AIGETOA writes to the CMD BSNL seeking immediate cancellation of the proposed “Senior Executive Trainee (SET) Recruitment” process in the larger interest of BSNL and its internal workforce.
Click here for Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh Order
The issue relating to recruitment under the Direct Recruitment quota is presently under judicial consideration before the Hon’ble Central Administrative Tribunal, Chandigarh Bench in M.A. No. 1893/2026 in O.A. No. 364/2026 filed by Team AIGETOA. Vide its order dated 17.06.2026, the Hon’ble Tribunal has directed BSNL not to issue appointment letters against the 10% Direct Recruitment quota vacancies until the next date of hearing. The Hon’ble Tribunal has further directed BSNL to place on record the status of promotions under the 90% promotion quota before the next hearing.
AIGETOA has cited the example of Airport Authority of India (AAI) and has submitted that proceeding with the SET examination while the matter remains sub-judice may lead to avoidable legal complications, prolonged litigation, seniority disputes, and industrial unrest. The association further stated that BSNL already possesses a large pool of highly qualified and experienced executives across various streams who are capable of shouldering higher responsibilities through a well-defined promotional hierarchy.
In a similar recruitment at Airport Authority of India (AAI), disputes have arisen out of lateral recruitment and seniority issues have remained under litigation since 2018. In this case Hon’ble Court permitted AAI to conduct the exam but stayed the appointment which lead to numerous litigation including Hon’ble High Court Delhi & Supreme Court of India. Even the board decision dated 12.08.2025 pertaining to restructuring is under challenge at Hon’ble High Court Delhi. Ultimately, AAI was compelled to discontinue the lateral executive recruitment at higher levels owing to the complications arising from such disputes.
When the appointment process itself has been restrained by judicial directions and the issue remains under active consideration before the Hon’ble Tribunal, conducting the SET examination at this stage would be imprudent and may expose BSNL to further legal challenges in future. It may also result in avoidable seniority disputes and industrial unrest, adversely affecting organizational harmony. This has been emphasized in our submissions in support of cancellation SET examination process.
The association has urged the Management to focus on timely promotions, career progression, and strengthening the internal managerial hierarchy instead of resorting to lateral recruitment. AIGETOA has reiterated that promoting eligible executives will enhance employee morale, ensure organizational continuity, and contribute positively towards BSNL’s growth and stability.
AIGETOA has requested BSNL Management to take a prudent decision by cancelling the SET Recruitment Process and safeguarding the interests of both the organization and its employees.