The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated August 09, 2024, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1 lakh (Rupees One lakh only) on The Gandhidham Mercantile Co-operative Bank Limited, Kachchh, Gujarat (the bank) for non-compliance with the directions issued by RBI on ‘Donations to Trusts and Institutions where Directors, their relatives hold position or are interested’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under section 47A (1) (c) read with sections 46 (4) (i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, oral submissions made during the personal hearing and examination of additional submissions made by it, RBI found, inter alia, that the charge of donating to a trust where directors/ relatives of the directors of the bank were interested was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty.

This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

(Puneet Pancholy)     
Chief General Manager

Press Release: 2024-2025/955