RBI Imposes Fine Over Compliance Deficiencies at Airtel Payments Bank

RBI Imposes Rs 31.80 Lakh Penalty on Airtel Payments Bank for Disclosure Lapses​

Action Taken After Supervisory Findings in FY25 Review​

Mumbai, March 30: The Reserve Bank of India on Monday imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 31.80 lakh on Airtel Payments Bank Limited for non-compliance with provisions related to disclosure in financial statements.

The penalty has been levied under section 47A(1)(c) read with section 46(4)(i) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

Inspection Highlights Non-Disclosure of Complaints​

The action follows the Statutory Inspection for Supervisory Evaluation conducted by the RBI with reference to the bank’s financial position as on March 31, 2025.

According to the central bank, the penalty was based on supervisory findings which indicated non-compliance with its directions. A notice was subsequently issued to Airtel Payments Bank, asking it to explain why a penalty should not be imposed.

After reviewing the bank’s response, along with additional and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, the RBI concluded that the charge was sustained.

The central bank stated that the bank failed to disclose certain complaints in its annual financial statements for the financial year 2024-25.

RBI Clarifies Scope of Action​

The RBI clarified that the penalty is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance. It added that the action does not reflect on the validity of any transactions or agreements entered into by the bank with its customers.

The central bank also noted that the imposition of the penalty is without prejudice to any further action that may be initiated against the bank.