Shillong, Oct 28: Social activist Greneth M. Sangma has filed a strong objection with the Regional Director, RBI Guwahati, against alleged arbitrary denial of banking services in Meghalaya solely for non-submission of Aadhaar.
In his representation, Sangma said citizens approached him alleging bank branches are refusing account openings, KYC updates, restricting transactions and threatening action on existing accounts for not possessing Aadhaar or failing biometric e-KYC.
Citing a notification by the Ministry of Finance in 2017, which exempts Meghalaya, Assam and J&K residents without Aadhaar from Section 139AA requirements, RBI KYC Directions, and October 29, 2025 High Court judgment in his PIL, Sangma said banks must accept other officially valid documents like passport, driving licence, Voter ID or MGNREGA job card where legally permissible and not treat Aadhaar as universal mandatory.
He urged RBI to conduct an urgent investigation, issue regulatory clarification to all banks in Meghalaya, prevent arbitrary denial, mandate written reasons citing specific legal provisions for any refusal, examine restrictions on existing accounts, and take action for violations.
He sought a written response within 15 days, stating he reserves the right to approach competent authorities or the High Court if unaddressed.
