Hi,

I work in a software/IT firm. One of the HSBC person asked us to sign up for the Lifetime Credit Card in 2005. This expired in July 2007. I travelled to the US in May 2007, and returned in August 2007. In the meanwhile, HSBC issued a new renewal card to me (same number) and sent it to my rented apartment address, and handed over to some person there, claiming that they are my brother.

I was never aware that they (HSBC ) have sent a renewal card to me. I never used the original card (not a single transaction), and hence assumed that it expired.

In Oct 2007, the person used it for three different transactions amounting to Rs 25K. When I received the bill at my address, I went and gave a written complaint at the HSBC Noida Branch (the one that issued me my card). There the person asked to pay Rs 500/- saying that he'll close the case. He did not require any police complaint/indemnity letter to settle the case. [I have given two written complaints to this guy, however, he has not given me any acknowledgement/photocopy of my written complaint]. However, that person was probably a cheat as he just kept extending the date. Meanwhile, I sent emails (from HSBC site) to their nodal center, and HSBC has been harrassing me asking me to come for a negotiable settlement.

As per RBI guidelines, delivery of card to unauthorized person (person not authorized by the customer), is clearly an offence and liability is on the Bank (who can further recover the amount from the courier company). I would like to know if I can drag HSBC to consumer court? If yes, what will be the fees for the lawyer. I haven't contact Banking Ombudsman yet - will that help.

Meanwhile, the interest on my account is just going on increasing on a credit card, that was never delivered to me. I referred to RBI Ombudsman complaint resolution in 2007-2008 in which they asked the bank to reverse the amount, and also pay damages. Whether this is applicable in this case as well?

Thanking you. Appreciate all your help.
Adi.