PNB Gwalior Protest 2022: Over 80 Days Long Protest by AIPNBOA in Gwalior

PNB Gwalior Protest 2022: In 2022, the Punjab National Bank Gwalior Circle witnessed a prolonged agitation lasting over 80 days. The All India Punjab National Bank Officers’ Association (AIPNBOA), Gwalior unit, achieved something few could have imagined. Employees from the entire Gwalior Circle gathered every evening for more than 80 days to protest against the circle management. The employees claimed that the management was ill-treating staff and imposing excessive work pressure despite inadequate infrastructure. When the management failed to address their concerns, the employees united under the banner of AIPNBOA.

The protest was led by AIPNBOA Gwalior Circle Secretary Shri Devbrat Singh Sikarwar. He refused to yield to the management and, responding to the employees’ demands, gave the call for protest. Initially, many in the banking fraternity assumed the agitation would end quickly. However, true persistence is what defines leadership, and he continued the protest with determination. During this period, he faced personal and professional attacks. Some close associates distanced themselves, and the management even transferred him in an attempt to weaken the movement. Despite these challenges, he and the employees remained firm and refused to call off the strike.

After more than 80 days, the management finally gave up and accepted the employees’ demands. As per reports, the Circle Head was also transferred from Gwalior to Bhopal. This was a major victory for AIPNBOA Gwalior and demonstrated that when there is dedication and courage, even the government and bank management are compelled to step back.