Do RBI rules protect borrowers from bank harassment?

Haan, RBI rules do protect borrowers, but only if you use the complaint route properly. RBI’s guidance says lenders and their recovery agents should not harass borrowers, like calling repeatedly at odd hours, using threatening language, or using force, and lenders are responsible for the agent’s behaviour. (Reserve Bank of India) RBI also expects proper processes, like agents carrying authorisation details, and banks keeping checks on recovery calls and conduct. (Reserve Bank of India) Practical point though: rules don’t stop every bad call automatically, so you should document everything (date, time, number, what was said), tell them clearly you want all communication in writing, and raise a complaint with the lender’s grievance team first. If the lender doesn’t resolve it properly, you can escalate via RBI’s Integrated Ombudsman complaint system (CMS). Bas itna yaad rakho, no one should ask for OTP, PIN, or force you into paying on a random link, and if the behaviour crosses the line, complain early instead of waiting. (Reserve Bank of India)