‘Attend Calls on Leave!’Central Bank of India faces backlash over order asking staff to stay available during leave

The Central Bank of India’s Ludhiana Regional Office has issued a controversial order, instructing staff members to keep their phones switched on and attend calls from branches and controlling offices even when they are officially on leave.

The office order dated August 6 and signed by the Deputy Regional Manager (DRM), noted that many officials were switching off their phones during leave, making it difficult for branches and controlling offices to contact them. The circular strictly instructed that no officer should switch off their phone while on leave. The DRM warned that failure to attend official calls would be “viewed seriously” and could lead to disciplinary action.

While the bank’s management has justified the move as a step to ensure smooth communication between branches and regional offices, the directive has sparked criticism. Experts point out that such instructions blur the line between professional duties and personal time, raising concerns about employees’ right to disconnect.

Labour law experts argue that forcing employees to remain available during sanctioned leave defeats the very purpose of leave, which is meant for rest and personal commitments. Trade unions have also raised questions on whether such directives amount to an overreach by management, potentially violating employees’ work-life balance.

This order highlights a bigger problem in India’s banking sector — staff often face heavy workloads, long working hours, and pressure to stay available even after office time. As awareness about employee well-being grows, the Central Bank of India’s directive is expected to spark discussions on the need for clear rules that protect employees from extra work demands during their personal time.

Several employees, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration. One officer said, “The pressure of work in banks is already very high. Now even during personal leave, if we are expected to answer official calls, there will be no boundary left between work and personal life.”

Another Officer said – “Leave is a legal right of every employee. If staff are forced to remain available for official calls during leave, it effectively means they are working without being on duty. This is against labour rights and needs to be challenged.”

What you think of this order? Do let us know in the comment section below.