The managing director of the Blind Lead Trust, Jitendra Dkhar, has accused the State Bank of India’s (SBI) Malki branch’s of discriminating against people with disabilities by refusing to accommodate the Board of Trustees’ request to allow the use of thumb impressions instead of signatures for bank account resolutions.
This decision, according to Dkhar, contravenes accessibility guidelines and potentially violates the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016.
He emphasised that this is a clear case of discrimination against visually impaired individuals.
Dkhar stated that he has made multiple visits to the SBI Malki branch to persuade them to accept thumb impressions as a valid signature alternative, but his efforts were met with resistance.
He highlighted the challenges faced by many visually impaired individuals, particularly those from rural areas, who struggle to access banking services.
According to Dkhar these individuals are often unable to open accounts, use ATMs, or are forced to open joint accounts.
Dkhar appealed to the Minister in charge of Social Welfare to take immediate action and direct government employees and banks to address the concerns of the visually impaired community.
He urged everyone to provide adequate support and accommodations as directed by the government to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.
