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Kerala Gramin Bank Staff Stage Dharna at Headquarters Over Working Conditions and PF Issues
Employees and officers of Kerala Gramin Bank gathered in protest outside their head office on 07 November 2024, calling for better working conditions and resolution of PF issues.
Author: Abhivad
Published: November 9, 2024
In a significant show of discontent, employees and officers of Kerala Gramin Bank held a dharna outside their head office in Malappuram on 07 November 2024, Thursday. The protest, led by All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association(AIRRBEA), highlighted the increasing work pressure and called for immediate action to improve the working environment and resolve ongoing issues with Provident Fund (PF).
Under the banner of the All India Regional Rural Bank Employees Association (AIRRBEA), members of the Kerala Gramin Bank Employees Union (KGBEU), Kerala Gramin Bank Officers Union (KGBOU), and Kerala Gramin Bank Retirees Forum (KGBRF) participated in the protest. The demonstration saw widespread participation, reflecting the growing concern among employees about escalating work demands and diminishing job satisfaction. AIRRBEA is the majority union in Kerala Gramin Bank comprising more than 70% of the total workforce.
(Participants of the dharna raising slogans.)
Key Demands
The protestors presented two primary demands. Firstly, they called for safe and respectful working conditions, urging management to address the high-stress work environment that has reportedly become a major issue within the bank. Secondly, they demanded an immediate resolution to issues related to the Provident Fund (PF), which have caused uncertainty and concern among employees.
(C Rajeevan, AIRRBEA all India President addressed the gathering.)
“Respectful Work Environment Mandatory for Progress”
Speaking to Kanal, Kerala Gramin Bank Officers’ Union General Secretary, Rajesh P, commented on the current workplace environment, stating, “The working environment in the bank has become similar to a pressure cooker in recent times. The performance of the bank was up to the mark in the financial year 2023-24 with a net profit of Rs. 500 Crore and net NPA ratio of 0%. This excellent performance was the result of the dedication and commitment of the workforce. But the recent approach of the management is to move away from core banking activities and to put pressure on the workforce for achieving insurance targets.” He also emphasised the importance of employee well-being for the overall progress of the bank, asserting that the institution could not thrive without a supportive and respectful work environment. His words resonated with many attendees who expressed similar sentiments about the impact of the bank’s work environment on their productivity and morale.
(Shaju Antony, BEFI State President, addressing the gathering.)
The participating unions made it clear that they expect prompt action from Kerala Gramin Bank’s management. Employees hope for constructive steps towards resolving the issues raised, particularly around PF and work pressure, as they look to see improvements in their working conditions. Whether the bank’s administration will address these demands in a timely manner remains to be seen.
(Kerala Gramin Bank staff in protest at headquarters, Malappuram)
