Increase in complaints to banking ombudsman in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: There has been a 22 per cent increase in complaints received by the banking ombudsman in Kerala this year.


A total of 2,541 complaints were received in the year ended on June 30, 2012, compared to 2,077 in the corresponding period one year ago, according to FR Joseph, Banking Ombudsman of Kerala, Lakshadweep and Mahe.


Most of these complaints have been examined and settled, leaving a mere 5.7 per cent remaining to be closed, Mr Joseph told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday.


This showed that concerned efforts made by banks to improve the quality of services and strengthen internal grievance redressal machinery could reduce complaints, the Ombudsman said.


The largest number of complaints, 27.5 per cent, pertained to loans and advances including educational and housing loans. Complaints relating to credit, debit ATM cards accounted for 14.1 per cent, he said.


The increase in receipt of complaints was recorded by all districts in Kerala except Palakkad, Malappuram and Wayanad.