The PR Division of Punjab National Bank (PNB) has come under criticism from employees over social media posts related to the demand for a 5-day banking week. During the strike period, several posts were published on social media platform from the official accounts of Punjab National Bank. These posts defamed bank employees in the eyes of public. One of the post is as follows:
PNB said that doctors, soldiers, policemen remain on duty 24×7, so bankers should also not demand 5-day banking. This created a comparison between bank employees and emergency services, which they said was inappropriate and hurt the sentiments of the bank’s workforce.
The posts gave the public an impression that bank employees were being unreasonable in seeking a 5-day banking week because other essential services work around the clock. They said that bank employees have also worked beyond normal banking hours and have supported the country during major situations and programmes, including demonetisation, the COVID-19 period and various government campaigns.
The association has finally written a letter to MD&CEO. According to the representation, using official PNB social media platforms for such content has affected employee morale and raised concerns about the dignity of bank employees. The employees also questioned whether the posts were consistent with the bank’s social media policy, particularly because the content was published through official channels.
Demand for Removal of Social Media Posts
The issue has reportedly been taken up with PNB MD & CEO. The employees have demanded the immediate removal of the posts from the bank’s official social media platforms. They have also sought identification of the officials who conceptualised, approved and published the content.
The association has sought action against Shri Deepak Kumar, General Manager (PR), who heads the PR Division at the Head Office.
Reference to Suspension of Chief Manager
Earlier, a woman Chief Manager was suspended for allegedly interacting with the media on verbal instructions from senior officials. Will PNB also take action against its GM? The employees have therefore sought immediate suspension of Shri Deepak Kumar, GM (PR).
