An HDFC Bank employee from Kanpur has responded to widespread criticism after a video showing her invoking her caste identity during a heated exchange circulated heavily on social media. The staff member, identified as Astha Singh, said the clip being shared online presents only part of the incident and has led to misunderstandings.
Singh, who works as a relationship manager at the bank’s Panki branch, stated that the footage dates back to 6 January and does not involve any customers. According to her, the confrontation occurred inside the branch and was linked to a workplace disagreement rather than client interaction. She noted that the viral video captures only a brief moment from a longer episode.
The original clip shows Singh visibly upset during an argument while colleagues attempt to calm the situation. At one point, she repeatedly declares her caste identity, a remark that drew sharp reactions online and sparked allegations of caste-based intimidation.
In her explanation, Singh said the disagreement stemmed from a former employee who had resigned and was seeking an immediate relieving letter. A relative of the ex-staffer had reportedly been waiting at the branch since morning, leading to a verbal exchange. Singh claimed the matter escalated after the woman informed her husband, who later arrived at the office after working hours.
She alleged that the man confronted her at her desk, questioned her caste, and spoke aggressively. Singh maintained that her controversial statement was made in response to provocation and abusive language. She emphasised that she had not acted inappropriately toward any customer and that the situation had been wrongly framed as an instance of casteism.
Acknowledging the expectations tied to her role in customer service, Singh said employees must remain mindful of their language. However, she defended her reaction, stating she would not tolerate threats or intimidation. The incident continues to attract attention online as debates around workplace conduct and social sensitivities intensify.
