'Resist Privatisation, Save PSBs': This Civil Society Group is Organizing Public Awareness Programs in WB During Poll Season

Bank Bachao Desh Bachao Manch (BBDBM) is conducting a series of public awareness programs in West Bengal to resist the privatisation of public sector banks (PSBs). The campaigns have gained momentum during the election period, aiming to educate the public on the importance of safeguarding PSBs.

Unique Approach to Public Engagement

BBDBM has organized around 20 corner meetings across West Bengal, promoting the slogan ‘Resist Privatization, Save PSBs’. These meetings are part of a broader effort that includes door-to-door campaigns, pamphlet distribution, and awareness drives. The organization’s activities have intensified during the election season to maximize their impact on public opinion.

(Public meeting organised by BBDBM Sreerampur at Serampore Railway Station on 17 May 2024.)

The way BBDBM integrates the general public into its mission to safeguard PSBs is distinctive. Founded on 19 July 2023, with the goal of resisting privatisation and protecting public sector banking, the forum unites people from all walks of life. Joint Convenor Soumya Datta explained, “Our platform is not just for bankers or retired bankers. We have students, daily wage workers, bank employees and retirees, teachers, women from self-help groups, IT employees, public servants, social workers, and more. The significance of this platform is that it connects the ordinary citizen to the cause of safeguarding PSBs.”

Challenges and Campaign Focus

Since the announcement of elections, BBDBM has faced challenges in obtaining permissions for public gatherings. “Many of our meetings had to be canceled as the permission was denied,” said Datta. Despite these hurdles, the campaigns continue to emphasize the need to protect PSBs from privatization and unethical practices. “We appeal to the public not to vote for a government that privatises PSBs and other public sector undertakings, which are our national assets,” Datta added.

“We are also exposing two of the major scams that have undermined people’s trust in PSBs in the recent past—the electoral bond scam that affected the State Bank of India’s credibility and the BOB World fiasco that maligned Bank of Baroda,” Datta told Kanal. These examples are used to illustrate the potential dangers of privatisation and profit driven approach and the need for robust public oversight and autonomy.

Broader Activities and Interventions

In addition to awareness drives, BBDBM intervenes in banking scams and unethical practices by appealing to authorities and offering legal assistance to ordinary customers. This dual approach not only raises awareness but also provides practical support to those affected by banking malpractices. “Banking is the backbone of the economy, and if the banks fail, everyone across society would be affected. It is every citizen’s duty to safeguard public sector banking,” Datta emphasised.

(Pamphlet distribution by BBDBM near Serampore railway station)

As the election season progresses, BBDBM's efforts to educate the public and resist the privatisation of public sector banks are crucial. By mobilising a diverse group of citizens and highlighting the risks associated with privatisation, BBDBM aims to ensure that public sector banking remains a national priority.