🏦 HDFC Bank Row: Lilavati Trust Accuses CEO of Mental Harassment, Links to Trustee’s Death
In a deeply unsettling development, the Lilavati Kirtilal Mehta Medical Trust, which runs Mumbai’s renowned Lilavati Hospital, has accused HDFC Bank CEO of actions that allegedly led to mental harassment and anguish, contributing to the death of its founder trustee, Kishor Mehta.
The Trust has raised these allegations in an affidavit submitted to the Bombay High Court, sparking a major controversy within India’s banking and philanthropic sectors.
🧾 What Are the Allegations?
According to the affidavit:
HDFC Bank’s CEO “deliberately created obstacles” for the Trust in accessing its own funds.
The Trust claims this resulted in “extreme distress” for Kishor Mehta.
The CEO’s “non-cooperative and unethical” behavior allegedly led to a “situation of mental trauma and helplessness”.
Kishor Mehta passed away in May 2024 at the age of 79. The Trust asserts that the stress related to financial obstruction and reputational damage played a critical role in his deteriorating health.
🏛️ Legal Context
The dispute stems from an ongoing legal tussle over control and financial access to Trust-owned accounts managed by HDFC Bank. The Trust argues that restrictions were imposed arbitrarily, delaying hospital operations and patient care.
The Bombay High Court has acknowledged receipt of the affidavit and is expected to examine both parties’ positions in upcoming hearings.
🔍 What HDFC Bank Says
While HDFC Bank has not issued a public statement, insiders suggest the bank will deny allegations of misconduct, citing compliance with KYC norms and legal procedures.
The reputational stakes are high, with analysts watching how the case may influence public trust in corporate governance and ethical banking.
🏥 Public and Institutional Reaction
The case has triggered:
Media outrage over possible abuse of institutional power.
Healthcare advocacy groups backing Lilavati Trust's claims.
Banking experts urging transparency and a swift judicial process.
The incident has also revived discussions around the mental health impacts of high-stress corporate conflicts, especially for elderly founders and trustees.
❓ FAQ – HDFC Bank & Lilavati Trust Controversy
Q1. What is the core issue between HDFC Bank and Lilavati Trust?
The Trust alleges HDFC Bank’s CEO obstructed fund access, leading to mental trauma for its trustee.
Q2. Who was the trustee mentioned in the case?
Kishor Mehta, founder trustee of Lilavati Trust, who passed away in May 2024.
Q3. Has HDFC Bank responded to the allegations?
As of now, the bank has not released a formal statement. Legal proceedings are ongoing.
Q4. Why is the Trust accusing the CEO personally?
The Trust claims his personal involvement and deliberate decisions worsened an already stressful situation.
Q5. What’s next in the legal case?
The Bombay High Court will hear both parties and decide on further action in the coming weeks.
🏁 Conclusion
The allegations by Lilavati Trust against HDFC Bank’s CEO bring up urgent questions about banking responsibility, ethical conduct, and corporate accountability. As the case proceeds in court, its outcome could reshape the norms for institutional relationships between private banks and public trusts in India.
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