Public Protest in Budhal Over Allegations Against J&K Bank Branch Head

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

RAJOURI JUNE 02:-On Friday, may 30th 2025, a strong protest was held at the Budhal Bus Stand where a large number of local residents gathered, demanding immediate action against the Branch Head of J&K Bank Budhal over serious allegations of misconduct and unethical banking practices.

The protest was jointly led by Mohd Farooq Inqulabi, Senior PDP Leader, and Waqar Lone, Provincial Secretary Youth National Conference (NC). Both leaders stood by the aggrieved people and provided vocal support, calling for transparency and accountability from the banking authorities. They also advocated on behalf of the public during today’s official visit at the Budhal branch.

The locals accused the Branch Head of using unparliamentary language with customers and of unauthorized deductions from their accounts for insurance policies — specifically MetLife Life Insurance — without consent or under pressure. Many alleged they were told that their loan disbursement would only proceed if they opted for the insurance, which amounts to blackmail and misuse of authority.

Additionally, locals claimed that the Branch Head had assigned a local youth from Budhal, who is neither a bank employee nor authorized personnel, to operate within the branch on his behalf. Residents demanded that his presence be verified through the bank’s CCTV footage, alleging a bribery and commission nexus involving this individual.

Following the initial protest, police intervention and assurance from the Zonal Head led to the protest being called off with a promise that a high-level team would visit Budhal on Monday.

Fulfilling that promise, on Monday, june 2nd today, the Assistant General Manager (AGM) of J&K Bank Rajouri, accompanied by an official team, arrived in Budhal and interacted with the public. Hundreds of locals gathered at the branch to raise their grievances directly.

During the visit, the AGM assured the people that a thorough and impartial investigation is already underway and that strict action will be taken against any official found guilty within 15 days.

Both Mohd Farooq Inqulabi and Waqar Lone reiterated the need for a swift and fair resolution and emphasized that no institution should be allowed to operate above accountability.

This press Note Issued by Citizens’ Forum, Budhal With support from:
Mohd Farooq Inqulabi – Senior PDP LeaderWaqar Lone – Provincial Secretary, Youth National Conference