I deposited 2 cheques the same day at the counter in the branch where I have my business account. First cheque was for transfer (HDFC Bank to HDFC Bank) of Rs.60,000/- from another account into my account. Second cheque was issued by me for transfer of Rs.3.77 lacs from the same HDFC Bank account to another HDFC Bank account. This matter was specifically advised to the counter staff and he agreed to act suitably. My account is about 12 years' old.

When I checked my account through netbanking I realised that they cleared cheque for Rs.3.77 lacs from my account which did not have that balance because Rs.60,000/- was not taken in. The cheque for Rs.60,000 was presented the following day and cleared into my account but by then I had lost a lot of money due to lost trade discount, debits due to bouncing of cheques etc.

I had a problem with some staff or their agents sometime back about which I had complained and that was resolved but I guess there was an irritated vindictive mind active in the Bank branch. This act seems to be a reprisal.

When I charged the bank I was told that I should not expect simultaneous clearance from the Bank. So, my query was why cheque for Rs.60,000/- not cleared the same day? This they have not replied to yet. They are saying that I had deposited cheques late and therefore it was sent for clearing the next day. Two cheques were deposited together at about 1.20pm. They are avoiding to reply when I ask them why one cheque went the following day? Branch Manager is backing his staff and seems to be guilty first, in my opinion.

There is no response. I have taken the matter to Ombudsman but the action is so slow that it seems denial of justice. What can consumer court do to help resolve this matter. I want to recover about Rs.5000/- lost and penalise them for harassment meted out to me.

Help needed.
AMohiuddin

My contact details mobile: 9230564758; email venuscorp@vsnl.com