Federal Bank employees are voicing strong concerns over various issues, including severe staff shortages, a contentious transfer policy, and increasing instances of workplace harassment. Employees from multiple branches have united to demand immediate action from the bank’s management. They believe that inadequate staffing levels are pushing them to their limits, the transfer policy is causing unnecessary disruptions, and workplace harassment is fostering a hostile environment. This protest represents a significant moment as employees seek justice and a better working environment.
Federal Bank Employees Hunger Protest against anti-employee policies of Bank pic.twitter.com/VrqPrMMDkx
— Hellobanker (@Hellobanker_in) September 15, 2024
Onam Protest: “Hunger Strike on Onam”
During the Onam celebrations in Kerala, the Federal Bank Employees Union organized a one-day protest titled “Hunger Strike on Onam” at the bank’s headquarters in Aluva, Ernakulam, on September 13, 2024. This event is part of an ongoing agitation led by the union, calling for new staff recruitment and an end to perceived unfair practices.
Key Issues and Demands
The hunger strike, held two days before Thiruvonam, saw participation from Federal Bank employees across Kerala. Employees from other branches also showed solidarity by skipping lunch. The protest focused on several critical issues, including:
- Staff Shortages: The need for recruitment for Clerk, Peon, and Sweeper positions.
- Employment Regularization: Regularization of temporary, contract, and outsourced workers.
- Misleading Sales Practices: A halt to misleading practices regarding insurance product sales.
Notable Addresses
The protest was inaugurated by former Kerala Agriculture Minister Shri V. S. Sunilkumar, who highlighted the need for the bank to enhance its services in Kerala. He noted that although the bank’s national loan-to-deposit ratio is 82%, it is only 44% in Kerala, despite the state contributing a significant portion of deposits. He urged the bank to address the staffing crisis by appointing adequate personnel.
Several key figures addressed the gathering, including:
- Mr. KS Krishna, President of the All Kerala Bank Employees Federation
- Mr. B. Ramprakash, General Secretary of the All Kerala Bank Employees Federation
- Mr. VP George, INTUC Leader
- Mr. Vishal Thacker, President of the Federal Bank Employees Union
- Mr. AR Sujith Raju, General Secretary of the Federal Bank Employees Union
- Mr. PR Shimit, General Secretary of the Federal Bank Officers Association
- Mr. K Srinivasan, General Secretary of the All Kerala Bank Retirees Federation
- Mr. CM Devassi, General Secretary of the Federal Bank Retirees
Opinion
The issues raised by Federal Bank employees highlight critical areas that need urgent attention. Staff shortages and unfair practices are not just operational challenges but affect employee morale and overall service quality. It’s imperative for the bank’s management to address these concerns promptly to prevent further disruption and dissatisfaction.
The protest underscores the need for the bank to adopt a more transparent and fair approach to staffing and employment practices. By taking swift action to recruit additional staff, regularize temporary and outsourced workers, and eliminate misleading sales practices, Federal Bank can improve working conditions and restore trust among its employees.
Moreover, ensuring a respectful and supportive work environment is essential for both employee well-being and customer satisfaction. The bank should view this protest as an opportunity to make meaningful changes that benefit both its workforce and its clients. Addressing these issues proactively will not only enhance employee morale but also contribute to the overall success and reputation of the bank.
