Canara Bank Faces Backlash Over Viral Video Showing Manager's Harassment; Management Issues Circular Insisting on Confidentiality of Meetings
Emergence of a video depicting harassment during a Canara Bank review meeting has sparked widespread criticism and calls for accountability. While the management reiterates their commitment to professionalism and confidentiality, questions remain regarding the handling of the situation and the broader issues it highlights within the banking sector.
Author: Abhivad
Published: May 7, 2024
A video capturing a disturbing incident of harassment during an online review meeting at Canara Bank has stirred widespread condemnation on social media platforms. The footage reveals a divisional manager, identified as Lokapati Swain from Sambalpur, Odisha, verbally abusing fellow branch managers.
In the video, Swain is seen aggressively reprimanding his colleagues, stating, "I don't care for your family. Bank has given you a job to do work and not to enjoy with your family. Let your family go to hell." The incident has sparked outrage among bankers on social media, who have voiced concerns about workplace harassment, pressure to work overtime, and the need for a healthy work-life balance.
(A post with the video that has gone viral on platform X)
Despite several attempts, Kanal could not get a response from the concerned officer on the issue. The copy shall be updated to include his comments as and when we receive a response.
Despite the uproar, Canara Bank has yet to take disciplinary action against Swain, drawing further criticism from the public. In response to the viral video, the bank issued a circular reiterating its social media policy, emphasising the importance of maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
(Another post criticising the lack of action against the concerned officer and the circular from Canara Bank management.)
The circular also prohibits the use of external platforms, such as Google Meet, for official meetings due to concerns regarding data security and confidentiality. Employees are warned against recording or sharing any bank-related content on social media or other external platforms, with strict consequences outlined for any breaches of this policy.
(An anonymous banker shares his/her experience of harassment)
However, the management's approach has come under fire from social media users, who argue that the focus should be on addressing the underlying issues of harassment and workplace culture rather than silencing discussion. Calls for action against Swain and for greater transparency from the bank have grown louder in light of the incident.
(Another banker criticises Canara Bank’s attempt to silence the discussion.)
As the controversy continues to unfold, Canara Bank finds itself grappling with both internal and external pressure to address the fallout from the viral video. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in the banking sector to maintain professionalism and ensure a respectful work environment, particularly in the era of virtual meetings.
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