What Is Behind PNB Officers’ Protest Against New Transfer Policy?

On 12 March, 2025, the All India Punjab National Bank Officers’ Association (AIPNBOA) staged protests across the country after working hours, opposing Punjab National Bank’s (PNB) newly introduced transfer policy. Officers at various important centres participated in large numbers, voicing their concerns over the impact of the policy on their personal and professional lives.  

(Protest demonstration in Nagpur saw enormous participation of women.) 

Concerns Over the New Transfer Policy  

PNB recently implemented a revised transfer policy for officers up to Scale-III, introducing tenure-based guidelines. Under this policy:  

- Officers can serve a maximum of three years at a single branch, six years in the same circle, and nine years in the same zone.  

- After nine years in a zone, officers will be transferred outside their current state.  

- Transfers are scheduled before June each year to provide adequate relocation time.  

According to PNB, this system aims to eliminate manual interventions, reduce bias, and ensure fair transfers through an automated online process. A grievance redressal mechanism has also been introduced to handle officers' concerns.  

(A picture from a protest demonstration organised in Kolhapur.)

AIPNBOA’s Opposition to the Policy  

Vitthal Mane, President of AIPNBOA Pune, expressed strong opposition to the policy, calling for its withdrawal. Speaking to Kanal, he stated, "The new transfer policy announced by our MD sir will displace many officers from their families. Many officers have avoided promotions due to family responsibilities, children's education, and elderly parents. However, under this policy, those who have completed six years in a circle and nine years in a zone will be compelled to relocate."  

(Vitthal Mane addressing the protest demonstration in Pune.)

Mane further argued that the policy contradicts Department of Financial Services (DFS) guidelines, which state that officers should be posted in linguistic areas. He criticised the mandate for interstate transfers, claiming it violates these directives. "Our bank already holds the number one position in business under the existing transfer policy. There is no need for changes. Instead of enforcing transfers, the bank should create more circles and zones to accommodate home postings as per officers’ requests", Mane added.   

(Protest demonstrations from various centres in Mumbai.)

Impact on Officers’ Lives  

AIPNBOA members argue that frequent relocations will significantly impact family stability, children's education, and caregiving responsibilities for elderly parents. Many officers believe that the policy does not take into account the personal and social challenges associated with forced transfers.  

In response to the policy, AIPNBOA has advised its members to:  

- Close branches by 5 PM sharp and avoid working beyond official hours.  

- Withdraw extra cooperation extended to the bank management.  

- Exit official WhatsApp groups created by PNB for internal communication.  

Protest by Women Officers  

In Ahmedabad, the AIPNBOA unit incorporated a protest into International Women’s Day celebrations on 08 March 2025. Officers, including many women employees, wore black T-shirts as a symbol of dissent.  

(Women PNB officers’ protest on International Women’s day.) 

During the event at Exxaro Inn, Ahmedabad, women officers raised concerns over how the policy would disproportionately affect them. They highlighted challenges such as work-life balance, family responsibilities, and career progression.  

Many women officers emphasised that frequent transfers could discourage employees from continuing in their roles or seeking promotions. They urged the bank management to reconsider the policy to accommodate the specific needs of women officers and other affected employees.  

PNB’s Justification for the Policy  

PNB management maintains that the policy aims to:  

- Prevent stagnation and enhance operational efficiency.  

- Provide fair transfer opportunities through an automated system that minimises human intervention.  

- Ensure officers serve in different regions for better workforce distribution and professional growth.  

- Maintain regional and linguistic considerations where possible, depending on vacancy availability.  

- Minimise mid-year transfers, except in cases of promotions, disciplinary actions, or urgent administrative needs.  

Additionally, officers posted in difficult areas due to harsh conditions or security concerns will be given priority in future transfers.  

(Demonstrations from different centres in Nashik, Maharashtra.)

Upcoming Nationwide Strike  

Despite these assurances, opposition to the policy continues to grow. AIPNBOA has declared a two-day nationwide strike on 28-29 March 2025, demanding the immediate rollback of the transfer policy.  

The association has warned that if their concerns are not addressed, further escalation of protests may follow. The bank is yet to issue a statement in response to the latest demonstrations.