In a surprising turn of events, officers of Utkal Grameen Bank have taken a stand against the authoritarian behavior of their Regional Manager (RM). The Utkal Grameen Bank Officers’ Association (UGBOA) expressed their disappointment over a WhatsApp message sent by the RM to staff members in the Sambalpur region of Odisha.
Mandate to Sell Insurance Policies Sparks Controversy
On March 17, the RM of the Sambalpur region sent a WhatsApp message mandating staff members to sell insurance policies as part of the Sagar Kinare campaign. The message labeled those who fail to comply as “unsociable elements.” The RM’s message conveyed a stern tone, stating that failure to comply would result in termination. This directive from the RM was met with criticism from UGBOA, who found the language used to be dictatorial and disregarding of rules and norms.
All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association (AIRRBEA) Demands Action
The AIRRBEA, a prominent association representing bank employees, wrote a letter to the Chairman of Utkal Grameen Bank, demanding action against the abusive behavior of the Regional Managers. The letter highlighted the inhumane pressure exerted on branch staff to achieve insurance targets, often accompanied by threats of transfers, denial of promotions, or disciplinary actions. AIRRBEA also raised concerns about the focus on selling third-party products, such as SBI Life Insurance policies, despite a severe staff shortage.
Staff Shortage and Pressure to Meet Targets
Officials of Utkal Grameen Bank have been facing immense pressure to meet targets for selling insurance policies, sponsored by the State Bank of India, despite a significant shortage of over a hundred officers. Despite the shortage, the sale of insurance policies has continued, albeit with resistance due to the abusive language used by the Regional Manager.
Calls for Addressing the Crisis in Regional Rural Banks
Recent strikes have demanded the filling of 30,000 vacancies in Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and the establishment of the National Rural Bank of India (NRBI). The oppressive behavior of managerial officers at Utkal Grameen Bank highlights the pervasive crisis within RRBs and the overwhelming pressure to achieve targets.
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