Around four years back, I was holding a Citibank international silver credit card (Master Card). When the credit card was issued (03/03) the Citibank representative assured me that the card is absolutely free for lifetime and no annual fees will be charged for the same. For the first year I was using the credit card without any issues. Suddenly after one year I was charged a renewal fees of Rs 750/- for the primary card (which was on my name) and Rs 350/- on an add-on card (which was on my wife's name) plus service tax in the monthly statement.
After frequent follow ups on phone with Citibank representatives, requesting them to revert back the renewal fees, they told that the card was free only for first year and I have to pay renewal fees to continue using the card. I was not expecting this response from the bank which showed how unprofessional they are in their business.
Since, the bank was not ready to revert back the renewal fees and even I was unhappy with the banks unethical attitude, I decided to cancel both the cards and informed my decision to bank. Even after both the cards were cancelled, the bank continued issuing me monthly statements (carry forward of renewal fees late changes each month after month)
I am unable to understand why I am still receiving those monthly statements and again started to follow-up with the Citibank representatives to know the reason. The representative told me that both the cards were cancelled as per bank's record and all the charges will be reverted back soon and will reflect in coming month's statement. So I was hoping to get everything settled by next month and haven't given any attention to this issue after that.
After two years, I received a call from Citibank informing me about making the payments for the outstanding amount immediately and also gave me an option to make settlement by paying some lumpsum amount. To make a settlement I was asked to visit one of their offices in Aundh, Pune. I was really surprised and unable to understand if nothing is due from my side why I should pay any amount to the bank. To know the total amount due on my account I called multiple times to Citibank but was told that the case is now transferred to recovery department and they don't have any information regarding the same. I tried calling the recovery department of Citibank, Pune and they told me to pay Rs 200/- first which will enable then to open my case and then investigate the issue further. This is absolutely frustrating and gave us lot of mental stress.
This I guess is a clear case of mental harassment.
I am very unhappy with the service provided by the bank and also the false commitments made initially for attracting customers. I and many of my friends have already blacklisted Citibank after this event.
Wanted to know can I legally go in court against CitiBank and fight for my rights?
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