Controversy Erupts Over Mass Transfers at PNB

Controversy has arisen over the mass transfer of Scale IV and above officers at Punjab National Bank (PNB), the country's second-largest public sector lender. The All India Punjab National Bank Officers' Association has sent an official letter of protest to PNB's Managing Director, Ashok Chandra, requesting a reconsideration of what they deem disruptive and policy-violating decisions.

According to the union, 1,142 Scale IV officers, almost a quarter of this rank's workforce, have been given transfer orders, leading to significant operational upheaval. 'This is not about growth but seems like an act of vengeance,' stated Dilip Saha, the association's general secretary, pointing out that even female and soon-to-retire officers are not exempted from the unexpected relocations.

The union has demanded a more transparent and fair performance evaluation system and longer tenure periods within circles or zones. With about 4,000 Scale IV officers at PNB, the association hopes for a policy revision that considers family and personal circumstances with a view to maintaining morale and operational efficiency.