Need clarification on preclosure of PPF account with bank

hi

i need some clarification of pre closure of ppf  a/c with a bank

i opened a PPF a/c in the Fy 2014-15 (July)

In  june 2019 I approached the bank for  pre closure due  medical emergency & submitted all documents and Original Pass book. Banker verified all documents and gave  acknowledgement. 

Even after 6 months i did not hear anything from the bank. Frequently I visited the bank for follow up

now I have filed a formal complaint with the branch manager and obtained acknowledgement.

The Govt. Circular says " PPF account can be closed after 5 financial years on medical grounds

Banks argument is that the year of Deposit should not be considered for calculating the period of 5 years.

I have sought a written reply in this regard from the bank 

Now I want to know,  as   the govt. circular does not mention the method of calculating 5 years

whom should I approach for clarification in this regard.