BREAKING OPEN OF BANK LOCKER Avoid inoperative locker status with timely rent payments, periodic visits

The Uttarakhand High Court recently asked a public-sector bank to clarify the rules that permitted officials to break open a customer's locker without consent.

- SANJEEV SINHA

According to a media report, the case arose following a complaint by an 86-year-old whose jewellery was allegedly removed in her absence. Her son discovered the breach during a branch visit. The incident underscores the need for locker holders to stay vigilant.

When banks may break open lockers Banks must follow standard operating procedures when accessing lockers in specific scenarios. "Prior information needs to be sent to the customer whose locker needs to be accessed," says Adhil Shetty, chief executive officer (CEO), Bankbazaar.com. A bank may access the locker if a customer loses the key. "The bank can initiate the procedure in the presence of the locker holder and an authorised official," says Shetty.

Banks may also break open the locker under directives from law enforcement agencies. The locker holder is informed through written communication regarding the request for seizure or attachment.