Utkal Grameen Bank Women Employees Accuse Senior Official of Harassment

In a shocking revelation, two female employees of Utkal Grameen Bank have come forward with serious allegations of physical and mental harassment by the bank's General Manager II, Mr. Rashmi Ranjan Sai. The employees, who have chosen to remain anonymous to protect themselves from potential retaliation, have detailed a harrowing account of abuse, intimidation, and unethical behaviour that has left them with no other option but to raise their voices against the tyranny.

Image: Letter of Complaint by Two Women Employees of Utkal Grameen Bank Alleging Harassment.

Accusations of Intimidation

The letter written by anonymous women employees, addressed to the Chairman of Utkal Grameen Bank, highlights several instances of alleged misconduct by Mr. Sai. According to the victims, Mr. Sai has created a hostile work environment where fear and intimidation are rampant. Some of the key accusations include:

1. Threats and Intimidation: The GM allegedly threatened dire consequences, including arbitrary transfers, suspensions, and frivolous charge sheets during P-Review meetings. The employees claim that even the bank’s chairman is unable to counteract Mr. Sai’s decisions due to his undue influence.
2. Improper Conduct: The GM is accused of making inappropriate advances and staring at female employees with ill intentions. It is also alleged that during branch visits, he has touched female employees inappropriately.
3. Misuse of Power: Mr. Sai has been accused of using his position to transfer a newly posted GM I officer, questioning his status in front of others to assert his dominance.
4. Objectification of Women: The letter mentions that Mr. Sai has been seen with numerous photographs and videos holding the hands of female employees in a manner that is deemed inappropriate. Reports suggest he is involved in a similar abusive dynamic with a concurrent auditor.

The victims describe an environment of constant fear, where speaking out against the GM could result in severe repercussions, including job termination or forced transfers. They also allege that previous attempts to address the issue were thwarted due to Mr. Sai's influence over the bank’s administration.

Calls for Immediate Action

The employees are calling for an urgent investigation into the matter, urging the Chairman to take the allegations seriously and to act swiftly to prevent further abuse. They emphasise that the bank’s management needs to dismantle the “cartel” surrounding Mr. Sai and restore a safe and respectful workplace environment.

"We have the utmost hope in you, and we are hopeful that you will take the matter into your own hand and investigate the matter thoroughly," the letter reads. The victims also warn that the continued inaction could lead to severe consequences, hinting at the possibility of employees taking drastic measures if their pleas for help go unheard.

As this scandal unfolds, it underscores the pressing need for robust mechanisms to address workplace harassment and to protect those who come forward with their stories. The Utkal Grameen Bank's management faces a critical test in handling these serious allegations and ensuring justice for the victims.