UP. pic.twitter.com/Qg8XNsAZrI
— Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) February 8, 2026
Public Outrage and Calls for Accountability
The video quickly spread across social media, with viewers condemning the employee’s behavior as unacceptable and unethical. Many social media users expressed their dismay, emphasizing the unprofessionalism displayed by a staff member of a reputed bank. The inclusion of caste in the argument has sparked further debate about caste-based discrimination, a social issue that continues to persist in various forms across India.
Calls for strict action against Aastha have intensified, with many demanding that HDFC Bank take responsibility and address the issue transparently. However, as of now, the bank has not issued an official statement or taken public action regarding the incident.
This disturbing incident at HDFC Bank is more than just an isolated outburst; it is a reminder of the larger issue of caste discrimination in India, which continues to affect individuals in both personal and professional spaces. While the video serves as a stark example of this issue, the response from HDFC Bank will be crucial in determining how effectively the company handles such situations and works to ensure that its employees uphold the highest standards of conduct.
As the public waits for a response, this incident serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for greater awareness, sensitivity, and accountability in both public and private sectors.
