Kanpur: A video from HDFC Bank’s Panki branch in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, showing an employee in a heated dispute that included a reference to caste, has sparked widespread attention online. The woman in the footage, identified as Aastha Singh, responded to the viral clip with a public clarification, acknowledging that her choice of words was inappropriate but asserting the situation has been misrepresented.
Singh, who works at the bank, said the incident actually occurred on January 6 and is not a recent event, countering claims circulating on social media that suggested otherwise. She emphasised that the video does not show her arguing with a customer, as many believe, but stems from an exchange with the husband of another female colleague.
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According to Singh’s account, a colleague had resigned and wanted to be relieved immediately. That colleague’s sister-in-law was at the branch and engaged in a minor disagreement with Singh. The sister-in-law then informed her husband about the argument. Singh said the man arrived at the branch after working hours and “misbehaved” when he confronted her, even asking her about her caste and accusing her of arrogance. She further alleged he threatened to “teach her a lesson,” prompting her sharp response.
The viral video shows Singh pointing at the other party, and at one point she can be heard saying “Thakur hoon main” (I am a Thakur) — a remark that drew criticism for appearing to invoke caste identity. While Singh admitted that her words were improper for a professional setting, she maintained she reacted only after feeling threatened and stated she is proud of her identity.
The clip has ignited debate on social media about workplace conduct and the role of caste in public interactions. HDFC Bank has not officially commented on the matter.
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