The All India Punjab National Bank Officers’ Association (AIPNBOA) Ahmedabad unit marked International Women’s Day in a distinctive way, blending celebration with a strong statement of protest. While acknowledging and honoring the contributions of women in the banking sector, the officers also took a stand against Punjab National Bank’s (PNB) newly introduced transfer policy, which they believe is unfair and rigid.
A Symbolic Protest Against the Transfer Policy
To express their dissatisfaction with the new policy, a large number of officers, including many women employees, wore black T-shirts as a sign of protest. The event took place at Exxaro Inn, Ahmedabad, and saw enthusiastic participation from officers who voiced their concerns about the transfer policy. The policy mandates that officers must serve for three years in a branch, six years in a circle, and nine years in a zone. Many employees feel that these rules impose unnecessary hardships, disrupt stability, and make career planning difficult.
Challenges Faced by Women Employees
During the event, senior women officers Janki Vaidhya and Khyati Sharma highlighted the specific challenges posed by the new policy. They emphasized that frequent transfers can have a severe impact on work-life balance, family responsibilities, and career growth. Women employees, who often manage multiple roles both at work and home, are disproportionately affected by these frequent relocations. The officers pointed out that maintaining stability in personal life is crucial, and such rigid policies could discourage talented employees from continuing in their roles or advancing in their careers.
Call for Immediate Policy Withdrawal
The protest was conducted peacefully but with a strong message. Officers stood together in solidarity, demanding that PNB reconsider and withdraw the transfer policy. The representatives of AIPNBOA Ahmedabad, including Secretary Dinesh Vaghela, President Riju Nair, and Vice President Jignesh Rathod, reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding officers’ rights. They assured the gathering that the association would continue its efforts to oppose the policy until the bank acknowledges the concerns of its employees and makes necessary changes.
A Balance of Protest and Celebration
Despite the ongoing protest, the spirit of International Women’s Day remained high throughout the event. The gathering reinforced the message that equality in the workplace is not just about recognizing contributions but also ensuring fairness in policies. Officers celebrated the achievements of women in banking while also standing up for their rights and professional dignity. As the event concluded, the officers pledged to continue their struggle for a fair and just transfer policy, emphasizing the importance of gender equality, stability, and respect for employees’ well-being.
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