Basic Hygiene Missing In Banks: Women Employees Struggle Due to Lack of Sanitation Facilities

In a sector entrusted with the nation’s financial security, many bank employees, particularly women, are struggling for something as basic as a clean, usable toilet. Despite putting in long hours and handling high stress responsibilities, they are forced to work in conditions that compromise their health, dignity and peace of mind. The sanitation crisis in public sector banks is not just an infrastructure issue, it is a clear failure of workplace policy and accountability.

Daily Inconvenience, Monthly Pain

Several women employees across public sector banks are forced to work in branches where basic sanitation is a daily struggle. Poorly maintained toilets, frequent water shortages, and lack of hygiene have created a serious health risk—especially for women.

One female employee from IDBI Bank shared with Kanal, “We have to use public washrooms in a hotel across the road. It’s very awkward. During my period, I have to take leave because of the unhygienic washroom. In the past, I even got an infection due to this.” She added that these conditions had persisted for years without any resolution.

Ignored Complaints, No Action

Despite raising the issue multiple times through verbal and written communication with higher officials, employees say no action has been taken. The physical infrastructure remains in poor condition, with many women stating that they are compelled to work 10–12 hour shifts without access to usable toilets. “We find it difficult to even use the washroom due to the apathetic concern of our authorities,” said another employee to Kanal.

Sanitation Issues Extend to Surrounding Areas

Employees say that even the surroundings of many bank branches add to the discomfort. Overflowing drains, unclean pathways, and foul smells are common in certain bank localities, further discouraging the use of available facilities. Such environments pose a risk not just to employees but to visiting customers as well.

This is not an isolated problem. Similar complaints have come from employees of Bank of Maharashtra. Female staff members in these institutions also report inadequate facilities and a lack of privacy. In several places, the problem of limited access to clean water compounds the issue further.

Health at Risk, Leave Compromised

Due to the lack of clean and functional washrooms, women staff are forced to take monthly sick leaves during their menstruation. As one of them explained to Kanal, “Since there’s no water and the toilets are dirty, it becomes intolerable to manage during that time. I’m scared of falling sick again.”

A Call for Dignity and Action

This continued neglect of basic facilities violates not just workplace safety norms but also human dignity. Employees are hoping that by raising their voices, authorities at the regional and national levels will finally take notice. Until then, many women will continue to suffer in silence—risking their health and losing their leave—just to avoid an unsafe and unhygienic toilet.