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Ahead of 118th Foundation Day, Bank of Baroda Chief Manager Commits Suicide Citing Work Pressure
As Bank of Baroda sets high targets for its 118th Foundation Day, a Chief Manager ends his life in-branch, blaming unbearable pressure in a note that shocks many.
Author: Neha Bodke
Published: 4 hours ago
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In a deeply tragic incident, Shivshankar Mitra, Chief Manager of Bank of Baroda's (BOB) Baramati branch, Maharashtra died by suicide inside the bank premises on the night of 17 July, 2025 just days before the bank’s 118th Foundation Day on 20 July, 2025.
This shocking death has brought to the forefront the mental and emotional toll of extreme work pressure within the banking system. A suicide note found on-site, allegedly written by Mitra, reveals that he had requested voluntary retirement just days ago because he could no longer cope.
Suicide Note (English Translation):
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“I, Shivshankar Mitra, Chief Manager, Baramati Branch, am ending my life today due to the excessive pressure from the bank. I had already requested voluntary retirement due to this unbearable burden. All employees are aware of their responsibilities and are giving their 100%. I am fully conscious and taking this step on my own. No one from my family is responsible for this. The only reason is high pressure from the bank.”
“Priya, my wife, please forgive me. Mahi, my daughter, please forgive me. If possible, donate my eyes.”
118 Targets for 118th Foundation Day?
Staff members have now alleged that ahead of the bank’s 118th anniversary, branches were given targets to open 118 savings accounts and 18 retail loan accounts each, a pressure campaign that left many overwhelmed.
As one employee said to Kanal “Even a celebration is turning into a tragic incident. Staff are under tremendous pressure. The same pressure is mentioned in the suicide note.”
A Pattern Too Familiar
According to the employees, this death follows a disturbing trend of banker suicides across public sector banks in India, with employees often citing excessive workload, quota pressure, and lack of empathy from higher management. Despite repeated warnings, mental health remains an ignored issue.
The Banking System's Blind Spot
The powerful post by WeBankersOfficial, a prominent banking community handle, expressed the outrage felt by many: “Shame on GOI, Bank Managements and Bank Unions – all chasing numbers, no concern for human lives. Toxic work culture has been killing bankers one by one.”
What the System Must Answer on BoB’s 118th Year:
- Why are employees still pushed to breaking points?
- What institutional mechanisms exist to address mental health?
- Can celebratory targets justify burnout and trauma?
About the Bank:
Founded in 1908 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in Baroda, Gujarat, Bank of Baroda is one of India’s largest public sector banks. This 20th July, 2025, marks its 118th Foundation Day.
Yet even as the bank celebrates 118 years, its frontline staff remain trapped in cycles of overwork, under-support, and silence.
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