Atanu Chakraborty calls resignation from HDFC Bank "routine"
By Shailesh Yadav, New Delhi, March 19
In his first response following his resignation, Atanu Chakraborty, former Non-Executive Chairman of HDFC Bank, described the development as a routine matter and declined to elaborate on the circumstances surrounding his exit.
Speaking to ANI, Chakraborty said, "That's (resignation) on the exchange website. Nothing worth discussion. It's quite routine," indicating that the details of his resignation have already been disclosed through official channels.
Chakraborty, a former secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Finance Ministry, had been serving as the Non-Executive Chairman of HDFC Bank, one of India's largest private sector lenders.
Amid recent developments at HDFC Bank, the Reserve Bank of India on Thursday sought to reassure stakeholders, stating that the bank remains financially sound and well-governed.
The RBI said it has "taken note of the recent developments" and approved a transition arrangement regarding the position of Part-Time Chairman, as requested by the bank.
The clarification comes in the backdrop of former Non-Executive Chairman Atanu Chakraborty's resignation, which he had earlier described to ANI as "quite routine" and "nothing worth discussion."
Emphasising the bank's stability, the RBI noted that HDFC Bank, classified as a Domestic Systemically Important Bank (D-SIB), continues to have "sound financials, a professionally run board and a competent management team."
It further added that based on its periodic assessment, "there are no material concerns on record as regards its conduct or governance."
The central bank also underscored that the bank remains "well-capitalized" with a "satisfactory financial position and sufficient liquidity."
The RBI said it will continue to engage with the board and management of HDFC Bank on the way forward, signalling close regulatory oversight while maintaining confidence in the institution.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The RBI's statement is very important for public confidence. HDFC is a D-SIB, its stability is crucial for the entire banking system. Glad they stepped in to clarify. 👍
High-profile exits from top banks are never just 'routine'. There's always more to the story. But as long as the RBI is monitoring and the bank's fundamentals are strong, we shouldn't panic.
As an NRI with accounts in HDFC, this is reassuring. The RBI's direct involvement and clear language about financial soundness is what we needed to hear. Transparency is key.
Chakraborty saab is a seasoned bureaucrat. If he says it's routine, maybe we should take his word for it. Sometimes a chair change is just a chair change. No need for speculation.
Respectfully, calling it 'routine' feels dismissive to shareholders and customers. Even if true, a bit more context from the bank itself would have been better. The RBI had to do the heavy lifting on communication.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.