Team AIGETOA consisting of GS Shri Ravi Shil Verma, All India Convener Shri A A Khan, Dy GS Shri Pavan Akhand, AGS Shri Vivek Kumar Singh, FS Shri Badri Kumar Mehta and AGS Shri Sunil Gautam met Director HR Dr. N Kalyan Sagar Ji and thereafter CMD BSNL Shri P K Purwar Ji on dated 19th Jan 2024. The team had an extensive discussion on the issue of Pending Promotions across various grades, Remedial actions pertaining to co-existence of the ALTTC and DoT, Protection of UG Cables from theft lying in duct in exchanges. We apprised CMD BSNL about our discussions with respect to issues of Pay, Promotions and Pension with Hon’ble MoC during the series of meetings done in one month by CHQ team and other representatives across India.

1] Promotions across various Cadres:

We apprised CMD BSNL of our recent discussions with Hon’ble MoC on the issue and the assurance of Hon’ble MoC to ensure the promotions across various grades and streams. The pending promotions across various cadres were discussed in detail with association suggesting various measures on how to ensure the promotions of all eligible executives.

We requested CMD BSNL to initiate the process of promotions from AGM to DGM grade across Telecom and other streams. Discussions on our submissions given earlier took place and CMD BSNL informed that he has already directed his team to ensure promotions wherever there is no stay from court of law. We emphasized that there is a way out and efforts can be undertaken to ensure the promotions from AGM to DGM in Telecom stream also. We once again explained and presented our suggestions on how the promotions can be achieved in Telecom Stream also. CMD BSNL was convinced by our submissions and told that he has no issues if any legal complexity doesn’t arise and there is no contempt before any court. CMD BSNL assured us that he will discuss with his team and if found feasible, he will direct the concerned section to initiate the promotions across AGM to DGM in Telecom Stream also.

We also informed that despite discussions many a time, the seniority list of AGMs promoted in 2018 has still not been issued and requested for his intervention in issuance of their regular seniority list. CMD BSNL assured that he will discuss the issue with concerned section.

We once again placed our request for deputing a Senior Supreme Court Lawyer at Chandigarh CAT for speedy disposal of the pending cases in DGM (Ad-hoc to Regular) case which was reciprocated in a positive manner by Hon’ble CMD.

We requested CMD BSNL for exploring the ways as suggested by AIGETOA earlier so that all the eligible executives can be covered for the promotion from SDE to AGM Telecom grade through SCF route, so that further delay in promotions can be avoided and justice can be extended to the candidates waiting for their long-awaited promotions since long. We also suggested the way out on how the promotions from AGM to DGM can take place and the consequential vacancies arising out of these promotions can be utilized for covering the promotions in SDE to AGM cadre. We also requested Hon’ble CMD BSNL for ensuring that DPC in SDE to AGM Cadre is done without any further delay.

CMD BSNL was very positive on the contentions raised by us in this regard and appreciated the fact that there is need to resolve the issue. He said that as per the earlier discussions with AIGETOA and his assurances, He got the mechanism of Promotions through Personal Upgradation in a fixed time bound manner approved from Board but the same was negated by DoT because of the objections raised by some corners. We requested for trying the same once again on which CMD BSNL though non-committal but was not negative. (AIGETOA doesn’t want to take any names but leave it open for the executives to decide who were those corners who derailed this mechanism and what action they have taken till date to ensure promotions through regular mode after derailing that mechanism).

We also requested to increase the sanctioned posts in promotional cadres across various streams which can very easily be accommodated within the existing total sanctioned strength of the organization. We also requested CMD BSNL for directing the section for placing a fresh prayer before Hon’ble Chandigarh CAT for pronouncing the judgment in AO to CAO case.

CMD BSNL has given his positive assurance on consideration of the consequential vacancies for promotions in the lower grade simultaneously, which will open the channel for promotions in all grades including AGM to DGM, SDE to AGM, JTO to SDE and similarly AO to CAO, JAO to AO. AIGETOA CHQ will continue its pursuance to ensure that all the pending promotions happen at the earliest and slowly and steadily, we are moving towards the goal.

Discussion on the promotional issues of CSS cadre, PA, PS and PPS cadre also took place and we requested for expediting the pending promotions also. We also highlighted that there is some issue in Roster preparation and calculation of posts also on which, no response has been received from the nodal section. We also requested CMD BSNL to consider the promotions from AGM to DGM in CSS cadre also which is pending since long despite availability of the vacancies. CMD BSNL assured for a positive action on the same. We also impressed upon the need for increasing posts in these streams also as there will be a huge stagnation in the respective cadres as per the existing strength.

2] Protection of UG Cables from theft and its disposal on “as is where is basis”:

We highlighted that there has been a continuous reporting of theft cases of UG Cables from the duct of exchanges. We expressed that the cables are very costly and suggested their disposal on as is where is basis at local level at least for those primary ug cables which are lying in the duct connected to exchanges. We said that at least these cables must be asked to be extracted immediately and may be auctioned immediately after extraction as per the prevailing rules. Just because, it is difficult to extract the cables lying outside the exchange should not be a reason to delay the cables within the ducts connected to exchange premises.

CMD BSNL appreciated our concern and assured for issuance of necessary instructions to field units.

3] Issue related to co-existence of ALTTC with DoT, Shifting to Jaipur:

We informed our discussions on this issue with Hon’ble MoC and his assurance with respect to the co-existence of ALTTC with DoT. CMD BSNL told that Hon’ble MoC has discussed the same with him also and has expressed his desire to finding out a solution where the existence of both the institutions can be ensured. CMD BSNL informed that accordingly a meeting of Member (Services), Director General and Director HR BSNL is scheduled to be held tentatively on 24th Jan 2024 in this regard to discuss the way forward and to explore if an amicable solution protecting the interests of both the organizations can be found out. We gave our suggestions so that shifting ALTTC to any other city can be avoided and by exploring ways with mutual understanding between BSNL and DOT for Co-existence.

4] Discussion on SDE Reversal issue:

We highlighted the status of the court case before hon’ble CMD and apprised him of AIGETOA Team’s discussions with the committee members and the assurances made by management on the issue. We requested that now that applicants have won in court, BSNL should now issue the promotion orders as per earlier assurances made to this association instead of trying to make the issue more complex under the influence of some other groups and disgruntled elements within the system who doesn’t want this issue to be resolved.

5] Targeting the Whistle blowers by local management, request for intervention by CMD BSNL :

We also highlighted the recent incidences wherein the whistle blowers are being targeted by the local management and requested for his intervention in directing circles to ensure that such whistle blowers are not targeted just because they dared to raise the issue of wrong doings. We also requested CMD BSNL to ensure parity in actions while dealing with cases of corruption and financial misappropriation. We highlighted the instances of recently highlighted cases where management has failed to take any action while the cases of much lesser gravity has been dealt very harshly. CMD BSNL assured us that he is determined to ensure zero tolerance with regard to corruption and action shall be ensured in all such cases which has come to his notice. CMD BSNL also assured that whistle blowers shall be given due protection.

6] Discussion on clearing Rule 8 cases:

We also raised the issue with respect to non-clearance of Rule 8 by many circles. We highlighted another issue faced wherein if any rule 8 applicant changes the option for circle, his application is being counted at the bottom while ideally his waiting list should remain the same. We requested for ensuring a mechanism wherein JTOs can get transferred to their circles. Especially the problem in hard tenure circles and bigger circles like MH is quite grave where there is huge waiting list and accommodation is not being extended to the cleared cases also. We requested for issuance of suitable directions to the concerned circles.

The meeting lasted for almost an hour and various aspects were discussed in detail and we extended our thanks to Hon’ble CMD BSNL for sparing his valuable time and appreciating the concern of the employees associated with the issues.

Earlier the team met Dr. N Kalyan Sagar, Director (HR) and discussed all the above issues and the proposed way forward. We also apprised him of our discussion with Hon’ble MoC. Discussion on Long Stay Transfers, clarification in immunity guidelines also took place with the team.

The issues of Pay and Pension shall be taken up in the next meeting. We have informed management about our discussions with Hon’ble MoC on these issues and we expect a firm positive outcome on the residual issues of 2nd PRC very soon.

Friends,

Team AIGETOA believes in consistent persuasion and rigorous follow ups. We don’t believe in creating propaganda as we know that issue will be resolved with persuasion, suitable presentation and pointed discussion and not through flattery, personality cult or event management. Accordingly, we have involved ourselves for point-to-point discussions at various levels including that of BSNL Management, DoT, Hon’ble MoSC and Hon’ble MoC. We discuss the issue on merit and we don’t hesitate in raising the issues even if it is unpleasant to management. The results of these efforts will be visible to all very soon. While post MV, others have gone into hibernation and have stopped even updating about the issues, Team AIGETOA remains at forefront in pursuance of issues and is working with same sincerity and seriousness.

We leave it on to the executives to decide by themselves. We request your firm and unparalleled support from for the resolution of the issues.

A delegation from the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), representing BSNL employees, met with Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Ji, the Honorable Minister of Communications (MoC), on the evening of January 15, 2024. The meeting, which lasted for approximately one hour was led by Shri Ram Nath Ganeshe Ji, All India Secretary and Prabhari Telecom of the BMS.

Key Representatives in the delegation included:

From AIGETOA: All India President Shri Veerabhadhra Rao, General Secretary Shri Ravi Shil Verma, Deputy General Secretary Shri Pavan Akhand and Assistant General Secretary Shri Vivek Kumar Singh.

From BTEU: President Shri V V S Satyanarayana and General Secretary Shri R C Pandey.

Click here for Glimpses of Meeting

The following issues were discussed in detailed:

Implementation of Standard Pay Scales of E2 and E3 for the initial two levels of executive grade to BSNL Recruited Executives:

Hon’ble MoC was very receptive to the issue and told that he is aware of the issue and will definitely resolve the same. We informed that this is a very old issue pending since 01.01.2007 for implementation and doesn’t holds any relationship with the current financial status of BSNL. We also informed that BSNL may be the only PSU which is having three initial basics as on date and all the executives’ recruited/promoted post 01.01.2007 are facing huge pay losses due to such disparities. While all PSUs resolved this issue by upgrading the scales, BSNL instead lowered the scale.

Hon’ble MoC listened the issue with patience and assured that he will direct DoT and BSNL to discuss the issue of Pay Scale, Pay loss and Pay Parity with AIGETOA/BTEU BSNL and resolve the same.

Extending the Promotional avenues for BSNL Executives:

The issue of promotions in various cadres was informed to Hon’ble MoC. We explained the number of pending promotions across various cadres, how many executives are affected out of it. We informed that instead of creating avenues for regular promotions, the management is forcing executives to appear in LICE despite all being eligible for promotions through regular channel. We also told that it is highly unjustified for the executives who have been performing and giving their day and nights to BSNL for maintaining the network will not be able to study while those manning the relatively easier positions will get more opportunity for study. Hence this creates a complete imbalance in the system, especially for those working in field units. The issue of seniority was also explained in detail and all the relevant documents, various judgements and legal opinion taken from the retired Justice of Hon’ble Supreme Court was also submitted to him. We told that there is an immediate need for directing BSNL to ensure the promotions of all eligible executives across various grades.

Hon’ble MoC was appreciative of the presentation of AIGETOA and told that he is in concurrence with our submissions that the sufficient opportunities must be provided to each executive so that they can reach to the position of AGMs with sufficient age on their side. He said that he will discuss with CMD BSNL on the issue and will ensure that the BSNL executives get the much awaited promotions without any further delay.

He also assured that he will ensure a promotion mechanism which will be non-discriminatory and that executives must be promoted to AGM/ Equivalent grade with sufficient age profile on their side through regular channel of promotions so that they can aspire to reach to higher positions.

Implementation of 30% Superannuation benefit to the Direct Recruits of BSNL as per the recommendation of 2nd PRC (Pending to be implemented since 01.01.2007 (In fact Pension scheme was to be incorporated after formation of BSNL from 01.10.2000)):

Hon’ble minister understood the issue in detail, sought many clarifications and was ultimately satisfied on the merit of the issue and assured for positive action on the same. We explained the terms of Gazette Notification of 2000, 2014, BSNL orders wrt 2nd PRC, DPE orders etc. Hon’ble MoC appreciated the concern and sought information on how many employees are affected out of it and reasons for BSNL not extending the same for so long. We informed Hon’ble MoC that almost 38000 thousand employees are affected out of it and hence the issue needs the priority consideration by BSNL and DoT. We also informed the financial implication associated with the issue and reasons given by management for negating the full 30% SAB for so long.

Hon’ble MoC was very sympathetic and considerate on the issue and assured that he shall be directing BSNL/DoT to consider the issue on merit.

Revision in TA/DA, mobile reimbursement policy, other allowances at par with current market conditions, restoration of LTC facility :

The issue was explained in detail to Hon’ble MoC and it was highlighted that the executives below DGM grade are still working on 2002 TA/DA rates and are subject to loss while performing outstation Jobs for BSNL. We told employees are being paid a very meagre amount as TA/DA which discourages all to go for outstation Jobs. We also told that with a mobile of Rs 1500/- BSNL is expecting executives to perform IT oriented Jobs through various Apps and software packages. Without increasing the Mobile Reimbursement Limit, it will be difficult to perform the duties associated with mobile Apps and packages. Hence it is utmost necessary to revise the reimbursement limit to current market conditions.

Hon’ble MoC assured to discuss the same with BSNL management for a reasonable policy for various TA/DA, mobile reimbursement allowances and Restoration of LTC facility.

Implementation of 3rd PRC in BSNL by waiving off the affordability clause for BSNL and finalising the wage negotiation for non-executives:

Hon’ble MoC told us to remain patient and focussed on the growth and development of BSNL and for 4G rollout.

Hon’ble MoC assured that 3rd PRC will definitely become a reality for the BSNL executives, if the current trends continue and BSNL employees who have already proved their worth continue to do so. He further assured BTEU delegates that BSNL shall be asked to complete the wage negotiation at the earliest.

Pension Revision of BSNL/MTNL Pensioners, at par with Central Government Pensioners:

Hon’ble MoC assured categorically that the issue is under active consideration and the same shall be resolved expeditiously.

Discussion on issue of takeover of ALTTC by DoT:

We informed Hon’ble MoC that DoT has taken over the administrative control of ALTTC, but now BSNL’s trainings are suffering and some talks are going on in the direction of shifting the campus to some other place. We requested Hon’ble MoC that BSNL and NTI PRIT should continue to co-exist in line with his earlier assurances.

Hon’ble MoC told that focus of government is to make ALTTC a world class Telecom Centre and research centre of repute. He said that BSNL employees should not worry and their interests shall be protected.

Revision in Non-Executive Promotion Policy:

The issues pertaining to the promotions of non-executives were also discussed in detail. We pressed upon revisiting the policy which was last revised in 2010.

Hon’ble MoC assured that he will direct BSNL and DoT to discuss the matter with BMS BSNL Team and to consider the genuine suggestions given by BTEU with regard to the Non-Executive Promotion Policy.

Lifting the ban on appointments on compassionate grounds:

The issue shall be discussed with the management and DoT.

Increase in medical reimbursement from the current 15 days’ salary to at least 25 days’ salary for outdoor treatment:

Hon’ble MoC assured to discuss the issue with BSNL Management for a positive consideration.

Extending the facilities for person with disabilities (PwBDs) which is defined under RPwD act 2016 and implementation of recent Hon’ble Supreme Court Directions wrt promotions for PwBD candidates from 30.06.2016:

We requested for directing BSNL and DoT to issue directions for the strict following of the recent DoP&T orders wrt promotions. We also informed that the directions wrt other facilities available to PwBD has also not been implemented by BSNL in totality.

Hon’ble MoC assured to look into the matter.

Issue of Presidential orders to the employees whose recruitment process was initiated during DoT period but appointment was given after 01.10.2000:

We once again raised the matter before Hon’ble MoC and requested for his intervention on the matter.

Hon’ble MoC sought some more details in this regard which will be submitted by us in due course.

Dear friends,

The discussion with Hon’ble MOC was very detailed, exhaustive and touched all the burning HR issues of BSNL employees. We are extremely thankful to the BMS Central Leadership who are remaining in constant touch with Hon’ble MoC directly and are personally involved in the discussion over the issues of BSNL. The issues as on date are appearing to be on a distant note but we firmly assure you that a lot of distance has been covered and the outcome shall be visible soon.

We don’t believe in creating propaganda but believe in working continuously with perseverance. The Team of AIGETOA, BTEU under the patronage of BMS is totally determined to resolve the issues and we seek your unparalleled support.

On behalf of AIGETOA, we extend our heartfelt greetings to all BSNL executives on the auspicious occasion of Lohri! May the flickering warmth of the bonfire symbolize the enduring bonds of camaraderie and teamwork among us, fostering unity and strength in the face of challenges.

As the aroma of freshly made rewari wafts through the air, may it bring a sweet symphony to your life, harmonizing moments of joy, success, and prosperity. Lohri, a festival of vibrancy and festivity, marks the culmination of winter and the advent of longer days, bringing with it the promise of new beginnings and abundant blessings,

May this Lohri illuminate your path with positivity and fill your days ahead with accomplishments and fulfillment. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous and Happy Lohri!

Team AIGETOA comprising of Sh P N Sharma All India Chairman & CS AIGETOA Raj & Sh Rajeev Jain CP Rajasthan, Sh Praveen Sharma CFS Rajasthan, Smt Rekha Sharma (Co-ordinator to BMS), Sh Montu Gupta met Hon’ble MOC Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw ji on his visit to Jaipur on 12th Jan 2024 and submitted Memorandum of AIGETOA CHQ.

Click here for Memorandum Submitted

GS AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL with a request to implement Reservation in promotion to Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) and issue the promotion orders in respect of SDE to AGM immediately. The DPCs for all the eligible candidates have already been completed and there is no point in keeping the promotions orders on hold any more in view of the recent DOP&T orders and decision from Hon’ble Supreme Court. GS extends an earnest request for issuance of promotion orders with copy to Hon’ble Secretary DoT and Director HR. Earlier CHQ team has discussed the matters at DOT with concerned officers and Member Services and extended the request for endorsement of the DoP&T orders by Department of Communications so as to direct all the administrative ministries and department under DoT to implement the DOP&T OM dated 28.12.2023 w.r.t PWD reservation guidelines.

Click here for the letter

As we bid farewell to the old and embrace the new, let’s take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to each one of you for your unwavering trust and faith in AIGETOA.

Throughout the past year, your support has been the guiding light that fuelled our commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing BSNL. Your trust has been the driving force behind our relentless efforts to bring about positive changes in the realms of Pay, Promotion, and Pension.

Together, as a united front, we have faced challenges head-on and worked towards creating a brighter future for BSNL. Let the dawn of 2024 be a testament to our collective resilience and determination.

“Success is not just about the destination, but the journey we take together.” With your unwavering support, we are confident that this new year will bring forth even greater achievements and advancements for BSNL.

May the coming year be filled with prosperity, joy, and triumphs for each and every one of you. Let’s continue to stand strong together, turning challenges into opportunities and aspirations into accomplishments.

Wishing you a year ahead filled with success, happiness, and boundless possibilities !!

GS AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL with request for immediate Promotion of AGM to Regular DGM Grade in CSS cadre and waiver of delayed period while considering the eligibility of promotion in next higher grade for all the affected employees belonging to the different grades and streams.

Click here for the letter to CMD BSNL

GS AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL with urgent request to put the implementation of the latest orders with regard to marking the attendance through mobile APP on hold and to revisit the mobile reimbursement policy to increase the reimbursement allowance for mobile handsets to at least Rs. 20000/- per officer to empower BSNL Executives in effectively addressing operational requirements.

Click here for the letter to CMD BSNL

GS AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL with appeal to revisit the Online Attendance by understanding the field difficulties of BSNL Executives and requirements according to their operational needs.

AIGETOA expressed the following concerns raised by field executives w.r.t current online attendance system:

1] Infrastructure and CMRL Works Disruptions

2] MTTR vs. Duty Hours Discrepancy

3] Lack of Record for Subsequent COFFs

4] Inflexibility in Attendance System

5] Inability to Capture Diverse Work Scenarios

6] Shift Duty Challenges

7] Real Time Challenges

8] Inappropriate Tower Location

9] Natural Climates

Click here for the letter to CMD BSNL

As updated earlier by AIGETOA CHQ on dated 22nd Dec 2023, Pers Section issued clarification w.r.t to non consideration of executives with 20 years stay at the current circle.

Click here for the letter by Pers Section