It pains me greatly to see that India, a nation known for centuries for it’s hospitality, is one of the places in the world you can expect ZERO customer service (with a few needle-in-the-haystack exceptions) and zero-flexibility on so-called company policy. I won’t get all philosophical here, but you catch my drift.
About a month-and-a-half ago, I went to Kotak Mahindra Bank for opening a new bank account. I carried my passport, my driving license, a rent agreement and and a letter of employment from my employer – and apparently all this was insufficient to create a bank account. Why ? Because I need to provide them with a cheque from my previous bank account.
But wait, I don’t have a previous bank account! This is my first bank account. So I tried to explore a few alternatives:
1. Is this absolutely necessary?
Bank: Yes. We’ve been defrauded in the past by people investing huge amounts in our bank.
2. (Doesn’t make sense but,) OK, but I just want to put in 10k that’s it and you have all my original documents.
Bank: OK, let me look into it, I’ll send someone to meet you in the evening.
3. OK, but if I already have an active bank account why would I come to you?
Bank: (silence… #Fail)
I say “Fine” and I’m gone.
Four Days Later
No contact from Kotak Mahindra Bank whatsoever. I go back there.
4. So , what’s up ?
Bank: Oh yes, it’s not possible.
5. I thought you were going to send someone. And why’s it not possible?
Bank: Oh sorry Sir, I forgot. It’s not possible because it’s company policy.
6. OK. So will a cheque from my father’s account be good enough ?I can provide ample proof that he’s my father.
Bank: OK let me check and get back.
Two Days Later
Nothing. I go back to the bank.
7. So, what’s up?
Bank: Oh yes. It’s not possible. I’m sorry.
8. So why didn’t you tell me on the phone ?
Bank: I’m sorry.
9. Let me get this straight. I’m trying to put money in your bank and you’re not letting me?
Bank: No.
10. And you call yourself a bank?
Weird and Useless Institution : (Silence)
Verdict:
Kotak Mahindra Bank is not a Bank.
Indian Banks are as useless as rocks – along with that, they’re just huge blood-sucking creatures looking for a way to make your life more miserable. I suggest that they get their basics right first.
I cannot open a bank account with the documentation that allows me to :
- Visit any country in the world with a visa (and even around 60 countries without one).
- Vote in state and national elections.
- Countless other things you and me do every single day.
This is a big big failure, not just in customer service, but in just being a bank.
You’re not a bank if you don’t let me open a bank account.
Tags: Bank account, Banking Services, Banks and Institutions, business, Cheque, Financial Services, India, Kotak Mahindra Bank
Have you managed to open up a bank account in India. Being an expat in India i find it very difficult and totally agree with your statement. Bank’s here just dont have the customer-relationship policy…no PR!..hardly you’ll find an information counter. Do share your success if any..because im new to India, and ive struggled and fedup with the inconsistent informations.