‘Speak Marathi, or be slapped’: Bank of Maharashtra’s officers’ association protests diktat, threats

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, he stated, “We, the public sector bank officers, strongly protest against the recent imposition of Marathi language by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). As part of a pan-India recruitment process, our officers come from diverse linguistic backgrounds and are posted across the country in transferable jobs. It is impractical to expect every officer to learn the local language of every region they are posted in.”

The chairman highlighted the violent tactics being used by certain groups to intimidate bank officers. “We strongly condemn the threats, physical assaults, and destruction of government property, which disrupt banking operations and hinder essential customer service. Such unlawful activities must not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he stated in the letter.

The Bank of Maharashtra’s officers’ association urged the chief minister to take strict action against those involved in threatening and assaulting bank employees, instruct local police authorities, collectors, and deputy collectors to ensure the safety of bank employees and government properties and direct bank management, including MDs, CEOs, EDs and zonal managers to take concrete steps in safeguarding bank employees from such threats.

Tamhane stated, “Bank officers have always served the nation with dedication, even in challenging times like demonetisation, the implementation of Jan Dhan Yojana, Mudra loans, and various government welfare schemes. Notably, during the implementation of the Ladki Bahina scheme, nationalised bank employees went beyond regular working hours and holidays, ensuring its success—an effort that significantly contributed to the present government’s electoral victory. If immediate action is not taken, we will be left with no choice but to escalate our protest, including strikes and other legal measures.”