Tragic Suicide of Union Bank Branch Manager Raises Questions on Mental Health of Bankers

In a devastating turn of events, a Branch Manager at Union Bank in Arakkonam branch, Tamil Nadu, tragically took his own life on the morning of May 10. This heartbreaking incident occurred shortly after he had dropped off his wife, who also works as a banker at Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), at a bus station.

The news of his suicide has sent shockwaves throughout the banking community and has prompted an outpouring of grief and concern on social media platforms. A purported WhatsApp message circulating on platform X (formerly Twitter) identifies the deceased banker as hailing from Kerala and stationed in Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu.

The response from fellow bankers to this tragic event highlights the pressing need for a more compassionate and supportive approach within the banking sector. Bankers have demanded the implementation of a counselling system within banks. This measure aims to prevent such tragic outcomes in the future.

Image: Tweets of Bankers against the Suicide News of Union Bank Manager

Depression Despite Support

Despite receiving support, the WhatsApp message allegedly disclosed that the branch manager was grappling with severe depression, exacerbated by discomfort in his role as branch manager and the overwhelming pressure of meeting unrealistic targets.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, an official from Union Bank and a close friend of the deceased revealed to Kanal, “The deceased had been diagnosed with depression and had confided in his superiors about the work-related stress he was experiencing. Consequently, he was offered a solution to be relieved from his position as branch manager. His struggle with depression had been known to higher authorities for the past six months, during which he received treatment for depression at Christian Medical College, Vellore, along with appropriate medication. Additionally, senior officials extended support to him in handling loan processing.”

The official further remarked, “While it’s challenging to attribute the suicide solely to work pressure, it’s undeniable that the pressure of meeting targets in the bank is a harsh reality.” 

Bankers Mental Health Unchecked and Unspoken

In recent times, employees within the banking sector have increasingly voiced concerns regarding the mounting work pressures to meet targets across various fronts. This includes the pressure to sell third-party products like life insurance, ongoing reviews of loan performance leading to extended working hours, and weekend shifts.

Amidst this culture of high-pressure work, the mental health of bankers remains largely unmonitored and unaddressed.

A senior official from a Public Sector Bank commented, “While the bank management holds the primary authority in implementing schemes for the benefit of people, the approach often entails relentless, target-driven operations that foster a culture of abusive behaviour trickling down from senior officials to the employees and staff.”

“Though many bankers manage to cope with the pressure they face, individuals who are more sensitive often find themselves slipping into depression, and tragically, some may even succumb to the overwhelming pressure,” the official added.

Suicide Trend Among Bankers

In a concerning trend, there have been three instances of bankers taking their own lives within a span of seven months since November 2023.

The first incident involved a Deputy General Manager at the State Bank of India, Odisha, whose reasons for suicide were not disclosed. This was followed by the suicide of a Chief Manager at Union Bank in Gujarat in February 2024, who attributed the pressure of meeting targets as a contributing factor. The most recent tragedy involves the branch manager at Union Bank in Tamil Nadu.

These recurring incidents, happening within short intervals, highlight a distressing pattern of declining mental health among bankers. But few bankers feel despite the challenges, there are avenues for support and resolution. Suicide should never be considered an option. Bankers can utilise channels to voice their concerns and grievances. Moreover, reaching out to colleagues for support and collectively finding solutions can help alleviate the pressure.