The meeting with CMD BSNL was held on 02.08.2022. It was the first meeting after deferment of our call and one step forward towards resolution of outstanding issues. We discussed all eight issues in detail and shared our requirements, concerns and prevailing resentment in field, which resulted in such a high scale flare up in ground. CMD BSNL gave a patient hearing and apprised his side of view and told that he is not at all averse to the genuine issues of executives raised by the association but he needs some time to address in a phased manner.
On financial matters including Pay Scale, Pay Loss issues of 22820/- & E1+5 and enhancement of SAB Quantum, he said that with extention of second revival package, the revenue of BSNL is envisaged to grow up. His opinion was that once the recently approved revival package is rolled out practically on ground, the financials of organisation is bound to improve and results shall be visible within next six months. He said, at the end of financial year, he will review the whole situation and stated that with increased revenue, the increase in SAB quantum and Pay Loss issues shall be definitely considered with a positive thought process. This is first time, there is categorical, clear and unambiguous statement from Apex of this organisation that with increased revenue, the issue of pay loss and increase in SAB Quantum benefits shall also be considered. It is also understood, that at the end of Financial Year, Revenue is bound to increase.
However, we will keep pursuing to achieve the settlement much before the end of Financial Year. The pending contribution for SAB shall be made up-to-date with receipt of first trench of money as part of revival package, expectedly within next 3-4 months.
On Promotion issue, he echoed that he is willing to issue promotion in all grades starting with AGM grades, which still requires a little bit more time as HR Team is working with DoPT in close coordination. He said that first trench of promotions shall be issued by second week of August 2022.
We also insisted to issue promotion by utilizing complete strength of AGM/DGM to maximize the promotions at first go. But despite our repeated persistence, he agreed to issue the promotions utilizing complete strength in two parts only. We reminded BBNL merger approval which will require people in these positions to carry out enormous works is also expected in coming time. He persisted with his position but agreed to discuss it further. Association shall continue its persuasion in this regard. On CAO and other streams promotion, it was apprised that after AGM promotion in Telecom Grades, other equivalent grades promotion will be expedited including clearing of legal issues at Chandigarh. The issue of relaxation in cut off date for determining eligibility for CAO and DGM grade promotions shall also be given consideration after clearance of legal hurdle, was the view of management.
CMD BSNL was keen on fast track promotion and we extended our support on Internal Fast track but we also stated unambiguously that any type of parachute landing will not be accepted by the association. AIGETOA has always supported the idea that talented and meritorious executives must to reach highest positions by virtue of fast track promotion in every grade and fulfillment of minimum career aspirations of other executives who can not reach to top. However any lateral fresh entry and any Promotion mechanism containing provision of jumping of cadres shall be opposed tooth and nail by association. Hence management succession plan should be based on idea of Fast Track Internal promotion policy at all grades including that for reaching to the post of GMs. CMD BSNL asked for fresh formal inputs from association on this.
It was apprised to us that on 29th July 2022, HR Team has been directed to immediately start working on finalizing the revised MS RR draft. He further told that after initial meeting of committee, AIGETOA shall be called for discussion and formal inputs. He appreciated our concern and assured that fast track and stagnation criteria shall be taken care of during finalization of revised MS RRs. The notification of revised SDE RRs shall also take place once the input is received from DoT. Management is pursuing with DoT for early receipt of concurrence. The SDE 2007 reversal issue is also being considered actively by management.
CMD BSNL reiterated that he acknowledges the concern raised by the association about the condition of families and dependents after the unfortunate demise of the earning employee. He apprised that BSNL is ready to extend support to the family of deceased employees and immediately directed his officials to work out a mechanism and assured that either GTI shall be funded by BSNL or a new Death Relief Fund shall be put in place for the family and dependents of deceased employees.
Friends, this meeting was first after the deferment of our call. It was also agreed that regular follow up meetings will be held with HR Team to see the progress of issues and a detailed meeting under the chairmanship of CMD BSNL will be held after 15th August, considering his pre-occupancy in HoCC and immediate revival measures. We are hopeful that management will definitely siege the opportunity of dialogue to settle outstanding issues, so that employees can concentrate on their work.
Let’s Hope For A Better Time Ahead….
Together We Will Achieve Everything