RBI asks banks to comply with one address proof norm

The RBI today asked banks to comply with the one-address-proof norm as it was found that many of them were not following the new rules.
Despite its clear instructions on requirement of one proof of address, whether permanent or current, RBI said it was brought to its notice that some banks were still insisting on submission of a proof of current address even when a customer produced a proof of permanent address.
Banks are advised to ensure that customers are not unnecessarily asked to submit additional proofs of addresses for current addresses in cases where proofs of addresses for permanent addresses are already available, RBI said.

"Banks are requested to confirm latest by October 17, 2014, that the above mentioned instruction has been communicated to all their branches and the same have been meticulously complied with," RBI wrote in a communication to bank CEOs/Chairperson.
RBI said the insistence for proof of local address prevents many prospective customers, especially migrant workers, from opening bank accounts.
Earlier in June this year, RBI had simplified the bank account opening norms by allowing customers to submit only one proof of address, either permanent or local.
The RBI move was targeted at facilitating migrant workers and employees with transferable jobs, who face cumbersome procedure, to access banking services.