Modi's mother queues up at a bank to exchange cash

Heeraben, who is aged above 90 years, went to the bank to exchange currency worth Rs 4,500

As thousands continue to struggle daily in the wake of the central government’s surprise move of demonetising of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes since November 8, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mother, Heeraben on Tuesday was seen joining the serpentine queues of a bank in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. 

Heeraben, who is aged above 90 years, went to the Oriental Bank of Commerce bank at Raisan village to exchange currency worth Rs 4,500.  Being accompanied by relatives, she entered the bank's premises in a wheelchair and exchanged Rs 500 notes following due process. She filled the mandatory form, gave her thumb impression and exchanged the money.

Ever since its announcement, the move has been facing several road blocks in terms of implementation with public anger simmering in the wake of dysfunctional ATMs, and long queues and limited cash at banks.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had in fact, organised a review meeting in the wee hours of Monday to discuss the move that has been attracting criticism from all corners.

Taking stock of the common man’s difficulties, the limit of old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 rupee notes that can be exchanged new Rs 2000 and Rs 500 notes was increased from Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 4,500 per day.

Whereas the cash withdrawal limit at ATMs was also hiked to Rs. 2,500 from Rs. 2,000 a day. However, with many ATMs being unable to dispense cash as they have not been calibrated for the new currency notes, most of the crowd is being directed towards banks leading to a huge rush.

The government had on Monday had, in fact, set up a task force to expedite the process of recalibration of ATMS. Finance Minster, Arun Jaitley had earlier said that the recalibration process would take 2 to 3 week’s time.