Dear Comrades,

Due to sudden increase in Covid-19 cases in the country specifically in Kerala where CWC of AIBSNLEA is scheduled to be conducted from 6th to 7th March 2021, life threat may be there on visiting the Kerala for attending the proposed CWC meeting at Trivandrum.

Some State Govt. issued guidelines that Mandatory RT-PCR Negative report has to be submitted by the Passengers from Kerala when they are entering the State.  In view of the foregoing situation and after having discussions with the number of Circle Secretaries and CHQ office bearers it is decided by the CHQ to defer the CWC meeting. It may be rescheduled in the last week of May 2021 at the same venue. Final dates will be communicated in due course of time.

24.02.2021 CWC News:  It is reiterated that AIBSNLEA  Kerala Circle formed various Committees in connection with Central Working Committee of AIBSNLEA scheduled to be held on 6th and 7th March 2021 at Trivandrum, Kerala. All the Circle Secretaries are requested to furnish the Name & number of participants, Arrival, Departure, food preference etc., in the below mentioned format and send to mail id of Com. V. Shaji, Circle Secretary AIBSNLEA Kerala Circle "jaiaibsnlea@gmail.com" .

<<<<Click here for the Format of Circle Secretary's Report to  be submitted in the  CWC Trivandrum>>>>>

For any further clarification, please contact Com. V. Shaji, CS Kerala (9446450450) and other Committee members as detailed below:

23.02.2021 Meeting with Director (HR) BSNL Board:-

GS AIBSNLEA, AGS (HQ), AGS (Fin) and CHQ-Auditor met Shri Arvind Vadnerkar, Director (HR) BSNL Board and discussed  regarding:

1) Restructuring and Manpower Planning- We have presented our views, suggestions and justifications to the Director (HR) about the Manpower positions in Restructuring of BSNL in detail and handed over AIBSNLEA Suggestions and views vide Letter dated 19.2.2021. After detailed discussion & patient hearing, Director (HR) appreciated our concern and mentioned that the High Power Committee constituted for the purpose will take care of all the suggestions and justified posts for all the Cadres will be provisioned in all the Op offices, BAs, Circles etc. Dir (HR) also mentioned that before taking any final view, the restructuring plan will also be discussed with the Association and all justified suggestions will be well taken.

2) Provisional Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T): We have reiterated Director (HR) about the discrepancies in the Provisional Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T) issued by the Pers. branch on 10.08.2020. We have presented our views before the Director (HR) and told that we have already given a letter regarding the discrepancies, wherein we have categorically mentioned that the Provisional Seniority List No. 9 is not prepared purely on the basis of the date of joining in accordance with the judgment pronounced by Hon’ble Supreme Court, and Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh but it is prepared on the basis of Date of Joining within the Vacancy Year. Any RR amendment is applicable from that date (that is Prospective in nature) but not on retrospectively i.e., w.e.f. 28.08.2015 only. 

Director (HR) after patient hearing, assured to look into the matter and remove all the discrepancies.

3) Non-consideration of request transfers of Accounts Personnel since long: We brought to the kind notice of Director (HR) that request transfers in respect of Accounts Personnel has not been considered for the past 8 months in the name of Restructuring etc.,  whereas the same are being considered in all other cadres. We explained about the problems being faced by the Accounts Personnel without their family in other Circles for more than 3 years even during Corona period and requested him to consider the cases on Humanitarian grounds and issue necessary instructions for the issuance of transfer orders. Director (HR) assured to look into and consider the transfer cases shortly.

23.02.2021 Meeting with Director (Finance) BSNL Board

GS AIBSNLEA alongwith CHQ Office bearers had a  detailed discussion  with Director (Fin) and she mentioned that the monthly revenue is going down during Jan & Feb 2021, and this is the last Quarter of the current Financial Year, I am sure that you all are working very efficiently but we should take more efforts to increase and realization of BSNL’s revenue in the current financial year itself.  We discussed regarding- 

1) Restructuring and Manpower Planning: GS AIBSNLEA handed over AIBSNLEA Suggestions and views vide Letter dated 19.02.2021 to the Director (Fin) and presented the views, suggestions and justifications to the Director (Fin) regarding the Manpower positions of Financial Personnel- AO, CAO, DGM(F) in various Operational offices, BAs, Circle Offices & Corporate Office in Restructuring of BSNL. After detailed discussion, Director (Fin) appreciated our concern and mentioned that the suggestions & justification of AIBSNLEA will be well taken and justified posts will be well provisioned in all the Op offices, BAs, Circles etc.,

2) Consideration of request transfers of Accounts Personnel: We requested Director (Fin) for early consideration of the request transfers in respect of Accounts Personnel since they are waiting for the past 8 months in the name of Restructuring etc., whereas request transfers are considering in all other cadres during this period. We explained about the problems being faced by them without their family in other Circles for more than 3 years due to Covid-19 and requested her to consider the request transfer cases on Humanitarian grounds for issuance of transfer orders. After detailed discussion and patient hearing, Madam Director (Fin) agreed to consider the transfer cases shortly.

3) Claims Receivable from DoT: We brought to the notice of the Director (Finance) that AIBSNLEA has written so many letters to the Secretary (T) and continuously meeting & pursuing with Secretary (T), AS (T) & Member (F), DoT for the immediate release of Claims Receivable from DoT to BSNL to the tune of Rs.28,800 Cr towards Compensation to BSNL for serving in Rural/ Tribal/Naxalite prone Areas, Compensation for carrying out Govt. Projects, Excess payment of Pension Contribution, Reimbursement of Leave Encashment paid to the absorbed employees for the DoT period, Interest on surrendered Wi-Max Spectrum etc., Director (Fin) appreciated our concern and mentioned that BSNL Management also continuously pursuing with DoT and furnishing all the Documents and Data in this regard to DoT for the release of the claim.

We further brought to the attention of Director (Fin) Madam that BSNL has submitted the Claim to DoT to the tune of Rs 2998 Cr towards the Reimbursement of Leave Encashment against DoT period only in respect of Absorbed Employees gone on VRS, whereas the actual Leave Encashment to be receivable from DoT for DoT period in respect of Absorbed Employees retired from 01.10.2000 onwards may be to the tune of Rs.20,000 Cr approximately. Director (Fin) mentioned that the Actual amount has to be worked out from the Service Book Data/Leave Encashment Sanction Memos/the data to be collected from CCA offices etc., and our Accounts Personnel must take this matter on priority & present the claims with documentary evidence before the Management so as to submit the claim to DoT for reimbursement of the same with proper calculation, documentary proof & evidence, since at present we are having the data only from the date of Migration to ERP.

Director (Fin) requested that each and every employee should work hard to increase our day to day collection/Revenue and follow the Austerity measures instructions issued by BSNL CO scrupulously to control over the Expenditure. We assure Director (Fin) that AIBSNLEA is always on the forefront for the survival & betterment of BSNL. We also requested the Director (Fin) to consider the Promotions in CAO & DGM(F) Cadres so as to boost the morale of the Youngsters and  the experience of the Sr. Accounts Executives in BSNL  may be utilized for the benefit of the Company.

.02.2021 Meeting with CMD BSNL & Board of Directors:

Today GS AIBSNLEA, AGS (HQ), AGS (Fin) and CHQ-Auditor met Shri P.K. Purwar, CMD BSNL and discussed  as detailed below:

At the outset, we have informed the CMD BSNL that AIBSNLEA is going to hold its Central Working Committee (CWC) Meeting in Kerala on 6^th and 7^th of March, 2021 at Trivandrum. We invited CMD to participate in the Open Session of CWC Trivandrum as “Chief Guest” and to address the gathering under the Caption of “Revival & Survival of BSNL” on 6^th March, 2021 (Saturday). CMD BSNL convey his Best Wishes for the CWC Meet and mentioned that despite of his busy schedule, he assured that he will definitely try to come and attend the CWC Meeting Open Session on 6^th March and will deliver his message to the BSNL employees to work hard for the  Revival & Survival of BSNL in the current cut throat competition in the Telecom Sector.

2) Restructuring/ Manpower Planning : We had a detailed discussion with CMD regarding Restructuring/ Manpower Plan and handed over AIBSNLEA Suggestions and views vide Letter dated 19.2.2021 along with details & full justification in respect of different cadres/posts to be provisioned (i.e., the sufficient numbers of Executives) in Operational Area Offices, BAs, Circle Offices & Corporate Office and requested to intervene in the matter since the justified number of Posts  have not been provided by the Restructuring Cell in the proposed Manpower Planning/Restructuring Organisational Chart. CMD BSNL assured to look into our suggestions before finalization of the same.

(i) Justification for Posting of CAO & DGM (Fin)/IFA <<<Click here for letter>>>  <<Annexure-I & II>>

(ii) Justification for Provision of AGM & DGM (Engg.) <<Click here for letter>>

3) Consideration of Regular Promotions in all the Cadres: We requested CMD for the consideration and immediate issuance of Promotion orders in all the Disciplines/Cadres by giving one time relaxation in the Qualifying Service, wherever required for those who are drawing Higher Scales, to manage the acute shortage in the Field Units as well as in the Administrative Offices of BSNL so as to maintain the vast Telecom Network, OFC, Telephone Exchanges etc., in an efficient manner instead of Look-After arrangement. After patient hearing CMD BSNL mentioned that Management is planning to consider the Promotions in all the Cadres after the finalisation of Restructuring/ Manpower Planning shortly.

4. Non remittance of SAB recovered from monthly Salary of  Apr’ 2020 to Dec’ 2020: We brought to the notice of CMD that SAB Benefits in respect of DRs of BSNL recovered from the monthly Salary of Apr’2020 to Dec’2020 has not been remitted to the Concern Authorities, resulting in non receipt of Pensionery benefits by the Retired Officials. CMD mentioned that due to heavy financial crunch and  dip in revenue, the amount has not been remitted. However he assured to look in to the matter.

5. Discrimination in consideration of request transfers of Accounts Personnel: We brought to the kind attention of CMD that request transfers in respect of Accounts Personnel has not been considered  by the Management for the past 8 months in the name of Restructuring,  whereas request transfers have been considered in all other cadres. We also explained CMD BSNL about the problems being faced by the Accounts Personnel without family in other Circles for more than 3 years due to Covid-19 and requested him to consider the cases on Humanitarian grounds and issue necessary instructions to the concerned Authorities for issuance of transfer orders. CMD after patient hearing advised us to discuss the issue with Director (Fin)/Director (HR) and also assured to looked into.

6. Free Corona Vaccine to BSNL Employees treating them as Frontline workers:  CMD BSNL mentioned that as per the request of AIBSNLEA Letter dated 5.1.2021 and discussion on 8.1.2021, he has already taken up the issue with the Secretary(T) in the the interest of BSNL Employees. He further assured that he will take up the issue with the Secretary (H&FW) through Secretary (T). 

7.Compensation and Financial Assistance to the family members of deceased BSNL Employees due to Covid-19: We requested CMD BSNL to consider the Compensation and Financial Assistance to the family members of deceased BSNL Employees due to Covid-19 since AIBSNLEA is requesting the BSNL Management for the past 7 months to consider the same on Humanitarian Grounds. CMD BSNL mentioned that the proposal was discussed in the BSNL Board Meeting in length but not considered due to heavy financial crunch.

We further met Director (HR), Director (CFA), Director (CM), Director (EB) and Director (Fin) and invited them to participate in the Open Session of CWC meeting to be held at Trivandrum (Kerala) as Guest of Honours. All the Directors have accepted our invitation & conveyed their Best Wishes and assured that if physical presence (due to Corona as well as their busy schedule) is not possible they will address the CWC  through Online.

We handed over  AIBSNLEA suggestions and views regarding Restructuring Plan vide Letter dated 19.2.2021 to all the Board of Directors and requested them to consider our suggestions while it is coming for discussion and approval in the M.C. and BSNL Board Meeting .

22.02.2021 CWC News:  <<<<<<Click here for Circle Secretary Report Format to  be submitted in the  CWC of AIBSNLEA held from 6th to 7th of March 2021  at  HOTEL PRASANTH, PMG Junction, Kerala >>>>>>

AIBSNLEA  Kerala Circle formed various Committees in connection with Central Working Committee of AIBSNLEA scheduled to be held on 6th and 7th March 2021 at Trivandrum, Kerala. All the Circle Secretaries are requested to furnish the Name & number of participants, Arrival, Departure, food preference etc., in the below mentioned format and send to mail id of Com. V. Shaji, Circle Secretary AIBSNLEA Kerala Circle "jaiaibsnlea@gmail.com" .

For any further clarification, please contact Com. V. Shaji, CS Kerala (9446450450) and other Committee members as detailed below: 

      1.     Reception & Accommodation Committee

           2.     Accommodation & Food Committee 

20.02.2021 SPECIAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLEA  TAMILNADU CIRCLE: SPECIAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLEA  TAMILNADU CIRCLE: The Special General Body Meeting of AIBSNLEA  Tamilnadu Circle was held at Tuticorin on 14^th  February 2021(Sunday). It was well organized with a mammoth gathering.

General Secretary, AIBSNLEA Com. S. Sivakumar participated and addressed the gathering.

The meeting was presided over by Com I. Saravanan, C.P. The proceedings commenced at 10.30 hrs with invocation. Com S.Anand,  Circle Secretary welcomed the GS, CWC Members,  all the Circle Office Bearers, District Presidents, District Secretaries and Sister Unions and Association Leaders.

During the meeting, our G.S. and the Circle Officer Bearers, District Secretaries,  Retired  Office bearers and Sister union representatives were honored with shawl. Ex.CWC Member and Senior Comrade Chandrasekar, Madurai, delivered inaugural address. He appreciated the functioning of CHQ especially our GS for taking up all the issues including Viability of BSNL and writing letters continuously to the Management and DoT and  pursuing the issues effectively. Sister Union Leaders from BSNLEU and NFTE felicitated the Special GB Meeting.

Our beloved General Secretary Com. S. Sivakumar delivered a detailed speech regarding the current Financial status of BSNL and pending issues

a. Immediate allotment of 4G Spectrum to BSNL as already assured  by the Union Cabinet on 23.10.2019 and immediate permission of the Govt. of India to upgrade about 49300- 2G & 3G BTS sites to provide 4G Services by BSNL

b. To pay compensation to BSNL @ Rs.5000 Crores per annum for not allocating 4G Spectrum in time as assured

c. Timely payment of Salary to the Staff of BSNL – i.e ., on the last day of the month

d. Immediate Regular Promotion in all the Cadre

e. Immediate payment of Compensation to BSNL for serving in Rural/ Tribal/Naxalite prone Areas, Compensation for carrying out Govt. Projects, Excess payment of Pension Contribution, Reimbursement of Leave Encashment paid to the absorbed employees for the DoT period, Interest on surrendered Wi-Max Spectrum etc., to the tune of Rs.30,000- Cr

 f. Deterioration in Quality of Service and more fault rates due to Cluster Tender and Outsourcing of Works/Massive retrenchment of Contract Workers.

He also explained about the Status of Court cases/various pending HR issues taken by the AIBSNLEA CHQ with the Management:

1.Standard Pay Scale of E2 and E3 replacing E1A and E2A for all Post 2007 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs and for the future DRs

2.E1+5 increments for post  2010 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs.

3.AIBSNLEA Suggestions and Justification regarding Posting of DGM(Eng)/DGM(Fin), AGM/CAOs in the BAs and Operational Areas after Restructuring.

4. Regular Promotions in all the Cadres in all the Streams and Career Progression up to the level of GM/ CGM/ Director and the Status of CPSU CH and AIBSNLEA stand in this regard. We strongly oppose any Look-After arrangement instead of Regular Promotions.

5. Full 30% SAB i.e. remaining 5% Contribution of Superannuation Benefit as realistic contribution.

6. Pay Anomaly issue/Loss to Young DR/ LICE JTOs/JAOs for getting Rs.22820/-

7. E1+5 increments for post 2010 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs

8. EPF full Pension

9. Formation of Trust/Fund for PRMB (Post Retired Medical Benefits) for BSNL Recruits.

10. Pension Contribution on Actual Basic Pay instead of Maximum of the Pay Scale.

11. Scrapping of MTRR.

12. Discrepancies in the SDE(T) Seniority List.9 issued on 10.8.2020- AIBSNLEA Stand.

13. Payment of medical bills for both Serving &Retired Executives.   

He informed the House that due to consistent efforts of AIBNLEA only, 13,000 Promotion orders were issued for various disciplines and assured that AIBSNLEA will always safe guard the interests of the Executives.

21 He further mentioned that the need of the hour is to form Joint Forum of Associations for better bargaining with the Management. He has made it clear that AIBSNLEA will keep its separate identity and continue to work hard to face the challenges and make BSNL viable & Profitable in the years to come. 

     He assured that  AIBSNLEA will safe guard the interests of the Executives and fight for the Genuine and Legitimate demands and rights of the Executives and requested the new Circle Team of Youngsters to conduct Extensive tour throughout Tamilnadu and conduct General body meetings in all the Districts and enrol more number of Young Executives to our fold and strengthen out Great AIBSNLEA.

    The following resolutions were unanimously adopted in the Special G.B Meeting.

1.  Allocation of 4G Spectrum in time as assured by Govt has to be insisted.

2.  To pay compensation to BSNL @ Rs.5000 Crores per annum for not allocating 4G Spectrum in time as assured.

3.  Payment of  Salary to the Staff of BSNL  has to be assured at the  last day of the month without fail.

4.  To request in the CWC Meeting at Trivandrum for allotting Venue to  Tamilnadu for conducting All India Conference .

5.  Urged the (AUAB)  to organise Agitation Programme for the settlement of  long pending Financial Viablitiy issues and timely payment of Salary.

A Delicious Lunch was provided in the Afternoon.

The meeting  concluded with the Vote of Thanks by  Com.Dhanasekar

C. F.S.  TN Circle.

Before the commencement the meeting, Press Meet was held. Our General Secretary  Com. S. Sivakumar  had given a detailed note about the current financial status of BSNL and pending demands of AUAB and replied  the queries of the Press and Media Persons. 

Wide coverage was given in the leading News papers, Local newspapers and Media in the next day

Elaborate and Excellent arrangements were made by the Tuticorin District Office bearers and Comrades Rajan, Sermadurai and Sornaraj

<<<Click here for Glimpses>>>

19.02.2021 GS writes to

(1) The PGM (Pers.),BSNL Corporate Office regarding

(a) Request for transfer in the cadre of JAO on “Own Cost” from Himachal Pradesh Circle to Haryana Circle

(b) Request for transfer in the cadre of JAO on “Own Cost” from NETF  to Assam Circle

(c) - Implementation of Assured Carrier Progression Scheme

(d) Representation received from Shri Rajesh Vishwakarma, AO HR No. 200402511, Jharkhand Circle regarding restoration of inter- se- seniority amongst regularly promoted Accounts officers <<Click here for letter>>

(2) The Sr. GM General Manager (Estt.) BSNL Corporate Office regarding Request for Counting of Training period for the purpose of drawal increment in JE Cadre – Case of Shri R.Ramanan, JE, BSNL,TN Circle <<Click here for letter>>

17.02.2021 Report of 6^th Circle Conference of AIBSNLEA Corporate Office Circle, New Delhi:- The 6^th Circle Conference of AIBSNLEA Corporate Office Circle New Delhi was held at CTO Sabhagar, Eastern Court Complex, New Delhi on 11^th February 2021. It was well organized with a mammoth gathering.

General Secretary, AIBSNLEA Com. S. Sivakumar, AGS (HQ) Com. Bhagwan Singh, AGS (Finance) Com. Rajpal Sharma, FS CHQ Com. R.N. Chhabra, OS (North) Com. Devesh Sharma, Auditor CHQ Com. R.S. Slathia & Advisor CHQ Com. Rajesh Pathak participated and addressed the gathering. Shri Inderjeet Singh, GM (Finance) NTR has grace the occasion as Guest of Honour and addressed the House.

The meeting was presided over by Com. R.N. Chhabra, Ex-President Corporate Office Circle and FS CHQ since the Circle President Com. B.B. Trivedi, DGM (Trg) CO BSNL has transferred and joined in MP Circle Bhopal recently. The CP has conveyed his Best Wishes for grand success of the Circle Conference of AIBSNLEA CO Circle and Congrats the newly elected Circle Body in advance.  The Welcome speech on behalf of BB Trivedi, CP CO Circle was delivered by AGS (Fin) Com. Rajpal Sharma, he welcomes all the Guests, OBs and members present in the House. Com. AGS (Fin) specifically mentioned that it is the GS AIBSNLEA only who is all time available even during the Covid-19 Pandemic and continues in touch & meeting with the Management to resolve the issues during the Pandemic time also. Circle Secretary CO Circle Com. Dinesh Kumar delivered the Key Note address and underlined the important issues at CHQ level as well as Circle level.

Shri Inderjeet Singh, GM (Fin) NTR Circle BSNL addressed the gathering. In his address GM (Fin) mentioned the various issues related to BSNL Revival & Viability. He emphasized that now it is the right time that all the Employees and the Management of BSNL have to work together/hard to regain the Original Pristine Glory of BSNL. He thanked AIBSNLEA for giving him the opportunity to address the gathering and praise the CHQ Leadership for their matured views on various issues.

OS (North) Com. Devesh Sharma, in his energetic and impressive speech informed the House regarding all the issues related to Viability of BSNL, Promotions in various Cadres, and AIBSNLEA’s role in various Agitation Programmes.
All the CHQ Leaders addressed the gathering and mentioned about the important role of Corporate Office Circle being at the same station of the HQ of AIBSNLEA CHQ. They highlighted the fact that it is only AIBSNLEA which understands the issues of all Cadres and also actively & effectively pursues with the Management. They assured that CHQ will always extend its  co-operation to Corporate Circle Branch.

The gathering was very curious to listen their beloved leader Com. S.Sivakumar, GS, AIBSNLEA. In a very impressive & Commanding Speech GS covered all the issues from viability of BSNL to the organizational matters, HR issues & Court Cases etc. He called upon the youngsters to shoulder the responsibility to build up the Association at all levels. He explained in detail about the current financial status of BSNL and pending HR issues.

1.        Due to non-allocation of 4G Spectrum, BSNL is put into continuous losses and in the financial year 2019-2020 BSNL put into a loss of Rs.15,500 Cr and the current debt of BSNL is around Rs.21,875 Cr. Outstanding Vendor bills are around Rs.18,000 Cr.

2.        To install 4G Towers at 57000 Sites, Tender has been floated by BSNL to the tune of Rs.8600 Cr. on 23.03.2020, but cancelled by DoT on the plea of “Make in India”. AUAB requested Hon’ble PMO to grant permission to upgrade about 49300 - 2G & 3G BTS to provide 4G Services which will cost only Rs.1500 Cr. But the Cabinet approved  the Procurement, Commissioning/Launching of 4G Services through EOI Tender from Indian Domestic Vendors only and denying the level playing ground to BSNL. As per the approval of the Cabinet, EOI Tender notified by the BSNL inviting applications from the Domestic Vendors on 01.01.2021 which will take another 2 years to launch 4G Services by BSNL. AIBSNLEA and AUAB accepted the “Make in India” plan of the GoI, but the Private Telecom Operators were allowed to purchase Equipments from Foreign Vendors like Samsung, Nokia, ZTE, Ericson, etc., Permission may also be granted to BSNL on the same lines without any discrimination and delay.

3.        He insisted that the Govt. should pay compensation to BSNL for not allocating 4G Spectrum in time as assured through the Cabinet approval on 23.10.2019 @ Rs.5000 Crores per Annum. 

4.        He told that Govt. of India/DoT has not kept up their words fully in implementation of Revival Package of BSNL except implementation of VRS-2019 and approval of Rs.8500 Sovereign Guarantee Bonds. Even after expiry of 15 months of assurance, 4G Spectrum is not allocated to BSNL.

5.        He urged the DoT for Immediate release of the outstanding Claims Payable  to BSNL viz., Rural Deficit Charges, Interest on WiMax Spectrum surrendered, CDMA Spectrum, Leave Encashment, Excess Recovery of Pension Contribution etc., to the tune of Rs.30,000 Cr.     

He also mentioned that All Unions and Associations of BSNL (AUAB) is planning to organize Agitational Programme for the immediate settlement of the following Issues/Demands:

a. Immediate allotment of 4G Spectrum to BSNL as already assured on 23.10.2019 and immediate permission of the Govt. of India to upgrade about 49300- 2G & 3G BTS sites to provide 4G Services by BSNL.

b. To pay compensation to BSNL @ Rs.5000 Crores per annum for not allocating 4G Spectrum in time as assured.

c. Timely payment of Salary to the Staff of BSNL – i.e ., on the last day of the month.

d. Immediate Regular Promotion in all the Cadres

e. Immediate payment of Compensation to BSNL for serving in Rural/ Tribal/Naxalite prone Areas, Compensation for carrying out Govt. Projects, Excess payment of Pension Contribution, Reimbursement of Leave Encashment paid to the absorbed employees for the DoT period, Interest on surrendered Wi-Max Spectrum etc., to the tune of Rs.30,000- Cr.

f. Deterioration in Quality of Service and more fault rates due to Cluster Tender and Outsourcing of Works/Massive retrenchment of Contract Workers.

He appealed all the Unions and Associations to come together under one Umbrella to get the due financial support from the Govt so as to make the BSNL Viable and to regain its original pristine Glory.

He explained about the Status on the various pending HR issues taken by the AIBSNLEA CHQ with the Management:

1. Regular Promotions in all the Cadres in all the Streams and Career Progression up to the level of GM/ CGM/ Director and the Status of CPSU CH and AIBSNLEA stand in this regard. We strongly oppose any Look-After arrangement instead of Regular Promotions.

2. Full 30% SAB i.e. remaining 5% Contribution of Superannuation Benefit as realistic contribution.

3. Pay Anomaly issue/Loss to Young DR/ LICE JTOs/JAOs for getting Rs.22820/-

4. E1+5 increments for post 2010 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs

5. EPF full Pension

6. Standard Pay Scale of E2 and E3 replacing E1A and E2A for all Post 2007 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs and for the future DRs

7. Formation of Trust/Fund for PRMB (Post Retired Medical Benefits) for BSNL Recruits.

8. Pension Contribution on Actual Basic Pay instead of Maximum of the Pay Scale.

9. Scrapping of MTRR.

10. Stand of AIBSNLEA in respect of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy.  

11. Payment of pending medical bills for both Serving & Retired employees.                   

He further mentioned that due to consistent efforts of AIBNLEA only, 13,000 Promotion orders were issued for various disciplines and assured that AIBSNLEA will always safe guard the interests of the Executives.

He opined that the need of the hour is to form Joint Forum of Associations for better bargaining with the Management. He has made it clear that AIBSNLEA will keep its separate identity and continue to work hard to face the challenges and make BSNL Viable & Profitable in the years to come. He assured that  AIBSNLEA will safe guard the interests of the Executives and fight for the genuine and Legitimate demands and rights of the Executives and requested the House to elect the new Circle Team from amongst the Youngsters to keep the AIBSNLEA Flag high and enroll more & more numbers of Young Executives to our fold. GS has clarified many of the queries raised by the members to their full satisfaction.

The House has unanimously elected the New Circle Team. The following members have been elected as CP, CS & Circle FS for the next term of 3 years (2021-2024).

President:               Com. Rajender Kumar, AGM

Circle Secretary:     Com. Dinesh Kumar, DM

Finance Secretary:  Com. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, AO

The Delicious Lunch was provided in the Afternoon. The 6^th Circle Conference of AIBSNLEA Corporate Office Circle came to an end with the vote of thanks by Com. Dinesh Kumar, the newly elected Circle Secretary and the Oath to the newly elected Circle Team by Com. Rajpal Sharma, AGS (Fin.) with the gracious presence of our beloved General Secretary Com. S.Sivakumar.<<<Click here for Glimpses>>>

12.02.2021 GS writes to Shri P.K.Purwar, CMD BSNL regarding Justification for Provision of “CAO” Posts in DGM headed Operation Offices on Consolidation of SSAs into Business Area and Rationalization of Work after Restructuring in BSNL in view of Restructuring Cell CO BSNL letter dated 27.08.2020.

Regarding other categories of Executives i.e. Technical/Engg/including DGM (Fin) etc., the views of AIBSNLEA with the detailed analysis & justification will be submitted in due course for perusal & consideration to the Management very shortly  <<Click here for GS letter>>      <<Click here for Restructuring Cell letter>>

11.02.2021Father of our Respected Director(CFA) Shri Vivek Banzal Sir Passed away Yesterday Night. AIBSNLEA convey its Heart felt condolences to Director (CFA) Sir and bereaved family members. May the Soul Rest in Peace.

11.02.2021 SPECIAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLEA KARNATAKA CIRCLE

General Secretary, AIBSNLEA Com. S. Sivakumar, CHQ President Com. Subhasis Mitra, CHQ VP Com. Chakoli Appalal, AGS (Engg) Com. S.K. Hiremath, OS (South) Com. C. Duraiarasan, Chairman AIBSNLEA Karnataka Circle Com. H. Krishnegowda, Advisor Finance AIBSNLEA KTK Com. Ulhas Gurav participated and addressed the gathering.

The meeting was presided over by Com R.A.Manjunatha Circle VP. The proceedings commenced at 10.00 hrs with invocation. Com B.S. Shivalingappa Circle Secretary welcomed the Dignitaries to the Dias. Then the meeting proceeded as per the Agenda. Com R.A. Manjunatha, President of the Special GB has welcomed all the CHQ leaders, Chairman, Advisor (Fin), all the office bearers to the meeting. CHQ President, GS, OS (South), CHQ VP & AGS (Engg) were felicitated by the Circle body. Com B.S.Shivalingappa, CS KTK presented a brief report and Com Y.Nagarajappa FS presented the Accounts before the House and both were approved by the August House.

CHQ President in his address recalled the Aims & Objectives of formation of AIBSNLEA in the year 2004 at Kolkata. He called upon the members not to worry about the count of the numbers but we shall work unitedly and oppose the Government's Policies against Privatisation of PSU's. He said that SNEA & AIGETOA utterly failed in the entire front and called upon the youngsters to shoulder the responsibility to build up the Association at all levels.   

Com. C. Duraiarasan OS (South) addressed the gathering and at the outset he thanked the Circle Association for inviting him for the Special GB. He explained elaborately the issues taken up & resolved by our Association at all levels and called upon all the members to work together. He highlighted the fact that it is only AIBSNLEA which understands the issues of all Cadres and also actively & effectively pursues with the Management. He opined that the New Body should take the guidance of retired and Veteran Leaders.     

Our beloved General Secretary Com. S. Sivakumar in his address said that due to Covid-19 Pandemic, he was unable to be present physically in the various meetings held at Karnataka Circle during the last 8 months. He explained in detail about  the  current financial status of BSNL and pending HR issues.

1. He urged the DoT for Immediate release of the outstanding claims Payable  to BSNL viz., Rural Deficit Charges, Interest on WiMax Spectrum surrendered, CDMA Spectrum, Leave Encashment ,excess recovery of Pension Contribution, etc to the tune of Rs.30,000 Cr.     

2. He told that Govt. of India /DoT has not kept up their words fully in implementation of Revival Package of BSNL except implementation of VRS-2019 and approval of Rs.8500 Sovereign Guarantee Bonds. Even after expiry of 15 months of assurance, 4G Spectrum is not allocated to BSNL.

3. Due to non-allocation of 4G, BSNL is put into continuous losses and in the financial year 2019-2020 BSNL put into a loss of Rs.15500 Cr and the current debt of BSNL is around Rs.21,875 Cr. Out standing Vendor bills are around Rs.18,000 Cr.

4. To install 4G Towers at 57000 Sites, Tender has been floated by BSNL to the tune of Rs.8600 Cr. on 23.03.2020, but cancelled by DoT on the plea of “Make in India”. AUAB requested Hon’ble PMO to grant permission to upgrade about 49300 - 2G & 3G BTS to provide 4G Services which will cost only Rs.1500 Cr. But the Cabinet approved  the Procurement, Commissioning/Launching of 4G Services through EOI Tender from Indian Domestic Vendors only and denying the level playing ground to BSNL. As per the approval of the Cabinet, EOI Tender notified by the BSNL inviting applications from the Domestic Vendors on 01.01.2021 which will take another 2 years to launch 4G Services by BSNL. AIBSNLEA and AUAB accepted the “Make in India” plan of the GoI, but the Private Telecom Operators were allowed to purchase Equipments from Foreign Vendors like Samsung, Nokia, ZTE, Ericson, etc., Permission may also be granted to BSNL on the same lines without any discrimination and delay.

5. He insisted that the Govt. should pay compensation to BSNL for not allocating 4G Spectrum in time as assured through the Cabinet approval on 23.10.2019 @ Rs.5000 Crores per Annum. 

6. Hon’ble Telecom Minister has given the Press statement that BSNL has become EBITDA positive due to Revival Package but actually BSNL is facing loss in the current Fin. Year also, if we taken in to account Depreciation, License Fee and Spectrum Charges  and Revenue earned comparing to last December 2019.

He also mentioned that AUAB is planning to organise Agitational Programme for the settlement of the following Issues/Demands:

1. Immediate allotment of 4G Spectrum to BSNL as already assured on 23.10.2019 and immediate permission of the Govt. of India  to upgrade about 49300- 2G & 3G BTS to provide 4G Services by BSNL.

2. To pay compensation to BSNL @ Rs.5000 Crores per annum for not allocating 4G Spectrum in time as assured.

3. Timely payment of Salary to the Staff of BSNL – i.e ., on the last day of the month.

4. Immediate Regular Promotion in all the Cadres of Executives and Non-Executives.

5. Immediate payment of Compensation to BSNL for serving in Rural / Tribal/Naxalite prone Areas, Compensation for carrying out Govt. Projects, Excess payment of Pension Contribution, Reimbursement of Leave Encashment paid to the absorbed employees for the DoT period, Interest on surrendered Wi-Max Spectrum etc., to the tune of Rs.30,000- Cr.

6. Deterioration in Quality of Service and more fault rates due to Cluster Tender and Outsourcing of Works/Massive retrenchment of Contract Workers.

7.  And he appealed all the Unions and Associations to come together under one Umbrella “AUAB” to get the due financial support from the Govt so as to make the BSNL Viable and to regain its original pristine Glory.

8. He explained the Status on the various pending HR issues taken by the AIBSNLEA CHQ with the Management:

9.    

101. Regular Promotions in all the Cadres in all the Streams and Career Progression up to the level of GM/ CGM/ Director and the Status of CPSU CH and AIBSNLEA stand in this regard.

112. Full 30% SAB i.e. remaining 5 Percent Superannuation Contribution as realistic contribution

123. Pay Anomaly issue /Loss of Young DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs for getting Rs.22820

134. E1+5 increments for post  2010 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs

145. EPF full Pension

156. Standard Pay Scale of E2 and E3 replacing E1A and E2A for all Post 2007 DR/LICE JTOs/JAOs and for the future DRs

167. Formation of Trust/Fund for PRMB (Post Retired Medical Benefits) for BSNL Recruits

178. Pension Contribution on Actual Basic Pay instead of Maximum of the Pay Scale.

189. Scrapping of MTRR & DGMRR.

1910. Stand of AIBSNLEA in respect of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy.  

11. Payment of medical bills for both Serving &Retired executive's.                   

20He further mentioned that due to consistent efforts of AIBNLEA only, 13,000 Promotion orders were issued for various disciplines and assured that AIBSNLEA will always safe guard the interests of the Executives.

21He further mentioned that the need of the hour is to form Joint Forum of Associations for better bargaining with the Management. He has made it clear that AIBSNLEA will keep its separate identity and continue to work hard to face the challenges and make BSNL viable & Profitable in the years to come. He assured that  AIBSNLEA will safe guard the interests of the Executives and fight for the genuine and Legitimate demands and rights of the Executives and requested the new Circle Team of Youngsters to conduct General body meeting an all the Districts and enrol more number of Young Executives to our fold. In the afternoon interactive session GS has clarified many of the queries raised by the members to their full satisfaction.

In the Special General Body Meeting, the New and talented Youngsters are co-opted unanimously to the vacant posts of the Circle body-

1.  Circle President:              Com. Sunilkumar B.S. , SDE  Shivamogga

2.  Circle Secretary:              Com. R.Ganesh,  AO Mysore

3.  Circle Finance Secretary: Com. Vanitha S. , AO CO BG

    A Delicious Lunch was provided in the Afternoon. The meeting was concluded with the Vote of Thanks by Com. Ulhas Gurav Advisor (Fin).

<<<Click here for Glimpses>>>

10.02.2021 Meeting with Shri R.K. Goyal, PGM (Pers) CO BSNL and discussed regarding:

(a) Provisional Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T): As assured by the PGM (Pers.) earlier to call AIB

SNLEA for discussion about the Seniority list No 9 of SDE(T), today PGM (Pers.) called AIBSNLEA to submit our views regarding the Provisional Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T) issued by the Pers. branch on 10.08.2020. We have presented our views before the PGM (Pers.) and handed over the copy of letter addressed to CMD BSNL, wherein we have categorically mentioned that the Provisional Seniority List No. 9 is not prepared purely on the basis of the date of joining in accordance with the judgment pronounced by Hon’ble Supreme Court, and Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh but it is prepared on the basis of Date of Joining within the vacancy Year. Any RR amendment is applicable from that date (that is Prospective in nature) but not on retrospectively i.e., w.e.f. 28.08.2015 only. 

PGM (Pers.) mentioned that after taking the views from all the Stakeholders and going through the Rulings, Laws, RRs & Amendments therein and Court Judgements, the discrepancies will be removed and the list will be finalized purely as per the Law & Rules only.  <<Click here for GS letter>>

(b) JTO to SDE (T) Promotions:  We enquired about the status of JTO (T) to SDE promotion. PGM (Pers) mentioned after a long and detailed hearing the Judgement has been kept reserved and we are waiting for the Judgement Copy from Hon’ble CAT Jabalpur. Personnel branch is trying its best for early issuance of the Promotion orders from JTO (T) to SDE (T).

 (c) Request for consideration of immediate Regular Promotions in all the Cadres: GS appraised the PGM (Pers) that thousands of Executives already drawing Higher Scales are working in the entry level grade of JTO equivalent and waiting for their Promotions for the years together. AIBSNLEA has continuously pursuing and requesting the BSNL Management for the issuance of Regular Promotion Orders in all Cadres. We strongly oppose any look-after arrangement in higher grade but we demand immediate promotions on ‘Regular Basis’. 

PGM (Pers) mentioned that the Regular Promotion issue is under consideration with the BSNL Management but due to various Court Cases and Restructuring Plan pending, it is not immediately possible. Regarding Restructuring Plan, necessary presentation to the Management has been given by M/s Deloittee and now it is to be discussed internally within the Management and after due approval from the Board, it will be implemented. Further, Management is trying to sort out the Regular promotion issue with a workable solution acceptable to all through discussions.

    (d) Consideration of request transfers in the Cadre of Accounts Officer:- We appraised PGM (Pers.) that AIBSNLEA has discussed the transfer issue with the CMD BSNL and Director (Finance) and requested to consider the long pending request transfers in the Cadre of AO. We informed that Accounts Personals are waiting for their request transfers since long whereas the transfer orders in other cadres are being issued regularly.

    PGM (Pers) mentioned that he is also finding out the time to meet and discuss with Director (Fin). The transfer orders will be issued after getting clearance from the Competent Authority soon.

09.02.2021 CWC News: AIBSNLEA Kerala Circle formed various Committees in connection with Central Working Committee of AIBSNLEA scheduled to be held on 6th and 7th March 2021 at Trivandrum, Kerala.

For any further clarification, please contact Com. V. Shaji, CS Kerala (9446450450) and other Committee members as detailed below: 

1.     Reception & Accommodation Committee

2.           2.     Accommodation & Food Committee 

05.02.2021: GS writes to Shri P.K. Purwar, CMD BSNL regarding-

(1) Immediate conduction of LDCE- 33% quota as per SDE(T) RR from the Vacancy Year 2011-12 onwards for promoting the eligible JTOs...  <<Click here for letter>>

(2) Immediate conduction of LICE 33% quota from Asstt. Manager to Dy. Manager (CSS Cadre) from the Vacancy Year 2015 onwards...  <<Click here for letter>>

05.02.2021: Status of List no. 9 seniority case at Hon'ble CAT Chennai Bench: BSNL CO has  issued provisional seniority list no, 9 for the TES Gr-'B' equivalent to SDE(T) 2006-07 dated 10.08.2020. Some Senior candidates promoted earlier though Seniority-Cum-fitness quota aggrieved due to the wrong fixation of their seniority in the list no. 9 have approached the Hon'ble CAT Chennai  to recast the same basis on  DOJ as per Law (as per Chandigarh CAT & Supreme Court Orders in the case of list no. 6 , 7 & 8).

Hon'ble Chennai CAT directed the respondent (BSNL) to consider the  representations of the applicants aggrieved due to disputed provisional seniority list no. 9 dated 10.08.2020 and issuance of speaking order 'As per Law' within a period of two months. <<<Click here for order>>>

04.02.2021:Meeting with Director(Finance), BSNL Board-

(c) Long pending outstanding dues receivable from DoT : We brought to the notice of Director(Finance) that long pending outstanding dues i.e. claims receivable from DoT to the tune of Rs.27550 Crs. We requested immediate efforts / persuasions to be taken with  DoT so as to manage financial  crunch of BSNL. Director(Finance) appreciated our concern and mentioned that BSNL Management seriously persuaded with DoT regularly and we will expect some amount in near future. GS handed over the copy of the letter addressed to Secy(T), DoT to Director(Finance)....<<<Click here for GS Letter to Secy(T),DoT>>>.

To the Kind Attention of All Circle Secretaries/ Finance Secretaries

Dear Comrades!

Despite of repeated requests, the claim regarding monthly deducted subscription list has not been received from most of the Circles. Hence all the Circle Secretaries are once again requested to collect the monthly deducted subscription  list  of  their respective Circle from May-2020 to Nov-2020 from their respective Circle ERP Team/AO CSC with the authenticated signature and stamp and submit the same  along with the consolidated claim to Finance Secretary CHQ Sh. Ramnath Chhabra (email id: fschqaibsnlea@gmail.com;  Mobile Nos.:  09868231711 & 09416646742)  so as to release Circle/SSA Quota by the CHQ from May 2020 to November 2020 as GM ERP Ghaziabad & Sr.GM (SR) issued instructions to the CGMs of all Circles that ERP Circle Team has to give the monthly list of Assn. Membership recovery SSA wise to the concerned Circle Secretary on or before 7th of every month. <<<Click here for letter>>>

To the Kind Attention of All Circle Secretaries

Dear Comrades! As already notified our CWC is being held on 6^th & 7^th March 2021 at Trivandrum. It is once again requested that wherever Circle Conference is due and wherever new Circle Office bearers are to be elected, the same may be conducted/completed and the Regular Circle Body may be formed before the CWC.

As per the Constitution, Circle President, Circle Secretary and CWC Members are eligible to attend the CWC.

As per the Constitution, One CWC Member for the Circle having Regular Body and having minimum 150 Membership is eligible for attending the CWC. Circle having Regular Body and having more than 300 Membership, one additional CWC Member for every 300 continuous paid Membership is eligible. Observers/Visitors/Guests are strictly not allowed for CWC due to the Covid-19 Pandemic situation as well as the Cost of Accommodation and Hospitality is on very higher side.

All the Circle Secretaries are requested to strictly adhere the above Guidelines as per the Constitution and co-operate with the CHQ and the Host Circle for the successful conduct of the CWC.

Further clarifications, if any, in this regard may kindly be obtained from Com. V.Shaji, Circle Secretary, AIBSNLEA Kerala Circle [Mobile no.09446450450].

After the formation of Accommodation / Reception Committee the contact details will be published on CHQ Web-site.

In response to GS SNEA request regarding to join and support the Agitation Programme w.e.f. 15.02.2021, GS AIBSNLEA replied in writing  that it is our considered opinion that the need of the hour is the ‘UNITY’ and immediately We, the AIBSNLEA, SNEA & AIGETOA have to revive the United Forum and discuss in detail about the possibilities of the Regular Promotions as per the existing RRs before the finalization of Restructuring Plan and drastic reduction of the Posts in all the Cadres in BSNL and we should submit a Joint Memorandum to the Management for discussion.

He further sought positive response from SNEA that United Forum has to be revived for mounting pressure on the Management for the Regular CPCs else better Career Progression by implementing the Khan Committee Recommendations in true spirit and real sense, for the betterment of the Executives of BSNL.

<<Click here for GS reply>>>   <<<Click here for SNEA letter>>>

<<<Click here for AIBSNLEA views on CPSU CH>>> 

Today GS AIBSNLEA, AGS (Fin) and CHQ-Auditor met Shri R.K. Goyal, PGM (Pers) CO BSNL and discussed regarding:

(a) JTO to SDE (T) Promotion:  We enquired about the status of JTO (T) to SDE promotion. PGM (Pers) mentioned that there is continuous hearing in Hon’ble CAT bench at Jabalpur in this case and we are waiting for the outcome of the court decision. DPC work is completed and Personnel branch is trying its best to issue JTO (T) to SDE (T) promotion orders shortly.

(b) Discrepancies in the Provisional Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T) for the Promotion to DE(T): We appraised the PGM (Pers.) about the discrepancies observed in the Provisional Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T) for the promotion to DE(T) issued by the Pers branch on 10.08.2020 and we categorically mentioned that the Provisional Seniority List No. 9 is not prepared purely on the basis of the date of joining in accordance with the judgment pronounced by Hon’ble Supreme Court, but it is prepared on the basis of Date of Joining within the vacancy Year. Since AIBSNLEA CHQ has received more than 400 representations which have already been forwarded to Pers. Branch, we requested PGM (Pers) to consider the views of AIBSNLEA also before finalization of the Seniority list No.9 of SDE(T) so as to avoid any further Litigation. 

PGM (Pers.) mentioned that we are waiting for the outcome of the Chennai CAT decision and after that the issue will be discussed with AIBSNLEA also and discrepancies will be removed and the list will be finalized purely as per Rules, regulations & Law/Court Orders.

(c) Consideration of request transfers in the Cadre of Accounts Officers:-We requested PGM (Pers.) to consider the long pending request transfers in the Cadre of AOs. We informed PGM (Pers.) that Accounts Personnel are waiting for their request transfers since long whereas the transfer orders in other cadres are being issued regularly. PGM (Pers) mentioned that all request transfers are pending for the discussion with Director (Finance) and after clearance from the Director (Fin), it will be issued immediately.

(d) AO to CAO “Status Quo” case pending in Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh: GS has written a letter to CMD BSNL to intervene in the matter and depute the Sr. Advocate to the Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh for appearing in AO to CAO promotion case to vacate the Status Quo, which is due for hearing on 09.02.2021 so that all eligible AOs can be promoted who are waiting for their promotions for more than 13 years since there is acute shortage in the cadre of CAO.

GS handed over the copy of the letter to PGM (Pers) for taking necessary action in this regard and requested to get vacate the Status Quo in this case from the Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh. The case has been discussed with DGM (Pers-Legal) also.

After patient hearing, PGM (Pers) mentioned that all necessary steps will be taken and DGM (Legal) will personally contact with the Sr. Advocate in CAT Chandigarh and all out efforts will be taken in the matter. DGM (Pers-Legal) mentioned that since at present the Judicial Member is not sitting in the CAT Chandigarh Bench and all the cases are being heard from Hon’ble CAT Bangalore Bench through conferencing. However, he assured that we will discuss with our Sr. Advocate for making best efforts in this case. 

BSNL has filed Write Petition in the Hon’ble High Court of Punjab and Haryana Chandigarh challenging the Interim Order passed in OA No 60/1435/2018 titled Anupam Yadav Vs BSNL. The Hon’ble High Court has delivered the judgment dated 28.01.2020 in the CWP-9614-2019 (O&M) that:

The case was listed for hearing on 06.11.2020 but it has been further postponed to 09.02.2021 without giving any relaxation to BSNL on the vacation of “Status Quo” in respect of the promotion case of AO to CAO.

GS AIBSNLEA requested CMD BSNL to kindly intervene in the matter and cause to issue necessary instructions to the officers concerned to depute a Senior Advocate for arguing the case in Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh for early disposal of the Original Application as per the directions of Hon’ble HC of Punjab and Haryana so that eligible young AOs of BSNL may get their due promotions since they are waiting for their promotion for more than 13 years.   <<<Click here for GS Letter>>>