Advertisement
Chennai UCO Bank Officer - Union Highlights Approved Leave and Workplace Perspective - the ‘Other Side' of Complaint
Leaders of one of UCO Bank’s trade unions have clarified that reports surrounding a Chennai Zonal officer’s leave are exaggerated. They emphasised that the officer had taken approved bereavement leave and that the union neither supported nor ignored the matter, urging accurate verification of facts.
Author: Kalyani Mali
Published: October 6, 2025
Advertisement
While speaking to Kanal, leaders of one of UCO Bank’s trade unions said that reports regarding a Chennai Zonal officer’s leave were being exaggerated. They highlighted that the officer had been granted bereavement leave for 15–20 days when his mother was critically ill. The union added that the officer’s leave and related concerns were raised internally by a union member. They clarified that the National Organisation of Bank Officers (NOBO’s) recent letter addressed general workplace improvements and was not directed at any individual.
Read the first report on this issue here: ‘Everyone’s Mother Dies, Don’t Be Dramatic’: UCO Bank Chennai Zonal Head Faces Complaint Over Alleged Misconduct and Harassment
Union Stresses Accurate Fact-Checking
The trade union stressed that narratives need careful verification. The officer had officially applied for and received bereavement leave, which was duly approved for 15–20 days. After this period, the bank approached him to confirm when he would rejoin on duty.
“The information being circulated does not reflect the complete truth. Verification is needed before spreading such claims,” a union leader said to Kanal on condition of anonymity.
They further pointed out that the incident being referred to was a phone call between the officer and the Zonal Head, which lasted only 29 seconds, raising doubts over how the detailed remarks mentioned in the complaint could have been made within that short duration.
‘We Distance Ourselves From These Reports’
Leaders of one of the trade unions of UCO Bank shared with Kanal, message of the union to which that officer whose mother passed away belongs to
Advertisement
The union stated that it is quite unfortunate that a large attempt was made to belittle the DGM by some unknown staff. The message emphasised that all grievances were addressed directly to the officer through official letters and that no social media channels were used. It clarified that the matter was purely an in-family concern.
The union also noted that “There are many exaggerated versions circulating in mainstream and social media, for which we are not responsible, and therefore we distance ourselves from these reports, highlighting how quickly negative news spreads. The message further stated that even in previous times, there was no illegal dispute, and the union does not condone such third-grade methods.” While acknowledging disagreements with the officer, the union stressed that it has never encouraged or instigated any false allegations to go viral.
The union reaffirmed its support for the senior officer, noting his long tenure and contributions to the bank. It also condemned emails sent to the MD&CEO and expressed its intent to set the record straight.
NOBO Letter Highlights Broader Workplace Issues
The NOBO wrote to the DGM & Zonal Head, UCO Bank Chennai Zone, urging management to improve work-life balance and workplace conditions.
Key points from the letter:
- Rationalising leave approvals
- Realistic workload management
- Scheduled breaks and time-off policies
- Employee wellness initiatives
- Respectful communication
Based on feedback from employees across the Chennai Zone, NOBO highlighted the need for systemic improvements nationwide. The letter emphasised that leave approvals should be lenient and rational, with officers on sanctioned leave treated as off-duty. Communication from Zonal office officials should respect employee dignity, and measures should be taken to address attrition caused by unfavorable work conditions. The union also stated that they expect management to implement changes addressing employees’ genuine concerns, and that they hope these will be taken in a healthy and constructive way. Through collaborative efforts, NOBO aims to create a more supportive and inclusive work environment and will continue constructive dialogue in upcoming grievance redressal meetings at both state and head office levels, seeking proactive support and open communication.
The clarifications from the trade union and NOBO provide a broader perspective on the recent controversy involving the Chennai Zonal officer. While acknowledging the officer’s approved bereavement leave, the union emphasised the importance of fact-based verification and distancing themselves from exaggerated claims. They also highlighted systemic workplace concerns, including fair leave policies, respectful communication, and overall work-life balance.
No comments yet.