KANPUR, UP — A viral storm that began at an HDFC Bank branch in Panki, Kanpur, has taken a dramatic turn as the employee at the center of the controversy, Aastha Singh, issued a formal clarification. The video, which shows Singh in an aggressive confrontation shouting “Thakur hoon main” (I am a Thakur), had sparked outrage across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, leading to her immediate suspension by the bank on February 9, 2026.
In her response, Singh maintains that the 44-second clip is being used to stir a caste-based row and does not reflect the full truth of the encounter.
1. Not a Customer Dispute: The ‘True’ Identity of the Man
Contrary to initial reports claiming Singh was abusing a bank customer, she clarified that the individual was actually the husband of a female colleague who had recently resigned.
- The Context: Singh explains that a minor argument had occurred earlier that day (January 6, 2026) with the colleague’s sister-in-law regarding the resignation and immediate relieving process.
- The Confrontation: The colleague’s husband allegedly “stormed” into the bank after official hours (around 4:30 PM) to confront Singh.
2. Allegations of Personal Attacks and Threats
Singh alleges that her outburst was a reaction to extreme provocation and verbal abuse from the man.
- Caste Provocation: Singh claims the man targeted her identity first, asking, “Which caste do you belong to?” and mocking her professional attitude.
- Direct Threats: She alleged the man threatened to “teach her a lesson” (“Mai tumhari hekdi nikal dunga”), prompting her to respond by asserting her identity as a “Thakur.”
- The “Thakur” Statement: While admitting her language was unprofessional for a public-facing role, she stated, “I am aware I should measure my words… but if someone threatens to ‘take out my heat,’ I will not tolerate it. I am proud to be a Thakur.”
3. HDFC Bank’s Stance and Action
Despite the clarification, the bank has maintained its tough stance on workplace decorum.
| Key Fact | Detail |
| Current Status | Suspended pending internal inquiry. |
| Bank’s Policy | Zero-tolerance for misconduct or casteist remarks. |
| Incident Date | January 6, 2026 (per Singh’s clarification). |
| Branch Location | Panki Branch, Kanpur. |
4. Social Media Reaction: Divided Opinions
The internet remains split over the incident. While many continue to condemn the use of caste as a tool for intimidation in a professional setting, a growing section of users has come out in support of Singh, arguing that bank employees often face immense pressure and harassment from non-customers that goes unrecorded.