In continuation of the follow-up actions and the earlier meeting with PGM (Legal), Team AIGETOA met with PGM (Personnel) to discuss the way forward in the matter of AO to CAO promotions.

During the discussion, PGM (Pers) informed that the Personnel Section has received the necessary clearance from the Legal Section. Accordingly, the Finance Wing has been requested to provide the updated seniority list. On receipt of the same, the DPC process will be initiated, and the promotions are expected to be processed shortly.

With regard to SDE to AGM and other pending promotion matters, a separate meeting is scheduled to be held next week to deliberate and take the issue forward.

The Hon’ble Punjab and Haryana High Court has allowed CAO Promotion on the basis of Seniority quashed by CAT subject to final out come.

Team AIGETOA Met PGM legal BSNL CO and discussed about the next course on the issuance of promotion orders.

Legal cell has given go ahead to Pers section to conduct the DPC. This will also open the way for promotions from JAO to AO also.

Team AIGETOA is following the issue and it will be out endeavor to ensure the benefits for the maximum possible.

The court case w.r.t JTO to SDE promotion which was listed today before Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh have been adjourned to 11th March 2026.

The cases could not be taken up today as the Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh Bench remained suspended due to the sudden demise of a senior member of the Bar.

Team AIGETOA has been continuously following the pending court cases and have been able to convince management to follow the court cases actively and aggressively.

BSNL Management has finally agreed and appointed a new advocate for the case from New Delhi. The case is listed for tomorrow 11th February 2026 at serial no. 23, Court No. 1 at Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh.

Just now GS AIGETOA and AGS II AIGETOA met Director HR and PGM (Pers)/SR . It is decided to defer the SET Recruitment process. Recruitment Cell of BSNL CO has been directed to process the case. Secondly the proposal submitted for promotions is also being examined and the Pers and Legal cell is working on the proposal.

Finally our perseverance has paid and a major cause of concern has been taken care of. Team AIGETOA is consistently monitoring the situation on this issue as well as on other HR issues..

All the members and executives are requested to exercise patience and concentrate on their day to day activities.

Today, 4th February 2026, the AIGETOA team continued discussions with the BSNL management on the ongoing issue of stoppage of SET Recruitment Process. The discussion was held in continuation of Last Two Day’s meeting and today much ice has melted with management agreeing to take a thorough review on the issue tomorrow with the HR team vis-à-vis the concerns raised by BDM. Management side assured us that they are looking into the matter and advised us to exercise restraint. We requested for an immediate action on stopping the process.

As there has been references to the DoT and higher offices on this issue during discussions with management, Team AIGETOA consisting of General Secretary, All India President and AGS-II today visited office of Additional Secretary (Telecom) to apprise him of this situation. As per the directions thereof, we met DDG(C&A) and apprised him of the situation and the prevailing unrest. We said when at this juncture, when the focus should have been on increasing the revenue, this action of SET Recruitment by BSNL has resulted into a huge turbulent situation where each and every executive of BSNL is feeling humiliated. We also apprised him about the current situation of executives and the experience and qualification profile of the executives along with remaining years of service. We also apprised him about the stagnation faced by the executives. We said, if this recruitment happens, it will demoralise the cadre like anything and will result into huge unrest in the rank and file of BSNL. He assured to take up the matter immediately with BSNL. On the sidelines, we also discussed about the submission of AIGETOA with respect to extending the promotions to all eligible.

A very important discussion with respect of resolution of issue of extending the standard pay scales of E2 to JTO/JAO equivalent and E3 to SDE/AO equivalent was also held. As informed earlier subsequent to our meeting with Hon’ble MoC and MoSC, the issue has moved again. We can definitely expect some positive movement now. Discussion was held on increasing the SAB Contribution also. On the important issue of 3rd PRC, it was informed that DoT has sought some inputs from BSNL and told us to follow with BSNL for expediting the inputs. We shall be following the same with BSNL also.

Thereafter, AIGETOA Team met PS to Hon’ble MOC, as per the instructions given earlier during our meeting with Hon’ble MoC and held the discussion on the following points:

1] Stopping of SET recruitment immediately and issuing promotions to all eligible executives:

We elaborately explained this issue. We informed that management is making recruitment of freshers with same qualification at two level of entry which is in complete contravention to the prevalent norms of any PSU. BSNL is having executives with domain experience ranging from 8 to 30 years but BSNL management is ignoring internal talent. Situation is so worse that even the GATE-qualified JTOs with 99-95 percentile with same educational qualification and similarly JAOs with same qualification and much greater experience are being ignored and management is trying to induct freshers at a higher level with no standard examination in place. We requested for his urgent intervention and requested to prevail upon BSNL Management to ensure that internal executives are given sufficient career progression opportunities and immediate promotions to the next grade for all the eligible executives. We also explained the promotion issues and the need of the hour to issue promotion orders to all eligible executives to encourage them to increase revenues and morale of employees. It was assured that necessary intervention is being done and BSNL has been asked to give the inputs.

2] 3rd PRC issue:

We discussed this issue at length and explained that proposal for revision of the pay and implementation of 3rd PRC with 15% fitment was sent with full BSNL Board approval when BSNL was in complete loss and revenue position was in a worse precarious state. We highlighted that BSNL has come far off from that position and today the revenue is much better with increasing operational profit Year on Year basis. Hence its time that BSNL employees should be extended the 3rd PRC. We also told that affordability waiver for BSNL is a rightful demand by us given the circumstances in which BSNL is placed. We emphasised that the swadeshi Technology being in a developing stage there are definite issues in the network coverage and till the network becomes stable and at par with private operators, it’s very difficult to increase the revenue. Further, there is huge infusion of capital in BSNL which results into depreciation reflecting negatively in the Balance Sheet of BSNL, and hence coming into absolute profit is very difficult as on date till the network is developed fully. Employees of BSNL should not face the brunt of doing selfless service to the nation and hence the 3rd PRC must be extended now to them. It was informed that the issue is under consideration and inputs have been sought from BSNL. However, it is our categorical opinion that the issue of affordability waiver requires much higher intervention and AIGETOA and BDM team is taking all efforts to reach to the highest echelons. With our perseverance and firm support of the employees, we are very sure that this issue is definitely going to be resolved.

3] E2 & E3 standard pay scale implementation in BSNL:

We explained this issue which is pending since the inception of BSNL and discussed the solution along with the BSNL board approvals and also submitted all the relevant supporting documents. We received a positive response regarding our concerns.

4] Increasing the SAB contribution:

We discussed this issue and explained the provision of the separate pension scheme for BSNL Recruits in the Rule 37A orders during formation of BSNL which was never implemented in BSNL. We also explained the state of affairs and the perilous situation of BSNL Recruits in case some untimely demise occurs to the sole bread winner of the family. We requested for the kind intervention with BSNL for increasing the SAB Contribution.

4] BSNL viability issues:

Issues related to BSNL viability and the practical problems being faced by the employees in increasing the revenue and market share was also explained. We were assured of necessary support and intervention in setting the issues.

In the evening, AIGETOA team again met BSNL management and continued the discussions on stopping the SET recruitment and issuing promotions to all eligible executives. Finally at the end, there was a categorical assurance by the management to revisit the SET recruitment process and we were told that tomorrow HR team will meet on the way out to address the concerns raised and to have a revisit on the decision to continue with the recruitment.

Dear friends, with today’s pursuance at different levels, we have definitely witnessed a change in the stand of management and the earlier reluctance with respect to stopping the process has now changed and we expect a positive outcome. We remain receptible to the best and prepared for the worst. We will keep one and all about the developments and would like to firmly reassure all that no stone will be left unturned to ensure that this SET Recruitment is stopped at all costs.

Together We will Achieve Everything.

In continuation of the discussions held with BSNL management yesterday, another meeting was held today on 3rd Feb 2026. The meeting was attended by Director (HR), PGM (Legal), PGM (Pers) and PGM (Recruitment) from the management side, and GS, AIP and AGS-II from the AIGETOA side.

The meeting lasted for nearly one and a half hours. However, the management’s stand on proceeding with the SET Recruitment remained unchanged. On the issue of extending promotions to all executives to bring them at par with SET recruits, management stated that the proposal submitted by AIGETOA is under examination, but it will take time.

We categorically reiterated that till all existing executives are brought to a functional level higher than SET recruits, AIGETOA will not allow the SET Recruitment to take place. We also conveyed clearly that an organisational action programme shall be launched, either jointly or individually. It is now for the management to decide whether they want executives to remain in the War Room for performing duties, or in the War Room for abstaining from duties.

Management advised patience and assured that they are working on the concerns raised by AIGETOA. We responded that the same patience should have been exercised by management instead of unnecessarily pushing executives into a state of unrest by initiating this recruitment process.

It is further surprising that GATE, which is the accepted benchmark for recruitment across all PSUs, is being undermined. Management appears to be considering candidates selected through a private agency as superior to GATE-qualified executives already serving in BSNL. We also clarified the misconception that BSNL recruited JTOs with low GATE scores. In reality, hundreds of JTOs recruited through GATE possess percentile scores in the range of 90–99.

Neglecting such qualified and experienced executives, and preferring external candidates with no experience and no GATE score, is deeply regretful. We made it clear that this kind of demeaning approach towards the qualifications, experience, and dedication of BSNL executives cannot be accepted silently.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Director (HR) informed that management would give a final response tomorrow regarding the way forward. We clearly stated that if management decides to proceed with the recruitment process, AIGETOA will move ahead with organisational action programmes.

Dear Friends,

From today’s discussion, it is amply clear that management is reluctant to stop the recruitment process and is seeking time to examine our proposals, citing financial and other constraints. Based on our experience with last year’s so-called “HR Month”, we cannot rely on hollow assurances without firm and visible action.

Therefore, all must begin mobilising the rank and file at every level to give a strong and united response against such negating actions, and also in pursuit of resolution of long-pending financial issues including the 3rd PRC.

Discussions on joint programmes have already been held with other unions and associations, and there is unanimity on the need for a joint struggle. The next course of action will be informed after further deliberations.

One thing is clear: either jointly or individually, AIGETOA is moving ahead.

A detailed meeting with Team AIGETOA was held and concluded today on the issue of SET recruitment. The meeting was attended by Director (HR), PGM (Pers/SR) and PGM (Estt) from the management side of BSNL.

Team AIGETOA categorically conveyed that any lateral recruitment at a level higher than JTO/JAO equivalent is unacceptable to BSNL executives and will lead to serious unrest. We strongly demanded that the SET recruitment process be scrapped immediately and that management should instead focus on resolving long-pending HR issues.

Management stated that intake of freshers at E3 level is required for the company. In response, AIGETOA suggested that existing executives should first be promoted to a higher functional level than E3, and thereafter E3 may be made the entry level for executives. We informed management that a detailed proposal in this regard has already been submitted to the Hon’ble MoC and has reached their office. We demanded immediate implementation of this proposal and insisted that the SET recruitment be kept in abeyance till then.

Click here for the Proposal for development of Internal Management Cadre of AIGETOA consisting of its own absorbed and BSNL Recruited Executives

Management informed that the proposal received from the office of MoC is under examination and will take some time. We clearly stated that till such time, the SET recruitment process must be put on hold. We also warned that continuation of the process would compel us to launch strong organisational agitation.

Director (HR) expressed that the direction for SET recruitment has come from DoT and that stopping the process would be difficult. We countered by stating that management must apprise DoT of the prevailing ground-level situation and the growing unrest among executives. We categorically informed that if the recruitment process is not stopped, AIGETOA will initiate organisational actions, which will not be in the interest of BSNL.

Finally, Director (HR) assured that he will apprise higher authorities, including DoT, and revert. He also mentioned that the HR team is working on other assurances given earlier and that positive outcomes are expected.

AIGETOA welcomed any positive outcome but made it very clear that at this juncture, there will be no pause in our stand until the SET recruitment process is stopped.

The meeting could not be concluded due to late hours and will continue tomorrow.

Further updates will be shared.

AIGETOA has once again taken up the serious and long-pending issues related to the non-functioning of the Sanchar Aadhaar (SA) portal of BSNL. The matter has been taken cognizance of, and the DoT has directed BSNL to examine the issues and furnish its response to the concerns raised by AIGETOA.

As per the information received from DoT, a formal communication in this regard has already been issued to BSNL. It is also understood that the issues highlighted by AIGETOA have been addressed at the appropriate level.

AIGETOA continues to consistently raise all critical issues affecting BSNL, whether related to the viability of the organization or to HR matters. We are presently awaiting a formal and detailed communication from BSNL on this issue.

Team AIGETOA comprising President Sh Veerabhadra Rao, Dy General Secretary Sh Pavan Akhand, and All India Organizing Secretary Sh Harjinder Singh met Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Hon’ble Minister of State for Communications (MoSC), Government of India, today on 20th Jan 2026 at Dak Bhawan, New Delhi.

During the meeting, the Team AIGETOA held detailed and updated discussions on critical issues impacting BSNL and its executives. A detailed memorandum highlighting long-pending HR and structural concerns was submitted and discussed point by point.

Click here for the Memorandum submitted to Hon’ble MoSC

Click here for the Glimpses of Meeting

Key Issues Raised by AIGETOA

1] Urgent Implementation of 3rd PRC

AIGETOA strongly emphasized the immediate implementation of the 3rd PRC for BSNL executives. The team highlighted that prolonged delay in pay revision has adversely affected morale, motivation of experienced and skilled executives. It was reiterated that timely implementation is essential to restore parity, dignity and confidence among BSNL executives. We also updated the Hon’ble MoC about the current state of affairs in BSNL and management’s reluctance in resolving the issues even those without financial implications. Hon’ble MoSC assured to intervene and directed his team to call BSNL for a meeting on the issue in the backdrop of AIGETOA submissions.

2] Disparity in Pay, Perks, and Allowances

AIGETOA Team again drew attention to the growing disparity in pay and benefits, pointing out that BSNL executives continue to be denied legitimate entitlements while policy-level functionaries receive full benefits. AIGETOA stressed that employees who are implementing policies down the line with dedication should not be penalized in the name of profitability. We also apprised him about the recommendations of COPU and requested for his intervention in directing BSNL/DoT to resolve this disparity immediately. Hon’ble MoSC noted our submissions.

3] Waiver of Affordability Clause and BSNL Profitability

While reaffirming the commitment of BSNL employees to improve revenue and market share, AIGETOA explained the practical challenges faced by BSNL, including the negative effect of depreciation on the absolute profitability of BSNL in its balance sheet due to the huge capital investment The team emphasized that achieving absolute profitability under existing constraints is extremely difficult and sought extension of the affordability clause waiver to BSNL.

AIGETOA strongly emphasized that the affordability clause attached to the implementation of the 3rd PRC must be waived for BSNL. BSNL is operating under unique and well-known constraints.

It was highlighted that linking pay revision to strict profitability parameters is unjust and impractical in the case of BSNL, as employees cannot be penalized for factors beyond their control. AIGETOA stated that waiver of the affordability clause is essential to ensure parity with other PSUs, protect employee dignity, and restore confidence and motivation among BSNL executives. The team stressed that implementation of the 3rd PRC without further delay, through explicit affordability clause waiver, is critical for stabilizing the workforce and enabling BSNL’s long-term revival.

4] Infusion of Funds and Infrastructure Strengthening

AIGETOA reiterated the need for further infusion of funds to strengthen BSNL’s infrastructure so that quality of service can match private operators. The team also highlighted that addressing long-pending HR issues is equally critical to keep employee morale high and enable improved performance.

5] Creation of In-House Management Cadre and Promotions

The team highlighted the absence of a fully developed in-house management cadre consisting of BSNL-recruited and absorbed executives. Inordinate delays in promotions across cadres have resulted in stagnation and frustration despite long years of service. AIGETOA stressed that regular, time-bound promotions are essential for organisational efficiency, accountability, and ownership. The adverse impact of over-dependence on deputation was also highlighted. AIGETOA also reiterated its stand against SET recruitment and highlighted that if management tries to fiddle with the dignity of executives, it will be met with huge unrest in BSNL which may not be in the best interests of the company.

6] Residual issues of 2nd PRC and TA/DA/Transport allowance revision:

Team AIGETOA highlighted that despite commitment, BSNL management has not done anything except verbal assurances. While higher management tells that things are in progress, the lower management emphasizes that they are waiting for concurrence from higher authority and in the process issues are facing a ping pong situation which are negatively impacting the morale of employees. Under this situation BDM will have to reconsider its decision and start the organisational action programs once again. We requested for urgent intervention from Hon’ble MoSC.

The Hon’ble MoSC listened patiently to all submissions, appreciated the concerns raised by AIGETOA, and assured that the Government is conscious of the challenges faced by BSNL. He conveyed that necessary steps are being examined to strengthen BSNL and sought continued cooperation of employees in the revival process. He also directed his team to call BSNL for a meeting with status on the issues raised by team AIGETOA and for further deliberation.

On the occasion, AIGETOA also presented the Association’s 2026 Calendar and Diary to the Hon’ble Minister, which was appreciated.

The Team AIGETOA also brought to the notice of the Hon’ble MoSC that despite repeated directions, resolutions, and assurances, many HR issues continue to face avoidable delays due to systemic bottlenecks and internal resistance. It was highlighted that certain sections within the system repeatedly attempt to dilute, delay, or derail decisions related to HR reforms, promotions, pay revision, and cadre restructuring, often under the pretext of procedural constraints, legal interpretations, or selective rule compliance.

The team explained that Bhartiya Doorsanchar Manch (BDM) and AIGETOA is continuously pursue issues through dialogue and structured proposals, lack of ownership, fear of accountability, and vested interests at different levels obstruct timely execution of approved or agreed decisions. Such repeated derailment not only frustrates the workforce but also weakens institutional credibility and hampers BSNL’s ability to move forward decisively. AIGETOA stressed that unless accountability is fixed and decisions are implemented in letter and spirit, resolution of long-pending HR issues will remain elusive.

Dear Friends,

AIGETOA’s consistent efforts to resolve long-pending HR issues and ensure a stable, motivated workforce in BSNL. We remain committed to constructive engagement with all stakeholders for the revival, viability, and long-term growth of BSNL. Our team is dedicatedly working to resolve the HR issues through all means including Pushing the things at higher echelons of govt, to Hon’ble PM and PMO, with Hon’ble MoC and Hon’ble MoSC. AIGETOA has also precipitated the issues through BDM as well is promoting the united efforts through the platform of Unions and Associations of BSNL.  While those having the people’s mandate has largely remained aloof to the pending HR issues, AIGETOA has brought the HR issues of BSNL employees at the center stage with the same finding the space at the deliberations at the highest level. We request one and all to keep supporting us in our endeavors.

Together, we will achieve everything.

Click here for Glimpses of the Meeting with Hon’ble MoSC