Union Bank Manager Attacked in Thoothukudi Tamil Nadu Over Loan Recovery

In a shocking and unfortunate incident, a Branch Manager of Union Bank of India in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, was physically attacked by a borrower over a loan recovery matter. This incident took place on May 19, 2025, and has raised serious concerns about the safety of bank staff across the country.

What Happened?

According to a statement from the Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) – Tamil Nadu unit, the Branch Manager had visited the home of Jayakumar, a borrower who had failed to repay his housing loan. The bank staff went there simply to remind him about the overdue amount.

Since Jayakumar was not at home, the Branch Manager asked his family members to inform him about the visit and the pending loan. However, instead of responding calmly, Jayakumar reportedly got agitated. The same day, he, along with his brother and another individual, came to the bank branch, abused the Branch Manager and staff using offensive language, and physically assaulted the Branch Manager using a fire extinguisher.

Manager Seriously Injured

The attack caused serious injuries to the Branch Manager, who was immediately admitted to Government Hospital, Thoothukudi for treatment. This violent response to a routine banking duty has shocked not just the bank employees but also the general public.

Police Complaint Filed, But No Arrest Yet

The bank has lodged a complaint with the police, but no arrests have been made so far. This delay in action has created a sense of fear and helplessness among bank employees who are just trying to do their jobs.

BEFI Condemns the Attack

The Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) has strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of violence against bank staff. In its official statement, BEFI said this attack is unacceptable and demands immediate police action.

They have urged:

• The Tamil Nadu Government and State Police to arrest the attackers without delay.
• The Union Government and Union Bank of India to provide armed security at bank branches.
• The display of clear warning boards stating that abuse or assault on bank staff will lead to strict legal consequences.

Why This Incident Matters

Bank employees across the country often have to deal with difficult customers, especially when it comes to loan recovery. However, no staff member should be put at risk or face violence for doing their job. This incident is a clear example of why better protection measures are urgently needed.

This is not just about one bank or one branch. It is about creating a safe working environment for all bank employees. Incidents like this also affect the morale of other staff members and can damage the trust between banks and the public.

The BEFI leaders, President S. Sunil Kumar and General Secretary D. Ravi Kumar, have rightly called for strict action and better safety policies to prevent such incidents in the future.

Bank staff are essential to our economy and community. They deserve to work without fear of being attacked. It is now up to the authorities to ensure justice is done and that such shameful acts are not repeated.

Let’s hope the attackers are arrested soon, and steps are taken to protect our bank employees from any kind of harm in the future.