Update on Meeting of Associations AIBSNLEA, SNEA, AIGETOA and SEWA with CMD BSNL
 

Dear Collagues,
A delegation comprising the President of AIBSNLEA and the General Secretaries of SNEA, AIGETOA, SEWA along with other leaders, met the CMD BSNL on 26.02.2026.
The meeting was held in the Board room wherein Director (HR) and PGM (Pers) were also present.
The leaders demanded in voice to withdraw an unofficial ban on all HR activities and stop shifting every HR issue to April 2026.
We conveyed mass unrest among the executives due to not considering any of the HR issues including Request transfers from Tenure Completed executives and non issuing Promotions even after clearance of court cases.
CMD BSNL informed that there is no ban and the issues are being sorted out but will be decided in April by keeping in mind the targets of the year.
We narrated that not clearing any of the HR issues has already caused negative impact and demotivation among the executives and it is adversely affecting the targets.
CMD categorically informed that the issues are being looked into and nothing is stopped and added that an issue like PRC needs some more time.
The Point wise discussions are as follows.

1. Undue delay in AO to CAO Promotions:

 Leaders raised serious concern over undue delay on issuing CAO promotions even after clearance from the High Court and Directions from Supreme Court and this is reason for mass unrest.
The CMD informed that management intends to take a legally vetted step, as there have been many representations and notices. He pointed out that such a step would make the order foolproof against any legal challenges. His aim is to see that once a promotion order is issued the same cannot be challenged in any court.
Accordingly, BSNL has sought an opinion from the ASG, which is expected by next week. He also stated that he, along with PGM (Legal), is personally following up to expedite the matter. Once the opinion is received, BSNL will issue orders for the much-awaited promotions. Associations insisted on the timeline and it was informed that the issue will be reviewed on receipt of legal opinion and on positive recommendations for going ahead with promotions, the orders will be issued immediately.

2. Deferment of SET Recruitment:

The association side expressed its unhappiness over the continuation of the registration process despite the categorical assurance by management to defer it. The management informed that necessary action is being taken to further extend the date of the examination. However, it was also stated that there is huge pressure from the DoT/GoI to recruit fresh candidates in BSNL, and hence immediate deferment may not be possible from BSNL side. Instead, they proposed postponing it to seek time to convince DoT regarding the apprehensions raised by the associations.

CMD BSNL shared that SET Recruitment is no way affecting the serving executives and then we have categorically explained how it is affecting career progression of existing executives and how it is wrongly projected as a succession plan for ITS on deputation.
We said that any lateral entry of any fresher at a higher level than JTO/JAO in unacceptable and we cant allow that.
CMD BSNL directed PGM Pers to look into the concern expressed by the associations and directed PGM Pers to update him accordingly.
CMD BSNL informed that let the registration process go ahead and issues can be discussed and decided and after review it may continue or may be scrapped also.
We categorically stated that this is in complete contravention of the assurance made by management in the first week, and if the process continues, the associations will be compelled to launch organizational action programs to stop it. It was also highlighted that all associations are united on this issue and a joint program will be launched.

3. Promotions in All Cadres for Eligible Executives:

Management informed that promotions are being delayed due to conflicting approaches among stakeholders.
We stated that all associations have jointly submitted a proposal for promotions wherein all eligible executives can be promoted. The proposal was found to be legally feasible, and an administrative decision is required.

The CMD replied that he is agreeable to any proposal that does not result in an increase in posts, though he expressed some apprehension. When it was clarified that there would be no change in the sanctioned strength, he agreed to discuss it further subject to no change in number of posts and directed Director (HR) and PGM (Pers) to deliberate and submit a summary.

4. JTO to SDE Promotions for Civil wing:

We narrated that the reluctance of Management on Promotions is clearly visible as the Proposal for JTO to SDE Civil promotions has been awaiting final call in Pers section for last one month and even after repeated assurances given to us, no promotion order is issued.

CMD expressed displeasure and unawareness about it and asked PGM Pers to check issues if any and see that promotion orders are issued. PGM Pers assured for the same.

Thereafter CMD BSNL narrated proposal to review present deputation policy so that good number of BSNL Executives get opportunity for deputation for period of three years in different organisations. he added that he will be pleased to see that BSNL Executives are deputed to selected orgnisations with higher pay/ perks and at one step above their present grade in BSNL and stressed for a transperant Deputation policy giving equal opportunity to all.
CMD BSNL expressed displeasure on practice adopted by some of Executives in managing deputation and then creating pressure on management to accept it despite not being eligible. He further said that in one of the cases,a written explaination was given from BSNL.

The issue of BSNL in social media and its positive and negative impacts were discussed in depth and in conclusion CMD BSNL appealed leaders to make efforts for uplifted brand image of BSNL in social media.
Subsequent to the meeting, leaders of all associations discussed together on the outcome of today's meeting and adherence to assurance by CMD BSNL and the way forward for resolution of HR issues and keeping assurances by the Management.

It was decided to wait until next week and If management does not come forward with fulfillment of the assurances made, a joint action program will be launched by all the participating associations

In continuation of the recent developments following the judgment of the High Court of Punjab & Haryana, Chandigarh in CWP-12930-2024 (O&M), AIBSNLEA CHQ has been actively pursuing the matter of AO to CAO promotion in the Finance Wing with the Corporate Office.

<< Click here for the judgement copy>>

Team AIBSNLEA met senior officers at BSNL Corporate Office and emphasized that the AO to CAO promotions are long pending and need to be expedited without further delay. During the meeting, the administration informed that:

·         The promotion process is under active progress.

·         Necessary formalities are being completed very shortly.

·         The matter is receiving due attention from the competent authority also.

AIBSNLEA has also suggested that postings may be considered on an “as is where is basis”, and if required, options can be invited after joining to the promoted post to avoid further delay in issuing the promotion orders and to avoid any litigation The management has assured that our suggestions will be looked positively.

We are hopeful that the much-awaited AO to CAO promotion orders in the Finance Wing will be issued very shortly.

All concerned executives are requested to maintain patience and refrain from believing or spreading rumours.

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The AIBSNLEA team, led by the General Secretary and All India President  met CMD BSNL along with Director (HR), PGM (Pers)/(SR), and Jt. GM (Pers) and discussed the following important issues:

1. Submission of Suggestions as Discussed in the Meeting Dated 31.12.2025:-

Referring to the earlier meeting with CMD BSNL, the GS recalled the discussions held on service improvement, field staff grievances, and revenue growth. In continuation, AIBSNLEA submitted detailed suggestions for the growth of BSNL’s business, particularly in the Enterprise Business and BharatNet segments.

We emphasized that strengthening these areas will enhance BSNL’s customer base, especially in Rural Bharat, which has historically been a major contributor to revenue. It was also highlighted that Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “DIGITAL INDIA” and making citizens technology-friendly can be realized only through robust and 24x7 network availability in rural areas.

CMD BSNL listened patiently and appreciated the initiative taken by the Association. He stated that the suggestions would be examined positively and necessary steps would be taken for the betterment of BSNL services.       << Click here for letter >> 

2. Senior Executive Trainee (SET) Issue

AIBSNLEA had submitted a representation two days earlier expressing strong resentment over the proposed SET-2026 recruitment on E3 pay scale. It was pointed out that:

• This may create unrest among existing executives who joined BSNL 8–10 years ago and possess rich field experience.
• Career progression of existing executives may be adversely affected.
• Internal candidates should be allowed to compete with age relaxation like MT (Internal), as SET qualification is the same as that of existing executives.
• AIBSNLEA strongly opposes any lateral direct recruitment in any cadre except JTO/JAO.

After detailed discussion, CMD BSNL agreed to defer the present SET recruitment process. Director (HR) instructed the Recruitment Section, BSNL CO to take necessary action accordingly.    << Click here for letter >>

It is pertinent to mention that AIBSNLEA CHQ has already been pursuing this matter with DoT at various levels and submitted our views to higher authorities. 

3. AO to CAO Promotion Issue

GS & AIP pursued the AO to CAO promotion with legal section, Pers section and discussed this matter with PGM (Pers), PGM (EF), Director (HR) & now CMD Sir. We mentioned that there is huge resentment among accounts personnel because the promotional avenues have stagnated for the past eight to nine years in CAO cadre. In this regard we have submitted our views, when number of vacancies are more than the eligible executives, in this scenario all eligible executives may be promoted in one go and seniority among them can be decided subsequently.

Director (HR) mentioned that we are finding the way in consultation with PGM (Legal) CO BSNL. Finality will come with the preparation of the seniority list of AO cadre and the same will be submitted before the Hon. Court for granting necessary permission for promotions to CAO so that any further possible legal hurdle can be avoided. Accordingly the case will be processed further asap.

4. Promotion Avenues Across All Streams

AIBSNLEA CHQ emphasized the need for timely promotions in all streams. It was pointed out that:

• Promotion processes in Civil & Electrical wings were initiated long back but are yet to conclude despite no legal hurdles.
• Immediate promotions in these streams will fill vacant posts and boost the morale of senior executives.
• Similar stagnation exists in PA/PS/PPS and CSS cadres.

It was informed that promotions in Civil & Electrical streams are in advanced stage and will be issued soon after approval of the competent authority.

5. Posting of BA Heads in Assam Circle

During the Assam Circle Conference held on 31.01.2026, CGM Assam informed about vacancies of BA Heads in Silchar and Dibrugarh BAs. CHQ raised this matter with CMD BSNL and requested immediate filling of these posts as we are in the 4th quarter of FY 2025-26, and BAs cannot function effectively without Heads.

CMD BSNL assured that suitable officers are being identified and directed PGM (Pers) to take immediate action.

6. Implementation of Second Saturday Holiday in CHTD

It was brought to the notice of management that despite Corporate Office clarification dated 10.02.2025, Chennai TD Circle is not observing Second Saturday as holiday, unlike all other circles.

Director (HR) assured to examine the matter and instructed the concerned section for necessary action.

7. Transfer Cases – Hard Tenure & Medical Grounds

GS mentioned to consider the transfer cases for those executives who have completed their hard tenure period as well as all the genuine medical cases already received the desired report in CO BSNL from respective circles. The executives who are suffering from critical disease are facing physical and mental agony since they are far away from their home during this crucial period.

CMD BSNL expressed his views that transfer cases will be issued in the month of March-April 2026 since the management do not want any disturbance during the last quarter of FY2025-26.

AIBSNLEA remains committed to safeguarding the interests of executives and strengthening BSNL for better service delivery and growth.

The 9th circle conference of Assam AIBSNLEA has been conducted at Multi Purpose Hall, IQ compound, Pan Bazar, Guwahati in a grand manner. The GS and Chq President have attended the Conference and addressed the August House of 9th circle conference of AIBSNLEA Assam circle.

Shri Adarsh Maheshwari, Circle President hosting the Association's flag and shouting slogans - AIBSNLEA Zindabad, BSNL Zindabad. The conference has commenced by lighting the lamps by all the guests and GS, President, CS, CP etc.

The DS of the host District has delivered the welcome address, in which he emphasized the association's importance in the present scenario. The circle President Shri Adarsh Maheshwari has delivered the Introduction speech and address the huge gathering by mentioning the circle activities.

Shri Subhrendhu Bhattacharjee, Circle Secretary presented the key note address where he touched upon the issues of concern to BSNL and to its Executives.

CHQ President Shri Rajpal Sharma explained in detail about the developments in BSNL .He stressed the need to increase the membership of the Association. He also asked the members to completely devote for the cause of BSNL .

GS Shri Abhishek Jain explained in detail about various HR issues like pay, promotion, pension and transfer policy. He mentioned the CHQ efforts being done for 3rd PRC & how it will be implemented. He explained the promotions developments in all streams and BSNL recuitee's pension issue.

The open session was preceded by very good cultural activities. The hall was Jam Packed.

The House unanimously elected the new Circle office bearers headed by

                                                    Circle President: Shri Bhupen Malakar, AO

                                                     Circle Secretary: Shri Ranajoy Bhattacharya, AO  

                                                     Circle Finance Secretary: Shri Kishor Choudhary ,AO

The Open Session was attended by the circle leaders of various unions and Associations ,Shri Barun Baruah  CS SNEA. Shri Satyajyoti Nath  CS AIGETOA ,  Shri Bijoy Deka CS BSNLEU and AUAB Covenor ,Shri Jogesh Das , CS NFTE etc .

The circle conference concluded with the vote of thanks and the National Anthem.

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