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

GMs and PGMs posted to SSAs having less than 20,000 connections are not at all justified. SSAs having more than 1 lakh connections are not having GM, SSAs with 3,000 connections have GM! SSAs having less than 20,000 connections can be headed by TDMs or TDEs and all the excess ITS officers working in BSNL on deployment basis can be repatriated immediately and have huge savings. HR activities in BSNL require full review.

On one side BSNL is struggling to pay the salary to its employees and working for the retrenchment of its own employees. On the other hand, BSNL unnecessarily keeping excess officers on deputation from DoT and paying them. 

GS letter to CMD

SNEA welcomes the new Director(HR) Shri Arvind Vadnerkar.

GS letter to new Director(HR) 

Shri Arvind Vadnerkar has taken charges as new Director(HR), BSNL Board on 14.10.2019 evening. He will hold the post till 30.09.2023, i.e. the date of his superannuation.

SNEA wishes him all the success. We extend our wholehearted support to all his efforts to motivate BSNL Executives by resolving their complex HR issues which remain unattended for long time.

All Unions & Associations of BSNL (AUAB) notice for Hunger strike on 18.10.2019 at BSNLCO, Circle/SSA HQs.

AUAB Notice

A meeting of the AUAB was held today. SNEA, BSNLEU, NFTE, AIBSNLEA, FNTO, SEWA, SNATTA, BSNLMS, AIBSNLOA, BSNLOA, TEPU, TOA BSNL and BEA attended the meeting. The meeting expressed its serious resentment over the non-payment of the September salary. Non-payment of contract/casual workers wages for the past 8 months, non-payment of electricity bills, the misleading reports appearing in the media that BSNL would be closed down etc, were seriously viewed by the meeting. After indepth discussion, it was decided to organise one day hunger strike on 18-10-2019, to be participated by the General Secretaries, Circle Secretaries and District Secretaries at the Corporate Office, Circle and SSA levels respectively. Together with this, lunch hour demonstrations are to be organised at all the places on same day, involving the entire Executives and Non-Executives of BSNL. The meeting also taken a decision to approach all Unions and Associations which were not able to participate in the meeting held on 11.10.2019. The AUAB will again meet on 21.10.2019, to decide about the future course of action.

Demands

1. Immediate payment of the September salary. Timely payment of salary every month.

2. Payment of contract/casual workers wages, electricity bills, rentals etc.

3. Revival of BSNL by immediate allocation of 4G spectrum, extension of financial assistance/ soft loan and approval for BSNL’s Land Monetisation policy.

4. Settlement of 3rd Pay Revision, Pension Revision and 30% Superannuation benefits.

5. Payment towards Banks, LIC premium, Societies, GPF etc.

CS writes to CGMT regarding requesting to maintain the status quo - as SDE - Order dated 04/10/2019 of O.A. No 703/2019 of the Honorable Central Administrative Tribunal, Ernakulam Bench wrt JTO to SDE LDCE 2007 as done in Tamil Nadu Circle. We expect that Kerala circle will follow an employee friendly attitude in this crucial HR matter rather than driving the executives to unnecessary litigations till a final disposal is made by the  Hon. Central Administrative Tribunal  Ernakulam in the  Original Application 703/2019. View Letter

CS writes to CGMT regarding Optimum utilization of available HR in LD islands, avoiding unnecessary spending by way of TA/DA, Island allowance, hard tenure allowance, etc during the hours of grave financial crisis and when austerity measures are enforced restricting even cleaning/sweeping works in office premises, our suggestions. View Letter

View Media Report:

BSNL quashes news reports of closure, says govt working on revival plan. 

GS writes to Secretary DoT: Request for issuing a press release refuting the fake news published in some news papers and other print/electronic media on 08.10.2019 regarding closure of BSNL/MTNL, quoting Finance Ministry sources. GS letter to Secretary, DoT

The Union/Association leaders available at New Delhi held a meeting on 07.10.2019 to review the situation, the issues like abnormal delay in disbursement of salary, labour/electricity payments and BSNL revival. The meeting is of the opinion to strengthen the unity and launch organizational actions immediately on the above issues. The programs will be announced on 11^th after discussing with other Unions/Assns.

GS writes to Shri Sheetla Prasad Tripathi, DIR(CM):

Issues related to poor SIM sales, Reduction in revenue, revenue leakage and the unwarranted threat of Salary deduction. GS letter to DIR(CM) on SIM sales

GS writes to Shri P K Purwar, CMD, BSNL:

Taking necessary steps on defaulted payment of EMI/Installments of Home Loans, Insurance, Society etc for the recoveries made from salary by taking up with Banks, LIC, Society etc, owning the responsibility of payments by BSNL. GS letter to CMD on EMI/Instalments

Positive Developments on BSNL Revival Plan

Home Minister Shri Amit Shah and head of GoM sent a reminder to DoT few days back why the GoM decision on BSNL Revival is not getting implemented. He insisted that there should not be any change in the GoM decision. This might have made the Finance Ministry and others to agree to BSNL proposal, to great extent.

Our timely letters to the Hon PM and HM highlighting the GoM decisions and the attempt by Finance Ministry officials to scuttle the revival plan even by questioning the GoM authority has highlighted by the print and social media and made a big issue.

It is understood that the discussions held at PMO yesterday was very positive and the Secretaries from different Depts come to an understanding that BSNL Revival is required and BSNL can be Revived. Discussions are continuing on the implementation of Revival package. Hopefully it will be concluded in another one week and proposal may go to the Cabinet for approval before Deepavali.

Comrades of Thrissur under the leadership of Com. Muraleedharan who were officiating  as JTO to SDE  and benefited by the order for protection of pay they have drawn during officiating  period prior to 2007, the date on which EPP was ordered due to the continuous  persuation of SNEA at CHQ  for 10 years upto 2017 donated Rs 14000 - the amount they have collected for court case in this matter.

More than 3000 executives  who were officiating  as SDEs  up to 2007 have benefited by this orders.

Similar contribution  was made by Calicut comrades under the leadership of Com. Kanakadas.

SNEA Congratulates and thank  these Comrades.

Circle  Association  as mark of gratitude to Thrissur Comrades have decided to donate the amount to the relief fund of SNEA Thrissur.

Masive Protest Demonstration throughout the country on 01.10.2019

Thousands of employees participated in the Lunch Hour demonstration at all Circle and SSA HQs in protest against the non-payment of salary in time, non-payment of wages to contract workers, electricity bills, rentals etc and total ban on capital expenditure along with other issues related with Revival of BSNL. Employees demanded that BSNL or DoT should pay the salary to all BSNL employees as DoT is the Principal Employer and owner of the company.

Govt is deliberately delaying the Revival package making BSNL sick day by day. It is becoming clear day by day. GoM is recommending the Revival package but Govt Secretaries are opposing it. From management side also much efforts are not visible to motivate the employees and increase the business. So strong agitation is required in the near future to compel the Govt to approve the Revival Package as suggested by us approved.

At New Delhi, the demonstration was addressed by Com Sebastin K, GS/SNEA, Com P Abhimanu, GS/BSNLEU, Com S Sivakumar, GS/AIBSNLEA and Com Suresh Kumar, GS/BSNLMS. CHQ President, both AGSs, CS/BSNLCO and CP/NTR and BSNLCO also participated alongwith other activists. In Kerala also demonstrations were held successfully in all BAs and huge number of employees gathered for the revival of the company.

After the demonstration, discussions held regarding the future programs. We are contacting each and every Union/Assn in BSNL and appealing them to join the future struggle for Revival. We are in touch with the Unions/Assns in MTNL also and working for a joint struggle for struggle.

Protest Lunch Hour Demonstration on 01.10.2019 

View Notice

The Unions and Associations of BSNL is constrained to conduct a lunch hour demonstration on 01.10.2019 in protest against the non-payment of salary in time, non-payment of wages to contract workers, electricity bills, rentals etc and total ban on capital expenditure along with other issues related with Revival of BSNL.

Unions and Associations further demanded that if BSNL is not able to pay the salary, Govt should pay the salary to all BSNL employees being the Principal Employer and owner of the company.

Charter of Demands

1. Immediate allotment of 4G Spectrum and Land Monetization.

2. Payment of Salary to BSNL employees on due date by BSNL or DoT.

3. Payment of wages to contract workers, payment of electricity and rental charges.

4. Implementation of 3rd Pay Revision.

5. Honour the Commitments given by Union Cabinet in 2000 to ensure Financial viability of BSNL:

i) Financial support for loss making Rural Exchanges.

    ii) Extend soft loan to BSNL/ Sovereign Guarantee for it’s capital expenditures.

iii) Remove the total ban on capital expenditure by BSNL. Allow field units capital expenditure, where revenue is assured.

6. No Retrenchment & No Roll Back of Retirement age to 58.

7. Payment of Pension Contribution by BSNL as per the Govt Rule.

We appeal to all the Unions & Associations and employees to join the protest demonstration on 01.10.2019

CS writes to CGMT regarding immediate intervention of the Circle Administration for remaining request transfers View Letter

AGB of SNEA Thrissur was held at Elite International Hotel, Thrissur on 26/9/2019. Circle Secretary Com.T.Santhosh Kumar, CWC Member Com.Suresh Kumar and other leaders addressed the AGB.

The AGB unanimously elected new body of SNEA Thrissur.

District President : Com. Susanthan JTO Elect
Vice President : 1) Com. Vidya S, DE Thrissur
                           2) Com. Molcy kutty SDE

District Secretary : Com. Jyothis JTO Mala 
Asst Secretary : 1) Com. Sreeja JAO
                           2) Com. Vinod V J, SDE

District Treasurer : Com. Gokulan P V SDE
Asst Treasurer : Com. Denny KS, AO

Executive committee members :
1) Com. Prathibha DE STR
2) Com. Kishore JTO Civil 
3) Com. Sunil SDE Elect 
4) Com. Shabu SDE BSS 
5) Com. Lenin AO TR
6) Com. Pretty Davis DE Mgkavu 
7) Com. Velayudan DE VRI.

CEC Members :
1) Com. Sureshbabu JAO OSP
2) Com. Loveby JTO EB

Meeting with GM HR on 21/9/2019:

CS, CT and ACS met GM HR to discuss the following issues:

1. Pending Transfer Request cases – We expressed our protest over the delay in releasing the orders for the  two years tenure completed cases. GM HR informed that it is being processed. 

Though  the last transfer orders  were issued more  than one month before none of the orders are implemented by BAs. It is requested to give a deadline to BAs else to be completed through ERP from Circle office.

2. Reversion of SDEs from LDCE-2007 and Show Cause Notices – We expressed our displeasure regarding reversion and issuing of show cause notices to the SDEs (from LDCE2007) over their ineligibility after more than 10 years. 

3. JTO (O) pay recovery issue – We protested over the recent orders for pay recovery inspite of clear stay from PCAT Delhi leading to contempt and further litigations. GM HR informed that the issue will be sent to Corporate office for further clarification. We requested for keeping the recovery orders in abeyance till clarification order is sought from Corporate office.

4. Pending Time bound Promotion Cases – GM HR informed that DPC is scheduled on Monday for the available data. We informed that just like Circle office is rigorously pursuing pending faults, pending time bound cases also has to be pursued by Circle office so that the orders can be released on time.   

We also met PGM Finance to discuss the JTO(O) pay recovery issue.

CS writes to CGMT regarding Fixation of pay of TTAs officiating as JTOs as on 1-1-2007 View Letter

Ref:     

1. No.HR-III/2-5/JTO (O) Pay fixation/2012/part-I/67 dated at TVM 18th Sep 2019

2. HR-III/2-3/JTO(O)/Pay Fixation/2012/Pt/6 dated 11th October, 2012

3. BSNL Corp. Office letter no. 5-32/2013/Estt-IV dated 22-12-2015

4. Interim order from Hon. PCAT in OA 892/2016 dated 4-3-2016 View Order

As per the letter under reference (1) it has been directed to review all pay fixation cases of TTAs who were officiating as JTOs on 1-1-2007 in accordance with letter under reference (2) and recover overpayment if any.

In this connection it is brought to your kind notice that the letter under reference (2) has been superseded by letter under reference (3) and as such any action pursuant to letter under reference (2) will be violation of BSNL corporate office orders under reference (3).

Further the letter under reference (3) is under challenge before Hon. PCAT New Delhi in OA NO. 892/2016 and as per the interim order dated 4/3/3016 the Hon. CAT has orders as follows:

“Issue notice to the respondents, who shall file their reply within four weeks. In the mean time they shall not to recover any amount from the applicants pursuant to the order dated 22.12.2015”

From the above it is clear that the orders from circle office as per reference (1)  is in violation of BSNL corporate office order dated 22-12-2015 as per letter under reference (3) and is clear contempt of the Hon. PCAT order dated  4-3-2016 as per reference (4).

In this regard, it is requested not to proceed in violation of BSNL corporate office letter and against Hon. PCAT order dated 4-3-2016 in OA No 892/2016.

CS writes to CGM for ensuring alternate arrangements for the proper upkeep of at least the major telecom installations to avoid breakdown of telecom services in the Circle in light of Agitattion started by Casual Labours .

It is learnt that majority of casual contract labourers supplied by various agencies across all BAs in the Circle are going on indefinite strike from tomorrow onwards. These contract labourers are being engaged for carrying out daily fault maintenance of wire line network, infra maintenance of telephone exchanges and proper upkeep of major telecom installations in BAs. In many BAs, sufficient contract labourers are not available as well. Hence, in the absence of labourers, it will be difficult to maintain Fault repair system as well as Power plant, AC units, DG sets etc. in telephone exchange. It is requested that necessary action/instructions may be issued to field BA units for ensuring alternate arrangements for the proper upkeep of at least the major telecom installations to avoid breakdown of telecom services in the Circle. View Letter

Diversion of FTTH cards to Kerala Circle from Chennai Telephones

Diversion of FTTH cards to Kerala Circle from Chennai Telephones We have been informed from CHQ that BSNL Corporate Office has issued orders diverting five numbers of FTTH GLCP cards from Chennai Telephones to Kerala Circle facilitating addition of more FTTH customers in already installed Alphion make OLTs in the Circle.We had requested CHQ to bring the shortage of such cards in Kerala Circle to their notice. We have also requested CFA section of BSNL Corporate office to analyse loading of equipped OLTs in all circles and to facilitate inter circle diversion,wherever possible, to provide more FTTH connections where demand is high. We thank CHQ for the prompt support in this regard. View Letter

CS writes to CGMT regarding 

Encourage, not threaten in the hour of crisis, our final request.... 

View Letter

It has come to our notice that the Circle Administration is using the platform of CFA and Sim Sales webinars as a tool for harassing the executives in the name of delay in closure of faults and for not achieving sim sale targets and at the same time completing the closure advice notes issued by ITPC for DNP or by CSCs on customer requests, pending for more than a year. We would like to make it very clear that the self-motivated executive community of the Circle cannot tolerate such unethical and unjustified actions from the Circle management which has decided to ignore all the field realities and basic expectations from the entire staff of BSNL in the circle during these hours of crisis.

We once again like to convey our strong feeling from the CFA/Sales section which are at the receiving end that the present HR management in the Circle has failed in motivating the available man power to derive best out of them in these hours of crisis.

It is requested that necessary instructions may be issued to BAs for completing long pending landline/broadband closure orders to reduce mass customer complaints being received at CSCs/CFA offices regarding deposit refund, wrong bills etc.

We would like to request the Kerala Circle administration to go through the following five annexures enclosed herewith. We have nothing more to say in that regard.

We expect CGMT Kerala to be more realistic to actual field conditions which was brought to the notice of Administration during many occasions by the Association. Now, at least by seeing the above letters written to BSNL Board by head of BAs performing much below Kerala Circle, we expect CGMT will stand by the side of employees struggling hard for the best performance of the Kerala as per the Annexure 1 and stop threatening advisories, if not appreciated, particularly during CFA/CM Sales webinars.

Annexures:

1. Revenue performance report of all BSNL units upto August 2019
2. Letter from a South Zone BA Head to Director HR/CM, BSNL Corporate Office
3. Letter from a North Zone BA Head to Director HR/CM, BSNL Corporate Office
4. A news item of September 13, 2019 on ET Telecom news portal
5. A news item of September 16, 2019 on ET Telecom news portal

CS writes to CGMT regarding Settlement of the long pending issue of SDE Promotion through LDCE 2007 (Vacancy year 2005-06) of 2001 Rect JTOs who were made eligible as per SDE RR 2002 and non issuance of SCN/Reversion for those SDEs working for more than 10 years View Letter

CS writes to CGMT regarding Phase 8.4 Project AMC, addition/deletion of line items View Letter

It has come to our notice that the Ph.8.4 Vendor for CM expansion in South and West Zones is putting undue pressure on Circles to include certain line items like Installation materials, Power Cable, Antennae, Fixtures, Feeder Cable, Tower materials etc in AMC list for the first two years.  The relevant clauses available in the Ph.8.4 tender itself has given the privilege to BSNL for adding/deleting any equipment(s) from the scope of AMC. Also, in the tender conditions nowhere it is mentioned that entire line items in the PO must be included in AMC. While operating same clause in the previous tender, Kerala Circle excluded these line items from AMC and could save nearly 4 Crores in 2 years. It is also informed that yielding to such pressure tactics from the vendor would create huge unrest and protests among the field units.

We have requested the CGMT to advice such greedy vendors to refrain themselves from such unjustified and unwarranted actions, which is likely to invite CVC interventions, and may take stringent action against those who insist the Circle to go for unnecessary AMC expenditure which would be nothing but huge burden on BSNL during these hours of grave financial crisis and hence to be avoided at any cost. Our CHQ has brought this case to the CMD and the Director (CM), BSNL Corporate Office and requested their interventions as well. All other Circles in South and West zones are also being alerted through the respective Circle Secretaries to avoid unnecessary expenditure in this regard.

CS writes to CHQ President/Gs regarding delay in disbursing of Salary View Letter

Ever since the formation of our beloved company BSNL,  Kerala Circle made profit upto the financial year 2017-18. Considerable  revenue has been generated during this period compared to any other circles in India. However,  Kerala Circle has not received any special consideration so far in this regard.

One of the important  festival of Kerala,  ONAM is falling  in the 2nd week of September 2019 and the entire people  in Kerala celebrating Onam barring creed, caste and religion.  Now it is learnt from reliable source that the salary for the month of August 2019 will be delayed and the disbursement  will be extended beyond 5th September 2019. In this circumstances,  we humbly request immediate intervention of CHQ to release our salary at the earliest,  so that we can celebrate  our precious  festival in decent manner.

Congratulations to all….!! The 4 JAO LICE Vacancies finally released…… 

Fight for the Truth…. Truth has and will always prevail

Continuous interventions and relentless persuasion of SNEA for more than two years finally came to a logical conclusion in favor of Employees. It is yet another victory for SNEA as Administration finally released 4 LICE JAO vacancies and declared revised results for the Group-C to JAO promotion under 40% quota. View Orders

Though Administration was not ready to release the vacancies, we continuously pursued the issue with logical arguments and debates on various occasions in the last two years in the meetings with CGMT & GM(HR) on 9th Nov 2017, 15th Feb, 25th April, 8th May, 3rd Nov, 19th Dec of 2018, 7th Mar, 30th July and 14th Aug 2019. Several letters were written for resolving the issue, latest being 12/8/2019

We thank Administration for issuing the orders and Hearty congratulations to all promoted officers especially to Com.G.S.Hariharan who relentlessly fought the battle.  We welcome all of you to the executive community.

Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala on 21^st August, 2019 at SNEA Bhavan, Trivandrum :

The Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala was held at SNEA Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram on 21st August, 2019. The meeting was conducted as per the CHQ directions to discuss the views of the membership on issues like restructuring of BSNL, proposal for reduction of retirement age to 58, VRS, strategies for next MV etc for presenting before the upcoming CWC meeting to be held at Bangalore on 29th and 30th this month. The meeting presided by Circle President Com. George Varghese, commenced by 11 AM was attended by  Circle Secretary, Circle Office Bearers, District Secretaries, CEC and CWC members. District Secretary, Trivandrum Dr. V G Sabu welcomed the participants.

At the outset, the CEC meeting paid homage to the late Com. K V Sheela, JTO, Kozhikode BA. Com. M A Gafoor, CWC Member briefed about her untimely and sad demise. The meeting also paid homage to those who lost their life in the recent disastrous flood. It has been decided to extend all possible support to the flood victims as done in the past. The meeting congratulated those employees who made selfless and relentless efforts for quick restoration of telecom services in the flood hit areas.

The following points were discussed.

1. Additional spectrum allocation and launching of 4G/5G services: The unjustified delay of allocating additional spectrum to BSNL has badly affected customer satisfaction and resulted in huge decline of market share and revenue in CM vertical. The meeting stressed the need for immediate launch of 4G/5G services to regain the lost customers and increase market share/revenue. The meeting also demanded allocation of sufficient capital fund for deployment of 4G/5G network throughout the country on war foot basis along with the proposed additional spectrum allocation through equity infusion. The meeting also remarked that timely renewal of 2G/3G spectrum license also should be carried out for smooth running of all essential wireless services by BSNL. The meeting was of the view that BSNL shall roll out 4G in the existing spectrum as already done which does not involve  hardware  purchase and spectrum allocation as the phase 8.4 equipments are compactable for 4G and only software license is required.

2. Restructuring of BSNL: The meeting expressed serious concerns about some media reports like retirement age reduction to 58 from 60, VRS, land monetization etc. The meeting decided to oppose any attempts to reduce retirement age which is against the terms and conditions during absorption process and commitments given by the Union Cabinet in the year 2000. Moreover, it affects not only those who are nearing retirement but the service of the entire work force in BSNL, including the youngsters, if retirement age is reduced by two years. In addition, there has been no clarity on the future network operations of BSNL in the absence of sufficient manpower.  This is particularly pertinent taking into account the majority of the targeted  work force are utilised in CFA sector which give more than 50% of the revenue  and not comparable with other TSPs. The real issue is the road map should be  towards increasing the revenue since the reduction in expenditure will give only a temporary relief. The private TSPs are also in huge loss inspite of minimal wage cost.

3. VRS Proposals: The meeting decided not to oppose VRS proposals if the same is decided and formulated for the revival of BSNL as well as beneficial to the VRS optees, the details of which are yet to be known including roadmap about the future network operation strategies in the absence of existing manpower and the future liability on BSNL on this account.

4. PRC and Pension Revision: The meeting expressed disappointment over the negative stand taken by the Government and the management by denying 3rd PRC benefits to serving employees and the delay in revising pension benefits which is totally against the  commitments given by the Government during absorption. It is to be noted that the IIMA committee had recommended extending 3rd PRC benefits to motivate employees along with other suggestions to achieve the ultimate aim of BSNL revival. The  non implementation of PRC will be more detrimental to remaining serving  employees as they have more number of service left.

5.  Stalemate in all promotions on account of court case by  selfish vested interest  is creating frustration among the cadres and CHQ should take proper steps for its implementation, the CPSU cadre hierarchy   which ensure timely promotion as  approved by the BSNL board. In case of JTO to SDE in spite of more than 7000 vacancies and in case of more than 1000 DGM post  no promotions are taking place. Similar is the case of other streams.

6. SPV for transfer of existing liabilities: Any revival package without favorable decision on nullifying existing liabilities may not help actual revival of BSNL. There should be a mechanism for transfer of all liabilities including loans and formulation of future roadmap for ensuring sufficient capital for further network expansion in all verticals.  It is also noted that while the proposal for SPV was mooted against land alone now the focus is shifted to Tower and fibre which  are very vital for the   service of BSNL and under the scanner of other TSPs for rolling out 5G .

7. Land and building monetization: Such proposals should be highly transparent and helping BSNL for its revival as well as assuring future prospects. The apprehensions and complaints about certain land parcels’ valuation need to be addressed before taking final call on monetization. BSNL should have final say and the BSNL management should have the capability to protect the interest of BSNL unlike what we have seen in the past.

8. Issues of young executives like NOC, Deputation, Rule 8 transfers etc: In one side management is telling “no deputation” due to shortage of executives in field, but at the same time, the same management is involved in formulating strategies for reducing man power which is contradictory. The CEC requests CHQ to bring this double standard to the notice of the HR wing of BSNL Corporate Office to consider the requests from young executives for NOC for applying jobs in other organizations, Deputation, Rule 8 transfers etc in the most generous and judicious way.

9. AMC expenses: Huge money is being spent by way of AMC expenditure to Corporates and MNCs which is alarming as the number of working connections are drastically coming down and reduction in AMC costs not being reflected anywhere. At the same time, allocation for labour costs to workers in CFA &CM verticals is drastically reduced. It is high time that the AMC expenditure in various verticals is reviewed at highest level and measures taken to arrest leakages in all possible ways, CEC observed.

10. It has been decided to represent issues to the CGMT, like long pending faults due to  shortage of manpower and material and closure advice notes pending for long time resulting customer complaints for non settlement of accounts  in the Circle.

11. The CEC meeting decided to request management to consider at least part payments to contractors and contract labourers during the eve of Onam, which would benefit hundreds of families during the festival and in turn  results in increased productivity in the field. The CEC decided to donate Rs 25000/- to CCLU as token of our concern  towards non payment of wages for months together.

12. The meeting also decided to work out plan for better utilisation of Civil, Electrical and Accounts wing executives  in changed  business scenario. It was reported that though in  some SSAs accounts personals are posted in CSC and sales EB etc it is not been happening in many SSAs though CGMT as well as AUAB has decided in the same line.

13. CMDRF: The CEC decided to appeal all members of SNEA to voluntarily donate oneday’ salary directly to Chief Minister’ Disaster Relief Fund. This is to enable claiming income tax rebate on donation. A consolidated report on payments by members may be prepared by the concerned DSs and posted in the Circle group for the information of all.

14. The request from DS, Malappuram to allot more JTOs to the BA was agreed in order to compensate the transfer of JTOs to their home BAs by a recent order. Association is fully aware of the need of substitutes for Malappuram BA and it has to  be ensured. The remaining transfer requests who has completed 2 years are to be followed up for its approval without further delay.

15. GTI premium excess payments: Complaints from members regarding excess premium collection for GTI to be brought to the notice of CHQ for early resolution of the same. The claim settlement under GTI and its procedures are to be expedited.

16. Multiple payments while applying MT examination: There are mass complaints from members regarding multiple payments happened while applying online for MT recruitment examinations. This need to be brought to the notice of CHQ for effecting early refund of the same.

17. Medical Insurance Scheme: The CEC has decided to request management to chalk out new comprehensive medical insurance scheme which would be beneficial both for members and for the Company replacing existing BSNL MRS by allowing  and promoting the employees to avail medical insurance and reimbursement by BSNL within  limits. CGHS facility to BSNL employees  to be more attractive so that more employees shall opt for CGHS.

18. Property Tax issue: It has been decided to follow up the representation given by the Circle body to Chief Minister, Kerala regarding property tax issues in Panchayaths for early resolution.

19. It has been decided to explore migration of existing procedures in the Engineers Cooperative Society to a computer based platform for smooth handling of accounts.

20. The initiatives from Ernakulam and Kannur BAs for promoting FTTH connections through various means were applauded wholeheartedly and request all BAs to take similar efforts.

21. The false propaganda being  unleashed by vested interest eying on membership verification  to be identified at local level by timely intervention. The meeting congratulated  PGT team for enrolling around 19 members and other SSAs for bringing back  the members despite unethical  campaign  by others.

The CEC meeting concluded by 7 PM. Dr. G Premkumar, Assistant Circle Secretary delivered vote of thanks.

Meeting with GM HR on 27/8/2019:

CT Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.J.V.Ramana met GM HR Shri Satheesh.R today for discussing and following up the leftover transfer cases in the cadre of JTO/SDE/DE. GM HR responded positively and assured to release the orders within a couple of days. We also requested GM HR to consider the request for Transfer/Posting to hard tenure areas like Idukki, Wayanad and Malappuram.

Meeting with DGM(HR) on 23/8/2019:

CS Com.T.Santhosh Kumar and ACS Com.J.V.Ramana met DGM(HR) Smt.R.Ponnammal on 23/8/2019 and discussed about :

1.    Processing of pending leftover transfer request cases: As transfer and Posting orders were issued in the month of May in 2017, it is unfair to consider transfer requests this year only upto 31st March 2019 avoiding the officers who were relieved to shortage BAs in or after May 2017. DGM HR responded positively and agreed to process it without any delay.

2.    DGM LA : We requested to call fresh options as last time it was done almost six months back and it is come to notice that many seniors who did not give option earlier are now ready to take up the responsibilities.

JTO officiating wrong Pay fixation and Recovery issues - Combined Meeting on 21/8/2019:

As requested since long back and as directed by CGMT during our recent meeting with him on 14/8/2019, a committee was formed and a combined meeting was finally arranged by Administration at the chamber of GM HR Shri Satheesh.R to discuss JTO officiating wrong pay fixation and recovery issues. From association side Circle President Com.George Varghese, Circle Secretary Com.T.Santhosh Kumar, Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer.S and Circle Vice President Com.Asha.A.S attended and from Administration side DGM (HR) Smt.R.Ponnammal, DGM (ERP&CSC) Smt.Sreelatha.S, CAO Shri K.Mukunthan and AGM (HR) Smt.Sudha.P.Nair attended.

After detailed discussions, administration agreed to review the wrong pay fixation issue and regarding recovery it was decided to seek clarification from Corporate office.

Congratulations..!! to all those who were waiting for the last many months for getting transfer back to home BA. We were continuously pursuing for these orders. We thank Circle Administration for issuing the request transfer orders.

It is understood that transfers orders are issued only for those who completed two years tenure as on 31st March 2019. We will ensure that the remaining leftover transfer cases for those who were transferred in 2017 will also be considered by the Administration.

Association is fully aware for the need of substitutes for Malappuram BA and it will also be ensured.

View Orders | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |

Meeting at PMO on BSNL Revival Plan on 20.08.2019:

Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Shri Nripendra Mishra called a meeting today at 3.30 PM in PMO to discuss the draft Cabinet Note on Revival of BSNL.

1. 4G proposal accepted as 100% capital infusion. GST portion should be funded by BSNL as it cannot be done by Capital infusion.

2. VRS proposal followed by retirement age reduction to 58 accepted.

3. Proposal for SPV for land monetization and transfer of BSNL loan NOT accepted. SPV experience was a failure in the case of Air India.

4. BSNL land monetization proposal accepted. Land, OFC and Towers will be monetized and will be monitored by a Committee consisting of BSNL, DoT and DIPAM.

5. BSNL and MTNL merger proposal dropped. It will be taken up later on.

Revised Cabinet Memo will be going to the Cabinet directly, most probably next week.

Reduction of retirement age from 60 to 58 years – hold protest lunch hour demonstrations throughout the country tomorrow, 21.08.2019.

The AUAB has reliably learnt that the BSNL Board meeting is going to be held tomorrow, 21.08.2019, in which they are going to give approval for reducing the retirement age of BSNL employees from 60 to 58. We have been hearing for the past few months, about the proposal of the Government to reduce the retirement age from 60 to 58. This is not only affecting those who are nearing retirement, the service of the entire work force, including the youngsters will come down by 2 years. In this case, there is no option for the employees like VRS. 

This arbitrary decision is taken by the Govt and now pressurising the BSNL Board to approve it without any consultation with the real stake holders of the company, the employees. This is totally against the commitment given by the Union Cabinet in the year 2000, that Government rule will be applicable so far as the retirement of BSNL employees is concerned.

In view of this, we have to strongly protest against this arbitrary move to reduce the retirement age from 60 to 58 years. Hence, SNEA and AUAB calls upon the entire Executives and Non-Executives of BSNL to hold lunch hour demonstrations tomorrow to protest against the proposed move of the BSNL Board to reduce the retirement age from 60 to 58.

Employees Unity only can save this company during this crisis period and we should be in the forefront to maintain the Unity.

Meeting at PMO on BSNL Revival Plan on 20.08.2019:

Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Shri Nripendra Mishra called a meeting today in PMO to discuss the draft Cabinet Note on Revival of BSNL. Both the Secretaries from Finance Ministry is attending the meeting. In response to the Cabinet Note, Finance Ministry raised some queries on the possibility of Revival of BSNL as per the proposal in the Cabinet Memo. Right from the beginning, Finance Ministry was of the opinion that there is no need for revival of BSNL/MTNL. But due to the political pressure and the compulsions created by our continuous agitation, public and media support, political leadership at highest level intervened and the Revival proposal is mooted. If the outcome of today’s meeting is positive, Cabinet decision can be expected by this month end itself.

Meeting with Shri Sheetla Prasad Tripathi, DIR(CM &HR): 

GS, President and AGS met Director(CM) and held discussions on various issues:

i) On financial condition, DIR informed that there is no significant improvement. The banks are reluctant on giving fresh loan on the repayment capacity. Now all eyes are on the Revival package, once it is approved, situation will automatically change.

ii) On DGM(T) promotion, we explained the changed situation as the number of vacancies are more than sufficient to promote all the eligible DEs. Further we explained the discussions we had with CGM(Legal) and PGM(Pers)/DGM(Pers) on this matter. We requested to withdraw the MA filed in the Hon CAT and proceed with the promotions. Response of Director was very positive and assured to work out on this.

iii) Promotion in different cadres: We explained the precarious situation in promotion among different cadres and sought the intervention at highest level. Executives are not demanding any monitory benefits, just a designation change, we told. Director informed that management is aware of the situation but at present top management is fully pre occuppied in the finalization of Revival plan. Once that is finalised management will be able to focus on these issues.

Urgent Circle Executive Committee Meeting of SNEA , Kerala Circle on 21/8/2019  View Letter
 
Notice is hereby issued for an URGENT Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala Circle to be held on 21/8/2019 (10 AM) at SNEA Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram.  All Circle Office Bearers, District Secretaries, CEC members and Branch Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting in time.

Agenda: Organizational Matters/ HR issues pending in Kerala Circle/Items to be presented at the upcoming CWC on revival matters. 

The following items may be discussed in the meeting:-
1. Associations formal stand on restructuring  of BSNL
2. Proposal for reduction of retirement  age to 58.
3. 3rd PRC and Pension revision
4. Revival/ Survival of BSNL

District Secretaries may gather opinions from our members and present it before CEC. 

Meeting with the CGMT ON 14-08-2019:

The Association had a pre-appointed agenda meeting with the CGMT, Dr. P T Mathew from 4 PM to 5:30 PM on 14-08-2019. Circle President Com. George Varghese, Circle Secretary Com. T Santhosh Kumar, Circle Treasurer Com. Suneer S, Assistant Circle Secretaries Com. Jithesh K P and Com. J V Ramana represented Association side. From Administration side, Shri. Satheesh R, GM (HR/Admn) and Shri. N K Sukumaran GM (NWP-CFA) were also present.

The salient points of the discussions were:

1. Pending transfer requests from JTOs/SDEs/DEs transferred during 2017:

The Association demanded for issuing orders against all transfer requests received from executives without any further delay. As usual CGMT assured that it will be done. We insisted for a firm date for issuing orders, as CGMT has been giving only assurances for last six months and no orders have seen the light of the day. We have pointed out that a series of discussions were already held on the same subject on February 12^th, March 7^th, June 3^rd, 20^th& 28^th, July 24^th, 26^th & 30^th, August 1^st & 8^th this year and still there is no clarity on the matter.  After prolonged discussions and arguments, CGMT assured that the transfer orders to JTOs will be issued before 25^th of this month.  The Association requested to consider the remaining cases of SDEs and DEs which are very less in number. CGMT again started arguing that there is no rule for giving transfers after two years, then why transfers to be given after two years etc.  Association strongly protested against this negative attitude of the Administration and pointed out that even officers at GM and above levels are getting transfers without any time restrictions, getting relieved without substitutes and at any rate. The Association cannot agree to this attitude of the Administration on HR issues. After arguments, CGMT finally agreed to examine cases of SDEs and DEs also. We insisted for a positive decision on that and we are assured that the decision will be intimated in couple of days.

2. Pay recovery case of officiating JTOs:

Opening the subject, CGMT informed that the case was thoroughly got examined by the Finance wing and recovery is a must as there are clear orders as intimated by the Finance wing. We have informed that the CGMT is ill informed by the Finance wing on this case and clarified that there is order from the Corporate office not to effect any recovery till further orders and the Corporate Office has not issued any orders for recovery. In fact, the Finance wing at Ernakulam BA is effecting the recovery as an anticipatory bail in case any order for recovery come from the Corporate office as communicated by the Ernakulam BA Finance wing in writing. Further, we have produced the DOPT order endorsed by BSNL and reiterated in May 2019 wherein the recovery from pay is not permissible under law. We have categorically told CGMT that all the criteria laid down in the order are squarely applicable in this case also and asked how the BA/Circle Finance wing can act against the Corporate office order. CGMT was not aware about these facts and he directed the GM HR to get clarification from Corporate office in this regard.

3. Revision of pay (2^nd PRC) after regular promotion and fixation of pay of Officiating JTOs regularized in Feb 2008:

Association pointed out that though the matter referred from Ernakulam BA is pending from Jan 2019, no decision has been taken and no meeting with concerned officers of HR/Finance wing took place so far in spite of repeated directions from CGMT. CGMT once again instructed the GM HR for conducting the meeting to resolve the issues. GM HR assured to arrange the meeting without delay.

4. Filling up of JAO posts became vacant on declining JAO LICE held on 17/6/2016:

This Association was taking up the issue for the last two years and demanding to fill up the vacant posts among the qualified hands. The representation from Shri. Hariharan, who was trained and posted as JAO, but reverted later, was specifically pointed out. We are assured that based on the latest clarification received from the Corporate office, the Circle will be able to fill up the posts.

5. Filling up of vacant LICE JTO post in 2016-17:

Association demanded for filing up of the vacant JTO post on account of shifting of one candidate to 2015-16. CGMT informed that as directed by the Corporate office, this vacancy will be carried forward to 2017-18. Association strongly objected to this illogical decision and argued that case of carry forward arise only in case, if no eligible hands are available and it will definitely end up in another court case.  At this point, it was assured that the Circle office will once again take up the case with the Corporate office.

6. Declaring Idukki as an all India soft tenure station:

Association requested CGMT to recommend the proposal from Ernakulam BA as well as from the Association to declare Idukki as an all India soft tenure station so that executives of entire circle can be benefitted by getting exemption from tenure transfers on all India basis by serving in Idukki and the present staff shortage issue also can be resolved. CGMT agreed to examine the request.

7. Conducting retirement meeting in Ernakulam BA one day in advance:

We requested the CGMT to permit Ernakulam BA to conduct retirement meeting one day in advance considering the remote and vast geographical area of the BA.  CGMT was not in favour of the request and opined that retirement function should be held on the last working day only.   Though we have pointed out that the retirement will be only in the last working day and the relieving order will be issued by the controlling officer only on last day, CGMT was not ready to review his stand on this matter.

8. Deployment of more executives in Sales, Marketing and CSCs from units other than Telecom Engineering wing:

CGMT agreed to our view and pointed out that already in many BAs, Accounts Officers are posted in CSCs and Marketing and the same can be done in other BAs also. It can be implemented at BA level itself and no separate orders are required from the Circle office.

9. Operational and survival suggestions:

We have handed over the suggestions made in the last CEC for BSNL survival to the CGMT for consideration.  As far as FTTH provisioning is concerned, the initiative being taken as decided in the last CEC was briefed to CGMT. The case of allowing DSAs for providing FTTH was also discussed and necessary clarifications sought from Kannur BA in that regard will be given from the Circle Office.

10. External Projects of Civil/Electrical:

As far as external projects are concerned, we have pointed out that as there are lots of issues in effecting payments to contractors, we may better stop external projects for the time being and the staff can be better utilized in needy areas. But CGMT informed that it has been decided to form a tripartite agreement by which the contractor payments will be done directly by the agency to the contractor and we will be able to continue the external projects.

11. Meeting operational parameters in the absence of contract labourers and services in CFA and CM sector:

The difficulties on account of shortage of man power, material and money experienced by the field units were brought to the notice of CGMT. We have told that the set operational parameters are sometime unachievable and due to undue pressure, the field units are resorting to close the dockets which are ultimately leading to more closures. CGMT expressed shock over our feedback and clearly stated that his Office has never asked field units to close the faults without attending.

CGMT stressed on the duties and responsibilities of Telecom Technicians and the unjustified overdependence on contract workers. We informed that for underground cable works, we cannot compel the TTs to take pits without manpower assistance. It is to be noted that taking pits for cable works does not feature in the duties and responsibilities of TTs as published by Circle office recently.

Dear Comrades, we have tried to convey the prevailing frustration and resentment among the field executives against certain wrong HR practices being followed at present in the Circle to the CGMT in the most convincing manner, we believe, during the meeting. We have also informed him about the expectations of the executives from the Circle Leadership for extending all possible support especially for maintaining Network Operations during these hours of crisis. We hope the Administration would rise to the occasion and would stand by side of the entire staff Community for rendering quality services to our esteemed customers amidst all odds being faced by the Circle. If the assurances given to us are not being honoured as in the past we may have to take our own course of action for which the Circle Administration will be solely responsible for any unrest during this crucial juncture, which would be the last thing we wanted to happen in the most productive Circle of BSNL.

GS writes to Shri. P. K Purwar, CMD, BSNL: For overcoming the dead lock situation on post based promotions due to never ending litigations on reservation policy and seniority related issues, BSNL Board on 28.05.2018 approved BSNL Executives Promotion Amendment & Recruitment Rules, 2017 (BEPPARR or CPSU Cadre Hierarchy) for all the Executives of all the streams, w.e.f. 28.05.2018. The requirement of Parity and Uniformity in promotions among equivalent cadres in different wings of BSNL is accepted and approved by the BSNL Board as a solution to end litigations. Implementation date can be either 29.06.2018 (the last functional promotion order date as per earlier RRs) or 01.07.2018, the immediate review date. This process shall be completed before restructuring of BSNL or implementation of VRS and all eligible Executives shall be promoted. Thousands of youngsters as well as seniors are suffering.

GS letter to CMD, BSNL

Meeting with Shri Arun Kumar, PGM(Pers) on 13.08.2019: GS and both AGSs met PGM(Pers) and held discussions on:

a) JTO to SDE promotion: PGM informed that management is waiting for the Hon Kerala High Court order on the review petition.

The SDE promotion is delaying due to the contempt of court case filed by few AIGETOA activists against CMD and GM(P) against the promotion order issued on 15.06.2018. This forced management to file the review petition in the HC as the applicants are trying to drag the CMD and others to the court on the contempt petition. If the contempt case is not there, the promotion orders could have issued long back, which was informed by the management to all the leaders of different Associations, long back. For the assurance of all the concerned, Management filed affidavit also in the Hon CAT that it is ready for issuing promotion orders for all the vacancies and it is in a very advanced stage but the applicants insisted to proceed with the contempt case.

b) DE to DGM promotion: The MA filed by BSNL in Hon CAT Chandigarh for early hearing was listed last week but Hon Court posted the matter to 30.08.2019 along with the other MA. GS shared the apprehension that as happening now, on 30.08.2019 also Hon CAT may not give a final decision and the promotion will continue to delay. GS requested to consider withdrawing the MA and going ahead with promotions as the situation is changed. At present, the number of vacancies are more than the eligible candidates and as such there is no need to apprehend about new court cases. PGM(Pers) agreed to discuss the matter with higher authorities and explore the possibility to withdraw the MA for going ahead with the DPC and promotion.

c) Request Transfer in the cadre of DGMs: New CMD/DIR(HR) approved only those cases having less than 1 year service left and sought the details of the transfer policy followed for the remaining cases. Pers section again processed the cases with the policy guidelines and resubmitted for approval. It is expected to get the remaining transfer cases cleared shortly.

d) Request Transfer in the cadre of DEs: The requests are approved in principle and the orders will be issued by arranging substitutes to the shortage Circles.

Notice for Urgent Circle Executive Committee Meeting of SNEA , Kerala Circle  View Letter
 
Notice is hereby issued for an URGENT Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala Circle to be held on 21/8/2019 (10 AM) at SNEA Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram.  All Circle Office Bearers, District Secretaries, CEC members and Branch Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting in time.

Agenda: Organizational Matters/ HR issues pending in Kerala Circle/Items to be presented at the upcoming CWC on revival matters. 

CS writes to CGMT regarding Delay in resolving long pending HR issues in the Circle– seems HR Wing testing patience of the Executives, Urgent Action solicited  View Letter

It is not unknown to anyone in the Circle about the involvement and contribution of executives of BSNL amidst all odds, may it be internal or external, for the upkeep of telecom networks intact in the State even by spending lakhs of rupees from their own salaries for arranging essential materials and labour. Even at this time of natural calamity, they are in the field to ensure that BSNL services are available to all. We don’t see anything from the Administration side for motivating this extraordinary man power during these hours of crisis. Instead of rendering helping hands to the executives at this point of time, the HR wing has been deliberately denying even the genuine and legitimate demand of executives which has been brought to your notice multiple times. We are yet to get any positive response from the Administration with regard to the following issues. 

1. Transfer back of executives to their choice stations after rendering more than two years’ service away from home.  
2. Pay fixation of officiating JTOs regularized in Feb 2008 and exercised option for 2nd pay revision after promotion. 
3. Pay recovery from JTOs against officiating period.-case referred from EKM BA. 
4. Filling up of leftover JTO LICE vacancy pertaining to the year 2016-17. 
5. Filling up of leftover JAO vacancies. 

It may be noted that Administration has no reason for delaying the resolution of the above referred demands including issuing of transfer orders for all the executives who were transferred to far away stations through different orders issued till July 2017. At the same time, we see that the top managers in the Circle are getting all HR privileges including transfers, mutual transfers, relieving without substitutes well within tenure period of two years, but at the same time, even the legitimate requests from the lower executive cadres are deliberately ignored and their requests are treated as if thrown to dust bin. 

   The discussion for all these demands had started way back and the Administration has been giving false assurances only till this time. We are sorry to say that no developments are happening in this regard to resolve the issues and Administration is still playing with this assurance strategy alone. At this juncture, we have no other go than to resort to organizational protests against this cat and mouse game from the administration side against this inept treatment to the Recognized Association turning deaf ears to the legitimate rights of executives. We cannot tolerate this type of step mother attitude from the Administration to the field executives any more.

SNEA Kerala Circle therefore urges Circle Management to consider all the above demands positively including issuing of all request transfer orders to those who have completed two years in a station as on July 31st this year within a week, failing which we will be constrained for organizational action despite precarious situation prevailing in the Circle due to natural calamity, for which the Circle Administration will be solely responsible for any unrest during this crucial juncture.

CS writes to CGMT regarding Suggestions for improving FTTH provisioning in the Circle View Letter

CS writes to CGMT regarding Date of Joining of LICE 2015-16 JTOs in Ernakulam BA View Letter

Fund allotment from disaster fund for meeting fuel expenses to maintain telecom services in flood hit areas : Circle President Com.George Varghese spoke to Sri. Benny Chinnapan Sir, DDG TERM KRL /Circle Co-ordinator Disaster Management and requested fund allotment from disaster fund for meeting fuel expenses to maintain telecom services in flood hit areas. The approval for diesel granted by Trissur District Collector is also forwarded to  him. He agreed to take up with State Disaster Management Cell and suggested  to give the requirement  of diesel Taluk wise. All DSs are requested to coordinate the same in BAs.

Press Release by SNEA Kerala : All District Secretaries are requested to forward the press release to all Newspaper Bureaus in your district and requested to publish it at the earliest. View Press Release

മാനം കറുക്കുമ്പോള്‍ മലയാളികൾക്ക് താങ്ങായി എന്നും BSNL..

മഹാപ്രളയശേഷം ഒരു വര്‍ഷം കഴിഞ്ഞു സംഹാരതാണ്ടാവമാടിയ ഈ പ്രളയത്തിലും കേരളത്തിനു കൈത്താങ്ങായി BSNL മാത്രം. ആഗസ്റ്റ്‌ 8നു തുടങ്ങിയ പേമാരിയും അതിനെ തുടര്‍ന്നുണ്ടായ പ്രളയവും വയനാട്, കോഴിക്കോട്, മലപ്പുറം, വയനാട് ജില്ലകളെ സാരമായി ബാധിച്ചപ്പോള്‍ BSNL ഒഴികെയുള്ള മിക്ക ഓപ്പറേറ്റര്‍മാരുടെയും നെറ്റ്‌വര്‍ക്ക് പല സ്ഥലങ്ങളിലും കിട്ടാതെയായി. ദിവസങ്ങളോളം വൈദ്യുതി ഇല്ലാതിരുന്ന വേളയില്‍ BSNL ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥര്‍ സ്വന്തം കയ്യില്‍ നിന്നും കാശ് മുടക്കിയാണ് മിക്ക സ്ഥലത്തും ഡീസല്‍ നിറച്ചു കൊണ്ട് സര്‍വീസ് നിലനിര്‍ത്തിയത്. മണ്ണിടിഞ്ഞും ഉരുള് പൊട്ടിയും മിക്ക സ്ഥലങ്ങളും എത്തിപ്പെടാന്‍ സാധ്യമാകാതെ ഇരുന്നപ്പോള്‍ അവിടേക്ക് പോകാന്‍ ധൈര്യം കാണിച്ച ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥര്‍ക്ക് ജില്ലാ ഭരണകൂടങ്ങളും സഹായത്തിനെത്തി. ഇന്ത്യയിലെ ഇത് വരെ എല്ലാ പ്രകൃതി ദുരന്തങ്ങളിലും സംഭവിച്ചപോലെ സ്വകാര്യ ഓപ്പറേറ്റര്‍മാരുടെ മൊബൈല്‍ ബന്ധം നിശ്ചലമായപ്പോള്‍ BSNL ജനങ്ങളുടെ സഹായത്തിനെത്തി. പ്രളയം നാശം വിതച്ച സ്ഥലങ്ങളിലെ രക്ഷാപ്രവര്‍ത്തനം ഏകോപിപ്പിക്കുന്നതിനു വേണ്ടി അടുത്ത ഒരാഴ്ചത്തേക്ക് അവിടങ്ങളില്‍ BSNL മൊബൈല്‍ ഉപയോഗിക്കുന്നവര്‍ക്ക് പരിധികളില്ലാത്ത കോളും ഡാറ്റയും നല്‍കാന്‍ BSNL തീരുമാനിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു. അതിനു പുറമേ BSNL ഫോണ്‍ ഉപയോഗിക്കുന്ന ആള്‍ക്കാരെ കണ്ടെത്തുന്നതിനു 1948 എന്ന സേവനം BSNL തുടങ്ങിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. കേരള BSNL ഫോണില്‍ നിന്ന് നേരിട്ടും മറ്റു ഫോണില്‍ നിന്ന് 9400021948 എന്ന നമ്പറിലും വിളിച്ചു കണ്ടെത്തേണ്ട ആളുടെ BSNL നമ്പര്‍ ഷെയര്‍ ചെയ്താല്‍ അവരുടെ ടവർ ലൊക്കേഷന്‍ തിരികെ മെസ്സേജ് ആയി ലഭിക്കുന്ന സംവിധാനമാണ് വന്നത്. പ്രളയം നാശം വിതച്ച സ്ഥലങ്ങളില്‍ ത്വരിത വേഗതയില്‍ കമ്മ്യൂണിക്കേഷന്‍ ശൃംഖല പുനസ്ഥാപിച്ച BSNL ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥര്‍ക്ക് അകമഴിഞ്ഞ പിന്തുണയാണ് നാട്ടുകാര്‍ നല്‍കി വരുന്നത്. റെയില്‍വേ സംവിധാനം പുനസ്ഥാപിക്കാന്‍ BSNL എല്ലാ പ്രധാന റെയില്‍വേ സ്റ്റേഷനുകളിലും GSM FCT സംവിധാനം ഏര്‍പ്പെടുത്തിയിട്ടുണ്ട്. മാസങ്ങളായി ശമ്പളം കിട്ടിയിട്ടില്ലെങ്കിലും BSNL കരാര്‍ തൊഴിലാളികളും നെറ്റ്‌വര്‍ക്ക് പുനസ്ഥാപിക്കാന്‍ ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥർക്ക് അകമഴിഞ്ഞ പിന്തുണ നല്‍കി വരുന്നു. തുടര്‍ന്നുള്ള രക്ഷാ പ്രവര്‍ത്തനങ്ങള്‍ക്കും BSNL പിന്തുണ ഉണ്ടാകുമെന്ന് BSNL ഓഫീസിര്‍മാരുടെയും തൊഴിലാളികളുടെയും സംഘടനകള്‍ അറിയിച്ചു.

ഒരു അടിയന്തിര ഘട്ടം വന്നപ്പോള്‍ ഉപയോഗിച്ചു കൊണ്ടിരുന്ന പല സ്വകാര്യ ഫോണുകളും ഉപയോഗശൂന്യമായത് ജനങ്ങളില്‍ വലിയ പ്രതിഷേധങ്ങളാണ് ഉണ്ടാക്കിയിരിക്കുന്നത്. ദുരന്ത നിവാരണ പ്രവര്‍ത്തനങ്ങള്‍ ഭാവിയില്‍ ഏകോപിപ്പിക്കുന്നതിനും തടസമില്ലാതെ തുടര്‍ച്ചയായ സേവനങ്ങള്‍ ലഭിക്കുന്നതിനും എല്ലാ സര്‍ക്കാര്‍ ഏജന്‍സികള്‍ക്കും BSNLന്‍റെ ഏറ്റവും പുതിയ സര്‍വീസ് ആയ സാറ്റ്ലൈറ്റ് ഫോണ്‍ കണക്ഷന്‍ നല്‍കുന്നതിനെ കുറിച്ചുള്ള ആലോചന അധികൃതരുമായി തുടങ്ങുമെന്ന് സംഘടനാ ഭാരവാഹികള്‍ അറിയിച്ചു. ആപത് ഘട്ടത്തില്‍ നില്‍ക്കുന്ന നാടിനു ലാഭം നോക്കിയല്ല മറിച്ചു ജനങ്ങളുടെ സുരക്ഷയെ മുന്‍ നിര്‍ത്തിയാണ് BSNL എന്നും സര്‍വീസ് നടത്തുന്നത്, ഡീസല്‍ ചെലവ് വൈദ്യുതിയില്‍ പ്രവര്‍ത്തിക്കുന്നതിലും പതിന്‍മടങ്ങായാതിനാല്‍ നഷ്ടം കണക്കാക്കി സ്വകാര്യ സേവനദാതാക്കള്‍ ഒരു വേള പിന്മാറുമ്പോള്‍ പൊതു മേഖല സ്ഥാപനത്തിന്‍റെ ഉത്തരവാദിത്വം എന്താണെന്ന് സമൂഹത്തിനു കാട്ടി കൊടുക്കുന്ന പ്രവര്‍ത്തനമാണ് BSNL നടത്തിക്കൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്നത്. ആപത്തില്‍ സഹായിച്ച യഥാര്‍ഥ സുഹൃത്തിനെ തിരച്ചറിഞ്ഞ ആശ്വാസത്തിലാണ് നിലമ്പൂര്‍ അടക്കമുള്ള പ്രളയ ദുരിതം നേരിട്ട പ്രദേശങ്ങളിലെ നിവാസികള്‍. ജന നന്മ കണക്കാക്കി എന്നും സേവനം നല്‍കാന്‍ സദാജാഗരൂഗരായിരിക്കുമെന്ന്‍ BSNL സംഘടനാ ഭാരവാഹികള്‍ അറിയിച്ചു.

Lunch hour demonstration was held throughout the country on today 7^th August, 2019 under the banner of AUAB. The main demands were: 

(1) Honouring the commitments given by the Union Cabinet in the year 2000, to ensure BSNL’s financial viability, (a) Extend immediate financial support to BSNL, for the maintenance of the services and (b) Extend soft loan to BSNL for it’s capital expenditures).

(2) Remove the total ban imposed on capital expenditure by BSNL. Allow field units to carry out capital expenditure, where ever revenue is assured.

(3) No retrenchment. Honour the commitment given on job security at the time of formation of BSNL.

(4) Stop repressive actions for even legitimate trade union activities.

Large number of employees, especially from the field units who are really facing tremendous pressure from the customers / labours/ vendors and the management on non payment participated in the demonstration.

View Photos

AUAB meeting held on 01.08.2019 decided to organise lunch hour demonstrations and gate meetings throughout the country, on 07th August, 2019 raising the following demands:-

Demands:

(1) Honouring the commitments given by the Union Cabinet in the year 2000, to ensure BSNL’s financial viability.

(a) Extend immediate financial support to BSNL, for the maintenance of the services.

(b) Extend soft loan to BSNL for it’s capital expenditures.

(2) Remove the total ban imposed on capital expenditure by BSNL. Allow field units to carry out capital expenditure, where ever revenue is assured.

(3) No retrenchment. Honour the commitment given on job security at the time of formation of BSNL.

(4) Stop repressive actions for even legitimate trade union activities.

AUAB Notice  AUAB Circular

Comrades, the services are getting affected, connections are started disconnecting, revenue is coming down and by stopping all the capital works, new source of income also stopped. The Management decision to stop all the capital works will only accelerate the down fall of BSNL. Govt and BSNL management is not able to provide the required fund for maintaining the network. Thousands of crores of BSNL money is blocked in DoT on various accounts.

In this hour of crisis, if the employees remain silent, it will be the last nail on the coffin of BSNL.   

See the commitments of the goverment  on 1st september 2000 on formation  of BSNL regarding 
1.Financial  viability
2.Job Security
3.Pension payment .
None of the above commitments are kept by BSNL and in turn it took many decisions in favour of Private operators which resulted the present  situation against  which AUAB has given  call to protest.

It is the time for every one who desire BSNL survival to rally behind and not to have sectarian views and make agenda of their own.

Excerpts from the address of GS Com K Sebastin at Vijayawada GB on 14/7/19, mainly covering the issues related to Revival of BSNL and important HR issues:

1. Financial position of BSNL: The loss is estimated to be around Rs 14,000 Crores and the revenue declined from Rs 25,000 Cr in 2017-18 to Rs 19,000 Crores during 2018-19 financial year. The pending liabilities of BSNL is around 13,000 Crores (4,000 OPEX + 4,000 CAPEX + Advance received from NOFN, LWE etc). At present monthly revenue is just 1,300 to 1,400 Crores whereas the expenditure is around 2,300 Crores and the deficit is around 1,000 Crores per month.

2. Allotment of 4G spectrum: Govt never interested to provide 4G spectrum to BSNL. In both 2G/3G and 4G spectrum issue, Govt actions delayed BSNL services. In 2G/3G, Govt interfered in the tenders & procurements and in the case of 4G, spectrum not allotted.  When the employees started agitation throughout country, Govt come under pressure and had some rethinking at the level of Secretary and MOC. But  officers down the level is not at all interested and they are against providing spectrum to BSNL, citing the Hon Supreme court order on 2G spectrum case in which SC ordered that all the Natural resources should be sold on auction only. After new Minister is taken over, some positive developments are taking place on 4G spectrum and Govt trying to get a positive Legal advice on the matter. DOT is planning to allot 4G spectrum at the cost of around 14155Cr+12%GST by way of 100% Govt equity infusion which meets our demand for free 4G spectrum.

3. Monetizing of Lands: Proposal is for taking over of all bank loans of BSNL and MTNL by an SPV with land parcels for equal amount.  With this both the companies will become zero debt as SPV will take care of debt. Further BSNL will be allowed to monetize the remaining land, Optical fibre and Towers for meeting the expenditure for CAPEX and it will be monitored by a Committee of officers from DoT, BSNL/MTNL and DIPAM. Previously SPV was proposed for Land, optical fibre network and tower monetization but now it is only for land monetization (about 29 land parcels with value around 20,000 cores only).

4. Merger of BSNL and MTNL: The proposal is to make MTNL a debt free company and then a subsidiary of BSNL. The main hurdles of merger of BSNL and MTNL are:

a) MTNL having huge loan and 60% revenue is being used for paying interest and loan repayments.

b) MTNL is listed company.

c) HR issues like difference in pay scales, pay, promotions, seniority, liability of transfer etc. 

SPV will take care of MTNL loans and MTNL will become debt free. A committee being formed with BSNL, MTNL and DOT officers for addressing other issues like delisting the MTNL and resolve all HR issues within 18 months of time and thereafter full merger with BSNL.

5. Proposal for VRS for the employees above 55 years of age (now 50 yrs) and then retirement age reduction to 58:              

Govt linked establishment cost reduction as part of the revival plan. Further Govt is not ready to consider any revival plan without staff reduction as it will not help revival of BSNL, according to the Govt. The ex-gratia is worked out in such a manner that ex-gratia plus pension amount will be 25% higher than the present pay (i.e salary +full pension). The  Employees who will opt for VRS  will get almost 25% higher amount as ex gratia +pension. Ex- gratia amount, Leave Encashment & full Pension (without Commutation) will be paid immediately after VRS.  But the Gratuity with  8% interest and Commutation Payment will be made on attaining the age of 60 years. VRS options may be asked from 01.10.2019 onwards. Govt is expecting nearly 70000 employees will be opted this VRS and around 6000 cores will be saved per annum.

After completion of VRS, retirement age reduction to 58 will be thought of w.e.from 01.01.2020. Reduction of retirement age to 58 may be a temporary measure for few years as in the case of ITI. In ITI, few years back retirement age reduced to 58 but two months back restored it to 60. SNEA is continuing its efforts to incorporate the 3rd PRC also part of the Revival Plan as recommended by IIM, Ahmadabad.

If VRS is implemented, it will have huge impacts on the cadre like massive redeployment, sharing of the additional work load by the remaining employees, absence of support staff etc in addition to the fact that the remaining employees also will lose two years of service and salary due to retirement age reduction. Since the excess staff is send on VRS, all the posts they are holding and the existing vacancies will cease to exist.

In the given situation, there is not much choice left for us and we are continuing our best efforts to get the revival plan approved. Assn will be taking a final call on these issues once final picture is known to us.

6. Restructuring proposal in BSNL:  BSNL Board already put on hold all the direct recruitments. New norms are being worked out and the fresh justification of posts will be worked out.

7. Superannuation benefits and EPF full Pension: As per assurance given by CMD, 3% enhancement of superannuation fund is to be processed by March, 2019. Unfortunately due to the salary crisis, BSNL Board is not taking up any proposal having additional financial implications. Hence enhancement of 3% SAB proposal is not materialised so far eventhough SNEA and AUAB continuing its persuation.

After Kerala High court and Supreme Court verdict on higher pension the EPF office filled two review petitions on it. One review petition was dismissed and other one is still pending. NCOA is party in the Hon Supreme Court on the cases filed for Full Pension. SNEA and NCOA is associated with the court cases at Hon SC. SNEA is closely monitoring and pursuing the issue.

GS also explained the developments on 3^rd PRC, Promotions i.e. JTO to SDE, SDE to DE, DE to DGM (T), AO to CAO, CAO to DGM (F) etc, CPSU hierarchy notification, E2 & E3 standard pay scales, Pension revision, pay loss of Executives of 2007 batch onwards, first TBP and E1A/E2A for Civil/Elect etc.  All the issues are still live and SNEA is continuously pursuing. On DGM promotions, M.A is proposed to be filed shortly for early hearing of the matter. Now vacancies available to accommodate all the eligible AGM/DEs on DGM promotion as large number of AGMs and Adhoc DGMs are retired.  

CS writes to CGMT regarding Achievement of targets and fixing responsibility to field units during hours of crisis - our humble suggestion View Letter

It is known to everyone that BSNL is passing through some tough time ever in its history as far as cash flow and regular payment towards its vendors, store suppliers, installation contractors etc. are concerned, due to liquidity crunch. As a result, many vendors have stopped supplying man power, stores, services, vehicles etc. seriously affecting day to day operations and developmental activities in field.  From BSNL side, as part of austerity measures, restrictions have been imposed on spending on account of man power, vehicle, diesel, materials, temporary advance, capital expenditure etc. It is not unknown to everyone that men, money and material are the essentials for running normal business by any service organisation. Hence, reduction in any of the three would lead to reduction of output despite best efforts from the field execution teams. It appears that the BSNL management seems to ignore these fundamental facts and expect field teams to perform both network operations and service provisions as being done during normal times.

At this juncture, it would be worth noting that the Hon. Minister for Communication himself had acknowledged this basic fact and identified the core reason for the financial crisis of BSNL as lack of fair competition in telecom industry in our country due to unleashing of predatory pricing initiated by one of the TSPs and lack of timely upgrade of technology like 4G, copper to fibre conversion etc by BSNL. Many BSNL circle heads and BA heads have already acknowledged the efforts taken by executives in their personal capacity for mitigating the stalemates by spending huge amount of money from their salary towards labour, vehicle expenses, diesel, local purchase etc. They could at least make some earnest attempt from their side to mitigate the burden being shouldered by the field executives alone even though many such attempts could not succeed due to various reasons. There are reports from circles regarding mobilisation of emergency fund through personnel contributions by sharing money right from the BA Head to non executives.

As we all know, Kerala circle, the highest profit making circle till last year had always achieved targets both in service front as well as in revenue front due to collective effort from all section of employees right from the circle head down to the contract labourers through some streamlined and time tested mechanisms implemented in the circle. As a result, Kerala circle could achieve certain milestones in the country like maintaining highest DEL, generating consistent revenue next only to Maharashtra circle from tower infra sharing etc in addition to meeting all operational parameters well within limits in all business verticals. It may be noted that Kerala circle has already initiated various opex saving measures including reduction of AMC costs in CM vertical, contract labour costs, vehicle usage, energy savings in exchanges/BTS sites and so on throughout all BAs. We are aware of the Corporate Office instruction to further reduce the labour cost by another 30%. We are of the opinion that the instruction is highly irrational as far as Kerala circle is concerned where considerable reduction in men, money and material has already taken place compared to the quantity of telecom operational assets being maintained in the circle. We suggest such points are to be brought to the notice of Corporate Office to convince them to assist the circle to equip with most essential men, money and material for the smooth operations of its telecom network in the highly productive telecom circle. Our CHQ has already brought these irregularities to the notice of Corporate Office at the highest level. We expect circle administration also would rise to the occasion to bring these facts to their notice to get favourable decisions from their side. We strongly believe that the unscientific, irrational and sharp cut in labour in our circle without any work study or assessment of actual requirement will be highly detrimental to the revenue and operational prospects of this highly productive circle.

It is disheartening to note that the Kerala circle administration seems to ignore these basic facts and seen engaged in implementing such unrealistic corporate decisions in haste simply ignoring the field realities. We are fully aware of the present crisis and would strive really hard to achieve our targets as being done at present by field officers even by spending from their own salaries. But, to our dismay, instead of acknowledging their efforts and motivating the field officers during the hours of crisis, the circle administration seems to send wrong signals to the field even going to the extent of using the sword of ‘no work no pay’, fault clearance targeted webinars etc thereby demotivating the already constrained field units to perform in the adverse operating conditions with shortage of men, material and money. The administration never seems to acknowledge the shortage of resources for the field units to perform. Instead they are involved in fixing unrealistic targets to field units.  While we have no doubt about the responsibility in clearing the faults and creating /  providing the  demands  we are of the considered view that the management is equally responsible for supplying necessary  men, money and material to achieve  the same. If the labour, material and money which are to be supplied by management are not available, the field officers cannot be held no way responsible.

 We would also like to bring to the notice of the circle administration that in the course of urge to achieve the operational targets, the count of LL, BB, Mobile connections as well as fault clearance in many circles and BAs seems to be reported unrealistic. This is amply clear from the VLR, ARPU, NIL CDR IPDR and revenue fetched by such circles and BAs. These types of “smart practices” may spoil the work culture and intellectual integrity of the staff and the system. We are constrained to bring these views on seeing the message from top level to fix responsibility among field staff and officers up to SDE level alone towards the non performance. We are not convinced under what circumstances the escalation matrix of responsibility end with SDEs.  We are of the view that the above kind of advisories and demoralising actions from the top management are highly demotivating to the field units which are already in the verge of an outburst. We request circle administration to be practical to field realities and sympathetic to the field officers and staff rather than whipping with the sword of no work no pay etc.

We urge upon the circle administration to review their present attitude towards the field units and to initiate dialogues with all stakeholders to arrive at a consensus to tide over the present exigency for the smooth running of telecom operations in the circle during the hours of crisis.

CS writes to Hon'ble Chief Minister of Kerala regarding Payment of Property Tax to Local bodies by BSNL towards its buildings and mobile telecommunication towers in Panchayaths - hardship faced by BSNL Officers due to revenue recovery proceedings, attachments, civil/criminal prosecution initiated by various local bodies in the State.  View Letter

GS writes to Shri P. K. Purwar, CMD/BSNL: Unscientific, irrational and sharp cut in labour across BSNL units without any work study or assessment of requirement will derail the sincere efforts for Revival of BSNL. These skilled labours become integral part of BSNL in maintaining the network, especially UG cable and OFC network. Ultimately the field units, the revenue earning wing will suffer, it will badly affect the services and BSNL revenue. Much effective cost cutting can be done on AMC but focus is not seen on those areas.

GS letter to CMD

Congratulations..!!! Contempt Petition against Organizational Programs of SNEA, BSNLEU and others is dismissed by Hon'ble Hight Court of Kerala

The contempt petition filed by Circle Secretary of TOA and Circle Secretary of BTEU against 41 activists of SNEA, BSNLEU, SEWA, AIGETOA for conducting organisational programs in front of CGMT office Trivandrum is dismissed by Hon’ble High Court of Kerala.

Congratulations to all who stood by the organisational call for betterment of BSNL and its Employees. It is really very unfortunate that two Employees' organizations BTEU and TOA who should have stood by the moves of Employees irrespective of political affiliations, went to Court to curtail the freedom of organizational activities of Employees itself. With this move they have proved that it is not the interest of the Employees driving these Employees' organizations.

GS writes to Shri P K Purwar, CMD, BSNL: Settlement of the long pending issue of SDE Promotion through LDCE 2007 (Vacancy Year 2005-06) of 2001 Rect JTOs who were made eligible as per SDE RR 2002 and the clarifications issued by BSNLCO dated 16.04.2007 and 10.07.2007 and got promoted without 3 years of actual Service.

GS letter to CMD, BSNL  SNEA letter to DIR(HR) dated 06.08.2010

Meeting with GM(HR) on 30/7/2019:
CS, CT and ACS met GM(HR) Shri Satheesh.R for discussing following issues:

1. Transfer Orders for the officers request who completed their BA tenure of two years: As a followup process, we pursued the long pending transfer orders with GM HR as assured to us by CGM on 25th of this month. We expressed our strong protest over the delay and requested to issue the orders by tomorrow itself i.e 31/7/19. GM HR assured and promised that orders will be issued by this weekend on or before Friday 2/8/2019. Comrades, we are closely pursuing the issue, and if orders are not coming as assured, we will have to resort to organisational actions as per the decisions taken at CEC Kannur. 

2. Approval for effecting company cost transfers to high range areas of Idukki District and bringing back two year tenure completed officials from Idukki to Ernakulam: GM HR responded positively.

3. JTO (Off) Pay Fixation and recovery : We once again requested GM HR to arrange a combined meeting of Accounts personnel, HR and Association side for discussing and resolving the issue. GM HR informed that PGM Finance is on long leave, but assured to convene the meeting in next week itself. We also want to discuss the release of 5 JAO vacancy issue in this proposed combined meeting.

Revised Cabinet Memo on BSNL Revival plan based on Group of Ministers recommendation is approved by the Minister and circulated to other nodal Ministries on Friday, 26.07.19.

The proposal includes:

A. 4G spectrum by 100% capital infusion by Govt (total 14155 cr + 12% GST).

B. SPV for 23000 Cr BSNL loan (present loan 20000 + furture anticipated loan of 3000) take over with equivalent land parcel.

C. Land monetization for meeting BSNL expansion jointly monitored by BSNL, DoT and DIPAM.

D. Financial support for Rural Exchanges.

E. VRS for the employees above 50 years. After implementation of VRS, age reduction to 58.

i) Ex-gratia will be paid to the employees in cash, in single or maximum 5 instalments (optional) for Tax benefit.

ii) The formula will be: Ex-gratia+Pension OR 125% of the salary, which ever is less.

iii) For arranging money for VRS, BSNL will issue bonds to the public with sovereign guarantee of the Government of India. 50% of interest liability on bonds will be borne by Govt.

iv) Gratuity payment and commutation of pension after 5 years or attaining age of 60 as applicable. Gratuity payment with 8% interest.

F. Merger of BSNL and MTNL. Initially debt free MTNL (through SPV as BSNL) will be made a subsidiary of BSNL. After sorting out other HR issues and disinvestment of MTNL by a joint committee within 18 months, full merger will take place.

Meeting with CGMT on 25/7/2019: 

CS Com.T.Santhosh Kumar and ACS Com.Ramana met CGMT Dr.P.T.Mathew on 25/7/2019 and discussed the following issues:

1. We requested CGMT to immediately issue the long awaited transfer orders for the pending requests for those who completed two years tenure. We told CGMT that most of the transfer requests are from LICE JTOs who were posted to far off places in Feb 2017 and most of them worked only a few months in their hometown after coming to Kerala on Rule-8 from other Circles.

2. We also requested CGMT to issue approval for the proposal sent from Ernakulam BA for bringing back the officials from Iddukki to Ernakulam and for executing company cost transfers to meet the HR requirement at Iddukki district.

CGMT responded positively and assured that orders will be released soon. We requested CGMT to issue the orders before his relieving to DOT.

Meeting with Shri P K Purwar, CMD/BSNL on 24.07.2019: GS, President and AGS met CMD/BSNL and held discussions on:

1) Revival package for BSNL and MTNL: CMD informed that the GoM meeting was positive and final draft Cabinet note will be circulated to the nodal ministries shortly. On specific query, CMD informed that VRS will be offered for the employees above 50 years of age. According to CMD the process may take another two months for approval and thereafter another 5 to 6 months for implementation. Survival of BSNL till that period is the biggest challenge.

2) Arranging fund for meeting the urgent expenditure: CMD informed that the financial condition is very critical and the banks are very reluctant to give loan as the balance sheet is not good. Their  apprehension is the repayment of Loan. Secretary DoT also intervened in the matter. Considering the financial crisis, we have to maintain the services by our own employees, that is the only option ahead, CMD informed. Contract workers payment cannot be made from the present revenue collection.

We further demanded the modification of the order putting total ban on Capital expenditure which adversely affects the growth of BSNL as well as the revenue. The relaxation given for EB circuits is not sufficient. CMD assured to examine the matter and do the needful.

Congratulations..!! Finally after one year of continuous persuasion, Kerala Circle Administration agreed and modified the notional date of SDE to AGM promotion from 30/6/2018 to 29/6/2018 as done in other Circles and also as done for other subsequent SDE to AGM promotion orders in Kerala Circle. We thank CGMT, GM HR Shri Satheesh.R and DGM HR Smt.R.Ponnammal for resolving the long pending issue. View Orders

CS Com.T.Santhosh Kumar, CT Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.Ramana met GM HR to discuss the following issues:

1. Transfer Requests : We expressed our protest over the inordinate delay in issuance of transfer orders for those who completed two years tenure inspite of the approval received from Corporate office long back. We pointed out that based on the approval from Corp office, already other Circles like Karnataka has issued transfer orders. GM HR informed that the file is with him and he is in discussion with CGMT for resolving the issue at the earliest. After the meeting with GM HR, Circle Secretary sent a message to CGMT conveying our protest in this regard.
2. Correction in Notional date for SDE to AGM promotion: GM HR informed that issue is resolved and orders will be issued. We thank Circle Administration for resolving the long pending issue.

GS writes to Smt. Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary (Telecom): Immediate action solicited to withdraw the guidelines issued by BSNL putting total ban on all capital expenditures --- this retrograde decision will cut the revenue sources and growth of BSNL, thereby all the efforts for revival of BSNL. 

GS letter to Secretary, DoT

Meeting with Shri S P Tripathi, DIR(CM&HR) on 23.07.2019: GS, President and AGS met DIR(CM&HR) and held discussions on:

1) Arranging fund for meeting the OPEX and CAPEX: We appraised the ground realities in the field units where the works are largely affected due to fund shortage. Since services are started affecting, hundreds of connections are getting closed every day which will have serious impact on the revenue in the coming days. Director also shared our view and informed that efforts are going on for getting bank loan to tide over the situation temporarily. The response from the Bankers meeting on last friday was positive.

2) Promotions in different cadres and notification of CPSU Hierarchy for bringing uniformity and parity in promotions: We expressed our serious concern for not getting any promotion orders. In the name of court cases and contempt, no promotion is taking place for the last one year, further demoralising the Executives. As a solution to this situation, BSNL Board approved the new promotion policy but BSNL is not implementing it for the reasons known to the management alone. It is doubted that mgt is not implementing it as it is more beneficial to the Executives and the Executives will get timely promotion. Director assured to work out on this for giving due promotions at the earliest. On DGM promotion, actions are taken to file the MA at Hon CAT, CDG.

3) Stopping the proposed move of reversion of SDEs promoted in 2008 through LDCE: We explained the issue and requested Director to review the decision for reversion and not to revert the eligible JTOs of 2001 batch.

4) Wrong implementation of Perquisite Tax: We cited the IT provisions, f IT Tribunal, Indore orders on the subject and the instructions issued by IT Department exempting Perquisite Tax for the accommodation provided by another CPSU, HMT Ltd to justify our demand that Perquisite Tax is not applicable for the Quarters allotted to BSNL employees. Director assured to take appropriate action.

5) Pending request transfers: We requested to clear all the pending request transfers, including the shortage Circles. Executives are posted to the shortage Circles on the assurance that they will be given transfer after completion of 2 years. Director assured to clear the request transfers.

Our continuous persuasion with BSNL Management, DoT, Hon Minister and Hon Prime Minister for arranging funds getting momentum:

On last Friday, 19.07.2019, different bankers had a meeting with BSNL management for arranging loan for BSNL. As a follow up action, a meeting being held at DoT today, 22.07.2019 with the bankers, chaired by Secretary DoT. CMD BSNL made a detailed presentation to the bankers. BSNL and Govt is impressing upon the bankers about the BSNL revival plan and the urgent need for loan.

SNEA drawn the attention of the Govt at various level by taking up the issue with Secretary/DoT, Hon Telecom Minster and finally at the highest level of Govt by writing to the Hon Prime Minister on 15.07.2019 for facilitating immediate loan to BSNL for meeting the expenditure towards OPEX and CAPEX, till revival package is implemented.

Meeting with Sri Arun Kumar, PGM(Pers) on 22.07.2019: GS, President and both AGSs met PGM (Pers) and held discussions on:

1) Stopping the proposed move of reversion of SDEs promoted in 2008 through LDCE: We informed PGM (Pers) that JTOs of 2001 batch are eligible as per the provisions of RR and the clarifications issued by BSNLCO to different Circles during the notification of LDCE. Since BSNL declared them eligible, it is the responsibility of BSNL to protect their promotion also. The subsequent clarification issued after the conduction of the LDCE should be applicable prospectively, not retrospectively, we told. SNEA also drawn the attention of PGM about the earlier instances SNEA taken up the issue and the stopping of reversion on earlier occasions. Since they are already promoted as SDEs, they could not appear for subsequent LDCEs conducted by BSNL, sealing their future. PGM informed that BSNL is interested to protect them and will try to help them but it is a court verdict.

2) DGM (T) promotion: The MA is filed at Hon CAT, CDG. It is expected to listed for hearing this week.

3) Pending request transfers: PGM assured to clear the request transfer which are forwarded through proper channel.

It is understood that the Group of Ministers suggested considering VRS for the employees above 50 years of age. Accordingly the draft Cabinet note will be modified and circulated to the nodal ministries by this week end. Earlier proposal was VRS for the employees above the age of 55.

CS writes to CGMT regarding ascertaining the requirement of MSAN equipments before placing the order

View Letter

It is learned that  Group of Ministers meeting  given green signal to the proposal contain in the draft Cabinet Memo prepared and circulated by DoT.

Urgent need for speedy revival of BSNL by facilitating short term bank loan or soft loan for BSNL for meeting urgent requirement for OPEX / CAPEX, 4G spectrum allotment, permission for land monetization and payment of pension contribution on actual basic pay which will improve the cash flow. Implementation of 3rd PRC for BSNL employees as recommended by the Premier Consultant, IIM (Ahmadabad) as part of revival for BSNL is very significant for revival of BSNL. If the decision is delayed by another 2 to 3 months, it will be too late as BSNL network may deteriorate beyond repair/revival, making revival impossible. 

GS writes to Hon. Prime minister of India.

Urgent need for speedy revival of BSNL by facilitating Bank loan or soft loan, 4G spectrum allotment, permission for land monetization and payment of pension contribution on actual basic pay which will improve the cash flow... GS writes to Hon. MP Shri.T.R.Balu.

GS writes to Shri. Sheetla Prasad Tripathi, Director (CM): Finalisation of staffing norms for the new business areas like Broad Band, Transmission mtce, Leased Circuits, MPLS Circuits, FTTH connections, Wi Max, Sales and marketing etc in addition to landline and mobile sectors. Opinion of the Recognised Executives Association reg:

GS letter to DIR(HR)

GS writes to Shri P. K Purwar, CMD, BSNL: Revival of BSNL --- Urgent measures to close down thousands of loss making landline Telephone Exchanges which are maintained just to provide Telecom connectivity as part of social obligations of the Govt. Thousands of Crores of rupees can be saved just by this measure on electricity payments, rentals, labour charges etc alone in addition to payment of salary. 

GS letter to CMD

GS writes to Smt. Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary, DoT: Instructions may be issued to the State Govts not to disconnect the power supply for Telephone Exchanges and BSNL Towers for maintaining the Telecom Services till the Revival Plan is implemented – your kind intervention

GS letter to Secretary, DoT

The Cabinet Memo on BSNL and MTNL Revival Plan is approved by the Hon Minister and will be sent to other nodal Ministries today or tomorrow for their comments:

It is learned that Cabinet Memo is redrafted based on the discussion between Cabinet Secretary and Secretary DoT.

The proposal includes:

1) 4G spectrum by 100% Govt equity infusion.

2) Taking over all the loan of BSNL and MTNL by an SPV with land parcels for equal amount.  SPV will care of debt only.

3) Allowing BSNL to monetize the remaining land, monitored by a Committee of officers from DoT and BSNL.

4) VRS for the employees above 55 years age and then retirement age reduction to 58. Funding will be through bonds having sovereign guarantee of Govt of India. The ex-gratia is worked out in such a manner that ex-gratia plus pension amount will be 25% higher than the present pay.

5) Merger of BSNL and MTNL in a phased manner after addressing the contentious issues. Initially, debt free MTNL will become a subsidiary of BSNL.

GS, President and both AGSs Com P P Rao and Com Sanjeev Sharma met DIR(HR) on 10.07.2019 and held discussions on the following issues: PGM(Pers) and GM(Restg) also present.

a) Promotion in different cadres, JTO to SDE, SDE to DE, AO to CAO by diversion of posts, JTO(C/E/TF/Arch) to SDE(C/E/TF/Arch) and DE to DGM(T). Director (HR) informed that management is making its best efforts but due to litigations, not able to give promotions. Unnecessary litigations spoiling the career of thousand of comrades.

b) CPSU Hierarchy notification: Management is taking steps in this regard.

c) Restructuring proposal for BSNL: Director (HR) informed that the review of sanction of posts will be undertaken immediately. BSNL Board already put on hold all the recruitments. New norms will be worked out soon and accordingly number of posts will be determined.

GS and both AGSs Com P P Rao and Com Sanjeev Sharma met PGM(Pers) on 09.07.19 and held discussions on promotion in different cadres. On DGM promotions, MA is proposed to be filed shortly for early hearing of the matter. Now vacancies available to accommodate all the eligible AGM/DEs on DGM promotion as large number of AGMs and Adhoc DGMs are retired. Further we demanded review of transfer of DEs to BR Circle.

GS writes to Shri P. K. Purwar CMD BSNL regarding Austerity measures --- Corporate Office should set example for other units to follow – unfortunately just reverse is happening.

GS letter to CMD

Circle Executive Committee Meeting of SNEA Kerala was held at Hotel Rainbow Suites, Kannur on 5/7/2019 to discuss Survival and Revival of BSNL.     View Photos

Com.Deepak Kumar, District Secretary of Kannur welcomed all delegates to the CEC.

CEC paid homage to late Comrade Unnikrishnan, former District Treasurer Kannur.

Com.George Varghese, Circle President delivered the presidential address. Com.Santhosh Kumar, Circle Secretary in his report, explained the various works done in the period, letters written and various meetings held with administration. CEC felicitated former ACS and retired Com.K.V.Chandran.

CEC deliberated on the following points:

1. Revenue Generation:

• Focus for Target may be shifted from number count to Revenue
• Restriction on CAPEX may be removed for highly remunerative projects
• The CAPEX part of the revenue may be retained with the concerned BA/Circle for the execution of the project.
• Strengthening Marketing by staff redeployment
• Renting out of Building Space to be accelerated
• Leasing of building space to Private organisations also
• Vacant Quarters are to be completely filled up by liberalising existing norms
• The revenue from Land Monetisation to be judiciously invested
• Renting out of conference halls, building spaces, surroundings may be utilized for business meetings, training, film shooting, marriage functions etc….
• Identify low traffic Wi-Fi hotspots and relocate to revenue generating areas like Marriage auditoriums, halls, malls, tea shops, coffee shops, tourist places etc.
• In Mela’s, Revenue to be counted rather than number of connections.
• Room Rent for Inspection Quarters to be increased after restoring AC and exploring tie-up with brands like OYO.
• Marketing of 2G Sim in POS machines
• Marketing of GPS tracking service using 2G SIM 

2. Expenditure Reduction:

• Long leave of 5 years or more without pay to be implemented which may help to reduce expenditure. This will help to motivate the employees and the system is already practiced by various State Governments.
• Deputation to other organisations on employee request may be liberally permitted.
• Exchange wise financial analysis to be done periodically by the Management and decision to be taken to close down the financially nonviable exchanges.
• Merger of BAs may be explored
• FRAC – judicious and smart decisions to be taken

3. FTTH :

• The issues related to FTTH wallet to be resolved immediately for instant LCO commission. The pending LCO commission is to be charged to the wallet, as implemented in Karnataka and other circles.

• Explore possibilities of forming co-operative societies with relatives of serving employees as well as retirees for investing in lucrative businesses like FTTH.
• Exploring Relatives and Retirees to take up responsibilities as LCO for providing FTTH.
• Poor performance of UTSTARCOM OLTs to be reviewed and rectified.
• Introduce triple play with IPTV on FTTH
• Utilization of Apprentice trainees in FTTH Provision
• Procurement of sufficient splicing machines and OLTs, powers to be delegated to Circle Office
• BSNL should own OLTs in order to get control over LCOs.
• Discussion may be initiated with KSEB head for having common agreement to draw fibre through KSEB posts.
• Manpower may be properly trained and utilized for FTTH work.
• Fund may be collected from Employee contributions for FTTH expansion works.
• Association may raise funds for procuring splicing machines
• LCO performance may be closely monitored as reports from various corner that BSNL connections are diverting by the LCOs to other Operators.

4. Internal Resources for CAPEX/OPEX:

• Fund may be collected from Employee contributions for FTTH expansion works.

• Loans from World Banks at Cheaper interests may be explored for CAPEX/OPEX.
• Land Monetisation
• The CAPEX part of the revenue may be retained with the concerned BA/Circle for the execution of the project.

5. Procurement Policy:

• unwanted procurement such as MSAN APO for VDSL ports, Wi-Fi hotspots, Modems, Clip phones etc may be stopped
• Ensure that the purchase of equipments are really worth to the company.
• Representation from staff side in Top Management/BSNL Board as watchdog/whistleblower for avoiding unnecessary procurement/corruption.
• Avoid investing huge amounts on software packages and utilize in-house IT experts for developing in-house packages.

6. Measures to reduce workload of CSC:

• Accounts personnel may be posted in CSC in the changed scenario, post ERP as done in ENK BA where a JAO is reporting to an SDE and his APAR will be reviewed by CAO, similarly JTO CSC is reporting to AO CSC and his APAR will be reviewed by AGM/DE, similarly APAR of AO will be reported by AGM/DE and reviewed by DGM Finance. It is learnt that many accounts personnel are willing to work in CSCs, we may even explore them in EB and Legal wings.
• Each division should have a separate S&M team
• Close down of unwanted CSCs immediately
• Activation process in CRM to be simplified. At present an NPC order takes around 15-20 minutes.
• Suitable APPs may be developed by ITPC to reduce our workload
• Utilize apprentice in CSC

7. Improvements in Outdoor and Mobile Network:

• NGN implementation may be reshaped to small exchanges/tower locations.
• Cleaning up of bogus CDR data, immediate closing of pending disconnect orders. As disconnect orders are pending in Clarity, Customers are not getting back their refund deposits and huge number of complaints are being raised. CEC was not convinced for retaining these disconnect orders, and we are facing difficulty in operating clarity package too. Unless there is written orders from management in this regard, it would be difficult to continue with bogus working lines.
• Reduce delay in SIM activation
• 4G/5G deployment for higher bandwidth
• Mapping of fibre routes for keeping records
• Introduce Dongle for 4G
• Authentication issues in Juniper BNG
• Utilization of our TTs and other staff for FTTH
• Segmentation of SMS push – we observed that information on newly launched low tariff plans are being sent to Higher plan customers, which will erode our revenue.
• CTOPUP Nano SIM is not available, which is widely affecting the SIM activation process in POS, retailers and other partners who are using smartphones.

8. Other items:

• Refund of BWA spectrum charges and pension contribution as per actual basic.
• Merger of STR/STP/Inspection Circle
• Negative publicity to be countered
• Meeting MPs for giving representation and preparing them for presenting in Parliament.
• Allotment of funds by Corporate office to Circle may be based on the revenue generated by the Circle. A major percentage of the revenue generated by the Circle has to be returned back to the Circle.

9. Civil items:

CEC unanimously resolved to demand to stop engaging BSNL civil wing in new external projects till land monetization process is over. If needed, for early completion of the current ongoing works, separate team may be formed calling volunteers. A separate bank account may be opened for the smooth execution of the project.

10. Electrical items:

Presently there are 70 nos of technically qualified Executives (JTOs-32, SDEs-31, EE-5, SE-2 ) are working in BSNL Electrical Wing Kerala. Due to the consistent effort of Electrical wing there is a saving of 26.11 Cr in Energy expenditure all over Kerala in the last financial year. Energy Monitoring and inspections were carried out in two highest energy consuming Building per each BA. The concerns of the Executives in the present scenario are as follows.

• At the outset of the severe financial crisis of BSNL, Rs.12 Cr Vendor payment is pending at CSC completing all formalities. Due to this all Electrical contractors stopped the works including AMC. Almost all BAs stopped the AMC contract of EA sets, AC units, Package AC plants etc in Exchange sites as well as BTS sites due to the financial crunch. Presently only breakdown maintenances are being managed some how.
• Operation and Comprehensive maintenance of Package AC units were stopped by the BAs. The operation of Package AC units is being handled by Exchange personnel. But due to non-maintenance of PAC units will lead to complete breakdown. In this scenario the action may be taken to retain the Operation and Comprehensive maintenance of Package AC units in major Exchanges in each BAs.
• As per the corporate office guidelines, the prior approval is to be obtained for incurring capital expenditure. Some of the very urgent capital works such as  CTPT changing in connection with CD rationalisation, AC installation at important sites, Substation installation etc are stalling due to this. As a result of this work load of the Electrical Executives is drastically reduced and the workforce may be extend to other Telecom Technical areas such as Battery power plant etc.
• Presently GSM/BTS EA set/AC maintenance is being carried out by BA level in certain areas such as EKM. Now BA is demanding for sparing one SDE and JTO for supervision of the work. But we are of the opinion that the workload of the GSM maintenance may be equally distributed among the Electrical Subdivisions in the BA.
• Regarding the External project, a total of 100 cr projects are carrying out by Electrical wing all over Kerala including the prestigious project like KINFRA, Malabar Cancer Centre, DH Kannur, NHM works etc. But now due to the financial crisis, the Corporate office is not releasing the fund to the Vendors which has been already remitted by the clients. This leads to the stalling of the project which will attract penalty and litigation. In this context we are of the opinion that a separate Account may be created and maintained at Circle level for external project to tide over the crisis.
• The merging of Electrical wing with BAs functionally is the need of the hour. Electrical Works are being carried out based on the CPWD procedures and specifications. All Electrical works need to be carried by the Electrically qualified supervisor/licensed person. Violation of this procedure may lead to litigation and punishable under court of law in case of any eventualities or accident. In the present scenario, Electrical works may be carried out through LPC as followed by BAs with CPWD specifications supervised by qualified supervisor /licensed person.
• The promotion avenues in Electrical wing is pathetic and leads to stagnation in various cadre. 1997 recruited JTOs are  waiting for SDE regular promotion while 1998 SDEs are still to get EE promotion. Without much financial implication these promotions canbe materialised.

11. HR items:

• Consideration of Inter-BA Transfer requests are very much delayed even after the clarifications were received from corporate office. No more delay can be expected and organisational action to be resorted on further delay.
• Pay recovery being done from JTOs of ENK BA – a serious matter inspite of detailed discussion with CGMT many months back, it is yet to be resolved. Even after the lapse of 3 months, the decision taken for a meeting of HR, Accounts and Association to discuss the issue could not be arranged.
• Rule-8 transfers – CEC opined of taking care of Rule-8 transfers for 2 years completed cases. As the recently recruited DR-JTOs through GATE are mostly from other states, Rule-8 transfer will help them to work in their home state.

CEC meeting started at 10.30 AM in the morning, the brain storming sessions went upto 10 PM in the night.

GS, President and both AGSs Com P P Rao and Com Sanjeev Sharma met Congress Chief Whip in Lok Sabha Shri Kodikunnil Suresh, MP and submitted a memorandum seeking support for the revival of BSNL. He assured his support and promised to write to the Telecom Minister in this regard.

AUAB meeting with Shri P. K. Purwar, CMD/BSNL on 04.07.2019: AUAB had a detailed meeting with the new CMD on various important issues like BSNL revival for more than one and half hours:

1) On BSNL Revival, CMD explained the status of various issues like 4G spectrum, monetization of land, merger of BSNL and MTNL, VRS/Retirement age reduction/salary support.Discussions are going on at various level on all the issues.

On immediate financial support and Bank loan, CMD informed that there will be no financial support from DoT and very difficult to get bank loans also. CMD indicated very tough time ahead.

On the specific query on VRS, whether BSNL worked out the actual number of employees required or number of surplus employees, CMD informed that he is not aware of any such data worked out by BSNL CO.

2) Making over of BBNL (Bharath net) OFC mtce to an SPV of DoT: CMD informed that the present rate of Rs 12000 per KM is not sufficient to meet the expenditure. BBNL and DoT is not ready to hike the rates. So BSNL is not much interested in continuing with the work on such a loss making proposition.

3) Proposed move to takeover ALTTC and other land: CMD assured to take up the matter with DoT and of the firm view that the entire asset belongs to BSNL and DoT unilaterally cannot take over. If DoT is interested in the land, BSNL is ready to part it on market rate. This will be communicated to DoT.

CS writes to CGMT regarding conduction of retirement functions in Ernakulam BA. View Letter

CS writes to CGMT regarding a proposal for declaring Hard High Ranges of Idukki District as Soft Tenure Area by Corporate office. View Letter

Notional Date for AGM Promotion: SDE to AGM promotion was released by Corporate office on piece meal basis on various dates in 2018 with notional date of 29/6/2018.  The notional date was not followed in Kerala Circle for all the orders and the officers in the earliest orders were forced to join on 30/6/2018 which will lead to many further litigations. We were pursuing the issue for the last one year and now it is learnt that Circle Administration has decided to resolve the issue and reconsider 29/6/2018 as the notional and joining date for all the officers.

CEC Meeting at Kannur on 5/7/2019: View Notice

Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala Circle is scheduled on 05-07-2019 at Hotel Rainbow Suites, Opp. Railway Station, Ballard Road, Kannur. View location on Google Maps

All Circle office bearers, SSA Secretaries, CEC members and Branch Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting in time. 

GS writes to Shri. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Communications:  

Considering the delay in finalization of revival plan, BSNL requires urgent financial support in the form of Bank loan or soft loan from the Govt for clearing the outstanding payments above Rs 6000 Cr towards OPEX and CAPEX. DoT should appreciate the fact that unlike others, BSNL did not got any financial support so far from the Govt for its operations, all the expenditure is met by its own resources:

Your kind intervention is solicited immediately for:

i) facilitating BSNL to get bank loan or soft loan till the monetization is effected.

ii) payment of pension contribution on actual basic pay and refund of excess payment to the tune of Rs 2,100 Crores.

iii) approval for land monetization proposal of BSNL submitted in July, 2018.

GS letter to Shri. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Communications

GS writes to Shri P. K Purwar, CMD, BSNL regarding payment of Electricity charges, fuel charges, rentals, labour charges, vehicle running expenses etc on priority for maintaining the services: 

GS letter to CMD

DIR(HR) DO letter to all CGMs

DO letter

Welcoming new CMD Shri P K Purwar by GS,  President, both AGSs, CS/BSNL Cor. Office and Com Dahiya Ex Jt. Sec./ CHQ:

CMD made his priorities very clear, maintenance of network and BSNL services as the top agenda and sought some sacrifices from the employees in this regard.

We assured all the support for the revival of BSNL.

Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD BSNL retired on superannuation on 30.06.2019. GS, President and AGSs met and felicitated him on his retirement. We recollected some of the milestone during his tenure as CMD.

Shri P.K. Purwar, CMD/MTNL entrusted  with the additional charge of CMD/BSNL, for a period of three months w.e.f 01.07.2019 or till the appointment of a regular incumbent to the post. It is expected that his regular appoint orders will be issued very shortly.

SNEA congratulates him and wish him all the success.

DoT order entrusting additional charge of CMD/BSNL to Shri P K Purwar 

Message of Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD BSNL to BSNL employees on his retirement on superannuation....

"It certainly is very emotional moment of my life when I bid adieu to my BSNL family, which is so close to my heart.

Today, I am sure with combined energy, zeal and support of all of you, BSNL shall not only endure the current challenges but emerge more stronger and resilient.

Let us continue to "Be the Best".. 

Anupam Shrivastava, CMD BSNL

Editorial:

The top management which given a new direction to BSNL is leaving. BSNL will ever remember their contributions. BSNL will be in the hands of a new team with many challenges: immediate capital infusion, restructuring of the organization and to make real, honest, unrelenting and serious efforts to ensure massive revenue generation. We wish them good luck.

The team of Shri Anupm Shrivastava, present CMD and the Ex Board of Directors Shri N. K. Gupta, Shri R K Mittal, Shri N K Mehta and Smt Sujata T Ray were instrumental in bringing BSNL back into revival path. They were very successful in that, till the entry of Reliance Jio by making BSNL operational profit for 3 consecutive years 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17. Even after that, even with a hostile DoT which is not willing to provide any assistance to BSNL, BSNL could sustain till today to a great extend. Comparing to other operators, BSNL market share and revenue, continues to be better.

It may be recollected that they were taken charge almost in a similar situation as on today, losses increased every year, cash flow issue, all the tenders were failing, all the expansion plans in mobile, transmission etc failing and EB business shrinking due to non expansion of MPLS / MLLN network.

The following decision taken by that team of Directors really changed BSNL:

a) Massive expansion in the mobile network, MPLS network, transmission network, deployment of NGN etc.

b) Getting refund of about 15,000 crores from DoT to BSNL in the form of excess payment of Income Tax and BWA spectrum refund between 2015-2018.

c) Competitive Tariffs and market intervention to compete with other operators.

d) Night free calls.

e) Free roaming.

f) Revaluation of the assets and making BSNL, a company having more than 1 lakh Crores asset.

g) Visibility in the electronic/ print media and the market.

h) The experiment of providing 4G services with 3G spectrum.

However the major initiatives taken in the HR front, E2/E3 pay scales, CPSU Cadre Hierarchy implementation and 3rd PRC etc, did not succeed at all. Only on Superannuation benefits, management could succeed by extending 5% contribution. BSNL Executives will never forget the record number of promotion orders, more than 13,000, issued in June, 2018 even by upgradation of thousand of posts. Management miserably failed in bringing HR reforms and restructuring of the organization which played a very important role in making BSNL an incipient sick company. Somehow the management could not understand the huge significance and role of the huge work force in the organization.

For the new team of top management the challenges are many. First of all to make DoT sensitive towards BSNL. With the new Telecom Minister, it may become easier. Infusion of working capital for BSNL is the major challenge. The immediate requirement as on today is Rs 6000 Cr to meet the expenditure on OPEX and CAPEX. BSNL cannot wait for the implementation of the revival plan as it may take minimum 6 months to generate revenue for BSNL.

Secondly the massive HR reforms required in BSNL. This is an organization having huge work force and its role and importance in the revival of BSNL should be recognised first. The redeployment of the employees, according to the business requirements cannot be delayed further. The mistakes of earlier management should not be repeated by the new team of management.

Finally to get the best out of the employees, they have to be highly motivated. Their contribution towards revival of BSNL is to be recognised first. Employees commitment, dedication and readiness to take the challenges in the field units by coming out of the office rooms, voluntarily working few extra hours, every day, mean business.

The top Management should not delay the initiatives in this regard. We wish them all the success. 

Meeting with GM HR: Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.Ramana met GM HR Shri Satheesh.R on 28/6/2019 and enquired about the status of the pending transfer requests as assured earlier to us by CGMT. We apprised GM HR about the long undue delay in issuing the orders even after getting the clarification letter from Corporate office. GM HR informed that he has given necessary instructions to DGM HR for putting up the file. We later met DGM HR Smt.Ponnammal and discussed the same. We are closely pursuing for the orders.

Regarding relieving of officers whose transfer orders were already issued couple of months back, Administration informed that ERP relieving would be done on 29/6/2019. 

CS writes to CGMT regarding immediate consideration of pending Transfer Requests View Letter

CEC Meeting at Kannur on 5/7/2019:

Notice is hereby issued for Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala Circle to be held on 05-07-2019 at Kannur. All Circle office bearers, SSA Secretaries, CEC members and Branch Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting in time. View Notice

Modalities for settlement of welfare claims through LIC.

The following documents are required for settlement of the claims by LIC. CSs may forward the welfare claim application with the following documents:

1. Death Certificate.

2. KYC of the deceased employee and the nominee.

3. Cancelled cheque of the nominee.

The welfare claim amount increased from Rs 1 lakh to 1.5 lakhs.

Every month, the list of members for whom subscription is deducted from salary is submitted to the LIC along with the premium for their coverage. Those names available in the list only will be eligible for welfare claims hereafter. So all the Branch/SSA/Circle Secretaries are instructed to ensure that new members and those who are not in check off system is brought under check off system every month.

GS along with CHQ President and AGSs Com P P Rao and Dilip Saha met Shri S P Tripathi, DIR (CM & HR) on 21.06.2019 and held further discussions regarding:

1) Notification of CPSU cadre Hierarchy w.e.f 01.07.2018

2) DE to DGM promotion. The application filed by BSNL in the vacation bench of Hon PCAT not allowed as according to the registry, it is not an emergency case. We requested to find some alternative to give the promotions and so many AGMs are retiring every month without getting due promotion. Management is apprehensive about the contempt of court and taking all possible precautions before the DPC, DIR(CM&HR) informed us. However, he assured to explore all the possible ways to expedite the promotions which is badly delayed.

3) Proposed move of DoT to take over ALTTC: We expressed our serious concern over the matter and held discussions based on the inputs in our letter to CMD. DIR(CM&HR) informed that it is decided to form some committees to examine sharing of ALTTC and in the process BSNL interest will be protected. Final decision on transfer of assets will be taken based on the Committee report and interaction between BSNL mgt and DoT at higher level.

Earlier GS along with CHQ President, AGSs Com P P Rao, Com Dilip Saha and Com Sanjeev Sharma met PGM(Pers) and held further discussions on: 1) expeditious actions for notification of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy and 2) DE to DGM promotion. 

GS letter to CMD/BSNL against the move for Transfer of ALTTC

GS along with CHQ President, AGSs Com P P Rao, Com Dilip Saha and Com Sanjeev Sharma met CMD/BSNL on 20.06.2019 and held further discussions on:

1) expeditious actions for notification of CPSU Hierarchy for smooth career progression of thousands of Executives. We shared our apprehension that in future all the vacancies may be abolished by review of sanctioned posts based on assets as part of restructuring and revival plan.

2) serious concern over the abnormal delay on DE to DGM promotion. We requested to conduct the DPC as early as possible as large number of AGMs are retiring every month without promotion.

3) rumours about rolling back of retirement age from 60 to 58: CMD informed that discussions are going on at different levels regarding restructuring and revival of BSNL. VRS and retirement age reduction is also part of discussion. However no decision is arrived so far and retirement age reduction is not yet decided by the BSNL Board, approval of Board is a pre-condition.

However according to our information serious deliberations are going on in DoT on a daily basis regarding restructuring and revival of BSNL in which both VRS and retirement reduction are under serious consideration.

GS writes to Shri Ravishankar Prasad, Hon MoC: Non implementation of 3^rd PRC, the recommendations of the Premier Consultant, IIM(A) on revival of BSNL is going to be definitely disastrous and counterproductive for revival of BSNL. The beginning of implementation of IIM(A) recommendations must commence with implementation of 3rd PRC in its totality so as to pave the way for smooth and productive implementation of other crucial recommendations.

GS letter to Shri Ravishankar Prasad, Hon MoC

GS writes to Shri Ravishankar Prasad, Hon MoC: Expressing serious concern regarding the proposed move to roll back the retirement age from 60 to 58 years. It is against the General Terms and Conditions for absorption in BSNL which assured superannuation in accordance with Govt Rules applicable to PSUs. Selectively lowering the retirement age for BSNL employees alone may lead to litigations as the employees are losing in several ways. Requested that any decision on rolling back of retirement age should be taken only by addressing the issues. 

GS letter to Shri Ravishankar Prasad, Hon MoC

My sincere gratitude to one and all:

Finally all the charges levelled in the charge sheet served to Com K. Sebastin, General Secretary, SNEA on 18.08.2017 is dropped by the disciplinary authority. The orders, dropping all the charges is served to the General Secretary, today evening.

The charge sheet was issued under major penalty for serving notice for Trade Union activities to settle the HR issues like E2, E3 pay scales, CPSU Hierarchy, 30% SAB etc. Finally management accepted the right to protest by the Association and dropped all the charges as pursued by the Assn.

We wholeheartedly appreciate the initiative taken by Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD/BSNL, Smt Sujata T Ray, Ex DIR(HR), PGM(Pers), GM(SR) and others for settling the matter, recognising the spirit of Trade Union and the rights of TUs and Associations. Before her retirement, DIR(HR), the disciplinary authority had taken the decision to drop all the charges and the formal order is served today.

Com B G Patel, CS/GUJ and Com Rakesh Mehta, VP were at HQ for days together for pursuing the matter along with President and both AGSs at HQ. Besides, there were host of Comrades like Com George Varghese and others who had shown great concern and taken initiative.

I am extremely grateful to all our Office bearers at different levels, CSs and all our members who stood with me and supported me during this period by following all the organizational calls given by CHQ inspite of the charge sheet and criminal charges faced by the GS. I extend my gratitude to all other Trade Union/Assn leaders for their sincere support.

General Secretary.

Meeting with CGMT: Circle Secretary Com.Santhosh Kumar.T, Circle Teasurer Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.Ramana met CGMT Kerala Dr.P.T.Mathew on 19/6/2019 and discussed about the pending transfer requests. We requested CGMT to issue the orders immediately based on the approval received from Corporate office and as already done in other Circles. CGMT responded positively and assured to issue orders immediately.

We requested CGMT to immediately relieve the officials from ERP whose transfer orders were issued months back, CGMT responded positively and asked to share the details of such officials with GM HR.

We also discussed about the present financial situation prevailing in Kerala Circle, and shared few suggestions for increasing our revenue. CGM heard us, and appreciated our suggestions for increasing the revenue.

After meeting with CGMT, we met GM HR Shri Satheesh and further discussed the pending transfer request cases and pending relieving cases. 

JTO to SDE promotion: The Review petition filed at the Hon High Court of Kerala is listed for final hearing today. Senior lawyer from New Delhi is deputed by BSNL for arguing the case. The case is listed for hearing in the afternoon which indicates that it will be definitely heard today.

The opposite side whether continue to oppose the review petition and further delay the promotions or not OR facilitate early promotions by not opposing the review petition is to be seen. Individual applicants already become SDEs are in the forefront of the case and the delay in promotion is not going to affect them but it will seriously affect thousands of JTOs waiting for promotions.

The only option to survive is to increase the revenue and that can be possible only through improving the quality of services. The biggest challenge is to maintain the connections and system without even labour support, by the employees themselves. All the employees are to understand that we are in a serious financial crisis in our family and we have to overcome this at any cost. Since this financial crisis may continue for a period for 1 to 2 years, there is no meaning for a wait and watch. We have to act very fast as we had demonstrated during natural calamities etc. Considering the poor financial condition of the Union Govt, it will not be very easy to get support from the Govt also. Now Govt and BSNL is seriously exploring the revival through monetization of BSNL land and massive restructuring of the organizations. It may take minimum few months to get the results. Till that time we are struggling to get financial support from the Govt as well as Banks. Blame game or excuses are not going to help us in any manner and nobody is going to solve our problems.

GS along with CHQ President and AGSs Com P P Rao and Dilip Saha met Shri S P Tripathi, DIR(CM & HR) on 18.06.2019 and held detailed discussions regarding the present situation and HR issues.

Last BSNL Board meeting directed BSNL management to reduce the expenditure by 40%. For that detailed instructions are issued to the Circles. Exchanges having less than Rs 25,000 revenue is proposed to close down. Before closing down, it will be reported to State Govts and DoT. OLA/Uber services to be used wherever possible.

By the initiative of the new Minister, 900 Cores are allotted by Finance Ministry of which 700 Cr has to be utilised for repayment of Bank loan. BSNL expect the fund by this month end.

According to reliable information, BSNL total outstanding payment is about Rs 7780 Cr. This is the official figure but actual figure will be about Rs 8500 Cr when remaining claim is also placed by field units. Now the monthly revenue collection is about 1300 to 1400 Cr but minimum expenditure is about 2200 Cr.

All the Capital expenditure by the Circles are totally banned. We will oppose this move as it will seriously affect the expansion and services in the future.

As part of revival plan massive restructuring is initiated and DIR(CM) informed that new justification of posts will be worked out very soon and two working groups are going to be formed for this purpose. According to Director, the posts may come down by 50% due to massive surrender of connections and closure of exchanges.

On promotions, mgt is disturbed by the contempt of court proceedings. Mgt is now taking extra precautions to ensure that promotions are not leading to litigations and contempt of court. This is practically delaying all the promotions. Those who are gone to the court and stopped the promotions by way of contempt proceedings and stay has to reconsider their decision to facilitate the promotions, in the larger interest of the cadre.

On CPSU Hierarchy notifications w.e.f 01.07.2018, we requested to expedite it as thousands of Executives are eagerly waiting for promotion. They may not get any promotion in future once restructuring and revival plan is put in place as all the vacancies will be abolished by review of sanctioned posts based on assets. DIR(CM) assured to expedite it.

On JTO to SDE promotion, the Ernakulam case outcome is awaited. The case is coming on 20.06.2019 for final hearing, DIR informed.

On DE to DGM promotion, efforts are being made to conduct the DPC as early as possible. The court is to be apprised about the final AGM list published before the DPC and it may be done on 21.06.2019.

GS writes to Shri. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon Minister for Communications: Urgent need for speedy revival of BSNL by facilitating loan for BSNL for OPEX/CAPEX, permission for land monetization and payment of pension contribution on actual basic pay which will improve the cash flow.  If the decision is delayed by another 2 to 3 months, it will be too late as BSNL network may deteriorate beyond repair/revival, making revival impossible. 

GS letter to Hon Minister for Communications

GS along with CHQ President and both AGSs met CMD BSNL on 17.06.2019 and held discussions on the burning issue of isolation of more than 20% BTSs due to non-payment of electricity bills, rents etc. Also informed about the pending labour bills, non grant of funds for Regions towards maintenance of OFC, non payment of TIPs/SIs/LCOs/FTTH Franchisees etc. It was also informed that BSNL is increasing the mobile connections due to good coverage and quality of service and if the BTSs are not maintained, then there will be drastic reduction of connection. Once BSNL loose the trust of the customers, it will be difficult to retain them. CMD informed that he is aware of the issues and meeting DOT regularly for funds. New Minister is also appraised. It was also informed that the letter of comfort issued by DOT for taking loan is having a small hitch and was sent back to DOT for correction. Once the LOC is issued, the problems can be minimized.

We have requested the CMD for notifying the CPSU Hierarchy at the earliest for smooth career progression and promotions as thousands of JTOs, SDE/AOs in various wings are waiting for their promotion. The promotion through DPC is stalled due to litigations inspite of availability of sufficient SDE(T) posts. We have also requested for early completion of DPC for promotion from AGM to DGM(T). CMD responded positively and directed to further discuss with PGM(Pers) and DIR(CM).

Seniority List of AGM (T) Regular, including DGM (T) Adhoc, working on the post as on 01.05.2019 and promoted prior to 01.04.2018 as per Rule 206 for promotion to DGM (T) Adhoc

View Cor. Office letter.    List 1    List 2    List 3.

Meeting with GM HR on 3/6/2019

Circle Secretary Com.Santhosh Kumar.T, Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.Ramana met GM HR Shri Satheesh.R on 3/6/2019 and discussed about the pending transfer requests. We apprised GM HR about the approval received from Corporate Office and the powers delegated to CGMs for executing transfers during the times of austerity measures. We requested for an early resolution in this regard as many of the officials have completed their two years tenure and are eagerly waiting for their transfer back to hometown. GM HR responded positively and assured for the early release of transfer orders.

Final seniority list of SDEs (T) / TES Group B, as per Rule 206 of P&T Manual Volume IV in compliance with the judgment of Hon. Supreme Court of India dated 21.01.2015 and 14.12.2017 in Civil Appeal No(s). 4389 of 2010....View Order copy.

Book 1     Book 2      Book 3     Book 4     Book 5    Book 6

BSNL And MTNL Needs To Work More Professionally - Telecom Minister:

In a strong message to the management of BSNL and MTNL, the new telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has asked the PSUs to work more professionally to remain relevant in the industry.

“Let my message reach them loud and clear that while I work to revive them, these PSUs should also act professional. They need to show professional as well as competitive attitude,” Prasad said while sounding quite serious. “What is needed to act professional, we together can work out, but they have to work on this.”

It is a known fact that these two telecom operators, despite ample support from the Government are consistently reporting financial losses and MTNL has even been declared a sick company by the government.

The biggest problem these operators, besides their falling revenues, is their mammoth-size work force. To offer a perspective, BSNL alone has more than double the workforce of Airtel, Vodafone Idea and Jio put together.

The minister, however, said that reviving BSNL and MTNL is one of his top priorities in his second term.

“It is imperative to have a PSU operator to maintain a health equilibrium in the telecom industry,” Prasad said explaining the need for such revival. “It is also in the national interest that PSU telcos remain in force.”

He said, on a broader level, his priority will be to create a better synergy between the two industries – IT and telecom – which will make citizen centric services more accessible, meaningful and affordable.

He said his ministry will develop 5 lakh WiFi hotspots on priority basis which was announced earlier. Besides, one lakh digital villages too will be developed on priority.  Digital delivery of services are the corner stone of India’s Digital India program and it will further be expedited.

One more priority will be to ensure the speedy execution of BharatNet that aims to connect 2.5 lakh gram panchayats across the country.

The fourth priority he said will be to set up telecom manufacturing industries.

(Media Report)

EDITORIAL: MAY 2019

Recognizing and acknowledging huge strategic national significance of BSNL, new Govt should accord highest priority to converting BSNL into a robust national telecom carrier through massive restructuring and adequate capital infusion. Employees, biggest stake holders, have to make real, honest, unrelenting and serious efforts to ensure massive revenue generation. Qualities of potentially emerging services will solely and surely enable accomplishing this herculean task.

The new Union Government, having secured fresh and massive mandate, is all set to take over, with change of guard in the Telecom Ministry and BSNL that is going to be decisive and significant. Coupled with this overwhelming and decisive change at the helm of affairs of Telecom, change of guards in crucial positions in DOT, Secy/DOT, CMD and Board of Directors of BSNL is to take place. This entire revamping of crucial decision making apparatus at the highest positions, in itself, is a very potent and path breaking development for the simple reason that it will result in fresh and pragmatic relook at the inclusive growth of BSNL.

In this context, implementation of the Revival plan suggested by the premier Management consultant of the Country, IIM/Ahmedabad, in a totally holistic manner has to be of highest priority for the new regime. Selective implantation of the recommendations of IIM(A), leaving one important recommendation of IIM, 3^rd PRC implementation for the BSNL employees is going to be definitely disastrous and counterproductive for revival of BSNL. The beginning of implementation of recommendations of IIM(A) must thus commence with implementation of 3^rd PRC in its totality so as to pave the way for smooth and productive implementation of other crucial recommendation. Entire new dispensation has to essentially reckon that the basic building block of the revival process is a highly motivated Human Resource of the Company. Thus according topmost and highest priority to keeping HRs in complete loop for revival by implementing 3rd PRC, decision on other equally crucial recommendations like allotment of badly and fatally delayed 4 G spectrum, asset monetization, capital infusion, massive restructuring to remodel and refurbish obsolete structure of the Company should be undertaken without any loss of time to translate existing dream of revival into a reality.      

As a responsible Association, we have had been consistently forewarning the policy makers in DOT as well as BSNL management for last couple of years about looming financial crisis that is going to nose dive the Company.  During last three years, the cash flow was not affected due to the refund of more than 15000 Crores on account of excess Income Tax payment, BWA spectrum refund and USO fund subsidy. From our side, we explicitly kept on reminding about this impending disaster, along with undertaking immediate structural reforms, in very specific and clear terms, to the BSNL management. Unfortunately BSNL management miserably failed in introducing even elementary reforms in the HR front which is the backbone and crucial asset of BSNL. Human Resources were virtually rendered obsolete by denying them basic access to inservice trainings so as to help them keep pace with incredibly rapid technological changes. And yes today, we have reached a stage where massive surgery is inescapable.

In the present scenario, Regulator has to fix minimum price for each service so as to factor in and reflect at least the operating cost of the service. This is inevitable as the entire Telecom Industry is reeling under severe stress and all the operators are facing huge losses for the last two and half years after the entry of Reliance Jio, with predatory pricing and market practices strictly forbidden by competition. For the revival and survival of BSNL also, this is required. Predatory pricing and unfair market practices indiscriminately indulged in by R Jio has spelt doom for the Telecom industry in the Country. Struggle on this front has to be intensified to force the Govt. to usher in healthy competition   that is so and critical for growth of the sector in general and BSNL in particular.

Full fledged, regular BSNL Board of Directors have to be appointed on war footing for taking quick business decisions to steer the company out of present crisis. The lethargic and callous attitude of the Govt in appointing regular Board of Directors for BSNL, which caused down fall of BSNL is just unpardonable.

Profit making and revenue earning Circles and SSAs should be given more operational freedom and financial powers. All SSAs and Circles are to be told to be self sustaining by generating sufficient revenues for the operations. Now performing and non performing SSAs/Circles are treated at par by BSNLCO in all respects. Along with responsibility, they must be given sufficient freedom to decide their priority areas also. BSNL management has to allow the SSAs/Circles to spend certain amount from their revenue collection directly, not keep them waiting for the central allotment. Balance amount only should be asked to be diverted to the Corporate account. This will help in creating healthy competition among the SSAs and Circles and compel them to perform better.

Yes, now it is the question of survival for BSNL. As a first step, new Govt has to act very fast and decisively to implement the Revival plan with 3^rdPRC, within no time, to keep the employees motivated. BSNL management has to initiate massive structural and gigantic HR reforms in the company with concrete measures to keep the employees motivated. Employees have to respond in the most befitting and hitherto not witnessed manner by providing just quality services and responding to customer’s fast emerging and never ending aspirations and requirements. This is going to be the mantra as far as employees are concerned.

Possibly, this is the last opportunity for us to be once again counted in the telecom sector and the challenge is the most daunting one, truly formidable and unavoidable. While revival of this great Company means also living up to the expectations of our Countrymen, it is also a question of our bread and butter, future of our families and our budding children, at least for younger generations. We cannot escape missing this great opportunity. Missing this opportunity will herald death of the Company as well as our death. We have to simply give out our very best, without attributing motives or advocating excuses. That has not helped and is not in any way going to help. We have to cross the river. It simply is that.

Congratulations..!! to the newly elected District Office Bearers of SNEA Palakkad.

Annual General Body Meeting of SNEA Palakkad was held at Hotel Gazala on 28/5/19. Circle Secretary Com.Santhosh Kumar.T and CWC Member Com.Gafoor attended the AGB. The following office bearers were unanimously elected in the AGB: 

President: Com. John Jacob, DE BSS
Secretary: Com. Jyothiprasadan.P.K, JTO
Treasurer: Com. Jawahar.M, DE STR

Vice Presidents:
Com. Sreedharunni, SDE BSS

Asst. District Secretary:
Com. Rajendran.B, JTO

Organising Secretaries:
Com.Shanavas.K.G, DE
Com.Biju.M, SDE
Com.Prasannakumar, JTO
Com.Ardra Mohan, JAO

CEC Members:
Com.Bindu.K.S, DE STR
Com.Krishnan Namboothiri.K, STR

Executive Committee Members:
Com.Madaswamy, DE
Com.Radhamani, SDE
Com.Mohammed Musafir, JAO
Com.Biju.U, JTO
Com.Shibu George, JTO
Com.Sreejesh, JTO

GS writes to Smt. Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary (Telecom): Selective implementation of the recommendations of Premier Consultant, IIM(A) on revival of BSNL is going to be definitely disastrous and counterproductive for revival of BSNL. The beginning of implementation of IIMA recommendations must commence with implementation of 3rd PRC in its totality so as to pave the way for smooth and productive implementation of other crucial recommendations.

Having sought opinion of Country’s leading Management consultant, it would be ridiculous to sit over the judgment on the revival recommendations of premier Management consultant and would amount to questioning its highest and unparalleled professionalism, integrity, and expertise.

GS letter to Secretary, DoT

Lunch Hour Demonstration was conducted on 24/5/2019, 1.30 PM at BSNL Bhavan, Ernakulam against anti employee policy of  BA management especially the following issues:
1) Pay Recovery from JTOs(O) only in EKM SSA  where as all other BAs are not recovering any amount.
2) Wrong pay fixation of JTOs who were officiating.
3) Reduction of security and man power from exchanges
4) Transfer of officers from High range after tenure.
5) Relieving of officers to other BAs.
6) Cancelling the unilateral order of PGMT to post officers returning from nearby BAs to Idukki.

CS writes to CGMT regarding conduction of retirement functions at Ernakulam BA View Letter

We pointed out the difficulties being faced by the employees especially from Idukki District while arranging retiring function on the last day of the retirement.  As Ernakulam BA is geographically huge covering Ernakulam and Idukki Districts, an official retiring from Idukki District have to travel long hours after his retirement function at Ernakulam HQ and reach his house in extreme odd hours.  Traditionally as a gratitude, majority of the co-workers would visit the house of the retiring employee and we were following this method earlier.  However due to the delay in reaching the retiring officials to their house this traditional practice could not be followed in Idukki district for the last 2 to 3 months.

In this context, we humbly suggested that the retirement function at Ernakulam BA may be conducted on the penultimate day of the officials retirement day as was conducted earlier and the relieving letter may be issued by the controlling officer of the retiring officials so that we can give a grand farewell to the officials who are retiring after a long service.

JTO to SDE promotion: The review petition filed by BSNL was listed for final hearing today, 27.05.2019. The case postponed to 20.06.2019 as one of the judges recused from hearing the case. It will come up before a new bench on 20.06.2019.

JTO to SDE promotion: The review petition filed by BSNL in the Kerala High Court is coming for final hearing today, 27.05.2019. BSNL arranged senior lawyer from New Delhi for defending the case. Senior Officers from BSNLCO also deputed to Ernakulam for coordination. SNEA lawyer also will be arguing the case.

BSNL filed review petition on two points: i) to get the High Court order corrected by modifying the mention of excess JTO promotion from 1995 year onwards instead of 2001 year and 2) for restoring trg centre marks as criteria to decide the inter-se seniority among the DRs instead of date of joining.

If the review is admitted, one of the major hurdle for JTO to SDE promotion will be removed. The other hurdle is reservation issue.

AUAB writes to Secretary, DoT regarding Pension Revision:Replying DoP&PW queries on Pension revision -- Very positive and sympathetic stand taken by DoP&PW to settle the Pension Revision for the pre-2017 BSNL Pensioners. The negative attitude of the concerned officers in DoT in replying to the queries made by DoP&PW delaying Pension revision:

AUAB letter to Secretary, DoT on reply to DOP&PW on Pension Revision

GS writes to CMD, BSNL: Complete review of AMC of various equipments, switches, Engine Alternators, small power plants, Air conditioners etc required as part of austerity measures. On one side BSNL is talking about excess staff and planning for VRS and on the other side, cores of rupees expenditure is incurring as AMC charges by outsourcing the work on the pretext of acute shortage of Executives. This contradiction establishes the utter failure of our HR activities in BSNL.

GS letter to CMD on AMC

CS writes to General Secretary SNEA CHQ regarding Inter-BA Transfer requests of Kerala Circle View Letter

Based on our inputs, GS has already discussed the matter with CMD BSNL on 8/5/2019 and as per the directions of CMD further discussions would be held with GM Pers, Corporate Office for resolving the issue. We are following up the matter.

GS writes to Secretary, DoT: Regular appointment to the vacant posts of Director(Finance), Director(CM), Director (EB) and Director (HR), BSNL Board for accelerating the growth and revival of BSNL. BSNL is having just one (01) functional Director (out of five) from May, 2019 on regular basis.

This Association was continuously taking up the issue of filling up the vacant posts of functional Directors of BSNL Board vide its letter dated 07.05.2018, 30.08.2018, 02.01.2019 and 21.01.2019. Director (Finance) post was vacant since December, 2013 for more than five years. Other three functional Director posts in BSNL, Director (CM), Director (EB) and Director (HR) also vacant. We express our sincere gratitude for the appointment to the posts of Director (Fin), Director (CM) and Director (EB) atleast on temporary basis which will ensure smooth functioning of BSNL at this crucial juncture. Posting to the crucial Director(HR) post also may be expedited.

GS letter to Secretary, DoT

Hon CAT, Chandigarh order dated 07.05.2019, dismissing the OA 063/01571/2018 aginst DGM promotion as the OA rendered infructuous:

Hon CAT Chandigargh order dated 07.05.2019

GS, President and both AGSs met Shri Anupam Shrivastava on 08.05.2019 and held discussions on i) Promotions and bringing party in promotions, ii) DGM promotion, iii) HR Integration and iv) permission for transfer on interest of service for meeting the shortages in KTK and KRL Circles.

GS writes to CMD, BSNL: Proposed move to extend undue benefits to the Postal JAOs appointed in BSNL as fresh JAOs w.e.f 25.02.2005. Adherence to the terms and conditions of appointment of JAOs as external candidates to avoid anomalies. While taking any decision in this regard, the interest of the JAOs recruited by BSNL between 01.10.2000 to 24.02.2005 is to be protected first in terms of pay, seniority, promotions etc etc. Similarly the pay of the Executives in Civil/Elect/Arch/PA/PS/Arch/TF etc also to be revised by extending notional pay of E1A and E2A w.e.f 01.10.2000.

GS letter to CMD

GS, President and both AGSs met the all the new BSNL Directors, Shri. Vivek Banzal/DIR(CFA), Shri. S. K. Gupta/DIR(Fin), Shri. B. L. Varshney/DIR(EB) and Shri. Sheetla Prasad Tripathi/DIR(CM) as a courtesy visit and held discussions on various points, allotment of funds especially for Odisha Circle etc.

GS writes to CMD, BSNL: Integration of all HR activities like recruitment, promotions, transfer and posting etc under single HR unit is implemented successfully by BSNL. The discrimination in transfer and postings, disparity in promotions and the anomalies created by it without considering the huge stagnation/backlog in different wings of the same company necessitated HR integration. Requests intervention to stop the retrograde move to reverse the HR integration and continue with discriminative and biased HR policies in BSNL by certain sections.

GS letter to CMD

Congratulations..!! JTO(T) Induction Training - Pre basic-I, Pre basic-II and Phase-I scheduled for the LICE JTOs for the exam held on 11/12/2016 (VY 2015-16) and 20/01/2019 (VY 2016-17) View Orders

we were continuously pursuing for scheduling the training after the long battle with administration ended for releasing the blocked 9 JTO LICE vacancies.

Congratulations..!! Orders for TBP issued. For those who didnot get TBP, Kindly intimate the details to the respective District Secretaries. We are pursuing for the left over cases.

E1-E2 || E2-E3 || E3-E4

GS writes to CMD, BSNL: Promotion to all the vacant DGM(T) posts on Regular basis. As per EPP- 2007, all the Executives absorbed or recruited in Group B equivalent cadres are covered by the EPP and eligible for Time Bound IDA upgradations upto E6 scale. The Time Bound Promotion for the Group B officers absorbed or recruited as Executives in BSNL are covered by EPP-2007 and not by the BSNLMS RR 2009. 

GS letter to CMD

Formal agenda meeting with Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR) on 23.04.2019: GS, President, AGSs and CS/GUJ had detailed discussions on the following agenda points.  PGM(Pers), GM(SR) and DGM(Pers) also present in the meeting:

1. Notification of “BSNL Executive Promotion Policy & Recruitment Rules-2017” approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, w.e.f 29.06.2018 or the review date 01.07.2018 in order to maintain Uniformity, Seniority and Parity in promotions at par with the Juniors already promoted on 29.06.2018. Every month Executives are retiring without getting the due promotion.

2. DGM(T) promotion and increasing the DGM(T) posts proportionate to AGM posts at par with other streams.

3. DE Promotion based on Revised Seniority as per Rule 206.

4. Office Accommodation for the Recognised Association at Circle and SSA level.

5. Notification of Soft Tenure Break as agreed in the last meeting.

6. Increasing the number of Office bearers to 15 at Circle and major SSAs.

1)  On notification of new promotion policy, DIR(HR) informed that the matter will be pursued in DoT for early clearance. Senior officers will be deputed for pursuing the matter in DoT. DIR(HR) concurred with our view that the disparity in promotion can be addressed and parity can be maintained only by notification of the new policy w.e.f. 29.06.2018 or 01.07.2018 which management assured. Assn demanded permanent solution for the promotion issue which is now resolved through the new promotion policy. Time Bound Functional promotion is part of Terms and condition for absorption in BSNL which is not implemented so far. The earlier proposal to bring parity through upgradation of posts in all the streams was not approved by the CMD, DIR(HR) informed. DIR(HR) further informed that the ongoing court cases stopping the mgt from issuing promotion orders for the existing vacancies in some cadres. 

2) Assn demanded proportionate increase in the DGM(T) posts. 1331 is the sanctioned DGM posts when the DE posts sanction was 5303. Since the DE posts increased through upgradation last year, the DGM posts also to be increased proportionately, we demanded. Mgt agreed to our demand which is justified with facts and figures and assured to take necessary action after the DGM promotions. This will be a major breakthrough for the cadre as large number of DGM posts is justified.

The DGM promotions will be expedited and it is assured that DGM regular promotions orders will be issued.

3) The legal opinion for implementation of Rule 206 received and it will be expedited. The whole process may take months together as review DPC is to be held for thousands of SDEs, most of them are retired.

4) & 6) The demand of office accommodation at Circle/ SSA level and increasing the number of office bearers to 15 will be considered. It will be examined what best can be done in this cases without further delay and will be informed. If required, the REA rules should be amended by taking to the MC or Board, we suggested. 

5) Soft Tenure Break: We reminded about the earlier discussions and the commitment to restore the Circle break. Earlier the policy was framed after discussion with the Assns but the amendment made without consulting the Assns which created the problem, Assn pointed out. The matter will be further explained to new PGM(Pers) and it will be processed.

Finally we requested for early action on increasing the SAB contribution and rectification of anomalies in the GTI recovery.

Meeting with Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD, BSNL on 22.04.2019: GS, AGSs and CS/GUJ met CMD BSNL and held discussions on various issues:

i)  Revival of BSNL – media reports: CMD informed that according to the informations, Union Govt not taken any decision in this regard on the BSNL proposal. In the revival proposal, 4G allotment, land monetization, VRS etc proposed.  

This shows that the media reports of immediate decision on revival package was just a political stunt to counter the political and media attack on the Govt regarding BSNL which put the Govt in an embarrassing situation. This propaganda may be, just to silence the political opponents, the media and the general public having sympathy towards BSNL during the election period. Again this is another strategy to favour the private players, mainly R-Jio.

The situation on OPEX and CAPEX is not improved as the expected Bank loan is not materialised so far.

ii) Implementation of new Promotion policy to bring parity with the juniors got promotion on 29.06.2018 or later: We requested CMD to take necessary action to implement the BSNL Board decision for bring parity and uniformity in promotions and ensure justice to all the Executives of BSNL. During discussion, CMD informed that it is a BSNL Board decision and it has to be implemented. DIR(HR) sent the proposal for DoT clearance and after sending the proposal to DoT, it was intimated to CMD. This will further delay the implementation and promotion to thousands of Executives as DoT is nothing to say about the promotion policy which is under the purview of BSNL Board, Assn pointed out. There is no financial implication in the proposal for DoT clearance. We strongly condemned the delay tactics of BSNL management.

The matter will be further discussed in the agenda meeting with DIR(HR) tomorrow, 23.04.2019. We demanded for a joint meeting with CMD and DIR(HR) in this regard which will be held next week.

iii) DGM promotion: We requested to expedite the DGM promotions on regular basis for all the DGM vacancies. CMD assured to expedite the DGM promotions.

DS, Enk writes to DGM Finance, Ernakulam regarding wrong recovery of pay from JTOs on Superannuation

View Letter || Corp_off_Letter

As per the letter under reference (BSNL Corp. Office  No. 3-8/2010-Est-IV dated 3^rd June 2016)  issued by the BSNL Corporate office which was further endorsed by BSNL Kerala circle it was ordered as  under:

“ in view of the order of the P CAT New Delhi ,it has been decided recovery of any amount may not be made from the pay of the officiating JTOs”.

But in Ernakulum SSA on superannuation of those JTOs who were earlier officiated as JTOs huge amount is recovered   from their terminal benefits purportedly  as over payments during the officiating period.  Further these officers were not given any notice  or details of such recovery .  This Association has verified the similar  case  with Trivandrum BA and it is understood that no such recovery is made from these JTOs ( JTOs who have officiated  as JTOs  from 2007 to till their regularization) on their superannuation.    This month three JTOs are retiring  from Ernakulam  BA: 1. Smt. Susy K P HR No 198214961 , Smt. Latha. R  HR .198408047   , Smt. Sasikala. A G . HR No.198408044  and it is reported that huge amount are being recovered from these JTOs from their superannuation benefits which  is against Hon. PCAT order which was endorsed by BSNL corporate office as well as BSNL Kerala Circle. It is requested  not to effect any recovery from these JTOs in violation of Hon. PCAT order and Corporate office order.

CS writes to CGMT regarding Report collections from BAs that are readily available in ERP/SAP View Letter

Recently reports  are asked from field BSS units regarding expenditure incurred for Diesel charges, Electricity charges, Rent payments etc for BTS sites for the financial year 2018-19 even though all such payments are effected only through SAP duly entered and updated by field BA BSS units regularly from time to time. As all such figures are available in SAP, these data can be fetched through the various level ERP support personnel available in circle office itself without referring to BAs. No payments are effected directly by BAs to any such vendors overriding or by passing circle office ERP section.  It is to be noted that the field BSS units are working under the control of DE BSSs with minimum man power consisting of SDE/JTO BSSs without any clerical assistance or contract labourers for office works.

The exclusive ERP cell functioning in circle office under the GM IT is well capable of handling these databases with sufficient manpower support who are very well equipped for generating any reports in any formats or templates as required by the various verticals of circle office.

Hence, it is requested that necessary directions may please be given to the various verticals in Circle Office to utilize the expert man power available in circle office Finance/ ERP/IT cells to generate whatever reports required for the purpose without troubling the field BSS units which are running with minimum man power with zero clerical or contract labourers support in offices that too defeating the very purpose of ERP/IT cells as envisaged by the BSNL Corporate office.

It is also requested that such information may be circulated down to the filed units for comparison and further improvement in OPEX management.

Association will take a call on VRS proposal once details are available. We have to examine whether it is linked with 3^rd Pay Revision and Pension Revision or not, how funding is going to be done and which way it is going to benefit BSNL. We have to examine whether it is beneficial to the employees as well as the company. As a matter of principle, SNEA is not in favour of any kind of retrenchment including VRS.

Meeting with Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD, BSNL:

GS and both AGSs met CMD BSNL on 08.04.2019 and held discussions on various issues:

i) Implementation of new Promotion policy to bring parity with those Executives got promotion on 29.06.2018 or later, who are juniors: We requested CMD to take necessary action to implement the BSNL Board decision for bring parity and uniformity in promotions and ensure justice to all the Executives of BSNL. Thousands of seniors are facing humiliation as their juniors are promoted on 29.06.2018. Executives recruited for the same or earlier year are also deprived promotion along with others. The upgradation done only for few cadres, citing court cases, on the promise that others will be given promotion through the new promotion policy, at par with others. This promise is not implemented so far.

During discussion, CMD informed that it is a BSNL Board decision and it has to be implemented at the earliest. CMD assured to discuss with DIR(HR) and do the needful immediately.

If there is no progress, CHQ is planning for some program infront of the BSNL Board meeting on 16.04.2019.

ii)  Meeting at PMO on 02.04.2019: CMD briefly informed that 3^rd PRC, the revival proposal, 4G allotment, land monetization etc discussed in the PMO meeting. Issues are taken a definite shape and Govt trying to speed up the process and getting the Cabinet approval in the shortest time. BSNL proposal for land monetization by BSNL itself and the land monetization through DIPAM will take place simultaneously.

From Assn side we categorically told that any restructuring of BSNL has to be done along with 3^rd PRC implementation and pension revision, otherwise it will not be successful.  

After the strike on 18-20, February, media and public outcry on revival of BSNL, Govt forced to act very fast on the revival proposal, on the direct supervision of PMO. Daily meeting taken place between BSNL and DoT at highest level to sort out the issues. The Letter of comfort and Presidential sanction for expenditure on OPEX, which was flatly denied by DoT during discussions, extended within days.

iii) DGM promotion: We expressed our serious concern in the abnormal delay in DGM promotions on flimsy grounds. About 1,000 DGM vacancies are available now. We demanded filling up of all the vacancies on regular basis. Also giving GM entrustment charge to the regular DGMs already working. CMD assured to expedite the DGM promotions. Since one of the DPC member (CLO) was not signed the DPC minutes earlier and another member retired now, it is learned that fresh DPC is to be held.

We are in constant touch with PGM(Pers) and Pers section and monitoring the progress. Due to obvious reasons, not reporting the progress in the websites.

CS & ACS met CGMT on 4/4/2019 for discussing the pending transfer requests. CGMT informed us that as per the suggestion submitted by SNEA as in letter dtd 27/3/19 and as done in Karnataka Circle, a letter will be sent to Corporate office for the approval for implementing transfer requests. Comrades, we are in constant touch with Administration for releasing the remaining orders.

MASSIVE MARCH TO SANCHAR BHAVAN ON 05.04.2019 BY AUAB ON THE CHARTER OF DEMANDS:

Immediate measures for revival of BSNL is our main demand. The March will start from BSNL CO, New Delhi at 11.30 Hrs.

Congratulations..!! Transfer Orders issued for those who completed 2 years stay as on 31/10/2018.

We are in constant touch with the Administration for the release of remaining transfer orders for the pending transfer requests.

View orders DE || SDE || JTO

Editorial – March 2019

Systemic and meticulously calibrated decimation of the strategic PSU, BSNL, by the Government, covertly and overtly aided and abetted by the regulator TRAI, Digital Commission, and coveted National policy framing body - the Niti Aayog.

All tacitly colluded to ensure that R-Jio somehow becomes the monarch of precious Data at the cost of allowing Telecom Sector to perish and adversely impact the health of the PSBs.

BSNL took birth on 01.10.2000 as a matter of policy compulsion, consequent upon opening up of telecom sector to the private capital as a sequel to implementation of National Telecom policy promulgated in 1995. Since birth of BSNL, successive Governments used it as a milking cow to meet social obligations of the Telecom Policy in an extraordinary manner, meeting the fundamental and envisaged objective of National Telecom policy set out in 1988 by the first Telecom Commission of the Country - Affordable Telecom Services of Universal Quality. In meeting this ordained Telecom Policy objective of the Government, BSNL never looked back while incurring incredibly huge losses.

While BSNL was forced to provide telecom services in the remotest inaccessible areas of the Country, the concrete policy commitments that were made by the Government to support BSNL to provide services in these highly unremunerative and loss making areas systematically and gradually started getting eroded. Access Deficit Charge(ADC) and USO Fund Subsidy were arbitrarily stopped, IUC charges were drastically slashed, private operators were allowed to change over from fixed license fee to revenue sharing etc etc. Govt. did not allow BSNL to start mobile services till 2002, giving strategic market advantage to early movers like Airtel. All these policy breaches by the Govt. adversely and irreversibly hit the revenues of BSNL, and jeopardized the growth of the incumbent operator.  Even though BSNLs entry in highly potential mobile segment was delayed by more than two years, BSNL came very close to the then leading mobile service provider, Airtel, in terms of mobile market share in the year 2006, when the then Telecom Minister directly interfered in the mobile tender process and, at the behest of vested interest equipment manufacturers, canceled 45.5 million mobile tender that was finalized in a highly transparent manner. Even thereafter, the story of destabilizing BSNL continued unabated when BSNL was not permitted to procure mobile equipment from Chinese vendors who become the successful bidder in the tendering process, for 3 years, citing flimsy and non -existent security considerations while freely allowing private operators to procure equipment from same Chinese vendors. This is how politicians and Ministers, all together lined up to finish BSNL and allow private operators to flourish.    

Against all these severe policy impediments, BSNL employees and the management worked in cohesion in an exemplary manner for revival of BSNL, in the year 2013-14, when the company almost faced similar financial crisis that it is confronted with today.  Concerted efforts by the Trade Unions and Associations in BSNL by launching various innovative initiatives like Customer delight years, Service With A Smile program, BSNL At Your Doorstep etc to improve the quality of service, sales, marketing etc. produced spectacular results and BSNL witnessed a remarkable and unprecedented upward growth trajectory, resulting in considerably closing its losses in an incredible manner from 2014-15 onwards.  

These cohesive and committed efforts of the Management and the workers which produced tangible results forced Prime Minister to declare at the Red Fort that BSNL is on recovery path and has started making profits. Also Minister Of Communications repeatedly assured in the Parliament and the employees of BSNL that Govt. is committed to support BSNL. But these shallow declarations and commitments of the PM and the MOC ran completely counterproductive and contrary to what has been visible on the ground - well planned and systematic extinction of BSNL to create enough space for vested interests to grow, flourish and capture fertile telecom market. It was just unbelievable to find PM crossing all the limits of propriety and officialdom by taking up the mantle of promoting the launch of R-Jio, virtually acting as its brand ambassador. Public posturing by the Govt. regarding revival of BSNL is fully and publicly unmasked after witnessing how policy has been tweaked and brazenly breached to ensure that Reliance-Jio makes forays into fertile telecom market.

Following chronological sequence of events clearly establishes the nexus of top policy makers of Telecom in the Government with the well identified vested interests to enable them to grow by hook or by crook, and also leaves no one in any doubt whatsoever about diabolical intentions of the Govt. to consign this great telecom company of the Country to flames.

1.     Premeditated appointment of Shri R S Sharma as TRAI Chairman to allow R-Jio to blossom and capture telecom market:  

Handpicked appointment of Shri R S Sharma as Chairman/TRAI and his subsequent extension for another two years has facilitated the Govt. to accomplish what it wanted – unhindered and unquestioned growth of R-Jio and decimation of telecom market, particularly BSNL. The way he allowed predatory pricing indulged in by R-Jio to continue unabatedly raises very big questions about his professional integrity and establishes that he fulfilled the agenda for which he was roped in. The way he changed the definition of “Strategic Market Player” and thus paved the way for R-Jio to illegitimately capture telecom market also establishes his loyalty to his political masters. The decisions that TRAI has taken under R S Sharma’s infamous leadership not only decimated telecom sector in the country but also jeopardized growth of PSBs whose good public money of nearly 6.10 lakh crores got converted into NPAs because private operators explicitly warned the Government about their inability to service the loans of PSBs because of the so called deadly effects of predatory pricing on their revenues. 

2.     Shifting of Telecom Minister Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad just before the launch of R-Jio as Telecom Minister who openly supported BSNL: Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad as Telecom Minister openly supported BSNL at every level. Just before the launch of Reliance –Jio, he was divested from the charge of Telecom Minister and a very junior Minister of State was given just additional charge of Telecom.

3. Sacking of Shri J S Deepak, Secretary DoT, for his vehement opposition towards predatory pricing by Reliance-Jio and the stand of TRAI on predatory pricing and other crucial issues:

An honest officer having highest professional integrity and concern for the Telecom Industry, strongly opposed the predatory pricing of Reliance-Jio and the stand of TRAI, justifying the predatory pricing. Smt Arundhathi Bhattacharya, the then SBI Chairman was the first to signal the alarm bells, mentioning the stress in Telecom Industry, growing NPAs and urgent need for corrective measures. As Chairman Telecom Commission, Shri J S Deepak took stand to protect the industry and urged upon Chairman, TRAI to stop the predatory pricing of Reliance Jio because of its deadly consequences to the whole Telecom Industry. The result of his tough stand against predatory pricing was that he was unceremoniously removed from the position of Chairman/TC.

4. Niti Aayog recommendation to Close down BSNL and MTNL:

The sole objective of Niti Aayog is to garner as many resources as possible through sale of PSUs and BSNL is not an exception. The highest policy making body that ought to be fully engrossed in formulating a comprehensive road map for growth of vital sectors of Indian economy is preoccupied by such ticklish and parochial issues. Revival of BSNL is not even their agenda, rather their eyes are on the money going to get on disinvestment or sale of BSNL once BSNL become sick!

5.     Non allotment of 4G spectrum:

Non allocation of 4G spectrum is a very calculated and motivated move of the Govt. aimed at allowing R-Jio to capture fertile data market in the Country. All the operators, except BSNL launched 4G services two and half years back and captured the market. BSNL already lost the edge in competition. For 4G spectrum, in consultation with DoT, a detailed Project Report was approved by BSNL Board and submitted to DoT in December, 2017. Anticipating 4G spectrum, BSNL spent hundreds of Crores of rupees and procured the 4G equipments but dumped in store. Other operators are working towards 5G whereas BSNL is not even allotted 4G spectrum by the Govt, the 100% owner of BSNL. Without 4G services, how BSNL can compete with other operators in the market? If it would be the case of a private operator, whether the Minister and the bureaucracy in DoT would have had the courage to delay the proposal like this?  

6.     Non-filling of Director (Fin) and other Director posts of BSNL for years together.

This is a clear indication of Govt’s step motherly treatment for BSNL. This created policy paralysis and delayed decision making in BSNL which in turn resulted in negative growth. DIR(Fin) post is vacant since December, 2013 and DIR(HR) was given additional charge. Net result is that neither the responsibility of DIR(HR), nor the responsibility of DIR(Fin) is being    met by the same person. DIR(CM) post is vacant since July 2018. DIR(EB) and DIR(HR) are retiring during March and April, 2019. For the revival of BSNL, just one Director will be there in BSNL from May, 2019 onwards instead of five!

7.     Govt projects NOFN, NFS, LWE etc allotted to BSNL without much returns, forcing BSNL to bleed.

BSNL attention is diverted from the core Telecom business to these Govt projects as the Hon Minister and Secretary DoT is constantly and directly, monitoring the progress. In none of such meetings, they reviewed the performance of BSNL in the respective Circles. CGMs are more concerned about the Govt projects at the cost of BSNL services. BSNL resources are largely diverted for these projects including manpower, stores, vehicle, resources etc. In return, BSNL is getting paltry amount for implementation of these projects. For NFS Project, implementation charge was originally 7.5% (Rs 930 Cr) of the project cost of 13,334 Crores. When Project was revised double to Rs 24,664 Cr, implementation charge was frozen to same 930 crores, now just half (about 3.75%). Implementation cost should have been revised to 1850 crores from 930 crores but Govt compelled BSNL to complete the project without any hike in the implementation charges. The Govt projects gives an impression to the public that the entire public money goes to BSNL as grant or financial assistance but the fact is just the reverse. The statement made by our Hon Minister is also on the same lines, giving an impression that all this money is given to BSNL as financial assistance by the Govt.  DoT compelled BSNL to act as a vendor for implementing the Govt projects, instead of focusing as a Telecom Service provider.

8.     Tower Subsidiary formation:

The Govts decision to form Tower Subsidiary Company is another move to weaken BSNL by taking away the BSNL assets and potential revenue earning wing of BSNL. It is part of a larger conspiracy to disintegrate BSNL into smaller entities like Optical Fibre Corporation, Land asset monetization etc etc and ultimately sell out BSNL and retrench the employees.

9.     Charging of excess Pension Contribution. Non refund of i) excess Pension Contribution of Rs 2100 Cr and ii) penal interest on BWA spectrum refund (Rs 2360 Cr) and iii) other amount due for BSNL:

DoT is deliberately taking the pension contribution on the maximum of the pay scales irrespective of DoP&T order against that. The penal interest for delay in refund of BWA spectrum charges after its refund also is a huge amount. All together, total amount comes to around 6,000 Cr which is not paid by DoT to BSNL and is starving BSNL.

10.   Non-granting of permission for Bank loan etc. BSNL is the only operator given real challenge to Reliance Jio.

DoT is deliberately not allowing BSNL to expand and maintain the network by capital infusion or by availing bank loans as done by other operators. Lakhs of Crores of loan is availed by Private Operators to expand their network. Upto 2017-18, total bank loan for Telecom sector is more than 6.1 lakh Cores in which BSNL share is just 11,500 Crores, less than 2%! Huge investment is required in Transmission network, mobile network and EB segment to compete with other operators. Without new Technology, BSNL cannot compete with others. DoT is creating industrial unrest and making BSNL sick intentionally to help other operators.

11.   Commercial utilization of the land atleast to Govt/PSUs.

All the business proposals from BSNL are negated by DoT. Proposals delayed are proposal denied and BSNL lost the opportunity. BSNL submitted a land management policy in July, 2018 to DoT for the effective utilization of its land assets and its monetization. BSNL is having about 800 Cr businesses in its hand already and has the potential to generate another 4000 Cr to 5000 Cr revenue from this proposal alone. However DoT is not approving the proposal which is having such a huge potential.

12.   IMG bailout of private operators:

The Inter Ministerial Group (IMG) formed by the Govt to bail out the private operators handed out huge concessions to them. The IMG made the recommendations in record time and Union Cabinet approved the recommendations even without assessing the losses which the exchequer will incur. As policy concessions having thousands of Cores implications, Govt extended the repayment period from 10 years to 16 years, Penal interest slashed from 14% to 10% and license fee etc slashed from 7.5% of AGR to 4.5 %.  At the same time Govt is not giving any support to its own PSU, BSNL, let alone concessions! No 4G spectrum, no permission for bank loan, no permission for land and asset monetization, not filing crucial Director posts etc.

13.   Non implementation of 3^rd Pay Revision and pension revision not done to create industrial unrest in the company:

Entire Telecom sector is under stress, BSNL which is operating in uneconomical areas cannot be an exception. BSNL employees are not responsible for the present financial condition. BSNL employees are eligible for pay revision as in the case of Govt /Bank/insurance etc employees. On the 3^rd Pay revision for the CPSUs, it is very relevant to mention that 7^th CPC report is implemented for all the Central Govt employees without considering profitability or affordability. There are very sound, irrefutable, legitimate and justified reasons for the Govt. to treat BSNL on a different footing and exempt it from the affordability clause. In the case of BSNL, manpower cost should not be linked with profitability or affordability. Almost 70% of BSNL employees (1.34 lakh out of 1.71 lakh) are Govt employees absorbed from DoT into BSNL. After BSNL formation, BSNL has paid about 1.8 lakh Crores as salary to its employees from its own resources, without Govt support and saved that much money for the Govt exchequer. If BSNL was not formed, the entire financial burden of pay and pay revision would have had to be borne by the Govt. Now the employees are treated as liability by the Govt. But the same employees, with an additional one lakh, made Rs 10,183 Crores profit during the year 2004-05! It is not the employee cost, the revenue has come down drastically, mainly due to the Govt policies and mismanagement, that is the fact. Had the revenue increased proportionately, this crisis would not have reached.

BSNL pensioners are Govt pensioners under Rule 37A, governed by the same CCS Pension Rules, 1972 where the pension is paid by the Govt. The pension revision for the Central Govt Pensioners made as on 01.01.2016, creating an anomaly with BSNL pensioners. Last pension revision for BSNL pensioners done through a Cabinet decision, setting a precedence. BSNL viability or affordability is not applicable for the pensioners.

Govt. is deliberately denying Pay Revision and Pension Revision to create industrial unrest in the company and thereby facilitating growth of other operators.

14.   All new businesses are given to the Reliance –Jio:

It is a known fact that Govt machinery is misused in favour of Reliance Jio. The services to Railways, Banks, Airports etc where BSNL service was provided earlier is moved to Reliance Jio. All these cannot happen without the knowledge of the Govt and BSNL is the victim.  

15. Settlement of left out issues of 2nd PRC.

Non settlement of issues like E2/E3 pay scales, 30% Superannuation benefit to BSNL rects are clear indications where the industrial unrest and demoralization of the employees is being intentionally created with ulterior motives of destabilizing and completely jeopardizing the growth of the Company.

Comrades, this kind of gravest ever crisis that the Govt. has created only with sinister motives to promote R Jio and that threatens to tear the company into pieces has to be met with never before seen kind of determination, commitment and conviction to hit and fight back. This is not the time where this and that has to be analyzed and reckoned. This is the time when we have to rise above all considerations of this and that. This is the time when like a rock we have to stand and withstand this endangering hurricane. When our bread and butter and the livelihood of our families are endangered, we have just nothing to be scared of or loose. Human endeavour, commitment and determination has created miracles and when our very existence is gets perished, the only way out is to fearlessly, ruthlessly and courageously wage a war and the present situation is nothing but a war like situation. And if that means taking the war to the doorsteps of the PM, we have to take it. There is no other option. Just get ready for waging that war which is going to be protracted and deadly. It does not matter what happens to us because we are already sunk deep into waters, whether we get killed or emerge victorious. We have no other choice.

CS writes to CGMT regarding Request transfers in the circle and economy measures View Letter

Congratulations..!! Finally the much waited 9 LICE JTO(T) vacancies got released View Orders Annexure

We were continuously pursuing the case for about an year. We thank CGMT and Circle HR Team for finally releasing the orders.  

List no 6 and 7 seniority case at Hon Supreme Court:

The SLP on SDE seniority at Hon SC was heard at length today, 26.03.2019 and reserved for judgment.

Review petition at Hon High Court of Kerala postponed to 27.05.2019.

The review petition filed by BSNL in the Hon HC was posted for final hearing on 25.03.2019. BSNL deputed two lawyers from New Delhi to plead the case. DGM(Pers) and AGM(Legal) from BSNLCO also went to Ernakulam.

The case was not heard on 25.03.19 as the designated bench was not sitting on that day and the case posted to 27.05.2019. The stay on contempt case also extended.

BSNL filed the review petition against the HC order: 1) to delete reference of excess promotion upto 1999 year which resulted in the challenge of AIEL and contempt case by AIGETOA activists and 2) to restore training centre marks as the criteria to decide the inter-se-seniority.

The court case has become the big hindrance for the promotions where the promotion of thousand of JTOs held up for years together and now almost 10 months after the last DPC.

Urgent Attention of CSs, SSA and Branch Secretaries:

It is observed that the subscription amount deducted for 1943 members are less than Rs 100/-. In some cases, Rs 10/- or Rs 50/- or Rs 70/- or Rs 80/- is deducted by certain DDOs by mistake. The DDOs may be approached immediately and necessary correction is to be done in the system to deduct Rs 100/- from January, 2019 onwards and Rs 70/- earlier to that. The details of such Executives are attached.

List of members subscription deducted less

AUAB letter to CMD BSNL on opposing the imposition of break-in-service under FR 17A

AUAB letter to CMD dated 22.03.2019

Letter from DOT to all State Chief Secretaries requesting NOT to Disconnect Electricity Connections of BSNL/MTNL Telecom Installations    << Letter >>

Comrades, BSNL is passing through a very critical and tough period. Due to our struggle, DoT given the letter of comfort and Presidential sanction for Bank Loan for OPEX in record time. Efforts are started for the loans. But getting Bank loan is also not so easy. Due to the huge NPA in Telecom Sector and the closure of so many operators, Banks are very reluctant to give loans. Bank loans are not the solution for the crisis, it will give only temporary relief. We have to increase the business and revenue that only will save us. Our efforts and outputs should be double in this regard. We should be dutiful in increasing our revenue of our company at this hour of crisis. Please strive to encourage our family and friends to use BSNL services only.

Let us create positive atmosphere in the organization instead of negativity. Negativity and negative propaganda in the media will further damage our image infront of the public, customers and the banks also. Let us isolate those who are propagating negativity. Do not share the negative news coming in the social media. Think about its impact before sharing to others.

GS met Shri Anuppam Shrivastava, CMD on 19.03.2019 and held discussions on fund availability and BSNL expansion related issues. GS requested for special consideration for Mtce Regions in fund allotment considering their criticality and significance.

GS also requested to issue the PO for FTTH equipments like OLTs, ONTs and low count OF Cables to provide maximum FTTH connections where the MOU with LCOs and not progressing.

On fund availability, CMD informed that BSNL is in touch with the Banks for the loans for operation and mtce. 

CS writes to CGMT regarding exemption of Officers and Staff from Election duty from the upcoming Loksabha Elections View Letter || Letter from Election Commission of India

CS writes to CGMT requesting for solving the irregularity in the date of promotion of officers promoted to the grade of AGM/ DEs in accordance with the orders issued on (i) 29.06.2018, (ii) 04.07.2018, (iii) 05.07.2018, (iv) 06.07.2018, and (v) 20.07.2018 View Letter

GS writes to Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD/BSNL:

Move for approval of Restructuring and HR plan of BSNL – the new Time Bound promotion policy is to be implemented before taking the proposal for the approval of MC and BSNL Board. More than 40% of the sanctioned posts and almost all the vacancies in different cadres will stand abolished once HR plan is approved by the Board. This will create huge unrest in the company which is already facing financial crisis.  

GS letter to CMD

GS writes to Smt Sujata T Ray, Director (HR):

The huge disparity and anomaly created in promotions among equivalent cadres of different wings in selected cadres is to be resolved for the motivation of the majority of Executives – the repeated assurance to implement the new promotion policy w.e.f. from the same date of promotion, 29.06.2018 or the nearest review date, 01.07.2018 is to be materialised before relinquishing your esteemed office to establish that management is impartial in providing promotions to all the cadres.

GS letter to DIR(HR)

Congratulations to one and all...

SNEA  members  welfare  claim  amount  got  enhanced    from  Rs. 1 lakh to 1.5 lakhs w.e.f. 15.03.2019. The claim amount will be settled through LIC within 7 days.Today the Cheque for Rs 4,21,020.00, the monthly premium of Group Term Insurance of SNEA members is handed over to LIC.

MASSIVE RALLY TO SANCHAR BHAVAN ON 05.04.2019

The Govt is taking calculated steps to finish off BSNL, systematically by not allowing it to expand the network and provide 4G services, deliberately creating industrial unrest in the company by stopping the funds and salary payment and making BSNL gradually sick. This is deliberate because about 6,000 Cr rupees, payable to BSNL is blocked by DoT (Rs 2350 Cr on BWA spectrum refund interest, Rs 2100 Cr on excess pension Contribution paid, other receivables from DoT). This in turn will benefit the private operators especially Reliance Jio to capture the entire telecom market. The Administrative Ministry DoT and Hon Minister repeatedly assured AUAB that it is committed for revival of BSNL, 4G spectrum allotment and settlement of HR issues as we demanded, but not done anything on the assurances. When Govt slowly gone back from the assurances and started purchasing time, AUAB in strongest protest, gone for 3 days strike in February.

DoT is meticulously implementing the Govt decisions to finish off BSNL with the support of Niti Aayog, Finance Ministry etc. The DoT finance is creating all the hurdles on each are every BSNL proposal, with the tacit support of the higher authorities. This calculated move of the Govt and the DoT placed BSNL in such a critical condition, that the employees are unable to get their salary. The DoT is not allowing BSNL to take bank loan for the CAPEX for expansion of network or OPEX for operations when other operators are taken lakhs of Crores of rupees bank loan for the CAPEX and OPEX. Due to shortage of funds, BSNL is not even able to pay electricity bills, labour charges, maintenance charges, vendor payments for the AMC, vehicle running etc which in turn is seriously affecting the services.

The AUAB discussed all these issues during the last 3 days and firmly decided to expose the conspiracies of the Govt and the DoT. Hence, the AUAB has decided to organise a massive Rally to Sanchar Bhavan on 05.04.2019. It has decided to invite the leaders of all political parties to address this rally. 

All the Circles and SSAs are requested to mobilise the maximum number of employees for the rally and to make it an historic event.

AUAB also decided to meet all the Political parties at Central level, state level and the prominent candidates of each constituency to seek their support for the revival of BSNL.

AUAB writes to Hon MoSC requesting urgent support to BSNL by facilitating BSNL to avail Bank Loan for the maintenance of network

AUAB letter to Hon MoSC

Meeting with CGMT on 7/3/2019:

CP Com.George Varghese, CS Com.T.Santhosh Kumar, CT Com.Suneer.S, ACS Com.JV.Ramana, CWC members Com.Salim and Com.Vimal.R represented SNEA in the formal meeting with CGMT Sri Dr.P.T.Mathews on 7/3/2019 2.30PM. GM HR Sri Robin Poddar was also present. The following issues were discussed:

1. Consideration of Transfer Requests: Administration informed that they are working on it and the orders will be released soon and shortage BAs like Malappuram, Kannur, Pathanamthitta, Alleppey etc will be considered to be filled from long stay list from other BAs maximum to the extent of out going. We requested administration to analyse the increase in staff strength in last two years due to bulk recruitment in JTO cadre, promotions in SDE and DE cadre. We requested for a minimal disturbance from the long stay list and also expressed our protest against rationalisation.  CGMT also opined that the declaration of election will not be hitch on this issue.
2. Release of JTO/JAO vacancies: We expressed our strong displeasure over the long delay in releasing 9 JTO vacancies. We showed the affidavits submitted earlier by BSNL to the Court where BSNL has clearly accepted the existence of 9 JTO vacancies. We also showed the RTI replies received earlier from BSNL in this regard which shows that 9 vacancies exists. We protested the long delay deliberately created by the administration in the name of studying and researching on the 9 vacancies for the last 3 months even after the closure of court cases in Dec 2018. GM HR promised that the file would be cleared on Monday. Similarly we requested administration to look into releasing the pending JAO vacancies as done in Telangana Circle. CGMT suggested that SNEA can have separate meeting on these issues along with GM HR, DGM HR, AGM HR, AGM Recruitment, SDE HR, SDE Recruitment etc…for resolving the issue.
3. Promotion of the leftover 33 JAOs: We requested administration to explore and consider for including these leftover 33 JAOs in the gradation list and whose batchmates got AO promotion.
4. Notional Date for AGM Promotion: SDE to AGM promotion was released by Corporate office on piece meal basis on various dates in 2018 with notional date of 29/6/2018.  The notional date was not followed in Kerala Circle for all the orders and the officers in the earliest orders were forced to join on 30/6/2018 which will lead to many further litigations. We requested administration to reconsider 29/6/2018 as the notional and joining date for all the officers.
5. DGM L/A:  We expressed our protest against the recent circular issued by Kerala Circle dtd 26/2/2019 wherein volunteers were called for DGM LA from the officers who got promoted as AGMs in 2014 and are in the panel for DGM adhoc promotion. We suggested that the condition could have been avoided as it is difficult to get candidates for the DGM LA especially in BAs like Malappuram. CGM responded positively for calling options from all AGMs irrespective of their promotion year.
6. Rejection of NOC: We requested administration to sympathetically consider the NOC requests for switching Jobs. Even though the candidates have applied lately for the NOC, may be due to their ignorance of BSNL Rules, they should not suffer because of it.  CGMT agreed to refer the matter to corporate office.
7. Pay Fixation of 2008 regularised JTOs: We have pointed out that the case referred from Ernakulam BA on 31-1-2019 is yet to be considered. CGMT instructed to examine the case by finance wing at the earliest.
8. Pending payment issues - particularly the case of Kannur SSA in which payment to workers are pending even for the month of Nov 2018.

GS writes to Shri Vivek Banzal, Director (CFA) regarding Procurement of OLTs, ONTs and low count OF cable on urgent basis for providing FTTH connections, one area BSNL can further grow and earn revenue to make it viable.

GS letter to DIR(CFA)

Meeting with Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD/BSNL: AUAB leaders met CMD/BSNL and held discussions regarding payment of salary for the month February, 2019 and the repressive measures initiated under FR 17A against the employees participated in the  strike, especially the Executives. GSs and senior leaders of BSNLEU, NFTE, SNEA, AIBSNLEA, AIGETOA, BSNLMS, BSNLOA and TEPU were present in the meeting. DIR(HR) was also present in the meeting.

CMD informed that the salary will be paid by next week end, according to the present cash flow.

On the repressive measures, AUAB explained that FR 17A is not part of CDA Rules or it is not adopted by BSNL so far and hence it is not applicable for BSNL employees. The action initiated under FR 17A is not valid, AUAB explained to management.

Accordingly, the proposed Relay Hunger fast by CHQ leaders of AUAB at New Delhi from 12.03.2019, demanding salary payment and withdrawal of repressive measures deferred.

Emergency meeting of AUAB:

AUAB conducted its emergency meeting today, 07.03.2019. GSs and senior leaders of BSNLEU, NFTE, SNEA, AIBSNLEA, AIGETOA, TEPU, BSNL MS and BSNLOA attended. Meeting discussed the following issues:

a) Non-payment of salary to the Employees for the month of February 2019.

b) Vindictive actions against AUAB Leaders, particularly leaders of Executive Associations.

c) Progress of the charter of demands submitted by AUAB.

After discussion at length on the above issues, following decisions were taken unanimously.

i) To meet CMD BSNL, immediately on the issue of non-payment of salary of February, 2019 and vindictive actions. If the response is not positive, to organise Relay Hunger Strike from 12^th March, 2019 at Corporate Office by the CHQ leaders. If the issues are not settled in a reasonable time, hunger strike will be extended at Circle and SSA levels.

ii) To conduct the PMO March in April, 2019 on the charter of demands.

iii) To complete the submission of memorandum to the remaining MPs at the earliest.

iv) Campaign on the charter of demands through Twitter to the PMO, MoSC, CMD etc. The details will be uploaded separately.

v) SMS campaign on the charter of demands.

vi) The meeting emphasized the need for taking extra efforts to increase the revenue which is the only way for survival. All other measures are short term and will give temporary relief to the employees and the company. Unless and until business volume and revenue is not increasing, it will become very difficult to survive.

Strong unity and solidarity among the employees are required at this point of time to tide over the crisis, AUAB opined.

Meeting with Shri Vivek Banzal, new DIR(Fin), in charge:

AUAB could not meet CMD yesterday, 05.03.2019 regarding payment of salary and the proposed move to issue show causes to the employees under FR 17A as he was not available in the office. AUAB met DIR(Fin) and held discussions regarding payment of salary. He has just taken the charge today only. In a sudden move, on 28.02.2019, DoT taken away the charge of DIR(Fin) from Smt Sujata T Ray with immediate effect and handed over to Shri Vivek Banzal who is already holding the charges of DIR(CFA) and DIR(CM). How BSNL can function when three Directors charge is holding by one person!

On salary payment, DIR(Fin) did not make any commitments but assured to make all the efforts for that. AUAB once again demanded that the salary should be paid simultaneously to all the employees without discrimination. The presidential sanction for availing bank loan for Capex is issued by DoT on 01.03.2019 but it is partial. It is not going to help BSNL at all. For both year 2017-18 and 2018-19, approval given for 4,300 Cr each but the loan taken was much higher than the sanctioned amount. The Board sanction and approval sought from DoT was for higher amount. What is the criteria followed for this approval is not known, DIR informed. BSNL is writing to DoT for the sanction of the remaining amount today itself. Similarly BSNL Board proposal for loan for Opex is not approved by DoT so far.

All out efforts are required to improve the cash collection and adding new business which is a big challenge before us. Loan is a temporary measure to tide over the present crisis which has to be repaid in due course. Due to the stress in the Telecom sector, banks are very reluctant to give loan, it is another factor. The RBI ceiling of 5 lakhs crores for Telecom sector is already crossed and the liability of Telecom sector is more than 6.1 lakhs crores now.

Congratulations to all----

Finally Group Term Insurance got implemented w.e.f 02.03.2019.

The cheque for Rs 18,33,91,234.00 dated 02.03.2019 is handed over to LIC making GTI scheme operational w.e.f 02.03.2019.

15,958 Executives opted for 50 lakhs coverage (15,116 upto 50 years and 8,42 above 50 years) and 5,38 Executives above 50 years opted for 20 lakhs coverage.

We are extremely grateful to CMD and DIR(HR) for making the advance payment by arranging the funds in difficult situation. The advance payment is already made by BSNL and the premium will be deducted from the salary of March, 2019. If BSNL did not agree for advance payment, the scheme would not have become operational and in the new financial year, fresh negotiation, fresh options and new quote was required from LIC.

It was a dream project of SNEA for the younger generation who are not having the protection of family pension like others. SNEA demanded GTI immediately after the MV and management started working on it. Other Assns also contributed during the process. 

GS writes to CMD Protesting the Payment of salary to selected units......The management should take necessary corrective steps immediately to disburse the salary without any discrimination. The Executives in the field units are already demoralized due to various reasons, including discrimination in promotions. Further demoralization of employees in the field units by non-payment of salary will have cascading effect on the revival of BSNL ... View Copy of the Letter.

Lunch Hour Demonstration successfully conducted at BA HQ all over Kerala against the non-payment of Salary by BSNL. It is also learned that only Kerala, J&K and for Corporate office it was paid.

Conduct lunch hour demonstration tomorrow in protest against the non-payment of salary by BSNL ---AUAB.

The tariff war and the predatory pricing by Reliance-Jio, with the tacit support of the Government and the regulator, resulted in drastic reduction in our revenue. Further, DoT is deliberately not allowing BSNL to expand and maintain the network by capital infusion or by availing bank loans as done by other operators. DoT is creating industrial unrest and making BSNL sick intentionally to help other operators.

Our protest should be aimed at Govt and the mismanagement.

AUAB Circular

March to the PM Office on 06.03.2019 is postponed in view of the tension prevailing in the border.

In continuation of the 3 day strike, the AUAB had given call to organise a March to the PMO on 06-03-2019, for pressing the settlement of the demands. However, tension is building up in the India Pakistan border. In view of this situation, the AUAB has decided to postpone the March to the PMO. Next date of the March will be announced in due course.

Welfare Scheme of SNEA

The welfare amount will be enhanced from 1 lakh to 1.5 lakhs shortly. The discussion with LIC concluded today for converting it as a Term Insurance Policy and LIC given the confirmation about the monthly premium. For the coverage of 1.5 lakhs, monthly premium will be Rs 20 (including GST).  Without increasing the subscription, the welfare claim amount will be increased from 1 lakh to 1.5 lakhs.

Congratulations...!! The MoU for the Group Term Insurance (GTI) signed between LIC and BSNL today, 27.02.2019. It will be effective from 01.03.2019.

It is an initiative taken by SNEA for the welfare of the Executives, especially those recruited directly by BSNL and not having Govt pension.

View Letter copy           View MoU copy

CS writes to CGMT requesting to issue NOC to the Executives who are seeking other Jobs View Letter

It is reported that the applications for NOC for seeking other jobs  from a number of officers has been rejected by the Circle office on technical grounds. These applications are rejected merely on technical ground that the applications for NOC  were submitted after the last date of submission of the application for the job. In this connection your kind attention is invited to following aspects so as to consider this request in favor of these officers as well as in the interest of BSNL.

1. All these  organizations  are not insisting for NOC for considering their application  but insist for the NOC at the time of interview / certificate verification after being shortlisted. 
2. Since the chances of getting shortlisted is limited, many of the officials are not applied for NOC before submitting their application for job,  may be out of their  ignorance  on rule position in BSNL.
3. By non-submission of application for NOC at the preliminary stage itself, did not affect BSNL on any account rather it has helped  by reducing  the   number of cases for processing.
4. Most of the applicants are highly professionally  qualified Executives recruited after 2007  placed at provisional pay scale of E1 for more than 10 years and their  eligible pay scale of E2 as approved and  recommended by BSNL is not yet  approved. They are at a loss of more than Rs10000/ p.m. on account of this.
5. As per BSNL management the mounting wage bill is one of major concern regarding financial crisis of BSNL. There are reports for reduction in retirement age, VRS etc.to reduce the wage bill of BSNL.
6. The Management is taking all out efforts to reduce operational expenditure by reducing wage bill by resorting to various contracts.
7. The number of labours who were engaged through contracts for housekeeping, security, man power assistance for external plant maintenance and paid at minimum wages rates is being  cut  drastically in an effort for reducing the wage bill.
8. The request for all VRS and resignation from service is generously accepted  in BSNL on account of an effort for reducing wage bill.
9. Many of the applicants have served BSNL for more than 10 years and they are constrained to seek other job due to   insecurity in their future and due to the  pay loss they are undergoing..
10. The denial of NOC on technical ground was declared as illegal and against principle of natural justice by many judicial forums.
11. In the back drop of the above facts it is highly illogical in denying the request of employees for No Objection Certificate for seeking other employments.
12. It will be highly appreciable if the Management act as a facilitator for the upliftment of its employees   rather than creating human trap on technical ground.

Based on the above facts it is requested to consider the request for NOC from the executives favorably as it will benefit the applicants as well as BSNL since the wage of one executive is equal to wages of more than 4 casual labours. 

AUAB review meeting held today:

The meeting whole heartedly thanked the entire Executives and Non-Executives who made the 3 days strike a historic success. The meeting also congratulated the circle and district level AUAB, for effectively organising the strike. With the view to carry forward the movement further to settle the charter of demands, the following programme of action is decided.

1) Conducting March to PMO on 06.03.2019, by mobilising the employees from the surrounding circles.

2) Memorandum to be submitted to all the MPs, latest by 28.02.2019.

3)  To send messages to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Hon’ble Minister of State for Communications on Twitter.

4)  Meeting the Hon’ble Minister of State for Communications wherever possible by our comrades.

Organise the 3^rd day strike most effectively with - AUAB calls on all the employees

The AUAB conducted its review meeting today evening. GSs and senior office bearers of the constituents of the AUAB participated in the meeting. The meeting reviewed the 2nd day strike that has taken place in various Circles. The meeting expressed its satisfaction that the 2nd day strike was very successful. In fact, in some Circles, the strike percentage has improved considerably, compared to the 1^st day. AUAB congratulate all the employees participated in the strike.

The meeting also took serious note of the letter issued by the Corporate Office, threatening to take action under FR 17A. The meeting resolved to inform the employees that, this attempt of the Management would be stiffly resisted by the AUAB and all the employees will be protected. The meeting also took note of the strike particulars of the various Circles, circulated by the Corporate Office. The figures are factually incorrect. Finally, the meeting decided to take all out efforts to organise the 3rd day strike more effectively.

Second day strike --- All the employees are requested to give the strike report to the authorities positively. The official data of participation in the strike is equally important as this figure will communicate the real resentment of BSNL employees, to the Govt. The CSs and SSA Secs to monitor the strike report sent to BSNLCO.

Those who are not participating in the strike should ponder over which side they are. In this hour of crisis, whether they are with BSNL or not? Can’t they make a small sacrifice for the company? Our participation is a small sacrifice for BSNL, for its existence, which had given everything to us. This strike and employees protest is for the survival of BSNL. Our agitation will put the revival of BSNL as priority agenda of the Govt.

First day strike --- a roaring success ---

AUAB congratulates all the Executives and Non Executives:

The AUAB has heartily congratulated the Non-Executives and Executives of BSNL, for making the 1^st day strike a roaring success. In its meeting held at 15:30 hrs today, the AUAB reviewed the 1^st day strike. GSs and senior office bearers of all the constituents of the AUAB attended. As per the report received from Circles, the 1^st day strike is near total. It is also observed that the strike is taking place in a totally peaceful manner.

On one side, in its statement issued through the Press Information Bureau late last evening, the DoT had stated that, it is in the process of negotiating with the AUAB, to resolve the issues. However, on the other side, the DoT has not come forward to invite the AUAB for talks, even after the employees have en-masse joined the 1st day strike. This only shows the double- talk of the DoT. Under these circumstances, todays meeting of the AUAB, resolved to call upon the employees to further intensify the strike and make it a cent percent success on the 2nd and 3rd day.

It is a do or die situation –

AUAB calls on all the employees to organise the 3 days strike massively

The AUAB held its crucial review meeting today. GSs/senior leaders of BSNLEU, NFTE, SNEA, AIBSNLEA, AIGETOA, BSNLMS, ATM, TEPU and BSNLOA participated. The meeting reviewed the preparations going on throughout the country for the 3 day strike. All the General Secretaries gave their reports on the preparations. It is very encouraging to note that, excellent preparations are going on. Especially, the momentum has picked up tremendously in the last 2 days. After considering all the factors, the meeting unanimously decided to go ahead with the strike. It starts from midnight (00:00 hrs.) today. If any clarification is required, comrades are requested to contact their respective General Secretaries. The strike should be peaceful in all respects.

AUAB ZINDABAD

All India Public sector and Central Govt Officers Confederation (AIPCOC) and National Confederation of Officers Association (NCOA) extends solidarity and support to the 3 days strike by AUAB.

Press release by AUAB

Support letter from AIPCOC  Support letter from NCOA Press release by AUAB

AUAB holds review meeting - Decides to go ahead with the strike.

A review meeting of the AUAB was held today. General Secretaries and senior office bearers of BSNLEU, NFTE, SNEA, AIBSNLEA, AIGETOA, BSNLMS, ATM, TEPU and BSNLOA participated.  The meeting paid homage to the 40 CRPF personnel martyred in terror attack at Pulwama. The preparations that have been made in various Circles, to make the strike successful, was reviewed. The meeting expressed its concern that, the DoT has not even come forward to hold any discussion with the AUAB so far. After detailed review, the meeting unanimously decided to go ahead with the strike. The meeting decided to call upon the Circle and District organisations of the constituents, to make the last minute preparations for the success of the strike.

The meeting also decided to call upon the employees to hold condolence meetings outside office premises at 10:00 am on 18.02.2019 and pay homage to the 40 CRPF personnel martyred in terror attack at Pulwama.

MAKE EXTENSIVE PREPARATIONS FOR 3 DAYS STRIKE FROM 18.02.2019 BY AUAB

Conduct door to door campaign in the remaining two days.

The revival of our company is the biggest challenge before us. All negative forces and vested interests joined their hand together against BSNL. The future of all, our young generation with 20 to 35 years of service left, at stake. The issues are so critical and common for all the employees, irrespective of Union/Assn affiliation. Since this agitation is for our survival, local and small issues should not come on the way of our unity. Join hands with each and every employee and make this strike a grand success. This strike is for our survival

Our Unity is our strength.

AUAB Circular

Congratulations to all....!! 

As per the assurance given to this Association by the Administration, the much awaited Transfer orders finally released for the JAOs...... We were continuously pursuing for these orders. We thank CGMT, GM (HR), PGM(F) & DGM(F) for the orders.

View Orders

and as assured to this association, executives whose transfer orders were already issued more than couple of months back were relieved from ERP today by Circle Office. We thank GM HR Shri Robin Poddar. View Orders

Talks fail - AUAB decides to go ahead with the strike:

Today the CMD BSNL and Director HR met the AUAB leaders. The AUAB representatives told the Management that, they are prepared to accept 3rd Pay Revision with 5 % fitment, as offered earlier by the DoT. However, they  demanded that this commitment should be given in writing by the DoT, so that the AUAB can consider deferment of the strike. Even this demand of the AUAB is not accepted. Further, the DoT has also diluted its earlier assurance to give IDA neutralisation immediately and process 5% fitment. The DoT is demanding that the AUAB should call off the strike, in view of the terror attack in Pulwama. The Secretary, Telecom, has put a condition that she would not meet the AUAB leaders, unless they call off the strike. Immediately after the meeting with the BSNL Management, all the General Secretaries of the AUAB met and decided to go ahead with the strike. The AUAB has also decided to exempt J&K circle from the strike, to ensure maintenance of services, in the backdrop of the terror attack. The AUAB requests all the circle and district unions to organise the strike powerfully. 

Meeting with GM(HR) on 12/2/2019: CS Com.Santhosh Kumar, CT Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.Ramana met GM HR and discussed the following:

1. Relieving of Executives who transfer orders are already issued:  GM HR intimated that he is in touch with the BA Heads for the relieving of the executives and will do the needful this week itself.
2. Transfer Requests of JAOs: We once again requested GM HR to consider the requests as substitutes have already joined months back against the request. GM HR responded positively and informed that he has already asked DGM F to putup the file once again.
3. Transfer Request of other Executives: We requested GM HR to immediately publish the list of Transfer Requests received. We once again reiterated our stand against rationalisation of HR and also requested to operate longstay list only based on the pending transfer requests. The longstay list also needs correction. GM HR responded positively and is hopeful of releasing the orders in Feb itself.
4. Release of 9 JTO vacancies: We expressed our dissatisfaction over the delay in the release of 9 JTO vacancies inspite of closure of court cases in this matter. GM HR informed that he is studying the vacancies and wants to do it correctly. The court case was closed on 17^th Dec 2018 and already two months elapsed, it is very unfortunate that the study and research by GM HR for proving if 9 vacancies exists needs this much time.

We then met DGM Finance for following up the JAO transfer issues. We updated DGM F about our meeting with GM HR and requested him to resubmit the file immediately. DGM F informed that the file was never returned to them and it seems that file is with CGMT office. We couldnot meet CGMT, so we messaged him about the file and asked him to handover the file to GM HR. As there were no instructions from CGMT to his office staff, the file couldnot be retrieved from CGMT office. Next day CGMT was out of station at Delhi on official visit, we once again messaged him about the file. May be due to repeated messaging, CGMT called our Circle Secretary Com.Santhosh Kumar over phone and inquired about the file. CS explained the issue and as per the instructions of CGMT, the file was searched and handed over to GM HR for further processing. Though being a Telecommunication Company, we are lagging in internal communication between the offices and it became the job of Unions/Associations to fill that gap. We are hoping that the transfer orders of these JAOs would be released soon.

Telecom Department Considering BSNL Revival........ View India Times report.

DOT Finalising Revival Proposal... No Shutdown of BSNL........ View Business Standard News.

Press Release

Attention of Government has been drawn to certain reports in a section of the media which convey the impression that BSNL may be closed down.  However, this is not true.  At present there is no proposal under consideration with the Government for closure of BSNL.  On the contrary, Department of Telecommunications, Government of India (DoT) recognises and values the inherent strengths of BSNL as a telecom services provider with huge infrastructure and reach, especially in rural areas.  Further, DoT is in the process of finalising a proposal for revival of BSNL to be considered by the Digital Communications Commission (DCC) very soon.

It appears that the news reports in question have unnecessarily tried to focus on closure as one of the options for revival of any PSU which is not in consonance with the current thinking of DoT.

It is clarified and reiterated that DoT would like to see a robust BSNL, duly strengthened and financially viable, dedicated to servicing the nation and playing an important role in the telecom sector.

(S.K. SINHA)
PGM (Admn & PR)
9868128665

AUAB rejects the appeal of the Management to withdraw the strike from 18.02.2019:

MAKE EXTENSIVE PREPARATIONS FOR 3 DAYS STRIKE FROM 18.02.2019 BY AUAB

A meeting between the AUAB and the BSNL Management was held today, 12.02.2019 at 17:30 hrs. CMD BSNL, Director (HR & Fin) and GM(SR) were present. BSNL said that the 3 day strike by the AUAB from 18.02.2019 will be self-defeating and appealed to call off the strike. AUAB told the Management that the repeated assurances given by the Hon Minister are not implemented by the DoT and not a single issue resolved by the Govt. The AUAB also told the CMD BSNL that lot of time has been already given to DoT and the strike will now take place successfully.. The AUAB rejected the appeal of the CMD/BSNL and told the Management in categorical terms that, there is no question of going back from the decision to go on strike andreaffirmed that the strike will take place at any cost.

3 DAYS STRIKE FROM 18.02.2019 BY AUAB

For further mobilization for the strike, AUAB decided to conduct a march on 15.02.2019, Friday by all the family members of BSNL employees.

A combined meeting of AUAB will be held at Gaziabad, UP(West) on 12.02.2019 at 11 am and Rohtak, Haryana on 13.02.2019 at 11 am. A lunch hour meeting will be held at BSNLCO for BSNLCO and Delhi Circle on 14.02.2019 at 01.30 pm. All Circle Office bearers, SSA Secretaries and activists to participate and motivate the employees for the 3 days strike from 18.02.2019. AUAB CHQ leaders will be addressing the meetings.

Conduct combined meetings at Circle/SSA/Branch level.

Meeting with Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD, BSNL on 08.02.2019: GS, President, AGSs Com P P Rao and Sanjeev Sharma and Jt Sec(S) Com A Chandrasekhar met CMD and held discussions on the acute financial crisis in the organization. We appraised CMD about the situation in the field units which is affecting the services and gradually affect the revenue also. Since DoT is not given the letter of comfort, taking bank loan also delayed, CMD informed us.

Notification of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy as assured by the management: All the promotions are held up due to non-availability of posts, court cases and reservation issue. The reservation policy and the seniority related dispute created deadlock in JTO to SDE promotion. In other streams non-availability of vacancies is the main problem. BSNL is following the post based promotions followed in Govt Depts which is the main reason for creating such situation. This created huge disparity in promotions which resulted in resentment among the Executives especially the major wing, Engg wing. As a solution to all the issues, the new promotion policy is approved by the BSNL Board in line with the promotion policy followed in all CPSUs. It is to be implemented immediately, w.e.f 01.07.2018, we demanded.

Assn is not able to contain the resentment among the Executives waiting for promotion and will be compelled to start agitations in short notice, we informed. CMD reassured to notify the policy at the earliest.

Meeting with Shri Arun Kumar, PGM(Pers) on 08.02.2019: GS, President, AGSs Com P P Rao and Sanjeev Sharma and Jt Sec(S) Com A Chandrasekhar met PGM(Pers) and held discussions on i) DE to DGM promotions: We strongly objected to the abnormal delay in issuing promotions. The DPC work abruptly stopped without any reason. The list is already approved by the competent authority and utilised twice in 2016 and 2017 for DGM promotions. 1966 seniority etc do not have any relevance now as matter is subjudice. Similar delay on review DPC for SDE to DE promotion based on Hon SC judgment on Rule 206 is hampering the regular promotion to DGM grade. PGM(Pers) assured to expedite the process and some line of action is worked out for DGM promotion. In the HOCC meeting also, CGMs severely complained about the acute shortage of DGMs in the field units. 

ii) JTO to SDE promotion: The opinion on reservation policy is sought from the SG. The legal opinions from two BSNL counsels were contradictory which prompted management to get the opinion of ASG but ASG declined to give the opinion, which shows the confusion in the legal circles on this important issue.

The court cases against promotions made management very cautious for future promotions, and management want to make it sure that no fresh litigations are arisen after giving promotions, PGM(Pers) informed.

iii) Notification of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy as assured by the management. Since the reservation policy and the seniority related disputes again started creating deadlocks and the non-availability of vacancies, the new promotion policy is to be implemented immediately, w.e.f 01.07.2018.  

iv) Restoration of Circle break in Soft tenure policy also discussed.

Meeting with Shri A M Gupta, GM(SR) on 08.02.2019: GS, President, AGSs Com P P Rao and Sanjeev Sharma and Jt Sec(S) Com A Chandrasekhar met GM(SR) and held discussions on i) notification of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy as assured by the management and ii) office accommodation at Circle and SSA level. Assn is not able to contain the resentment among the Executives waiting for promotion and will be compelled to start agitations in short notice, we informed.

Meeting with Shri Saurabh Tyagi, PGM(Estt) on 07.02.2019: GS, President, AGSs Com P P Rao and Sanjeev Sharma and Jt Sec(S) Com A Chandrasekhar met PGM(Estt) and held discussions on approval for E1A and E2A scales notionally from 01.10.2000 for JTO/SDE/PA/PS etc cadres in Civil/Elect/Arch/TF/PA/PS cadres. DoT opposed the proposal on the plea that the status as on 01.10.2000 cannot be changed. Further the presidential order issued on 01.10.2000 for individuals on absorption is sacrosanct and the pay scales cannot be changed. On DoT objection, the proposal withdrawn from the Board agenda earlier. To overcome this objection of DoT, we suggested to consider some other cut off date after 01.10.2000 so that the issue can be resolved.

AUAB SERVED NOTICE FOR 3 DAYS STRIKE FROM 18.02.2019

Make extensive preparations at Circle/SSA/Branch level by conducting combined meetings and door to door campaign.

Demands

(1)   Implementation of 3rd Pay Revision with 15% fitment.

(2)   Allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL, as per the proposals submitted by the BSNL Management.

(3)   Implement assurance of the Hon Minister of State for Communications for delinking pension revision          from pay revision. Revise pension of BSNL retirees w.e.f. 01.01.2017.

(4)   Payment of pension contribution by BSNL as per the Government rule.

(5)   Settlement of the left out issues of the 2nd Pay Revision Committee.

(6)   a) Approval for BSNL’s Land Management Policy without any delay.

        b) Expeditiously complete the mutation and the process of transferring of all assets to BSNL, as per                the Cabinet decision taken on the eve of the formation of BSNL.

(7)   (a) Ensure financial viability of BSNL, as per the decision taken by the Group of Ministers, at the                        time of formation of BSNL.

       (b) Issue letter of comfort for BSNL’s proposals for taking bank loans.

       (c) Expeditiously fill up all vacant post of BSNL Board of Directors.

       (8) Scrap BSNLs outsourcing for the operation and maintenance of its mobile towers.

Pay fixation / Pay Revision of JTOs promoted after officiating: We have appraised the administration the  huge loss the JTOs are under going even after getting a positive judgment from  the Apex Court. We requested the administration for allowing the revision of pay w.e.f 1-1-2007  against the pay they were drawing  and as already done in the circle. Pending decision on the above  for revision of pay  w.e.f 1-1-2007  as per the pay drawn on officiating basis ,  We have  also gave a sample representation  submitted by 2008 regularized  JTOs  (as most of them are being retired and huge amount is  recovered from their   terminal benefits)  for  revision of pay  w.e.f  the date of their regularization  protecting the pay they have drawn on officiating capacity . CGMT and PGM F agreed to look into this matter and suggested to give representation by all similarly placed officers.

View Sample representation 

All 2008 regularised JTOs may give similar representations which will be beneficial to them.

Protest Demonstration by AUAB in front of CGM/GM Offices on 8/2/2019 against Non remittance of recoveries made from the salary View Notice
The recoveries made from the employees are not being remitted in time to the concerned organizations during the last few months. This includes deduction of HBA,GPF,EPF, Income Tax and out of column recoveries like society dues, LIC, PLI, various bank loans etc. In most of the institutions, penal interest is system generated, and hence delayed/non remittances result in penal interest to the staff.

Employees are not able to withdraw advance from GPF as the amount recovered from employees has not been remitted to DoT. LIC intimates through messages to our employees that claims will not be entertained due to the non remittance of the amount.

Penal Interests were charged by the Banks and P&T societies along with next month recovery amount. HBA interest remitted to BSNL for premature closure due to some specific and compelling reasons is not getting back their original deed as the amount was not transferred to DOT.

The issue was also discussed with CGMT a week back by AUAB. No favourable action is taken to remit the amount in time to the concerned Organisations. It was instructed by BSNL CO vide letter dated 11.01.2019 to take corrective action to ensure that the amount deducted from the salaries of employees towards loan installments due may be remitted timely.

The meeting of AUAB Kerala Circle held on 01.02.2019 discussed the issue and decided to start agitational programmes to settle the issue. Hence it is decided to organize protest demonstration in front of CGM/GM Offices on 08.02.2019.

CS writes to CGMT regarding discrepancies and irregularities in Provisional list of Stay particulars of Executives View Letter

On verification, we found lot of discrepancies/irregularities in the said published list.  We have received innumerable complaints from our members that the particulars are not correct and it is not based on the actual data. Some of the discrepancies in this regard put forth for your information and rectification.

1. Executives cannot assess their position in the long stay list.
2. Always a combined long stay list of Circle Office and Trivandrum BA have been published in previous years.  However this year separate long stay list of Circle Office and Trivandrum BA was published.  Combined long stay particulars of Trivandrum BA and Circle Office should be published.
3. Majority of the Executives in Ernakulam and Calicut BAs have worked in soft tenure areas like Idukki and Wayanad.  However it was not mentioned in the stay particulars.
4. Executives worked in different districts under the same Circle Office BA (especially Mobile Services) but it was not taken into consideration in the stay particulars.
5. List of Request transfers received to be published immediately as done in previous years.
6. After rectification of above discrepancies final list may be published.

Besides in connection with long stay transfer we would like to place the following suggestions for your kind consideration.

1. Longstay may be operated only for meeting pending transfer requests.
2. Transfer in the name of “Need” “Rationalisation” may be avoided since the new JTOs (DR+ LICE) posting was done on need basis and promotions were done in SDE and DE cadres. Any attempt to transfer the executives will lead to complete shuffling of executives and unnecessary expenditure on transfer grant in this financial situation of the company.
3. As per Corporate office instructions, JTO and SDE can be deployed interchangeably and hence long stay transfer also may be effected   by keeping the above facts under consideration.
4. Shortage BAs and hard areas like Iddukki, Wayanad and SSAs with outgoing transfer request   may be exempted from the long stay transfer.
5. This being a HR policy, before issuing the long stay transfer, discussion may be held with the Recognised Association.

In the recent published recommendations of IIM-A, it clearly indicates that one of the impediments of BSNL is the frequent transfers, which may be avoided as far as possible. So we humbly request your good self to limit the transfer as far as possible so as to reduce our expenditure and boost the morale of the Executives of those who are working hard to increase the Revenue of our beloved company.

CS writes  to CGMT regarding payment of property tax for GSM BTS View letter

Congratulations..!! to the newly elected District Office Bearers of SNEA Trivandrum

AGB of Trivandrum District was held on 5/2/2019 at Com.S.R.Sabu Nagar, St.Peters Hall, Statue, Trivandrum. PGM Trivandrum Shri S.S.Thampi, Secretary AIPCOC Tvm region Com.Prem Jeevan.P.G, Circle President Com.George Varghese, Circle Secretary Com.T.Santhosh Kumar, Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer.S and other Circle leaders of SNEA Kerala attended the AGB. The following office bearers were unanimously elected in the AGB: 

President: Com. Kumarji V S, JTO, MS Installation
Secretary: Com. Dr. V. G. Sabu, AGM-EB
Treasurer: Com. Kumaresan A, JTO, Txmn.

Vice Presidents:
Com. Louis M. P., SDE, Manacaud
Com. Vimala M, CAO
Com. Mathews B, SDE Electrical

Asst. District Secretaries:
Com. Manilal P, JTO-IT
Com. Rajeevan K, SDE, Mobile
Com. Shafi A, JTO, Installation

Organising Secretaries:
Com. Haleel SDE Civil.
Com. Rinosh Thankachan, SDE
Com. Soorajkumar MS, JTO
Com. Bijoy, JTO MS
Com. Dinesh SDE
Com. Binush B Peter SDE MS

CEC Members:
Com. Narendrakumar S, DE
Com. Anoop TC, DE BSS
Com. Maheswaran Nair V., DE

HISTORIC MARCH TO PRIME MINISTERS OFFCIE BY AIPCOC

All India Public Sector and Central Govt officers Confederation (AIPCOC) hit the streets of New Delhi on 04.02.2019 with more than 10,000 officers from Public Sector Banks, CPSUs and Central Govt Depts marched to the PRIME MINISTERS OFFCIE, making the march one of the historic one in the history of AIPCOC, NCOA and SNEA demanding:

1. Removal of affordability clause for Pay Revision in CPSUs.

2. Wage settlement in Public Sector Banks.

3. Allot 4G spectrum to BSNL & MTNL.

4. Stoppage of all moves towards Privatization.

5. Govt support for revival of CPSUs.

6. Ensure Assured Pension for all.

March started at 10.30 am even before the scheduled time as police forced to start the march early. Earlier Police denied permission and tried to shift the venue to Ramlila Maidan which AIPCOC did not agreed. Police stopped the march at Jantar Mantar.

Hundreds of SNEA comrades from various Circles, AP, BSNLCO, Delhi,  Gujarath, J&K, Kerala, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana, UP(W), UP(E), Uttarakhand participated in the march. The participation by Rajasthan and Punjab Circles was excellent and requires special appreciation. Due to heavy fog, in north India, all the trains were running vary late and lot of comrades could not reach for the march. CHQ congratulate all the comrades, especially the CSs for making the march a grant success.

Hundreds of Executives from different parts of the country from various CPSUs, with huge number from MTNL, participated in the march making big presence of NCOA and AIPCOC.

Com Tapan Sen, Hon MP and General Secretary/CITU, Com N K Premachandran, Hon MP, Com Sanjay Singh, Hon MP addressed the march at Jantar Mantar.

Tribute to Our Veteran Leader

The hero of many historic battles to win the pride and prestige of the Executive community, his stellar role in building up the SNEA will remain with us forever.

AUAB SERVED NOTICE FOR 3 DAYS STRIKE FROM 18.02.2019 AUAB Notice 

Demands:

(1)   Implementation of 3rd Pay Revision with 15% fitment.

(2)   Allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL, as per the proposals submitted by the BSNL Management.

(3)   Implement assurance of the Hon Minister of State for Communications for delinking pension revision from pay revision. Revise pension of BSNL retirees w.e.f. 01.01.2017.

(4)   Payment of pension contribution by BSNL as per the Government rule.

(5)   Settlement of the left out issues of the 2nd Pay Revision Committee.

(6)   a) Approval for BSNL’s Land Management Policy without any delay.

        b) Expeditiously complete the mutation and the process of transferring of all assets to BSNL, as per            the Cabinet decision taken on the eve of the formation of BSNL.

(7)   (a) Ensure financial viability of BSNL, as per the decision taken by the Group of Ministers, at the                  time of formation of BSNL.

        (b) Issue letter of comfort for BSNL’s proposals for taking bank loans.

        (c) Expeditiously fill up all vacant post of BSNL Board of Directors.

       (8)  Scrap BSNLs outsourcing for the operation and maintenance of its mobile towers.

Pension revision, Pension for the retirees after 01.01.2017 and 30% Superannuation Benefits should be according to 15% fitment. 

PRIME MINISTERS OFFICE MARCH

by NCOA, AIPCOC and AIBOC on 04.02.2019:

About 15,000 Officers/Executives from all the sectors, Banking, Telecom, Oil, Power, Insurance, Central Govt Officers etc are expected to participate in the March.

The main demands are:

1. Remove affordability clause for Pay Revision in CPSUs.

2. Wage settlement in Public Sector Banks.

3. Allot 4G spectrum to BSNL & MTNL.

4. Stoppage of all moves towards Privatization

5. Govt support for revival of CPSUs..

6. Ensure Assured Pension for all.

March starts from Model School, Barakhamba Road at 11 am.

JOIN ENMASSE AND MAKE IT A BIG SUCCESS

Following the discussion that the AUAB had with the Additional Secretary (Telecom) yesterday, further discussions took place between the AUAB and the CMD BSNL yesterday, as well as today.  In continuation of this, the representatives of the AUAB met Shri Anshu Prakash, Additional Secretary (Telecom) today afternoon. To our surprise, the Additional Secretary (Telecom) told the AUAB representatives today that, even giving the 5% fitment would be difficult. The AUAB did not accept the 5% fitment offer made yesterday. Further for the Pension Revision also, DoT is talking about the same fitment given for BSNL employees.In this backdrop, the AUAB will be holding its meeting at 11:30 am tomorrow. The meeting will take appropriate decision on the charter of demands.The Executives and Non-Executives are requested to keep ready for struggle.

Meeting between AUAB and the Additional Secretary, Telecom.

A meeting was held today between the AUAB and Shri Anshu Prakash, Additional Secretary(T).
AUAB representatives in the Committee for Periodic Interaction, Com.P.Abhimanyu, GS, BSNLEU & Convenor, AUAB, Com.Chandeshwar Singh, CS, NFTE & Chairman, AUAB, Com.K.Sebastin, GS, SNEA and Com.Prahlad Rai, GS, AIBSNLEA, participated. From the DoT side, Shri R.K. Khandelwal, Joint Secretary(Admn), Shri S.K. Jain, DDG (Estt.), Shri Rajeev Kumar, DDG (Budget) also participated. Ms. Sujata T. Ray, Director (HR) and Shri A.M. Gupta, GM(SR), represented BSNL.  

Detailed discussion took place on the 3rd Pay Revision, 4G spectrum, Payment of Pension Contribution on actual basic pay and Pension Revision issues. As regards the 3rd Pay Revision, in the meeting held today,  the DoT side offered Pay Revision with 5% fitment.  If the AUAB accept it, then this issue would be placed for the approval of the Digital Commission (erstwhile Telecom Commission) meeting, to be held on 05-02-2019 along with other issues like 4G spectrum, vacant land monetization and thereafter it would be taken for the approval of the Cabinet in February itself, said DoT side. The AUAB  stated that 5% fitment is very low and that they could not accept it. Thereafter, the AS(T) suggested that the AUAB representatives could discuss the issue with the CMD/BSNL and could come back to him within a day or two. It may be recollected that in the meeting held on 03-12-2018, the Honourable Minister of State for Communications had stated that 3rd Pay Revision with 15% fitment was not possible. Further, in the last meeting held with the Addl Secretary (T), 3rd Pay Revision with 0% fitment was offered by the DoT side.

Tomorrow morning 11 am, Secretary, DoT is conducting a meeting to review the proposal made for Digital Commission on 4G proposal, land monetization and other proposals and CMD, BSNL will be giving a presentation. 

On pension revision, DoT suggested for the same fitment which AUAB out rightly rejected. We told that Pensioners not linked with affordability of BSNL as the pension is paid by the Government. There after AST suggested for separate discussion with DDG(Estt) on the issue. After the meeting with AST, we had elaborate discussion with DDG Estt on pension revision formula.

On pension contribution, DoT is trying to send the recommendation to Dept of Expenditure by next week.
4G spectrum allotment and vacant land monetization is coming in the Digital Commission meeting on 05.02.2019 and thereafter to the Cabinet.

On the E2 and E3 Pay scale, AST suggested for separate discussion mostly next week.
Main issue pending is 3rd PRC fitment, fitment for pension revision and E2 & E3 pay scales.

CS writes to CGMT regarding HR Management in Kerala Circle View Letter

The Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala circle held on 28-1-2019 had elaborately discussed the prevailing HR relations in the Circle on account of insensitive attitude of the circle Administration as well as the grim working environment prevailing in the circle on account of shortage of funds resulting nonpayment of Temporary advances and contractor/ vendor payments, nonpayment of Rent and Tax clubbed with ambitious targets.

The meeting was of the view that the Circle administration has not given due consideration to the   HR expectations of the executives which does not require any financial burden. Even the request to consider the most compassionate case could not find a place for the administration for consideration. It is matter of great concern that a request made by a JAO after completing 2 years who is the only son to his father who was struggling by cancer could not find merit by the administration till his father breathed last. It is more pertinent that even substitute was posted in the SSA against all transfer requests of JAOs. Other requests on medical grounds also could not find consideration.  Same is the attitude regarding all other cases like releasing of withheld JTO/JAO vacancies, relieving of executives who has completed their tenure as on August 2018 and orders issued,  request of JAOs who has completed their tenure and substitutes ate posted, the request of executives who has completed the two year tenure during last September 2018 etc.  Our repeated suggestions to issue single order in similar case instead of piecemeal business also gone to deaf ears. It is also noted that while all these issues are pending and this Association has expressed its serious concern and compelling situation to go for organizational action, unmindful of the realities administration has issued stay particulars of all executives from JTO to DGM from all SSAs including non-popular and difficult areas which was exempted from transfer   and called for option for transfer proposed on need basis. This is nothing but adding fuel to the fire and we are constrained to remember the rationalization theory propounded few years before by the then Circle administration. (Our views on the so called stay particulars and calling of option from executives are being submitted separately). In one side executives are struggling to meet the ambitious targets set by the circle even by “all means" and showing its “achievements” and paying personal hard earned money to the tune of even up to lakhs from pocket towards organizational expenses. We are sure that except the executives in the field, nobody is paying from their pockets towards BSNL services. It is also a matter of concern that they are paid only take home pay and even the payment towards insurance, Loans from banks, GPF/ EPF etc is not remitted resulting other personal risks and loss.  Unmindful of the above realities we are yet to see any positive steps from circle administration towards the barest minimum requirement which does not involve any financial implications.

Though the circle administration had some discussions over the issues after the one day protest demonstration which was held after a gap of more than 3 years in the circle, it could not make any categorical assurance to the issues raised in a time bound manner.

In the light of the above The CEC meeting of SNEA Kerala circle unanimously decided to go ahead further course of  organisational action  w.e.f 10-2-2019 if the circle administration continue to ignore the requests and views  expressed by this Association.

We once again request the circle administration to issue necessary orders in respect of following items and instill confidence in the minds of all executives by ensuring that the Circle had a robust HR policy which will take care the organizational interest along with individual interest:

1. Relieving of all executives whose transfer orders are already issued by 31^st Jan 2019 as already assured.
2. Ensure transfer and relieving of all JAOs who has requested for transfer after completing 2 years and other compassionate cases which the SSA is ready to relieve.
3.  Issue Transfer order of all executives on request who has completed their tenure by September 30^th 2018.
4.  The long stay list published may be modified by necessary corrections and a detailed discussion may be arranged with this Association regarding the pending transfer case of all executives up to 31st march 2019 for clearing anxieties created in the minds of executives on account of the said list and the instruction for calling of options for transfer.

PRIME MINISTERS OFFICE MARCH

by NCOA, AIPCOC and AIBOC on 04.02.2019:

About 15,000 Officers/Executives from all the sectors, Banking, Telecom, Oil, Power, Insurance, Central Govt Officers etc are expected to participate in the March.

The main demands are:

1. Remove affordability clause for Pay Revision in CPSUs.

2. Wage settlement in Public Sector Banks.

3. Allot 4G spectrum to BSNL & MTNL.

4. Stoppage of all moves towards Privatization

5. Govt support for revival of CPSUs..

6. Ensure Assured Pension for all.

JOIN ENMASSE AND MAKE IT A BIG SUCCESS

SNEA letter on PM Office March to Secretary/DoT and CMD/BSNL 

Shri P K Purwar, present CMD/MTNL is selected as the new CMD/BSNL by the PESB today. 

GS writes to Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD, BSNL:
Immediate action to notify Amendment to BSNL Executives Promotion Policy & Recruitment Rules-2017 (CPSU Cadre Hierarchy) w.e.f. 01.07.2018 which is approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, to address the huge disparity in promotions and bringing complete Uniformity and Parity in promotions in all equivalent cadres of different streams. This is part of terms and condition for absorption in BSNL. Reminder on AIC resolution in this regard  View letter of GS to CMD

GS writes to Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR) regarding Office accommodation for SNEA at Circle and SSA level. Inordinate delay in allotment severely affecting the functioning of SNEA at Circle and SSA levels. View Letter

GS writes to Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR) reminding about Restoration of Circle breaks on posting to Soft tenure stations as assured in the meeting held on 17.05.2018. View Letter

CEC Meeting is scheduled on 28/1/2019: View Notice

Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala Circle is scheduled to be held on 28-01-2019 (10 A.M) at SNEA Bhavan, Ernakulam. All Circle office bearers, SSA Secretaries, CEC members and Branch Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting in time.

A meeting of the AUAB was held at New Delhi on 25.01.2019. GS and President attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed the progress in the settlement of the charter of demands of the AUAB. The meeting noted that there is no progress in the settlement of 3rd Pay Revision issue. Even on the 4G spectrum, it is observed that the Niti Aayog and the Department of Expenditure have created hurdles. On the issue of Pension Revision, the DoT itself is creating hurdles, despite the assurance of the Hon Minister of State for Communications, that Pension Revision would be de-linked from pay revision.

The meeting also noted with serious concern, the alarming situation and financial crisis prevailing in BSNL. The Company is unable to take bank loans due to the road-blocks created by the DoT, deliberately. As a result, BSNL is unable to release funds to the circles, for the payment of electricity bills, rent, wages of contract workers, etc. The development and expansion work also delaying, adversely affecting the growth of the company.

The DoT is also obstructing all the routes for the revival of BSNL. The Govt in no way helping BSNL to grow further to compete with other operators. The Management of BSNL has submitted its Land Management Policy for the approval of the DoT for the effective utilization/leasing out of vacant lands. If this Policy is approved, BSNL can earn Rs.7,000 crores to Rs.10,000 crores annually, by leasing / renting out its vacant lands. But, the DoT is deliberately blocking this proposal also.

The BSNL Management has planned to outsource the maintenance of BSNLs towers for exorbitant rates, for which huge amount have to be paid annually. At the beginning itself, the AUAB has opposed this. But, the BSNL Management is going ahead with the agenda. After threadbare discussion of all the above issues, the AUAB unanimously came to conclusion that it is high time for the employees to revive the struggle. The meeting also unanimously came to the conclusion that some new demands have to be included in the charter of demand, which are very essential for the revival of BSNL.

The following are the unanimous decisions taken in todays meeting:-

(1) Considering various ground realities, the meeting decided to call on all the Executives and Non-Executives of BSNL to go on a three day strike from 18.02.2019.

(2) Street corner meetings are to be organised throughout the country for 5 days from 11.02.2019, and mobilise the support of the general public for the strike demands.

(3) Press meetings are to be organised at circle and district levels on 12 or 13 February.       

(4) To meet all political parties, for mobilising their support for the demands especially, the revival of BSNL.

Demands

1) Implementation of 3^rd Pay Revision with 15% fitment.

2) Allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL, as per the proposals submitted by the BSNL Management.

3) Revision of pension to BSNL retirees w.e.f. 01.01.2017.

4) Payment of pension contribution by BSNL as per the government rule.

5) Settlement of the left out issues of the 2nd Pay Revision.

6) a) Approval for BSNL Land Management Policy without any delay.

b) Expeditiously complete the mutation and the process of transferring of all assets to BSNL, as per the Cabinet decision taken on the eve of the formation of BSNL.

7) Extend financial support to BSNL, to ensure financial viability as per the decision taken by the Group of Ministers, at the time of formation of BSNL. Issue letter of comfort for BSNL proposals for taking bank loans.

8) Scrap the proposal for outsourcing for the maintenance of BSNL mobile towers. 

AUAB Circular

Meeting with Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR): GS, President and AGSs Com P P Rao and Com Sanjeev Sharma met DIR(HR) and held discussions on the following issues. GM(SR) also present.

a) Payment of bills for labourers, electricity etc: DIR(HR) explained the severe financial crunch BSNL is facing for the last few months. The payments are delayed which is started affecting the services. The banks are reluctant to give loan for the Telecom sector where huge NPA is reported and the RBI ceiling for loan for Telecom sector is already over. Further DoT letter of comfort also not received so far.

It is time for all to work together, for the survival of BSNL, forgetting all other issues, DIR(HR & Fin) called upon.

b) JTO to SDE promotion: The promotions and resultant court cases demoralised the management, DIR(HR) informed us. When management is gone for extra mile to give promotions, contempt cases etc are not going to help any way. The clarifications on own merit on reservation issue also to be obtained. As the ASG is not given his opinion, management is exploring the possibility for getting the legal opinion from Solicitor General (SG). Earlier legal opinions were contradictory in this regard.

We requested to expedite the promotions as the JTOs waiting for the promotion are innocent and not involved in the court cases to stop the promotions.

c) DE to DGM promotion: We requested to expedite the promotions as the preparatory work is completed. The tentative seniority list is operated for promotions in 2016 and 2017 and the promotions are made from the remaining DEs in the same list. The question of 1966 seniority does not arise now as the issue is pending in the Hon Supreme Court. No stay is granted by the Chandigarh CAT in the case filed by some individuals. DIR(HR) assured to take a decision in this regard at the earliest.

d) Soft tenure policy: We requested to release the order for Circle break as assured long back. DIR(HR) responded positively.

GS writes to Smt Sujata T Ray, Director (HR & Fin): Abnormal delay in settlement of Gratuity amount of Late Manoj John, JTO, HR No: 200700093, Alappuzha SSA, Kerala Circle by BSNL. Even after 9 months of his sad demise, the Gratuity amount has not been released by BSNL. The Gratuity amount due is Rs 8,88,804/-SNEA Kerala Circle has contributed an amount of 21 lakhs through our members as financial assistance, though a very meagre amount considering the overall expense which the family had to bear towards his treatment which amounts to more than 50 lakhs.

GS letter to DIR(HR) 

Parliament March by NCOA, AIPCOC and AIBOC on 04.02.2019:

About 15,000 Officers/Executives from all the sectors, Banking, Telecom, Oil, Power, Insurance, Central Govt Officers etc are expected to participate in the March.

The main demands are:

1. Remove affordability clause for Pay Revision in CPSUs.

2. Allot 4G spectrum to BSNL & MTNL and support all the CPSUs.

3. Stoppage of all moves towards Privatization / seeking Govt support for revival of CPSUs..

4. Ensure Assured Pension for all.

All the CSs are requested to bring maximum members for the Parliament March on 04.02.2019. Make the reservations accordingly.

Notice issued by AIPCOC  Notice issued by NCOA

Today the proceedings under Contempt of Court at CAT, Ernakulam by the personal appearance of CMD and GM(Pers) on 24.01.2019 is stayed by the Hon Ernakulam High Court.

Hon HC ordered to issue notice and post the matter after one month. BSNL filed a writ petition in the Hon HC against the CAT order dated 07.01.2019, ordering the personal appearance of CMD and GM(P) in JTO to SDE promotion issue. Sr Lawyer from Supreme Court Shri K K Rai appeared for BSNL. Hon HC observed some procedural lapses in the CAT actions. Further HC also observed that its order dated 05.06.2018 is partially implemented by BSNL by publishing the AIEL and issuing the promotion orders. DGM(Pers) and AGM(Legal) from BSNLCO gone to Ernakulam for coordinating the case.

When BSNL is ready to issue the promotions and even after submitting an affidavit in the EKM/CAT that it is ready to go ahead with further promotion for about 5000 vacant posts, the applicants insisted for action under Contempt of Court by demanding personal appearance of CMD and GM(Pers), instead of accepting the proposal for promotion of 5000 JTOs. As we already pointed out, this ego and resultant litigations are affecting the promotions of innocent BSNL recruited JTOs waiting for their first promotion, for years together.

More interestingly, after the contempt case on 07.01.2019, we are not seen anybody other than SNEA, pursuing the SDE promotions, making our doubt more clear that the aim was the personal appearance of CMD & GM(P), membership campaign and not the SDE promotions.

We request the Admn to go ahead with further promotions as proposed, as the JTOs waiting for promotion are innocent.

Donations from other SNEA Circles and CHQ towards CMDRF for Rebuilding Kerala:

SNEA Kerala handed over a Cheque of Rs 3,58,900/- to Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan towards the CMDRF (Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund) at his office on 10/1/2019 . This amount was collected by SNEA Kerala as donations received from other SNEA Circles and CHQ. We thank all Circle Secretaries and Comrades of SNEA across India and our CHQ for the donations for rebuilding Kerala in the aftermath of unprecedented floods.

Circle Secretary Com.Santhosh Kumar.T handing over the Cheque to Hon'ble CM Shri Pinarayi Vijayan

CEC Meeting is scheduled on 28/1/2019: View Notice

Notice is hereby issued for Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA Kerala Circle to be held on 28-01-2019 (10 A.M) at SNEA Bhavan, Ernakulam. All Circle office bearers, SSA Secretaries, CEC members and Branch Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting in time.

Lunch Hour Demonstration was successfully conducted at all BA HQs on 17/1/2019.

To protest against the negative attitude of the Circle Administration to resolve the genuine HR issues of the Executives, we decided to hold Lunch Hour Demonstration at HQs of all BA on 17/1/2019. Dear Comrades, Participate in the programme and make it a grand success.

Join SNEA, Strengthen SNEA and Strengthen Executives Unity to settle the pending issues of BSNL Executives:

Strengthen SNEA for the Revival of BSNL.

Strengthen AUAB by joining SNEA, one of strong constituent of AUAB to settle 30% Superannuation benefits and 3rd PRC.

Strengthen SNEA to settle E2, E3 pay scales. The court cases at Chandigarh and the contempt petition lead to hurriedly notifying lower pay scales of E1 and E2 by DoT. SNEA is committed to reverse the DoT decision and working for that.

Strengthen SNEA for the promotions in all the cadres, parity in promotions, uniform promotion avenues and for Time Bound Functional promotion for all.

The court cases complicated and delaying the promotions, SNEA is trying to remove the hurdles one by one.

Strengthen SNEA for your Social Security and implementation of Group Term Insurance (GTI).

Strengthen SNEA for the settlement of other issues, through continuous persuasion.

All SSA/Branch/Circle Secretaries and office bearers are requested to ensure enrolment of maximum membership. Till tomorrow, 15.01.2019, new members and changes in membership can be done.

Meeting of the Committee for Periodic Interaction and meeting between the AUAB and the Additional Secretary.

A meeting of the Committee for Periodic Interaction (Institutional Mechanism) was held in the Sanchar Bhawan on 10-01-2019. From the AUAB, Com.P.Abhimanyu, GS/BSNLEU & Convenor, Com.Chandeswar Singh, GS/NFTE & Chairman, Com.K.Sebastin,  GS/SNEA and Com.Prahlad Rai, GS/AIBSLEA participated. Shri.R.K.Khandelwal, Joint Secretary(Admn.) Shri S.K.Jain, DDG(Estt.), Sri Rajeev Sing, DDG(Budget)  and officers participated from the DoT. Shri.P.K.Sinha, Advisor(Finance), DoT, who is a member of the Committee did not participate attend as he is on tour. Ms.Sujata Ray, Director(HR) and ShriA.M.Gupta, GM(SR) represented the BSNL.

It may be remembered that the AUAB strongly demanded that this Committee should be chaired by the Additional Secretary and that no result would be achieved if it is presided over by the Joint Secretary level officer. Whatever we predicted has proved to be correct. The Joint Secretary(Admn.) and the DDG(Estt.) were not able to give any worthwhile information about the status of the issues, viz., 3rd Pay Revision, Allotment of 4G spectrum, Payment of Pension Contribution on actual basic pay and Pension Revision. Both the officers are completely negative on our issues. No worth mentioning outcome came from this meeting.

Hence, after this meeting, the AUAB leaders went and met Shri Anshu Prakash, Additional Secretary and expressed their total dissatisfaction about the outcome of the meeting. Shri R.K.Khandelwal, Joint Secretary (Admn.), Ms.Sujata Ray, Director (HR) and Shri A.M.Gupta, GM(SR) were also present. Thereafter, full fledged discussion took place with the Additional Secretary on our demands.

3rd Pay Revision

Detailed discussion took place. The Additional Secretary told that the DoT is ready to settle the 3rd Pay Revision. But, he categorically told that it will be very difficult for the DoT to get the approval of the Cabinet for 15% fitment, since BSNL’s financial position does not allow payment of such high salary. He requested the AUAB and the BSNL Management to discuss and come back to him by next week with a workable solution which can be convincing to other ministries also. DIR(HR) informed that she will start negotiation with AUAB immediately.

4G spectrum to BSNL.

As regards the allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL, the Additional Secretary confidently told that the DoT would do it’s best to get the Cabinet approval for the allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL. He expressed hope that the Telecom Commission meeting to be held in the 1st week of February would give the necessary clearance, after which it would go for the Cabinet approval. Reservation on the part of Niti Ayog and Dept of Expenditure will be sorted out in the Telecom Commission meeting with the support of the recommendation of the consultant, IIM Ahmedabad. BSNL response on IIM report will be submitted by Monday and thereafter it will be processed to discuss in TC meeting.

Payment of Pension Contribution on actual basic pay.

As regards the issue of Payment of Pension Contribution on actual basic pay, the Additional Secretary told that the Department of Expenditure (DoE) has sought certain details and that the DoT has already written to the BSNL in this regard. The Director (HR) replied that within 1 or 2 days, BSNL would send a reply to the DoT. The Additional Secretary assured that thereafter prompt action would be taken to get the approval of the DoE.

Pension Revision.

On this issue, the AUAB representatives expressed their dissatisfaction and demanded that prompt action should be taken by the DoT. Thereafter, detailed discussion took place with regards to the fitment, etc. Finally, the Additional Secretary requested the Director(HR) to provide with copies of relevant documents like Government orders related to payment of Pension to the BSNL employees, etc.

Outstanding issues of 2nd PRC.

On this DIR(HR) informed that there are two parts, one pertaining to BSNL and the other one pending with DoT. DIR(HR) informed that an understanding has been reached between AUAB and the CMD BSNL in respect of increasing the contribution towards Superannuation Benefits. She also assured that a record of discussion would be issued for the meeting held on 02.12.2018 between CMD BSNL and the AUAB.

On the second issue of approval of E2 and E3 pay scales, DIR(HR) told that DoT issued PO by lowering the pay scales to E1 and E2, degrading the cadres which BSNL is not agreeing. It is to be reviewed as requested by BSNL.  

GS explained the matter further and requested for early settlement. In the last meeting on 03.12.2018, Hon Minister agreed to reconsider the DoT decision and assured early action as it can be decided within DoT. AST finally told directed Director(PSU) to process the case and brief him on the subject.

At the end of the meeting, the Additional Secretary suggested that the AUAB representatives could again meet him next week.

AUAB Circular

On 10.01.2019, AGS Com P. Padmanabha Rao, CHQ Treasurer Com R. Rajan and Jt Sec(S) Com A. Chandrasekhar met GM(BW) Sri. A. D.P. Keshri & GM(LD) Sri. D. K. Shinghal and  discussed land management, about discrepancies in the SDE(C) Seniority list, publication of year wise vacancies, Seniority list of JTO(C).GM(BW) assured to settle the issues within BW Unit based on individual representations received. If any legal issues arise, they will be sent to legal for clarification and will be placed accordingly. Regarding JTO(C) seniority, provisional seniority list is under preparation, for the approval of the competent authority. Around 205 JTO(C) data is available for the preparation of the seniority list. We also discussed about promotions of JTO(C) to SDE (C), SDE(C) to EE (C) & SE(C). Administration is trying to settle the seniority related issues and afterwards promotions will be issued for the availability vacancies.

Land Management issue discussed with GM(LD) and he informed that a draft on Land Management policy for BSNL has beensubmitted to DoT for approval. He also informed that with this Land Management, within three years span, there is a possibility of generating Rs. 8,000/-Cr per Annum as revenue to BSNL. This will become major source of income for BSNL revival. Leasing of open lands, extending leasing period upto 30 years under the purview of BSNL are notable points in the policy.

Meeting with GM(Pers): GS, CHQ Treasurer and AGSs met new GM(Pers) Shri Arun Kumar and held discussions on JTO to SDE and DE to DGM promotions. In view of the contempt proceedings against CMD/BSNL and GM(Pers), management is not at all thinking about further promotions rather the entire focus is to file appeal against the contempt proceedings in the HC and Supreme Court. Ernakulam CAT directed the personal appearance of CMD and GM(Pers) on 24.01.2019. Indications are that management will consider JTO to SDE promotions only after getting relief on contempt petitions.

However we are trying our level best to get the promotion orders issued at the earliest as majority of the DPC related work is already completed. We are committed to see that promotion orders are issued at the earliest for the JTOs as most of them are waiting for more than 17 years for their first promotion and they are in no way connected with the mess created by others.

As anticipated, the court cases and the contempt petition is badly delaying the promotions eventhough all the DPC work is completed. It is really unfortunate that the stubbornness of AIGETOA activists (many of them are already SDEs) for the personal appearance of CMD and others really casting shadow on the prospects of thousands of JTOs waiting for SDE promotions.

On DE to DGM promotions, new GM(Pers) assured to have discussion on Monday as the entire Pers section is busy in filing appeal against the contempt petition in higher courts.

CS writes to CGMT serving Notice for Organisational Actions : View Notice

Kindly recall the discussion held at your chamber on 19/12/2018 and also refer our letter No.SNEA/Kerala/2018-19/II/13 dtd 27/12/2018 submitted by this Association in connection with the consideration of transfer requests of Executives who have completed 2 years service at their present BAs and other HR issues.   In the letter we categorically mentioned that the issues may be resolved within a stipulated period otherwise we will be forced to initiate organizational programs.  It is painfully noted that nothing has materialized so far in this regard and we felt that the genuine issues of Executives were fallen in deaf ears.

Circle Executive Committee meeting of SNEA unanimously decided to start the following organizational programs :

1. Lunch Hour Demonstration at all Dist Headquarters on 17/1/2019

2. If the demands are not settled on or before 31/1/2019, we will be compelled to intensify our agitations including non-cooperation which may seriously affect the developmental progress of Kerala Circle.

To protest against the

1. Negative attitude of the Circle Administration to the genuine issues of Executives in Kerala Circle.

2. Inept Circle Administration who failed to supply adequate infrastructure facilities for providing efficient service to attain the assigned target and increasing the revenue of Kerala Circle.

AUAB meeting with the Secretary, Telecom.

Representatives of the AUAB met Ms. Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary, Telecom, on 09.01.2019. Shri Anshu Prakash, Additional Secretary, Telecom, was also present. From AUAB, Com.P. Abhimanyu, GS/BSNLEU & Convenor/AUAB, Com. Chandeshwar Singh, GS/NFTE and Chairman/AUAB, Com. K. Sebastin, GS/SNEA and Com.Prahlad Rai, GS/AIBSNLEA took part. AUAB expressed their concern to the Secretary, Telecom, over the slow implementation of the assurances given by the Hon MoS(C). In reply, the Secretary, Telecom, told that a status report on all the issues would be given to the AUAB, by the DoT, in the Committee (Institutional Mechanism) meeting to be held on 10.01.2019. The Secretary, Telecom, suggested that the AUAB could meet her thereafter, and apprise her of the actions needed to be taken. In the discussion, AUAB demanded the inclusion of four representatives from AUAB in the Committee (Institutional Mechanism). This was accepted by the Secretary, Telecom.

AUAB Circular 

Implementation of Group Term Insurance:

GS, CHQ Treasurer Com R Rajan, AGS Com Dilip Saha, AGS Com Sanjeev Sharma, AGS Com Pandurang Nayak, Jt.Sec (South) Com Chandrasekhar, Jt.Sec (East) Com I H Mandol and AGS Com Jagdish Rout met Sr GM(Estt), GM(Trg) and GM(CA) on 08.01.2019 and held discussions on implementation of GTI w.e.f 01.02.2019.

The Estt section is nominated as the nodal section for the implementation of GTI. Estt section issued direction to ERP cell to take action to deduct the amount from the salary of January, 2019 onwards. CA section will implement the premium deduction and accounting.

SNEA requested for some mechanism for the Executives on deputation to other Depts like TERM Cell for exercising the option for GTI. In principle it is agreed and modalities will be worked out. Further monthly or quarterly premium payment for the Executives above 50 years as the premium amount is higher. This also will be discussed with LIC. Next meeting with LIC will be held on 11.01.2019 for finalizing the MoU and the policy document.

We requested for a mechanism to monitor the contribution towards the Pension fund (5%). For this necessary modifications are under process in ERP to monitor the contribution from BSNL. The fund status in LIC also can be monitored for that LIC will extend a link for the BSNL employees. This is already under testing for individual cases and will be implemented at the earliest. pension fund, GM

Increasing the Gratuity from 10 lakh to 20 lakhs for BSNL direct rects: We requested to issue a separate order in this regard. GM(CA) informed that BSNL Board approved the gratuity at par with Central Govt employees for the future also and any change for Central Govt employees will be automatically implemented for BSNL Direct rects. For notifying the enhancement of Gratuity from 10 lakhs to 20 lakhs, the intimation is already given to Income Tax Dept and on their clearance, separate orders will be issued to all the field units, it is assured.

Beware of the mal-propaganda by the so called saviours of DRs and BRs,

just for the sake of luring membership.

It has come to the notice of CHQ that lot of mal-propaganda unleashed by the sections about JTO to SDE promotions, who are directly responsible for the mess in JTO to SDE promotions, creating innumerable obstacles from 2007 onwards in the form of court cases. When they miserably failed in other fronts, they resorted to court cases which ultimately hit the career of thousands of seniors, juniors, young and old JTOs. Thousands lost their lifetime dream of a promotion as SDE before their retirement and thousands lost their precious service as SDE which will delay all their future promotions.

They attribute each and everything which is not settled so far like E2/E3 scales, pay parity, 3rd PRC, promotion for the remaining Executives, ---- etc as failure of SNEA, without doing anything.

Conveniently, they will not even mention about the issues settled by SNEA like a) contribution towards growth related issues of BSNL, b) E1A and E2A pay scales for all in 2002 without discrimination, c) EPF full pension without the ceiling of Rs 6500, d) EPP 2007, d) BSNLMS RR 2009, e) SCF and LDCE promotions in various cadres, f) LDCE Exam for JTO to SDE promotion made objective type and very transparent, g) settlement of pay anomaly of 2005 batch, h) no MT, i) amendment in BSNLMS RR for changing the quota from 50% to 75%, j) JTO RR amendment, k) E2/E3 scales approval by BSNL, l) 5% contribution on SAB, m) CPSU Cadre Hierarchy approval, n) more than 13,500 promotions this year, o) GTI, etc. Rather, they will try to take credit for everything settled.

Their ideology is very simple: “DO NOTHING, TAKE CREDIT FOR EVERYTHING”.

This is compelling SNEA to explain the Executives about the negative role played by the so called well wishers of DRs and BRs for the last few years, especially in JTO to SDE promotion. The present mal-propaganda is simply to confuse the JTOs for the sake of membership.

How they intentionally stopped the promotions through court cases?

Let us see what the so called saviors of DRs done for the JTO cadre? (changed DRs to BRs sometime back and now again changed to all Executives. After 17 years, they realized that all the Executives in BSNL are BRs and they are not untouchables)

I. In 2007, LDCE from JTO to SDE notified for the vacancies upto 2004-05. Due to the efforts of SNEA, 2005-06 vacancy year also got included for which 2001 rect JTOs are eligible.The same section filed court cases in different CATs for stalling the LDCE but could not succeed fully due to the efforts of SNEA. After some delay, SNEA ensured conduction of LDCE and promotion orders issued in November, 2008 and about 900 JTOs of 2001 rect itself passed the LDCE.

II. In 2010, two court cases filed at CAT, Chennai with the following prayers:

a) 1:1 interpolation between Dept promote JTOs of 1995 batch and DR JTOs of 2001 batch and so on.

b) Instead of training centre marks, date of joining should be the criteria to decide the inter-se seniority.

c) Reservation roster is not followed.

Both the cases dismissed by the Hon CAT after 3 years, a big ACHIEVEMENT!

During the interim period, promotion orders issued on 30.03.2011 for the vacancies upto 2008-09 and part of 1995 rect JTOs got promotion. After few weeks, the promotion orders stayed which continued till July, 2013.

III. Immediately after that, cases filed at CAT, Ernakulam with the same prayers (first two prayers) which are dismissed by the Chennai CAT. Meantime, EKM CAT stayed operation of the AIEL for the promotion.

Subsequent AIEL could not prepare due to court cases. However by 2014, the AIEL for the JTOs upto 2001 recruitment year prepared and published for the vacancies of 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14.

If the stay orders are not issued by Ernakulam CAT, all the vacancies upto 2013-14 would have filled and promotions orders would have issued in 2014 itself for the JTOs upto 2001 year.

The LDCE also could have conducted parallally for all the vacancy years.

Hon CAT dismissed the petitions on both grounds!

IV. Another court case filed challenging the excess promotion of the JTOs working in supernumerary posts. All the three court cases at CAT and High Court continued till the judgment on 05.06.2018.

All the three prayers rejected by Hon HC, inter-se seniority quashed for DRs and excess promotes and directed to fix the inter-se seniority of Direct rect and excess promotes by date of appointment/promotion. Hon HC did not disturb the inter-se seniority of the promotees recruited within their quota.

In the meantime more than 3,000 JTOs in the AIEL retired without getting a single promotion, another achievement for them!

The promotion order for the remaining JTOs upto 1999 rect year (part) issued on 15.06.2018 for the 2009-10 and 2010-11 vacancy year. The promotion for the JTOs of remaining rect years from 2001 onwards held up due to quashing of seniority on the Direct Rect JTOs by the High Court.

If there was no court cases, all JTOs including 2008 and part of 2012 rect year would have become SDEs from the years 2014 onwards through SCF or LDCE, in the years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

They did not played the same game of court cases in the case of JAO to AO promotion. So, all the JAOs upto 2012 rect also got the promotion as AO. See the difference!

Now also they are trying to delay the JTO to SDE promotions by fighting with the management in the court, in the name of contempt petition. All these are done mainly by some SDEs through remote control who are not going to lose anything as they got the promotion and seniority.

Beware of the mal-propaganda and read How they intentionally stopped the promotions through court cases? 

Newly elected CHQ Office bearers held a meeting at New Delhi on 07.01.2019 and held review of various issues. A committee of CHQ office bearers were formed to have more focus on the BSNL growth related issues, details will be published.

In the evening we met CMD and DIR(HR) and introduced the new CHQ Office bearers. We requested CMD and DIR(HR) to implement the CPSU Cadre Hierarchy immediately for giving promotion to thousands of Executives waiting for promotion for want of vacancies and bringing parity in promotions by any means. We also requested them to issue the promotion orders from JTO to SDE (which will ensure smooth implementation of CPSU Hierarchy) and DE to DGM immediately for filling up all the vacancies for which the formalities are completed.

Our AGS Com Pandurang Nayak and Jt Sec Com A Chandrasekhar will be available at CHQ for the whole week. Next week, Jt Sec Com Sumit Saxena will be available at CHQ.

JTO to SDE contempt case at Ernakulam:

The contempt case came up today. The reply affidavit filed by BSNL on the contempt petition is not accepted by the CAT. Hon Court decided to frame charges against CMD and GM(Pers). BSNL lawyer informed the court that BSNL proposed to issue promotions for another 5,000 JTOs which will cover some of the petitioners also. However court replied that they are not concerned about the welfare measures of BSNL to give promotion to its employees and will proceed with contempt.

BSNL was represented by senior lawyer and the AIGETOA activists are represented by their lawyer. Since SNEA is not a party in the contempt case, no lawyer appeared for SNEA.

Some rumours are spread through social media by those vested interests that SNEA lawyer also present in the court, that to confuse the members. It is another lie by them, again to befool the innocent JTOs, which they were doing since long and to save their face. It is a matter of shame that BSNL Executives are stooped to such level of dishonesty and spreading lies for misleading their own members.

We appeal all our members to be very cautious and do not get trapped in such rumours /misguiding messages in social media.

This court cases filed by AIGETOA activists are really working against the JTO to SDE promotion. The JTOs of 1999, 2001, 2002, -----2007 and 2008 rect year are becoming the real sufferers now. Earlier it was the JTOs from 1995 onwards to 2008. Those who are already become SDEs in the last three LDCEs are piloting and remote controlling the cases by collecting huge amount as legal fund and delaying the promotion for the remaining  JTOs.

It is high time for the JTOs from 2001 onwards to open their eyes and analyse who is really working against their interest and whose action is stopping their promotion. For the last 8 years, SNEA is trying to remove the hurdles for JTO to SDE promotion, created by AIGETOA and its activists, one by one.

SNEA extends solidarity and support to the General Strike by Central Trade Unions on 8th and 9th, January, 2019.

Demanding:

• No disinvestment/strategic sale of CPSUs,
• Strict enforcement of labour laws,
• Minimum wages/pension etc.

GS writes to Shri Anupam Shrivatava, CMD/BSNL: GS letter to CMD 

Immediate action to implement BSNL Executives Promotion Policy & Recruitment Rules-2017 (CPSU Cadre Hierarchy) w.e.f. 01.07.2018 which is approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, to address the huge disparity in promotions and bringing complete Uniformity and Parity in promotions in SDE/AO and AGM/CAO equivalent cadres of all the streams. This is also part of terms and condition for absorption in BSNL. Delay in implementation leading to wide spread resentment among thousands of Executives waiting for promotion:

One of the main objective of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy to end litigations and smooth career progression is partially defeated by the recent post based promotions.

Through post based promotions, the main objective of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy, Parity and Uniformity in promotions among various streams for the equivalent cadres could not achieve, rather more disparity, anomalies, disputes and court cases created now. If vacancy based promotion is continued, no one can ensure Parity or even timely promotion in different cadres.

The status of promotions in different cadres after the recent promotion orders is given below to understand the huge disparity:

1. More than 2,000 SDEs in list 8 who are very seniors, most of them are promoted in 2004/2005 as SDEs and completed 14 years of service are waiting for promotion. Their juniors are promoted on 29.06.2018 which created wide spread resentment among the seniors. Another 1,200 SDEs are there, promoted in 2007/2008 also.

2. More than 9,500 JTOs from 1999 rect year to 2013 rect year are waiting for promotion. The promotion for about 4,500 JTOs upto 2007 rect year is in the final stage. Still about 5,000 JTOs, from 2008 rect onwards are waiting for promotion to bring-in parity.  

3. Similarly about 800 SDEs (400 each in Civil and Electrical), promoted from 1998 onwards waiting for promotion as EE.

4. AOs of 2008 batch numbering about 900 are waiting for promotion.

5. More than 6,500 SDEs promoted in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2013 are waiting for promotion to Sr SDE grade.

6. More than 1500 AOs promoted is 2009 & 2015, waiting for promotion to Sr AO grade.

7. The situation in some small stream like Arch is precarious; JTO(Arch) joined in 1988 is still waiting for first promotion. Stagnation prevails in other small streams like CSS, PA/PS, TF, Arch, Official Language etc.

Bringing Parity in promotions in SDE and AGM equivalent cadres for all the streams were demanded by SNEA vide letter No: SNEA/CHQ/CMD/2015-18/95 Dated 04th July, 2018, through upgradation of posts as done in the case of JAO to AO and SDE to DE cadres. However, this demand is not accepted by the management.

Any delay in implementation of the new promotion policy will be demoralizing and detrimental to the overall interest of the Executives. If the notification and date of effect is delayed beyond 01.07.2018, all will miss their opportunity to get the promotion on 01.07.2018, at par with their juniors in other streams who got the promotion on 29.06.2018. Evenif the promotions are given one day later than 01.07.2018, all such Executives will become juniors and subordinate to the Executives already promoted on or before 01.07.2018 as per CPSU Cadre Hierarchy provisions. Consequently, it will also affect the future promotions of thousands of Executives who got promotions recently.

In view of the above submissions, it is requested to take appropriate actions to bring parity and uniformity in promotions in all the wings for all the equivalent cadres, ie. Telecom/ Finance/ Civil/ Elect/ TF/ Arch/ CSS/ PA/ PS etc as a permanent measure by implementing the Uniform Time Bound Functional Promotion Policy (CPSU Cadre Hierarchy) immediately, w.e.f. 01.07.2018.

JTO to SDE promotion : SDE Roster is approved by the CLO yesterday evening. The DPC is not started due to the confusion over reservation issue and it seems that management is waiting for the outcome court case at Ernakulam which is coming up on next Monday. The court case is badly delaying the promotions. The delay is only on account of these issues, otherwise it is ready for conduction of DPC. After deciding how to go ahead with the promotions by frequent interactions with us, management acted very fast to complete the preparatory works.

DE to DGM promotion : Management is sorting out some issues related to 1966 seniority raised by some sections. In fact the matter is subjudice as the BSNL SLP is pending in the Hon Supreme Court. All other DPC related work is completed.

The DE to DGM promotion DPC is underway and orders are expected by tomorrow.
This association apprised the following points to CGMT Kerala and also to our General Secretary:

The present vacancy position of the Kerala circle is not sufficient to accommodate the officers under consideration. There is a proposal to allot the more than 100 unfilled  DR-DGM post among various circles. Kerala being the most revenue earning circle it is requested to take up urgently with Corporate office for posting of all officers to Kerala circle by alloting more DGM posts against the unfilled DR-DGM posts. Further 12 DGMs are retiring before June 2019.

JTO to SDE promotion updates: Overcoming all the hurdles created by the numerous court cases which delayed the JTO to SDE promotions since 2010, the preparatory work for all the SDE vacancies including 2017-18 is almost completed. The reservation and roster related issues almost sorted out which was pending for few days and approval of roster is expected any time. The DPC will be started as soon as clearance is given. Including the unfilled vacancies of 2008-09 (ST) & 2010-11 (SC&ST), total vacancies are about 4870. However as per the DPC procedure, DPC will be held for all the JTOs. It is expected that almost all the JTOs of 2007 will be covered, SC & ST from 2008 and some ST posts will remain unfilled which will be filled subsequently.    

Our continuous interaction with the management, demanding going ahead with promotions on recruitment year basis as per the interim measure suggested by the Hon HC of Ernakulam, finally accepted by the management and paving the way for further promotions. An affidavit also filed by BSNL in the EKM CAT on the same lines.

Watch Television Interview with our Circle President Com.George Varghese, as he opens up on the Telecom Explosion happening around, various issues of Telecom sector, how BSNL as a PSU with its own limitations is surviving and giving tough competition to the aggressive private operators, tariff wars, how BSNL is the only operator which operates even in remote areas with its social obligations and national responsibility, how time and again it has been proved that BSNL is the only operator that works even during natural calamities, what is the role of Unions and Associations for correcting the policies of Government/Management for the growth and survival of the company, 4G Spectrum allotment, FTTH expansion, what are the future challenges, requirements and struggles for the company and many more.... from the Subharatri programme on Jeevan TV, telecasted on 5/12/2018 9.30 PM.

https://youtu.be/VY4BZ3Lix_w

SNEA organised BSNL Recruits Grand Gathering at Calicut scheduled on 3/1/19 is postponed due to Hartal. Rescheduled date will be intimated soon.

SNEA organizes BSNL Recruits Grand Gathering on  03/01/19, 2 pm at Calicut

SNEA Circle President Com.George Varghese will interact and present the following topics:

a) E2-E3 / 22820 - What's the status ?

b) What about 30% Superannuation benefits ?

c) When CPSU cadre hierarchy will come ?

d) What about JTO to SDE and SDE to DE promotion ?

e) Stand of SNEA on MT recruitment 

f) Why to opt GTI ?

g) EPF Full pension and other issues  / EPF Issues of recently recruited JTOs/JAOs

h) 4G spectrum allotment- Present status

i) Policy of SNEA on various cadre issues

j) Financial viability of BSNL - Role of United move

k) Development on recently deferred  agitation - Pay revision and other issues

l) HR Issues pending at Circle level.

m) Any other issues to be taken up / Pending  at Circle/ CHQ level

All Executives of Calicut and nearby BAs, irrespective of association , are cordially invited.

NEED for UNITY in resolving the issues in BSNL

Dear Friends & Colleagues,

Wishing you all, a very Happy New Year 2019…..

On this New Year, We wish you all very exciting Days to come. May be we are Passing through some Shadows now... but dear friends, our strong unity is enough to surpass any shadows and break all obstacles in our way. Let’s once again believe in Unity and together  we can achieve our goals. Please stay selfless and committed, that is the only way we can achieve  the goals in our life.

The first and foremost challenge  we are facing toady is the Financial Viability of BSNL which is issue of all BSNL family members more particularly affecting the BSNL recruits as they have just started their career and their  family is yet to be settled. The solutions to the issues being encountered by  BSNL can be addressed by the unity of not only of BSNL executives and non-executives but also from the support of all Trade unions even outside BSNL. While this is now realised by all prudent persons in the country, some group feel that unity of BSNL Recruited Executives will  be the panacea for the resolutions of the issues and they themself keep aloof from the activities happing around the society and others are untouchable to them till recently . We are sure as time passes, they will realize no one is untouchable and unity means not the Unity of BSNL Recruited Executives but the unity of all BSNL Executives and Non-Executives and beyond.

The history of SNEA spanning more than six decades from in its initial form of TESA (Telecom  Engineering Supervisors Association) is a true testimony to the concept of Employees unity .When JTO was a Group-C cadre, we were moving along with Group-C unions in all historical Struggles including corporatization of DOT. When BSNL was formed it has embraced all Executives who were under more than 11 distinct associations like  Finance, TES Gr-B, Civil, Electrical, CSS, PA, PS etc. Even BSNL recognition rule forbid unity between executive and non-execute unions, SNEA took the challenge to become part in leadership role in AUAB. Today all the issues of BSNL whether pertains to BSNL viability or of  Employees / executives, AUAB is a formidable Force to reckon with. We know some of the new generation  were very much critical about  non executives and absorbed executives and remained aloof from such programmers earlier has now realized that they alone cannot move a little finger and so today they are also compelled to be part of some of the activities of AUAB at least for name sake. 

Our experienced wisdom calls upon all Executives not to be trapped by the  slogan of unity of BSNL Recruits and  be part of main stream as already done by majority of  BSNL recruited executives. These are the days even trade unions like CITU,INTUC,AITUC, BMS etc… irrespective of their political differences  joined hands together to surmount the crises being faced by the common public in general and the working class whether private or public in particular.  Fully acknowledging the call of the day and taking lessons from history wherein challenges were faced when unity is forged irrespective of caste, creed, religion, race, SNEA believe unity not only of all executives but that of non-executives also in addressing the challenges being faced by BSNL. It is due to this belief, SNEA became part of NCOA, AIPCOC representing all public sectors including Banking, Insurance and Central Government services etc…

Those who believe in unity, those who believe in trade union  strength, those who believe in democratic process, those who are ready to struggle in real sense and not running court after courts as branch office of law chambers cannot become pray to the call of unity  in the name of BSNL recruits.

CS writes to CGMT regarding request transfer of JAO/JTO’s who have completed 2 years service and Relieving of Executives whose transfer orders already issued. View letter

Kindly recall the meeting held with this Association on 19/12/2018.  The following issues were discussed in the meeting.

1. Request Transfer of JAOs who have completed 2 years service
2. Request transfer of JTOs who have completed 2 years tenure period.
3. Relieving of  Executives  whose transfer orders issued after completing 2 years tenure period.

Now 9 days has elapsed after our discussion on above items, however nothing has materialized so far from administration side in this regard though it was assured to consider the  views expressed by us.  It is very painful and unfortunate  to note that the present administration is not at all considering the genuine HR issues of Executives wherein solutions are in hand.

An agreement was made between the Kerala Circle Administration and the Executives Associations in the year 2007 to meet the HR requirement of various SSAs as well as  genuine aspiration of Executives regarding transfer and posting.   As per the policy the   additional staff requirement and the request of the  2 year tenure completed  executives  will be considered against   new recruitment/ promotions. In the absence of new recruitment   the request of the executives completed their tenure will be considered by posting substitute if necessary on long stay basis during March/ April.  This procedure is continuously following before the start of every academic year ie during April/May with an instruction that Executives may be relieved after the completion of 2 year service at the BAs.  This procedure of issuing transfer orders in 2 years either against new recruitment/ promotion or against substitute on  long stay transfer, had  given a confidence in every Executives and they could also prepare themselves for going out to remote BAs, who give maximum efforts since they know that they would be automatically brought back to their parent BAs without any external influence.  However the administration tried to deviate from the agreement in one particular year (  ie in the year 2015)  after the implementation of the agreement made in 2007, and unfortunately it resulted in industrial unrest and badly affected the total productivity of Kerala Circle as well as loss of confidence in administration due to that deviation of the well executed agreement.

As far as request for transfer of JAOs are concerned, there are only 17 requests in the circle and recently around 30 new JAOs were posted in the circle. The new posting of JAOs were worked out in such a way to meet the substitute against the transfer request pending. But even after posting of these  new JAOs for more than 2 months no transfer orders are issued against the request pending as pointed out by us during the discussion.  This is nothing but totally negative attitude to the executives. Further these  DR JAOs  who has joined  the organization with much expectations  about BSNL is now just waiting for a seat and job assignment for months together. It may be noted that since most of them  were working in  many organizations  previously this kind of HR management would have gave them a  bad image about BSNL within this short period of time .

As far as the request pending from JTOs  it is to be noted that during the last 2 years around 700 JTOs were posted in Kerala Circle and this posting were made to different BAs after considering all shortages and anticipated transfers from BAs.  Even after the posting of new JTOs well before many months, still administration has not issued the transfer orders of Executives who were posted to remote BAs and completed 2 years.

After continues persuasion by this Association with Administration some transfer orders were issued by the circle office in DE/ SDE/ JTO  cadre in the month of Sep-2018. These orders are simply ignored by the BAs in total defiance and none of the executives are relieved yet. The circle office has become a mute spectator to this kind of defiance by the BAs. We are of the firm view that the Circle Administration  is  duty bound  to ensure that  the instructions/ orders from circle office is complied by the BAs in HR issues also like all other cases. We urge up on the circle administration to relieve these officers from ERP.

Sir, this type of attitude will result loss of confidence among the executives in the well maintained system in place and it  will further leads to industrial unrest. While  it is high time  for all- Management/ Executives/Non executives to concentrate single mindedly for improving the revenues of the company ,unfortunately the Circle administration is demotivating the executives by denying their genuine  aspirations and expectations .

 We are once again constrained to make it on record that the HR attitude of the Kerala circle administration on many issues – NOC for JTOs, Vacancy release in JTO/JAO cadre, promotion in case of JAOs , etc  are not to the expectation of the executives  and deserve a revisit.

In this context, we once again request  your good self to consider the above legitimate issues of the Executives in Kerala Circle within a time frame. Otherwise we will be forced to initiate organizational programs in the Circle.

Update on JTO to SDE Promotions: GS, President and AGS met CMD and requested him to expedite the JTO to SDE promotion and to give approval for conduction of DPC from DE to DGM.

Today evening, DIR HR given approval for conduction of DPC from JTO to SDE.

Rect of Management Trainee from outside kept in abeyance. As per our decision which is reiterated in the Ludhiana AIC, SNEA opposed rect of Extl MTs and management kept it in abeyance.

JTO to SDE promotion: Today the proposal for conduction of DPC for all the SDE(T) vacancies upto 31.03.2018 is moved for the approval of competent authority. The DPC proposal is as per the suggestion given by SNEA.

The reply in the contempt case also sent for the approval of competent authority so that it can be filed latest by Monday, 31.12.2018. In the reply affidavit, BSNL is intimating the Hon CAT that BSNL is proposing to go ahead with promotion for the remaining vacancies, rect year wise, as per the interim measure suggested by the Hon High Court.

GS, President and AGS met GM(Pers) and held discussions to complete the process expeditiously and issuing the promotion orders at the earliest. We also demanded to consider all the Rule 8 request transfers while issuing the promotion and posting orders which is accepted by management. On our request to include the 2012 batch JTOs also, GM(P) assured to examine the case to the extent of vacancies and do the needful. We expect the promotion orders by early next week if everything moves as we planned.

The proposal for DE to DGM promotion  cleared by DIR HR and file moved for approval of CMD.

DE to DGM promotion proposal is with DIR(HR) and after the clearance of DIR, it will be moved to CMD for approval. We requested DIR(HR) for early clearance of the proposal and she assured early action.

Sanchar Soft issues in South Zone: Last few days, Sanchar Soft is not working for the South Zone, halting all the activities of provisioning, MNP etc in entire south Zone due to some hardware problem. This also during festival season when more connections are expected. There is no DR also for South Zone.

Earlier GS brought this to the notice of CMD/BSNL for his intervention. Today GS and AGS met DIR(CFA) also and held further discussions on the subject. Technical team is already on the job for the last 4 days and complete restoration is expected by today night. Meanwhile the system is restored temporarily with limited access.

CS writes to CGMT regarding upcoming JTO(T) to SDE(T) promotions, retaining and posting the officials on promotion to Kerala Circle itself and to the same BA units as sufficient number of vacancies in SDE cadre exists in all BA units due to the recent SDE to AGM promotion and for saving huge amount on transfer grants during this time of financial crisis experienced by BSNL. View Letter

CS writes to CGMT regarding upcoming DE to DGM promotions and posting in  Kerala  circle: View Letter

It is understood that the DPC for promotion from DE to DGM is under way and the posting is expected shortly. In this connection the following few points are brought to your kind notice so that maximum officers from the Kerala circle are posted in the circle itself on their promotion.

The total number of DGM posts sanctioned in the circle is 65 and the DEs under consideration for promotion is around 100. Out of the 65 posts one regular DGM and 18 Adhoc DGMs are working in the circle.   8 Adhoc  DGMs and one DGM LA from other circles have requested  for transfer back to their home circle as all of them are left with  very less  service  for retirement.  It is requested to consider the request of all these officers so that maximum officers from Kerala circle can be accommodated in the circle on their promotion as DGM.  This will be a great relief to the officers from other circles during last span of their service as well as to the officers of Kerala circle. Kerala being  the profit making circle,  it is also requested to take up the matter with Corporate Office  for filling up all the posts in Kerala circle from officers from Kerala circle. In addition to individual benefit, huge amount on transfer grant etc can also be saved during this period of financial crisis experienced by BSNL.

SancharSoft issues : Sancharsoft is down since Friday afternoon and has severely affected our business during the festival time when with more aggressive melas we could have grabbed more customers. Customers who are waiting for activation of the SIM are also agitated. This association has taken up the issue with CGMT and other concerned GMs for resolving the issue at the earliest. CGMT informed that there is some hardware problem at Trichy and is being attended.

We are in constant touch with our GS and are putting pressure on our CHQ for apprising the seriousness of the issue to CMD and expecting his immediate intervention in this regard.

Meeting with CGMT on 19/12/2018:

SNEA Kerala Circle Office Bearers - CP Com.George Varghese, CS Com.SanthoshKumar.T, CT Com.Suneer.S, ACS - Com.Dr.Premkumar.G, Com.J.V.Ramana, Com.Vivek.G, CWC Members – Com.Sureshkumar.R, Com.Vimal.R and Com.Harikrishnan.G attended the meeting with CGMT Shri.Dr.P.T.Mathew on 19/12/2018, 2.30 PM at Circle Office Trivandrum. GM(HR & Admin) Shri Robin Poddar also attended the meeting from Administration side. The following points were discussed.

1. Request Transfer of JAOs who have completed 2 years: We requested CGMT to consider the transfer requests from the JAOs who have completed 2 years, as substitute for these officers were already posted from the recent DR-JAO batch. CGMT is of the opinion to issue transfer orders only on 31/3/2018 and informed that only genuine compassionate cases might be considered before that. We argued that already substitute was posted for relieving these officers and the recommendations of PGM(Finance) was also positive in these cases. We have made it very clear to the Administration that this Assn can not  accept the view of the Management and  it will be sending a  very wrong message  as far HR  relations prevailing in the circle.  We had further discussion with  GM HR and made it very clear that this Assn will be compelled to resort to organizational action if these requests are not considered. It is a well laid down  principle accepted  in the  circle that the transfer request of 2 year completed cases are considered as when substitutes are available on new appointment or through promotion and we can not allow a  situation diluting this time tested  policy. We  will continue pursuing for the release of transfer orders or will be taking suitable organizational actions .

2. Request Transfer of  Executives w ho have completed 2 years: Transfer orders already issued for those cases who completed 2 years by Aug-2018. CGMT informed that orders for the remaining requests will be issued on 31/3/2018. We argued with Administration that Corporate office is regularly considering transfer requests and issuing orders round the year and the same may be done in Kerala Circle also. We are pursuing.

3. Implementation of Transfer orders issued by Circle Administration:  Many officials whose transfer orders were issued couple of months back are yet to be relieved by BA units. We requested Administration to relieve through  ERP as done regularly by Corporate office since the circle administration is also responsible to ensure that the orders of the CGMT is honoured by the BAs.

4. Releasing of JTO Vacancies: We requested to release the blocked 9 JTO vacancies as there is no court direction for blocking them. Around 30 LICE passed officials are waiting for vacancies for becoming JTOs. It was learnt that positive legal opinion was received more than year back for releasing the vacancies but instead of releasing the vacancies, unnecessary clarifications were sought to Corporate office for which the reply is still awaited.  We have pointed that while there are around 5000 JTO vacancies under LICE for the year 2016-17 on all India basis there is only 6 vacancies in Kerala Circle. While this is the situation even the declared vacancies are denied to the eligible candidates which is totally  demoralizing  attitude. CGMT asked for one week’s time for resolving the issue. We are following up.

5. Releasing of JAO Vacancies: We once again requested Administration to release the JAO vacancies as done by Telangana Circle based on the clarification from Corporate office. CGMT once again instructed to look into the matter afresh. We are pursuing.

6. Pay fixation / Pay Revision of JTOs promoted after officiating: We appraised the administration the  huge loss the JTOs are under going even after getting a positive judgment from  the Apex Court. We requested the administration for allowing the revision of pay w.e.f 1-1-2007  against the pay they were drawing  and as already done in the circle. Pending decision on the above  for revision of pay  w.e.f 1-1-2007  as per the pay drawn on officiating basis ,  We have  also gave a sample representation  submitted by 2008 regularized  JTOs  (as most of them are being retired and huge amount is  recovered from their   terminal benefits)  for  revision of pay  w.e.f  the date of their regularization  protecting the pay they have drawn on officiating capacity . CGMT and PGM F agreed to look into this matter and suggested to give representation by all similarly placed officers.
   View Sample representation submitted by Smt.Abassa, Ernakulam. All 2008 regularised JTOs may give similar representations which will be beneficial to them.
7. Promotion of JAO- 2013 batch: We had detailed discussion on the subject, how these 33 JAOs initially denied their promotion as JAOs in spite of clear vacancies and  now again by denying them their legitimate  AO promotions. We have explained what has happened in other Circles on the same issue of carry forward vacancies of 2010 and all of them are now promoted as AOs. The JAOs of our circle alone has become the victim of the totally negative attitude of the administration and now the same is continued for their legitimate AO promotions. Administration is of the view that since the matter  of 2010 Exam is pending in Supreme Court as well as the AO promotion  case  in CAT Ernakulam,  They have to wait for the outcome of the court cases.
8. Upcoming Promotion and Posting of JTO(T) to SDE(T): We apprised CGM of the upcoming promotions of JTO(T) to SDE(T) and requested him to take n/a for retaining and posting the officials on promotion to Kerala Circle itself and to the same BA units as sufficient number of vacancies in SDE cadre exists in all BA units due to the recent SDE to AGM promotion.CGMT responded very much positively and directed GM(HR) to write a letter to Corporate office immediately in this regard.

9. Pending Confirmation to DR-JAO 2015: We requested CGMT to issue the long pending confirmation orders to DR-JAO 2015 batch which is due from 11/1/2018. CGMT responded positively.

10. Grant of Grade promotion to ADOL: We have brought to the notice of the CGMT the pathetic situation being faced by ADOL in the Circle. Though most of them are working as ADOL on Adhoc basis without any break, for more than 25 years they continue to  work in the same scale without any up gradation either under NEPP or under EPP. We requested the CGMT to look to their case at least for grant of grade since the adhoc service can be counted for grant of higher grade as per  the provision under  EPP. We have  handed over a representation submitted by Smt.Medini ADOL Thrissur and relevant orders under EPP. CGMT was very much considerate and instructed GM HR to look into the matter.

11. Temporary Advance settlement issues: We informed that there are instructions from Circle office to close the Temporary Advance in the same month itself whereas the advance is being received by the officer in the latter half of the month. CGM informed that Temporary advances to be settled within 30 days and not in the same month as per his information from the corporate office guidelines from time to time and it has to be followed in the circle also.

12. O&M of BTS by M/s Mahindra: We expressed our strong concern on the proposal and requested CGMT to  take up the case with corporate office atleast to exempt Kerala circle from the proposal on account of the huge financial burden as considering the service efficiency in the circle. CGMT is also of the same opinion and agreed to address to corporate office on the same line and suggested to take up the matter at Corporate level by Assn also.

13. KSEB Payments: We have suggested to take up this matter with KSEB  for getting exemption from disconnection for non-payment on due date, Disconnection fee, and penal interest  since 3 months advance is  deposited  with KSEB.  CGMT  briefed the  action taken from management side with Chairman KSEB and suggested to  take up the matter with Ministry through Association forum also. CGMT requested us that there should be liason with KSEB Officers at field level also.

14. Property Tax payments on BTSs: We have explained the difficulties being faced in the field units and requested to have a permanent mechanism to resolve the issue. CGMT has told about the recent instructions issued to  handle exigency situation and remaining to  be  worked out as per legal advice.

15. UTStarcom OLT issues: We apprised CGM about the hanging of UTStarcom OLTs which are creating dissatisfaction among our Customers. CGM informed that he is aware of the issue and has met the Chinese Engineers camped at Kottayam for the last 15 days and the issue is also projected to Corporate office.

16. CDOT NGN issues:We apprised CGM that issues at Parur - Pilot CDOT NGN Exchange is not yet resolved.

17. Pending EPP cases – Time bound promotions: We requested Management to release the pending EPP cases. GM HR informed that processing is completed and orders will be released soon.

18. 4G issues: Regarding the recent launch of 4G services in Band 1 by switching off 3G by BSNL, we informed CGMT that many of the handsets in the market are not supporting the particular Band 1, namely some extremely popular models like the Redmi Note 4 and Redmi 4. Since 3G services are also shutdown for launching 4G, these customers as well as those with 3G handsets will be downgraded to 2G instead of upgradation to 4G. This is a major concern as these customers are more likely to port out than find any alternate solution.  View band 1 supported mobiles list-1 || list-2.

19. 4G Wi-Fi devices with SIM slot: As a solution to the above problem of non supporting of band 1 by certain mobiles, we suggested tying up with some manufacturers to launch 4G WiFi dongles with sim slot which can cater to our customers lacking band 1 support as well as having 3G only handsets. These customers can easily connect their existing mobiles via WiFi to enjoy our 4G network via the dongle. We need to launch these 4G WiFi dongles at commercially competitive prices and bundle with some content solutions like Amazon Prime/Netflix for making the 4G service attractive and for easy adoption by customers.

20. Expenditure of Marketing Fund: We pointed out that some BA heads are curtailing the expenditure on Marketing fund and diverting it for the payment of emergency expenditure like electricity bills etc. CGMT replied that Circle office has not issued any instructions in this regard for curtailing expenditure on Marketing fund and informed that the fund should be fully utilized.

Pension Contribution on actual basic pay: In a very positive development, Dept of Expenditure(DoE), Ministry of Finance in principle accepted the demand for Pension Contribution on Actual basic Pay instead of maximum of the pay scales. DoE asked clarification from DoT for the modalities of implementation in this regard. This was one of the important demands of AUAB which DoT agreed to settle. AUAB will demands its implementation from 01.01.2007 and refund of excess payment made to DoT.

Meeting with Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD/BSNL on 19.12.2018:

GS, President and AGS Com Sanjeev Sharma met CMD/BSNL and held discussion on the following issues:

1) Status of Bank loan to tide over the present financial crisis: CMD informed that a loan for 500 to 1000 Cr is expected in another 10 days time by which the immediate requirements including vendor payments can be settled.

2) JTO to SDE promotion: We requested to expedite the JTO to SDE promotion. CMD assured that it will be done at the earliest. Management is keen to give the promotions but the court cases are creating hindrances in this regard. However CMD directed us to have more discussion with DIR(HR) in this regard.

3) DE to DGM(T) promotion: Since the stay is vacated, we requested to expedite the promotions. If the promotion orders are issued by 31.12.2018, those who are retiring in this month also can be promoted, we requested CMD. If the approval is given for conduction of DPC without taking into the MC for relaxation of qualifying service, it can be completed before 31st December, we informed. CMD assured to do the needful positively for issuing the promotion orders at the earliest.

4) CPSU Cadre Hierarchy notification: We requested to notify the same at the earliest so that all the eligible Executives can be given promotion w.e.f. 01.07.2018. Now the promotions are stopped due to shortage of vacancies in various cadres. CMD assured to do the needful.

5) Payment of EB bills, labour payment, temporary advance, payment of loan instalments to banks/societies etc: CMD informed that these payments will be done on priority for which Bank loan is under process. It is expected shortly by which it can be streamlined soon.

Meeting with Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR) on 19.12.2018:

GS, President and AGS Com Sanjeev Sharma met DIR(HR) and held discussion on the following issues:

1) JTO to SDE promotion: We requested to expedite the promotion. DIR(HR) assured that all possible steps will be taken in this regard. A proposal will be submitted to the Hon Court shortly for giving promotions. The applicants are also asked to withdraw the cases through AIGETOA leaders so that promotions can be done at the earliest. The court case at Ernakulam CAT is the only hindrances at present, DIR(HR) informed.

2) DE to DGM(T) promotion: Since the stay is vacated, we requested to expedite the promotions before 31.12.2018. DIR(HR) assured to do the needful at the earliest.

3) CPSU Cadre Hierarchy notification: We requested to notify the same at the earliest so that all the eligible Executives can be given promotion w.e.f. 01.07.2018. DIR(HR) assured to do the needful.

Meeting with Shri Keshav Rao, GM(Pers) on 19.12.2018:

GS, President and AGS Com Sanjeev Sharma met GM(Pers) and held discussion on the following issues:

1) JTO to SDE promotion: GM(Pers) informed that a proposal for giving promotions will be submitted to the court after the approval of competent authority. Meanwhile, if the court cases are withdrawn, the DPC can be expedited, GM informed.  

2) DE to DGM(T) promotion: Since the stay is vacated, we requested to expedite the promotions before 31.12.2018. GM(Pers) informed that the proposal is under process and after getting the approval of competent authority (CMD/BSNL), VC will be called for. Based on the VC status, DPC will be expedited, GM(P) assured. The preparatory work will be completed by that time.

3) Soft tenure break: The revised proposal based on the discussions with SNEA will be submitted to DIR(HR) soon, it is assured.

Preparatory work for JTO to SDE promotion is going on since last one month by verifying the Screening Committee reports (SCR) and VC status and regularly updating the missing cases in the Intranet and our websites. The concerned section is fully involved and we are trying to complete this process at the earliest by another one week time. This will enable early conduction of DPC once BSNL proposal is submitted in the Hon Court to promote the JTOs, rect year wise or the court case in CAT is withdrawn as we suggested. The roster also prepared for SC/ST reservation and submitted for the clearance of CLO.  

The court cases badly delayed the promotions and continue to affect the future of thousands of JTOs. The withdrawal of the petition from CAT by the petitioners will enable DPC in shortest time. Already court cases delayed the promotions for years together and further delay is detrimental to the JTOs when management is very much ready to give the promotions. We are regularly interacting with the management on a day to day basis to find some way out and management is agreed to give promotions immediately if court case is withdrawn. When management is ready for promotions, then what is the need for court cases? Seniority etc can be decided later on after the final decision.

Now only SDE(T) vacancies as on 30.06.2018 remain unfilled, due to the unnecessary court case filed at Ernakulam. In all other cadres, including CAO, we could issue the promotion orders for the vacancies upto 30.06.2018.

All CSs to monitor the progress in missing APAR grading and VC cases and sent it urgently.

DE to DGM(T) promotion on Adhoc basis: The interim order copy is yet to be received. However we could move the proposal for promotion to DGM(T) today itself to the competent authority for approval. Immediately after the approval, VC will be called for. We requested to utilise the unfilled DR DGM vacancies also for the promotion and the total vacancies will be about 891. 

JTO to SDE Promotion Contempt case at Hon. CAT Ernakulam: BSNL advocate requested two weeks time to file affidavit saying they received rule 8 notice only last day. Court directed BSNL counsel to file affidavit on court reopening day (31-12-2018). Next hearing fixed on 07-01-2019

JTO to SDE promotion preparatory work is going on. The APAR gradings and VC status is getting examined for all the JTOs by the section expeditiously to keep it ready for the DPC. We are closely monitoring the progress on a day to day basis. Meanwhile the proposal to file an application in the CAT to conduct DPC for the remaining vacancies is with the DIR HR for approval. Further process will be based on the decision of DIR HR. The missing APAR grading and VC status may be furnished at the earliest. All CSs to monitor the missing grading cases.

CS writes to CGMT regarding Transfer request of JAOs who have completed 2 years service: View Letter

In the year 2016,  63 LICE JAOs were posted in different BAs according to the needs of the BAs. Now they have completed 2 years’ service and requested for transfer to their home BAs.  Besides some Rule 8 cases posted in other BAs without considering their home town request also completed 2 years in their present BA.  Recently 30 Direct Recruited JAOs were posted in different BAs.  As per our request to PGM Finance, the postings were made to enable the relieving of JAOs who have requested for transfer to their home town after completing 2 year service at present station.  On our enquiry, it is learnt that the transfer request of JAOs are kept pending due to unknown reasons.  If the transfer request is not considering at present, we are simply wasting the manpower without any basic reasons.

We are very sad to say that the Circle HR is not working in a way to extend help to the Executives those who have completed 2 years tenure transfer at different BAs. Considerable number of  transfer request of those who have completed their 2 year service are pending at different BAs. Executives are working day and night to improve the financial conditions of our Circle, however the Circle Administration is reluctant to consider the genuine HR issues of the Executives.  This type of attitude of Circle administration will definitely spoil the smooth working atmosphere in Kerala Circle.

It is pertinent to note that whenever the executives on long stay transfer completes their tenure period of 2 years, Corporate Office issuing orders back to their home town without delay. However, it is not following in Kerala Circle in all caders.

In this context, we requested that the pending transfer request of JAOs/JTOs who have completed 2 years service  may kindly be considered at the earliest to avoid further resentment among the Executives in Kerala.

GS writes to Shri Anupam Shrivatava, CMD/BSNL: Notification for Recruitment of Management Trainee (External) – Recruitment from External candidates and placing them above the existing Executives, virtually killing the career growth will demoralize thousands of highly talented and experienced Executives working in BSNL. Evolve a fast track promotion policy to promote talented internal candidates through meaningful rigorous screening mechanism to occupy higher positions after implementation of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy approved by the BSNL Board and promoting all the eligible Executives to the higher grades. 

As far as so-called internal MT is concerned, the need of the hour is to get DGM level Executives left with sufficient service to head the company from among the experienced internal candidates by meaningful rigorous screening. There is no point in giving chance to internal candidates at E3, E4, E5 scales to compete for a post in E3 scale.

SNEA demands:

1) Review the decision to recruit Management Trainees from open market at E3 scale and evolve a suitable fast track promotion policy to promote the Internal talent to high management positions through rigorous screening.

2) Before any such attempt, promote all the eligible candidates and bring parity and uniformity in promotions for the existing Executives in equivalent cadres by implementing the CPSU Cadre Hierarchy w.e.f. 01.07.2018 as approved by the BSNL Board.

GS letter to CMD

GS and President met Shri R K Khandelwal, Joint Sec (A)/DoT and DIR(PSU) and held discussions on the BSNL proposal for replacement of E1A and E2A pay scales with standard pay scales of E2 and E3 w.e.f 01.01.2007. Since he is posted as JS recently, he is not aware of the details and we tried to explain to him. 

It is reliably learned that as assured to AUAB, a very positive recommendation on Pension Contribution on actual basic pay instead of maximum of the pay scale is sent by DoT to Ministry of Finance and it reached MoF. We hope a positive decision from MoF shortly. This will take us one step close to 3^rd PRC.

One cannot imagine implementation of 3^rd PRC without settling this issue. After 3^rd PRC implementation, Pension Contribution alone will shoot up to about Rs 2420 Crores (presently it is less than 200 Cr if it is on actual basic pay), it will be about Rs 875 Cr (with 15% fitment). A difference of more than 1500 Cr in Pension contribution alone. Even for 0% fitment also, BSNL has to pay Rs 2420 Cr as Pension Contribution! This is the reason why AUAB given top priority to settle this issue before 3^rd PRC.

JTO to SDE promotion – Review petition:

All the tree review petitions filed by BSNL pleading for 1) restoration of training Centre marks as the criteria to decide the inter-se seniority among Direct rects and 2) there is no excess promotion between 1995 to 2000 came up for hearing today, 12.12.2018. For completing the formalities, Hon HC issued notice to AIBSNLEA who was a party in the case earlier but not present in the court. SNEA represented by its lawyer and taken notice earlier. The case will be listed once notice is served to AIBSNLEA.

The Hon HC was pronounced the judgment on 05.06.2018. Thereafter another OA filed in the CAT by AIGETOA activists. After the promotion order, a contempt petition is filed against CMD/BSNL and GM(Pers) for issuing promotion order with the main contention that 1) there are excess promotion during 1995 to 2000 and 2) 1:1 ratio not followed.

The data collected from all the Circles established that there is no excess promotion between 1995 to 2000 in the 50% Dept quota. According to the compiled data from all the Circles, from 1995 to 2000, total vacancy in 50% Dept quota is 14,102 and JTOs promoted is just 8,833 only.

For an issue, which is not having any relevance, AIGETOA and its activists are fighting in the court and misguiding the innocent and young JTOs. They are deliberately provoking the management by insisting the personal appearance of CMD and GM(Pers) in the Hon CAT. This is just for delaying the promotion for the remaining JTOs. By this time, Management more or less understood their game plan.

It has become a fashion for them to blame other Associations for their short sightedness, negative attitude and mal propaganda. Filing court cases and closing the doors for promotion has become a passion for some sections and then crocodile tears in the name of BR, DR etc. On each and every issue they want to make a division among the Executives. This also mainly in JTO cadre, not among JAOs. This will be suicidal. The divide and rule policy of the erstwhile British Rulers are again trying among the Executives and by this, they are simply strengthening the hands of management and playing with the future of thousands of JTOs. This thinking we are not witnessing among Non Executives. This all propaganda can be for the sake of membership.

On JTO to SDE promotion, the court cases started in 2010 from Chennai. Once they defeated at Chennai, they shifted to Ernakulam from 2013 onwards. 8 years long court cases, spending lakhs of rupees and precious time. Their achievements are: 1) About 3000 JTOs retired without SDE promotion after serving more than 15 years as JTOs, 2) The promotion for the JTOs upto 2001 rect year would have completed in 2014, they lost minimum 4 years of service, 3) LDCE promotion delayed 3 years due to the conflict, 4) upto 2005 rect JTOs, promotion could have completed by 2016, it is getting delayed, 5) 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012 JTOs would have got promotion by 2017 or 2018 which is not happened yet.

The prayer of AIGETOA and its activists (mainly SDEs now) are rejected by all the courts, Chennai CAT, Ernakulam CAT and Ernakulam High Court. Still they are blocking the promotion of the juniors by filing contempt petition in the name of excess promotion in JTO cadre which is not at all true as explained earlier.

It is heard from reliable sources that during LDCE posting in May, 2018 some non-recognised sections made some understanding with the management on MT rect and on that condition only LDCE posting issued. Joint Forum was not consulted. With that understanding, now MT rect notification is out! Another achievement for them!

Now our young comrades should analyse why promotions are getting delayed and what is real reason behind that and who is responsible for creating this stalemate condition. SNEA is making sincere efforts to come out of this stalemate condition and interacting with the management. Not only 2007 & 2008 batches, we will try our level best to promote the JTOs from 2012 batch also as per the availability of vacancies. To protect the inter-se seniority, we are trying the promotion notionally from 29.06.2018, along with those got promotion on 29.06.2018.

Congratulations….!! To the Officers with Non-Bailable Warrants who were on sleepless nights in fighting on behalf of BSNL with Panchayath Authorities against Property Tax payment on Mobile Towers……

Circle office finally issued clear-cut orders for effecting payment towards Property Tax on Mobile Towers and reiterated its letter dtd 22/3/2018 that incase of extreme exigencies where local authorities are taking extreme steps, the payment of property tax may be made under protest to avoid any untoward incident.

View Circle office letter dtd 13/12/18 || letter dtd 22/3/18

We were in constant touch with CGMT, GM(L&B), GM(Admin), PGM(F) and other officers in Circle office about the Non-Bailable Warrants issued to our officials at Malappuram and Kannur for non-payment of property tax on mobile towers.

Today morning CS Com.Santhosh Kumar.T along with CT Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.Dr.Premkumar.G, J.V.Ramana met CGMT for discussing the property tax issue.  We requested CGM to issue necessary instructions to all BA Heads for the payment of property tax to resolve the non-bailable warrants to our officials. CGM informed that already necessary instructions are given as per letter dtd 22/3/2018. We requested CGMT that the same letter may be re-endorsed once again by mentioning Non-Bailable Warrant as one of the exigency for clearing the doubts of BA Heads.

We also met GM(Admin) Shri Robin Poddar who is incharge of Legal section for discussing the same.

We thank CGMT, GM(L&B) and GM(Admin) for responding immediately and issued necessary instructions to the BA Heads for effecting the payment of property tax on mobile towers.

Once again it is proved that

only SNEA can protect the interest of Executives from their Professional Hardships.

CS writes to CGMT reg Payment of Property Tax for GSM-BTS: View Letter

Regarding nonpayment of property tax of mobile towers at present there are 31 cases pending before various courts in Malappuram BA filed by Grama Panchayaths. Out of these, now 6 cases courts issued non bailable warrants to SDEs & AOs. Number of case may increases to 400 or more and all cases may lead to this situation in future. Though the cases are put up in the file for payment of tax to these NBW cases, but so far no decision taken by SSA Administration. Now it is understood that if this proposal approved by SSA & Circle administration, then also payment may be delayed due to financial issues of BSNL. At any time the arrest may occur, so the only solution to avoid arrest/ remand of our officers is to take the bail. On enquiry, it is understood that for one person, two officers should be required and they have to take personal responsibility of these payments.  Circle administration has not taken any decision regarding payment of this tax.

The objections raised based on pending mutations are not applicable in BTS cases as all BTS had come after BSNL formation. The cases pending in other SSAs are also increasing day by day as year ending is reaching and all Panchayath Secretaries are pushing the criminal cases against the officers.

In this regard, it is requested to take an urgent decision on the matter for resolving the issue and redeem the officers from personally liable for this non-payment.

Meeting with CMD BSNL: AUAB leaders met CMD BSNL on 11.12.2018 and held discussions on the following issues:

a) Follow up on the AUAB demands: On financial condition of BSNL, CMD informed that all the functional Directors of BSNL and CMD together met Addl Secretary and Member(Fin) yesterday, 11.12.2018 to explain the urgent need for DoT clearance for availing bank loan. It is expected that the clearance may come shortly.

b) 3^rd PRC proposal: CMD informed that he had a discussion with Addl Secretary, DoT for further discussions on the matter. The meeting will be held shortly. The proposal to hold regular meeting as an institutional mechanism is being worked out as decided in the meeting with Secretary, DoT.

c) Minutes of the discussion on 30% Superannuation: AUAB requested to issue the minutes on this matter as this issue is related to BSNL alone and in the meeting held on 30.11.2018, it was agreed for 3% additional contribution before March 2019 and remaining in next financial year. CMD informed that he already instructed DIR(HR) to issue the minutes as assured.

d) Transfer of Executive as a vindictive action: An SDE in MP Circle is transferred and relieved on the same day on instructions from higher authorities for issuing a demand note for more than 12 lakhs to a R-Jio contractor. We protested against such highhandedness and demanded the cancellation of the transfer order.   

e) Closure of MTNL connection and availing Airtel connection in Maharashtra Circle office: In a tussle between BSNL and MTNL, CGM, MH closed all the MTNL connections and taken connections from a private operator. A CPSU like MTNL is taking connection from a private operator is not acceptable especially when we are demanding that all Govt Depts and MTNL has to take connections from BSNL. This decision is to be reviewed urgently, AUAB demanded.

The review petition on JTO to SDE promotion:

All the three review petitions filed by BSNL are listed for hearing today, 12.12.2018 in the Hon Ernakulam High Court. In the review petitions, BSNL pleading for :

1) Restoration of training Centre marks as the criteria to decide the inter-se seniority among Direct rects and 2) There is no excess promotion between 1995 to 2000.

BSNL collected the data from all the Circles to establish that there is no excess promotion between 1995 to 2000 in the 50% Dept quota.

According to the compiled data from all the Circles, from 1995 to 2000, total  vacancy in 50% Dept quota is 14102 and JTOs promoted in only 8833. From this figure it is very clear that there is no excess promotion between 1995 to 2000. For an issue which is not having any relevance, they are fighting in the court and misguiding the innocent and young JTOs, for the sake of membership. If the review is not opposed by the opposite parties (AIGETOA activists), the case will be decided by today.

In that case all the vacancies can be filled without much delay as APAR gradings and VC is almost ready. Not only 2007 & 2008 batches, we will try our level best to promote the JTOs from 2012 batch also as per the availability of vacancies.

GTI implementation w.e.f 01.01.2019:

A meeting held today to review the progress in the submission of options. As on today 24,832 Executives (about 50%) submitted the options through ERP. Remaining Executives also submit their opinions immediately. All those upto age group of 50 shall opt for the GTI as it is very much beneficial for them. 

No medical certificate is required for this scheme which is the main advantage. The premium will remain as the same till the retirement (even after crossing the age of 50). This is an initiative taken by SNEA for the welfare of our young comrades. All CSs and SSA Secretaries may contact our members and make them to submit the options through ERP before 20.12.2018.

External Management Trainee recruitment..

The SNEA stand on Extl MT was once again reiterated in the last Ludhiana AIC to oppose it in all the possible ways. SNEA will strongly oppose Extl MT organizationally and if required legally also.

A meeting of the AUAB was held at New Delhi on 11.12.2018. The meeting discussed ways and means to ensure the speedy implementation of the settlement reached in the meeting held with the Hon MoS(C). The meeting also decided to direct the AUAB at Circle and SSA levels to organise Joint General Body meetings during the period from 26th to 29th December, 2018 and explain the settlement reached between the Hon Minister on 03.12.2018. CHQ requests all Circle and SSA Secretaries to make note of this decision and to take the initiative to successfully organise the Joint General Body meetings. A detailed circular on the developments on all the demands will be issued by AUAB.

AUAB Circular

Meeting with Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR & Fin) on 10.12.2018:

GS and AGSs Com Padmanabha Rao and Com Sanjeev Sharma met DIR(HR) and held discussions on the following issues:

a) Financial problems in the field units: We brought the severe financial crunch in all the field units which started affecting the services. UP(East), STR and TN Circle issues specifically brought to the notice of DIR(Fin). DIR informed the efforts taken by the management to take bank loan to tide over the present situation. The letter of comfort from DoT is yet to be released for taking the loan even though it was promised. BSNL is pursuing with DoT in this regard. The condition will continue for some more time.

b) Notification of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy: We informed the demand in the Ludhiana AIC and the resolution passed in the AIC for early implementation of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy w.e.f 01.07.2018 for giving promotions to thousands of Executives waiting for promotion and to bring parity with those got promotion on or before 29.06.2018. Except SDE(T) cadre, vacancy is not available in any other cadre and thousands and thousands of Executives are waiting for promotion. Day by day, litigations on reservation and seniority related matters increasing and at the earliest it should be implemented. DIR(HR) assured early action based on the report submitted by the Committee.

c) JTO to SDE promotion: We continued our earlier discussion for finding some way out to give promotions for all the SDE vacancies. The court cases after 15.06.2018 delayed the promotion for about 6 months now. The court cases are spearheaded by some SDEs and those who may not get promotions in the coming DPC. So they are trying to delay the promotions as much possible by way of contempt and other methods. The innocent JTOs who are not part of the litigations are becoming victims, promotions not happening and management has to help them, we demanded. As a possible way out we suggested two ways to go ahead with promotions.

The vacancy is about 4500 which is calculated now and submitted the roster for approval. The promotions given earlier led to contempt of court and litigations. So before issuing promotion, management want to ensure that it will not lead to another court case or contempt. Management is taking all precautions in this regard and the promotions are delayed only because of court cases, not due to management, DIR(HR) told. The suggestion of the Assn to prepare the AIEL based on Ernakulam HC order and give promotions subject to the outcome of the court cases is not feasible as it will weaken the review petition filed by BSNL, mgt informed. The second option given by us, as an interim arrangement to give promotions from among the remaining JTOs in 1:1 ratio to the extent possible, rect yearwise, is almost agreed by the Management. As a precaution management is informing this to the CAT/EKM on 18.12.2018 for its concurrence before taking actions.

Meanwhile the 3^rd Review petition filed by BSNL come up yesterday in Hon High Court of Kerala and posted to 12.12.2018 along with other two review petitions which is already listed for 12.12.2018. If the applicants (AIGETOA activists) does not oppose the review petitions tomorrow, on 12.12.2018 and agreeing to BSNL prayer for restoring Training Centre marks for fixing the inter-se-seniority, the case will be decided immediately and BSNL can go ahead with promotion. If it happens, it will end the litigations and management can go ahead with promotion for about 4500 vacancies for which the grading, VC etc already collected. GS and President informed this to GS/AIGETOA and told him to prevail upon the AIGETOA activists at Ernakulam for the same line of action, not to oppose the review petition. This will be in the best interest of the cadre and promotions can be given immediately.

d) Submitting the seniority list to Hon CAT Chandigarh for DE to DGM promotion: Detailed discussion held in this regard. The seniority list as per Rule 206 has to be prepared and submitted. A provisional list of the serving DEs as per Rule 206 prepared by BSNL and submitted for the approval of DIR(HR). DIR(HR) assured to discuss the matter with GM(P) tomorrow, 11.12.18 as some more clarity is required in this regard before approval.

National Executive Committee meeting of AIPCOC and NCOA at Goa on 06^th and 07^th December, 2018:

The NEC of AIPCOC was held on 06.12.18 and NCOA on 07.12.2018 at Vaco-Da-Gama, Goa. GS, Com Arvind Dahiya, Dy GS/NCOA and Com Dilip Saha, Vice President/NCOA attended the NEC meetings. Com Santosh Kumar, CS/KRL and Com Ramesh, CS/TL attended NEC representing AIPCOC/NCOA of respective states.

The NEC meeting deliberately mainly 3^rd Pay Revision in CPSUs and affordability clause, pay Revision in banks, disinvest in different sectors and Govt policies and other issues concerned with the Executives, Officers in different sectors and Central Govt Officers.

The NECs took the following decisions:

1) To support the Dharna by Bank employees at New Delhi on 14.12.2018 demanding wage revision and other demands.

2) To support the two days strike by Bank employees on 21.12.2018 and 26.12.2018 demanding wage revision and other demands by joining the demonstration, march etc.

3) To support the strike call of Central Trade Unions in January, 2019 against disinvestment, privatization etc.

4) To Organize Parliament March in February, 2019 during Parliament session demanding:

a) Removal of Affordability clause for 3^rd Pay Revision.

b) Opposing disinvestment/Privatization.

c) Defined Pension.

Resolution passed in the XXX^th AIC of SNEA held at Ludhiana from 28th November, 2018 to 01st December, 2018 regarding :

1) DoT approval for the standard pay scales of E2 and E3, replacing the intermediary pay scales of E1A and E2A w.e.f 01.01.2007. Request for immediate action reg. 

Resolutions on standard pay scales of E2 and E3

2) Implementation of BSNL Executive Promotion Policy & Recruitment Rules, 2017 (CPSU Cadre Hierarchy) w.e.f. 01.07.2018. Request for immediate action reg. 

Resolution on implementation of CPSU Cadre Hierarchy w.e.f. 01.07.2018

3) regarding 30% Superannuation benefits. Request for immediate action reg. 

Resolution on 30% Superannuation

GS writes to DIR(HR): Court cases filed by individuals, mainly instigated by those already promoted as SDEs in earlier LDCEs, become a nightmare for thousands of JTOs waiting for SDE promotions under SCF quota for about 5,000 vacancies. The court cases delayed the promotions, almost 6 years for thousands of JTOs. Since the High Court decision on the review petition is pending, it is requested to explore other possibilities for conduction of DPC. As there is no stay on promotion, promotion orders can be issued to the maximum possible extent, recruitment year wise and the seniority can be decided later on, based on the final outcome of the cases. GS letter to DIR(HR)

JTO(T) to SDE(T) Promotions: CHQ President and AGS Com. Rao met Dir(HR) and Conveyed thanks for officially recognizing our new CHQ body. We also requested her to carry out JTO to SDE(T) promotions subject to the availability of vacancies in SDE grade. It was intimated that modalities in respect of promotion are being worked out. It was agreed that considerable delay has already taken place in the JTO to SDE promotions and steps are being taken to issue promotion orders at the earliest  after examining the various legal aspects.

The long pending Transfer and Posting orders for the left out cases finally issued on 30/11/2018 as promised to us by GM(HR). We were continuously pursuing for these transfer orders for a long time with the Administration. We thank GM(HR) Shri.Robin Poddar for keeping his promise for the issuance of the orders. Now it is our endeavour for ensuring the relieving of transferred officials. View Orders

Group Term Insurance (GTI):

The demand of SNEA immediately after MV for Group Term Insurance is getting implemented. As reported earlier, a POP UP is developed by ERP team. It will be available as and when ERP portal is opened. This scheme is initially proposed for the BSNL directly recruited Executives who are not covered by Govt pension and now extended for all. This will be more beneficial for those below 50 years.

All our comrades are requested to exercise their option before 20.12.2018. GTI details

In this direction, our CWC member Com. R K Deepak from MP Circle was felicitated in the AIC held at Ludhiana for floating the idea of GTI for the first time and taking to its logical conclusion. He was instrumental in putting forth this idea along with our CS MP Circle, Shri Dutta Majumdar for taking necessary initiatives for implementation of GTI through ERP in MP Circle.

GS, President and AGS Com Sanjeev Kumar Sharma met GM(Pers) and held discussions regarding JTO to SDE promotions for the vacancies and SDE to DE promotion for the missing cases and unassessed cases.

In the AIC also we requested in this regard and GM(P) responded positively at Ludhiana. Discussions held on various options to give promotions for maximum vacancies. For bringing parity, JTOs of 2012 also to be promoted, we demanded. Now JTOs from 1999 rect onwards are waiting for promotion. Above all thousands of young JTOs are waiting for the promotion and losing the precious service, we pointed out.

Meanwhile BSNL sought the legal opinion from Addtl Solicitor General (ASG) on own merit in promotions after the Hon SC judgment dated 26.09.2018.

Status of court cases:

JTO to SDE contempt case – The case came up for hearing on 03.12.2018. BSNL sought exemption from personal appearance which court allowed upto 18.12.18. CAT directed BSNL to file reply by 18.12.2018 and the case posted to 18.12.2018.

JTO to SDE promotion --- Review petition in the Hon High Court, Kerala: The review petition is expected this week end.

AO to CAO promotion: In the case against the recent AO to CAO promotion demanding catch up rule, Hon Chandigarh CAT ordered STATUS QUO putting fresh hurdles in promotions. 

Meeting with Hon MoSC: In today’s meeting with Hon MoSC, SNEA raised the issue of approval of E2 and E3 pay scales and other AUAB leaders supported it. In a very positive response, Hon Minister directed the officers to process it in DoT at the earliest as it can be settled in DoT. Officers from DoT assured to discuss it separately for early settlement.

Comrades, this is a golden opportunity we got it, to discuss the standard pay scales issue, with the support of AUAB. Last week, on another important issue, 3% hike in SAB agreed by CMD/BSNL in the discussion with AUAB. These two are very important breakthrough in addition to the other demands.

STRIKE DEFERRED TILL FURTHER INTIMATION:

Talks between the AUAB and the Hon MoSC held today. The details are:

1) On 4G spectrum, Cabinet approval will be taken at the earliest. The Cabinet memo is already circulated and Addtl Secretary, DoT is asked to interact with other Ministries to clarify their doubts. Once reply received from other Ministries, it will be placed before the Cabinet, in the next meeting itself.

2) It is accepted to delink the pension revision from pay revision and affordability clause and process separately.

3) On Pension Contribution, a positive recommendation is being sent to Dept of Expenditure.

4) On 3rd PRC for the employees, some more issues are to be sorted out between DoT and BSNL. In the present form, Union Cabinet may not approve it, Minister and Secretary are doubtful.

The progress of the issues will be reviewed every fortnight and a mechanism will be evolved in DoT for regular discussion with AUAB. After making a thorough review of the situation, AUAB meeting unanimously decided to defer the strike till further intimation.

AUAB Circular

Meeting between AUAB and Hon MoSC is fixed at 10:00 am on the charter of demands.

Talks between the AUAB and the Secretary Telecom were held today the 02-12-2018. Strike postponed to 10/12/2018.....

Improvements are there in the issues of 4G spectrum, Pension Revision and pension contribution . However, dead-lock is prevailing in the issue of 3rd pay revision. With a view to ensure a discussion with the Hon. MoS (C) on this issue, the AUAB decides to defer the Strike for one week. If fruitful outcome does not come in the meeting with the Hon. MoS (C), the strike will start from 00.00 hrs on 10-12-2018.

AUAB had a series of discussion today on the charter of demands. Discussion with CMD from 12.00 to 01.30 hrs. Since AUAB decided to continue the strike, thereafter DoT called for the discussion.
Secretary, Member (Fin), Member (T), Member (S), new Addtl Secretary, CMD, DiRHR and other senior officers of DoT and BSNL present during the marathon discussion for 4 hours from 4 pm to 8 pm. 
On most of the issues positive development happened during last one week. The massive preparation for the strike, vide publicity given by media etc given very good break through. The discussion with Minister will be held tomorrow, most probably to work out the details and time schedule. Minister is returning to Delhi tomorrow morning. On E2 and E3 scales also some discussion took place which will continue tomorrow.

Dear Comrades, The Milestones we have followed for our Present Strike.
Phase - 1

Call  Attention Day on 5/4/2017
Long Day Dharna  on 20/6/2017 Hunger Strike on 13/7/2017
One  Day STRIKE on 27/7/2017.

 Phase - 2
 
LHD on 16/10/2017
Human Chain Formation on 23/11/2017,
Submission of Memorandum to  MPs  all over India irrespective of their political affiliation
Two days Historical Strike on 12th and 13th of December 2017.
All Our effort  fallen on deaf ears we started.....

Phase - 3

Protest Day on 8/1/2018 
5 days  SATHYARAHA from 30/1/2018 to 3/2/2018 after offering floral tributes at Rajghat
SANCHAR BHAVAN March on 23/2/2018.
After this march only the authorities  concerned called for a meeting.  On 24/2/2018 Hon. MoSC Sri Manoj Sinha called  AUAB leaders for  a meeting and in the meeting Hon.Minister assured that majority of the demands should be resolved  at the earliest as all our demands are genuine and directed DoT Secretary Smt. Aruna Sunderajan to settle the issues as early as possible at their position. 
Unfortunately  even after a long period,  a single issue has not been settled.
Again we have been forced to the War Path.....

Phase - 4

Day Long Dharna  on 12/4/2018
Raj Bhavan  March on 19/4/2018
Street  Corner Meeting in every nook and corner of this country to get public attention and to create awareness  among the people of this country.
The irresponsible  attitude of them continued.....

Phase - 5

LHD on 11/7/2018
Relay Hunger Strike on 24,25 and 26th July  2018.
The irresponsible attitude continued.....

 Phase - 6

Press Conference  on 29/10/2018 at CHQ HQ/Circle HQ/Dist HQs
One Day DHARNA on 30/10/2018
RALLY on 14/11/2018 at CHQ HQ/Circle HQs/Dist HQs
They cannot recognize our patience .....
As the last resort we are going for Indefinite Strike wef 3rd December  2018.

Dear comrades, now tell  our members that we have taken all efforts to resolve the issues to avoid Indefinite  Strike.

However the all occasions were simply  neglected by DoT,  Hon. MOSC and the Union Cabinet. They are really not interested to resolve the genuine issues in BSNL.

Dear comrades it is a DO or DIE situation.

We have no other option other than Indefinite Strike and the decision has been taken with intense pain. 

Come on Comrades, come and participate the strike and save our prestigious  national  pride, our beloved company, BSNL

We played a pivoted role at the time of National calamity such as   cyclone ,flood, earth quake etc etc. 

Please do participate, the victory is ours.
 
Let us make the Indefinite Strike a historical one.
 

Why we should participate in the Indefinite Strike?

• If No E2-E3, No 22820/- We are not taking Part in this Strike, Is it a Right Decision?
• What will happen If We not participated in this Struggle in the Name of E2-E3 or 22820/-?
• Why  Pension Revision demand is included in the Agenda?
• Why 3rd PRC Required? What can happen if we dont Raise it now? What would be its implication to the Employees?
• What we can plan for BSNL Survival?

Dear Comrades, 

As We All know that our Ultimate War  for keeping BSNL alive is starting from Tomorrow, 3rd December 2018. All Major Employee Associations and Unions have united for this Historical Struggle. All major Trade Unions have extended their unparallel support for this Mammoth effort for the Survival of BSNL. In this Juncture, there are some confusions among some sector to take part in this strike. 

If No E2-E3, No 22820/- We are not taking Part in this Strike, Is it a Right Decision?

Dear friends, We have to understand that, No Financial Upgradation in BSNL either it is Salary Hike, or DA Merger, or New Pay Revision, Or Fixing of IDA Scale at the Time of Formation of BSNL as a PSU are happened automatically. It is the Result of Combined Efforts of All Employees in BSNL. From the History, We can see that, Whenever Employees are scattered as Islands with Sectorized Demands, We were weak and We could never achieved anything. Whatever achievements we got were only through our Unity. 

Regarding E2-E3 and 22820/-, We know that E2-E3 is the pending issue of 2nd PRC and 22820 is the anomaly happened after the implementation of 2nd PRC. and Please understand Settlement of anomalies of 2nd PRC is the main demand of the Upcoming Struggle. It will be explained at the time of Discussions during the development of Strike. When we are jointly striking with Non Executives, We can not raise Sectorized Points as a Main Demand, Because in Non-Executive Category also there are many issues like Increment Stagnation, Issues in the Implementation of NEPP etc. Hence We are categorically combined all these issues into One Demand as Settle the Anomalies of 2nd PRC. And even in the last discussions, All these Points about E2-E3 and 22820 was in discussion with DoT and Management in the presence of All AUAB Leaders and they are not showing any opposition in discussing it and moreover they are also mentioning these issues in their speeches now a days. 

Friends, You might have seen that struggle for 78.2% DA Merger happened from 2010 to 2014. Earlier there was no unity and We could achieve the demand only after the long Joint Struggles of 4 years. Hence We need Support from All Sectors, All Unions, All Employees to Project our Issues of E2-E3, 22820, 30% SAB etc. 

What will happen If We not participated in this Struggle in the Name of E2-E3 or 22820 ?

Dear Friends, We will lose the support of All Major Unions Like BSNLEU, NFTE, BSNLMS etc if we are not taking part in the strike along with them. If We believe that without the support of a Mass of employees, We can achieve our Demands then we can be away from the Struggle. But from the Trade Union Program Histories, We can understand that Without Unity, Our Demand would not have Strength and It will just ended without any big attention. 

And One more thing is We have to be Patient till we achieve our Demands.. Struggle, Struggle and Struggle till we Achieve... and Never Give up in the middle.. Never loose Heart.. After every Joint Struggle, Support for Us is increasing. Just See about 30% SAB.. We got 3% first.. then 2%.. Then again further hike is coming up.. and we will ultimately achieve 30% till then we never drop that Demand.. Hence for E2-E3 or 22820.. We all are with you to struggle till its implementation in anyway and We have to get it from 1.1.2007 with Arrears... Please Believe in Unity and Be Optimistic and Have faith in Trade Union Programs and Raise our Voices.. and Be active in all Movements and Struggle will end only when our demands met. 

Why  Pension Revision demand is included in the Agenda?

Because, This is a strategy by how we achieve our Goals. What all we can achieve if Pension Revision demand achieved?

We are demanding this, since pension is the liability of Govt and it has no implication of Affordability Clause, Government has to revise the Pension without delay with 15% Fitment as suggested by PRC. 

With this, We are getting a support of a large number of  Non Serving People also and We get support from a Large community who already got superannuation. 

Why 3rd PRC Required? What can happen if we don't Raise it now? What would be its implication to the Employees?

Govt is denying 3rd PRC by telling BSNL is not in Profit for the Last few years. 
Dear comrades, 

• Are we the culprits of the Loss of BSNL?
• Who not allowed BSNL to upgrade our Product Time to Time?
• Who not allowed to have 4G Spectrum to BSNL?
• Who have taken BSNL's Fixed Deposit by allotting Non-Standard Spectrum?
• Who have taken unwanted Taxes from BSNL?
• Who have stopped ADC for BSNL for serving Loss Making Rural areas?
• Who allowed the Telecom Sector to have suicidal Pricing and Made all Operators into Losses?
• Who forced BSNL to divert its Man Power, Money and Materials for Govt Projects?
• Who have not given Any Subsidy to BSNL Who serving Hard Tenures as per the Instruction of Govt?
• Who have given all the Parental Care to Private Companies by giving Many exemption and Writing off Penalties and Same time Looted BSNL Money through All Means?
• Who tried to Sell BSNL piece by Piece in the name of Disinvestment?
• Who Tried to slice BSNL by forming different Subsidiary companies?

Just understand that These are the issues lead BSNL to Losses and not its employees. and We know that our DA is always going up that shows that Price index of the nation is going Up and Our life is getting tough and Tough. In this juncture to meet our personal needs, we have to get enough compensation for our Work executing for any organizations. that is why all Employees of PSU are asking to implement 3rd PRC. 

If it is not implemented now, Next PRC will only in 2027 till then we will be forced to draw the salary at the rate revised in 2007. ITI people are the real example for that who missed 2007 PRC and presently drawing the salary of 1997. What would the implication if we missed it. Definitely our Life will be more tough when we are facing difficulties to meet our needs with lesser salary and more over, Our Pension and EPF benefits will also be lesser if we miss the hike. So our Full Pension, or EPF Fund all will get affected if we miss this 3rd PRC. 

Here for meeting the extra amount as Salary Head, Government has to give some Aid to BSNL to upgrade the Network to increase the Customer Base and Also to Stop the unhealthy Pricing in Telecom which is helping only One Company. Then automatically, BSNL will come into Profit and We can run this company without any Burden and without disturbing Government by asking any further help. 

This is the Real Motive behind 3rd PRC Demand. Please don't think that, We don't need 3rd PRC since BSNL is in Loss.. Because this crisis is a Well Planned Creation of Government to destruct BSNL. So We the Employee has to react mainly for its survival. Do anybody think that in coming years, where all prices are going upward, we can live with the present Salary. Please understand that Our kids are growing, We also need Huge money for their future also other than daily needs. Hence Please be in the strike for our survival.

What we can plan for BSNL Survival?

Asking 4G Spectrum is a good idea. Now People of India know that Government is purposefully not giving 4G Spectrum to its own Company. When public Pressure is more, Government will forced to allot the Spectrum as we demand. We can start 4G along with existing WiMAX Band in Very Profit Making Area (WiMAX can use every where other than 6 Circles which we forfeited the Spectrum). Apart from that, the Present 2.1GHZ, we can add the band to 3G as Second Band to improve the Capacity and Speed of 3G. So without spending Much, we can start earning. and We have to go for 5G demand as our Next Demand. 

We have to Get Aid From Government to expand our Fiber Network to have more FTTH. We have to start Diversify the Service in different Way. We can also become a feeder Operator for Cable TV Signals for LCOs by setting up enough infrastructure. Having a large Infrastructure in hand, our future is very bright if we utilize it wisely. 

Conclusion

For Focusing our Operation issues and expansion Plans more, We need to Streamline our Cadre issues about Salary, Promotions, Pension etc and  make a Logical Solutions. For that, Our unity is very much required. That means, All our issues have to be settled from our Strong Foundation of Unity. We will fight united to settle each and every genuine demand. We never get every demand settled at single time.. Take whatever we get, and ask more remaining, fight for its solutions and it will be like that always.. and Please dont feel that any demands are less prioritzied. We will fight together, till we meet Goals.. Because Future is Ours.. Existence of this company is Important for Us and as well as for this Nation.. 

So Once Again Requesting All Employees, to participate in this Strike, the Largest Strike ever BSNL has seen. Be proud to be the part of it. Lets build this Unity to Great heights. Based on this Unity We can Achieve More and More and Ultimately We will ensure that Our BSNL will be surviving here as long as Telecom Service is here.

Long Live Unity Of Employees of BSNL
Long Live BSNL

Congratulations..!! to the New CHQ Office Bearers of SNEA

President: Com.Aftab Ahmed Khan

Vice President: Com.Rakesh Mehta

General Secretary: Com.K.Sebastin

Treasurer: Com.R.Rajan

Asst. General Secretaries:

1. Com.P. Padmanabha Rao

2. Com.Sanjeev Kumar Sharma

3. Com.Panduranga B. Nayak

4. Com. Dilip Saha

5. Com.Rajendra  S.Kolapkar

6. Com.Jagdish Rout

Jt. SECY (North): Com. Jagtar singh

Jt. SECY (South): Com.A.ChandraSekhar

Jt. SECY (West): Com.Shankarlal Sharma

Jt. SECY (East): Com.I.H.Mandal

Jt. SECY (Central): Com.Sumit Saxena

XXX AIC of SNEA at Ludhiana, Punjab.

28-30 November, 2018.

The AIC inaugurated by Shri Vivek Banzal, new DIR(CFA), BSNL at Dr. Manmohan Singh Auditorium, Ludhiana.

Morning the flag hoisting was done by the CHQ President in the presence of hundreds of comrades, amid slogan shouting SNEA Zindabad, BSNL Zindabad, Executives Unity Zindabad, Employees Unity Zindabad.

In the afternoon Com Dr D. Thomas Franco, Ex Secretary General, AIBOC and AIPCOC addressed the AIC.

Report presentation by GS started in the afternoon.
 

Day 2: 29.11.2018

GS Report and Financial reports were approved by the council in the morning session. 
Cultural programmes were conducted prior to Open Session. Kerala Circle presented the AMC reduction techniques implemented in CM Vertical as per directions from CHQ. 

Open Session started by 4 PM. 
Sh. J.C Menaria, CGMT Punjab was the Chief Guest during the session presided by CHQ President. GS gave the key note address. Com.G L Jogi,  Com V. K. Tomar, Secretary NCOA/ President AIPCOC, GM (Pers) Sh. Kesava Rao, GM(SR) Sh. A M Gupta, and other prominent Association/ Union leaders addressed the open session. 

A farewell was given to Sh. Nagavi, ex. CS, Karnataka who retired from service recently. 
Day two concluded by 9 PM. 

Day 3: 30.11.2018

Discussions on BSNL viability - Com CS Kerala initiated the deliberations. CP Com.George Varghese, CWC Member Com. Suresh Kumar, Com. Babu Dominic from Kerala participated. 

Discussions on CPSU Cadre hierarchy, SAB, E2-E3 payscales happened. ACS Com.Vivek, CWC Member Com.Suresh Kumar participated from Kerala.

Constitution Ammendments were presented by the Committee Chairman Com.George Varghese and approved by the house.

SANCHAR NIGAM EXECUTIVES’ ASSOCIATION

XXX ALL INDIA CONFERENCE

LUDHIANA, 28th – 30th November, 2018

OPEN SESSION

29th November, 2018, 03 PM

Dr Manmohan Singh Auditorium

Punjab Agricultural University

CS writes to CGMT regarding Transfer request of JAOs who have completed 2 years service:

View Letter

In the year 2016,  63 LICE JAOs were posted in different BAs according to the needs of the BAs. Now they have completed 2 years’ service and requested for transfer to their home BAs.  Besides some other JAOs under Rule 8 transfer cases were also posted in other BAs without considering their home town request. They also have completed 2 years in their present BA.  Recently 30 Direct Recruited JAOs were posted in different BAs.  As per the  PGM Finance, these postings were made to enable the relieving of JAOs who have requested for transfer to their home town after completing 2 year service at present station.  On our enquiry, it is learnt that the transfer request of JAOs are kept pending due to unknown reasons.  If the transfer requests are not considered  at present, it is only a simple wastage of  manpower without any valid reasons.

It is quite unfortunate to say that the  HR wing of Kerala Telecom Circle is not acting in a way to extend help to the Executives those who have completed 2 years tenure transfer at different BAs. Considerable number of  transfer requests of executives who have completed their 2 year service are pending at different BAs. The Executives are working day and night to improve the financial conditions of our Circle, however the Circle Administration is reluctant to consider the genuine HR issues of the Executives.  This type of attitude of Circle administration will lead only to spoil the smooth working atmosphere in Kerala Circle.

It is pertinent to note that whenever the executives on long stay transfer completes their tenure period of 2 years, Corporate Office issues transfer orders back to their home town without delay. However, it is not following in Kerala Circle in any of the cadres.

In this context, we humbly request your goodself that the pending transfer request of JAOs/JTOs who have completed 2 years service may kindly be considered at the earliest to avoid further resentment among the Executives in Kerala.

Meeting with CE(Civil) on 22/11/2018:

Circle Secretary Com.T.Santhosh Kumar, CWC member Com.Rajesh Manchan, Circle organising secretary Com.Vinukumar and Branch secretary Manacaud Com.Rajesh met Chief Engineer Civil Shri.Sanjay Kumar today to discuss the HR issues in civil wing. Jt Chief engineer Trivandrum Shri.Satheesh and Jt Chief engineer Shri.Satyaprasad were also present in the meeting.  The following points were discussed in the meeting.  

1. Representation of Sri Karunakaran SDE Kalpetta and Sri. Suresh Kumar SDE Manjeri -  CE assured for immediate consideration. 

2. EE transfer - CE assured to take up the issue with CGM BW on his visit to CO New Delhi. 

3. Retaining Calicut Civil Circle Office. CE agreed to not to initiate closure of the office. 

The meeting lasted for half an hour. CS thanked the civil administration for the prompt and timely action to maintain the harmonious atmosphere in civil wing which is fetching a good revenue to BSNL under the able leadership of CE Civil Sri Sanjay Kumar. CE Civil appealed to the members of SNEA to be proactive in delivering extra efforts to  fetch more revenues to BSNL.

Meeting with GM HR on 21/11/2018:

Circle Secretary Com. T.Santhosh Kumar, Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer.S and ACS Com.JV.Ramana met GM HR on 21/11/2018 and discussed the following pending issues:

1. Missed out and Pending Inter-BA Transfer Request cases in Telecom Wing: We once again requested to issue the missed out transfer request cases for those who completed 2 years stay as on Aug 2018. GM HR responded positively, informed that the file is under active consideration and assured that the orders for the missed out cases would be released soon and this month itself.
2. Delay in relieving of Executives whose intra-circle transfer orders were already issued more than a month back: We requested GM HR to issue reminders for relieving these executives. We are following up and further pursuing the case.
3. Pending Inter-BA Transfer Request cases in Accounts & Finance wing: We requested GM HR to clear the file as per the recommendations of PGM(F) as the substitutes were already posted from the recent DR-JAO batch considering these transfer requests. We are following up and further pursuing the case.
4. Delay in release of Confirmation orders for DR-JAO 2015 batch: GM HR responded positively.
5. Incorrect First Increment Date for DR-JTO 2016 batch: GM HR responded positively and informed that necessary corrections are being done.  

Later CS, CT and ACS met PGM(F) for discussing the pending Inter-BA transfer requests and delay in release of Confirmation orders for DR-JAO 2015 batch.

Congratulations..!! Promotion of AOs / Sr.AOs to the grade of STS (CAO/AGM) on regular and adhoc basis - as assured, orders issued by Corporate Office.... View Copy of the Order.

In this regard yesterday GS, CHQ President along with AGS met Dir (HR) and held discussion in the presence of GM (FP), GM (Pers.) and GM (CLO). We are extremely grateful to Dir (HR), GM (Pers.), GM (FP) Smt. Smita Choudhary who had taken all the efforts for the promotion and SEA section.

CS writes to PGM(Finance) regarding issues involved in Monthly Settlement of Temporary Advance

View Letter

Existing instructions in Kerala Circle stipulate that Temporary Advances are to be approved by BA heads by 20^th of the month, payment to be made by CSC by 21^st of the month, recipients to do settlement by 25^th of the month and BA heads are to approve settlement by last day of the month.  There exists high degree of practical difficulty in settlement of temporary advances (TAs) on a monthly basis, if disbursement of TA is made during the last ten days of a month.

This procedure is highly impractical because of the following reasons:

1. First thing is that, even if the SSA head approves a TA on 20^th of a month, disbursements of TA are not made by 21^st of the month. Many a times the payments are received by field officers on 23^rd, 24^th and 25^th day of the month.
2. TAs is sanctioned for a particular purpose. Only when money is received, expenditure can be incurred and invoice obtained and settlement initiated in SAP.  Expecting settlement of the accounts within few days by the TA Holder is not practical as  for each purchase/ work  many formalities are to be completed before incurring expenditure.  Further there is no clerical assistance to the TA holder and the TA holder will have to look into the operational issues as well.   Even the financial handbook stipulates a period of one month for settlement of TA.
3. Once the field officer initiates a TA, the system will route it to claim officer, who will check it with hard copy of vouchers. Sometimes the TAs submitted will have to be forwarded back in SAP for the initiator to makes necessary corrections and to resubmit. The genuineness of hard copies is to be verified and accounting correctness is to be ensured.
4. After claim officer approves the TA, the same will be routed in SAP to IFA and SSA head. In SAP it normally takes at least 10 minutes for a TA of 10 vouchers for settlement approval at the SSA head end. Suppose there are 30 TAs (30 is a minimum number for even average SSAs) it will consume 5 hours of SSA head.
5. If availing of GST input credit is taken as the reason for monthly submission, let’s point out that, TA amounts to only less than 1% of input credit availment. The gap between invoice date and input availment date is not taken seriously in rest of 99% bills and only in TAs case this gap is taken seriously.

In this circumstance, a time period of at least 18 days are required from the date of disbursement of advance to the date of settlement of advance. So only if advance is disbursed at least by 12^th of the month, settlement can be effected in the same month, otherwise insistence of monthly settlement cannot be justified. Of course, at times like annual closure of accounts, as done in previous years there is rational in co-operating to settle the advance in the same year. But otherwise monthly settlement is totally impracticable if disbursement is made after 12^th of the month.

In this regard, It is kindly requested that necessary suitable instructions  may be issued to field units by allowing  minimum period of two weeks  after disbursement of TA and if the TA are to be settled in the same month then the disbursement of the Advance may be  effected   at least by 2^nd week of each month.  

CS writes to CGMT regarding delay in release of confirmation orders for DR-JAO 2015 batch View Letter

Meeting with Dir (HR): CHQ President along with AGS met Dir (HR) and discussed on the issue of release of Promotion orders from AO to CAO. Madam assured to clear the file immediately when it is submitted for approval.

CS writes to Administration for granting Special Casual Leave for the SNEA Kerala Delegates for attending AIC to be held at Ludhiana, Punjab from 28th Nov to 30th Nov 2018 with Pre-CWC on 27th Nov 2018. View Letter
Sanction Letter from SR Section, Corporate Office for Special CL

Corrigendum issued for the Letter dtd 14/11/2018 regarding Group Term Insurance Scheme for BSNL Executives View Corrigendum

CHQ President and AGS met GM FP and requested for clearance of AO to CAO Promotions as the legal opinion was given to consider the promotions as per the reservation policy. GM FP assured to move the proposal for the approval of the competent authority for taking the appropriate decision on promotion from AO to CAO. SEA section is putting its best efforts for the release of the Promotion orders at the earliest.

CHQ President and AGS met GM Pers and discussed on the issue of relieving of Executives who have completed tenure in tenure circles and waiting for their relief. GM Pers assured to make arrangement for their relief at the earliest. Also discussed about the legal opinion on AO to CAO promotion, GM Pers informed that the hurdles are cleared and SEA section can process for the Promotion. On the DE to DGM CAT case coming for hearing at Chandigarh CAT on 19.11.2018, GM Pers assured to depute DGM Legal and AGM Legal to Chandigarh for appraising our lawyer on the facts for getting relief.

Rally by AUAB on 14.11.2018 View Photos

View Copy of Memorandum of AUAB to Hon MoC on 14-11-18
View Circular of AUAB dated 14-11-2018

Congratulations..!! Options are called from BSNL Executives for the voluntary Group Term Insurance Scheme View Orders
Eventhough Associations are demanding for GTI for long time, it took momentum after the MV and the GTI Committee was constituted based on SNEA demand and its letter. After the MV, initial discussions were held with SNEA.
Letter by GS on GTI dtd 10-11-2016
SNEA conducted several meetings with Administration for the immediate implementation of Group Term Insurance Scheme in BSNL as a social security measure for the families of the employees in cases of untimely death.

Rally by AUAB on 14.11.2018 at BSNLCO/Circle/SSA.
Since DoT is not agreeing to BSNL proposal for 3rd PRC with 15% fitment and going back from its earlier commitments, all the employees are requested to join the Rally. Public Rally and the participation will have big impact on the Govt and its decisions in the coming days.
Make door to door campaign today for the success of the Rally.

Letter to Secretary / DoT and CMD / BSNL

DOT returns the BSNL proposal for 3rd Pay Revision:
1. Revenue from operation is on huge decline, 20% in 2017-18 in comparison with 2016-17 and 27.8% in comparison to Q1 of FY2018-19.

2. During 2017-18, BSNL estimated 4.8% growth, but it has actually reduced by 14.8%.

3. Expenditure on employees remuneration is continuously growing comparing to its revenue. It is 65.7% of revenue from operations during 2017-18. Now it has become 89% during Q1 of FY 2018-19.

4. 4303 Cr is the additional expenditure per annum for 3rd PRC with 15% fitment (pension contribution calculated on maximum of the pay scale) and it may cross the revenue from operations (2760 Cr is the additional expenditure if the pension contribution is on actual basic pay).

5. For 4G rollout, loan has to be taken and the additional revenue expected after that will be required for repayment of loan.

6. The excess payment on pension contribution is shown as Rs 2000. Govt not agreed to the BSNL proposal for pension contribution on actual basic pay.

7. BSNL proposes additional revenue from FTTH etc.

Finally DoT asked BSNL to work out a concrete workable proposal with a detailed analysis on the above points.

Photos of the Circle Conference of SNEA Kerala held at Ernakulam on 8th, 9th and 10th Nov 2018
View glimpses of Pre-CEC on 8/11/18 at Paulson Park, Ernakulam
View glimpses of Circle Conference day-1 on 9/11/18 at Hotel Highway Garden, Ernakulam
View glimpses of Circle Conference day-2 on 10/11/18 at YMCA Hall, Ernakulam

Congratulations...!! to the New Team.....XXIVth Circle Conference of SNEA Kerala Circle held on 9th and 10th Nov 2018 at Ernakulam unanimously elected the new Circle Body of SNEA Kerala:
Circle President : Com.George Varghese, DGM, Ernakulam
Circle Secretary : Com.Santhosh Kumar.T, AGM, Trivandrum
Circle Treasurer : Com.Suneer.S, AO, Circle Office-Trivandrum

Circle Vice-Presidents:
Com.Asha.A.S, AO, Trivandrum
Com.Gopalakrishna Panicker.P.R, AGM, Kottayam
Com.Nujumudeen.M, SDE, Alleppey

Assistant Circle Secretaries:
Com.Jithesh.K.P, SDE, Kannur
Com.Dr.Premkumar.G, AGM, Trivandrum
Com.Ramana.JV, SDE, Circle Office-Trivandrum
Com.Vivek.G, JTO, Ernakulam

Area Secretary North: Com.Jasim.AK, SDE, Calicut
Area Secretary Central: Com.Baiju.V, JTO, Ernakulam
Area Secretary South: Com.Vinukumar.M.S, JTO (Electrical), Trivandrum

Circle Organising Secretaries:
Com.Baijulal.K.V, AO, Thrissur
Com.Sidhique.T, SDE, Malappuram

CWC Members:
Com.Gafoor.M.A, SDE, Calicut
Com.Harikrishnan.G, SDE, Trivandrum
Com.Rajesh P V Manchan, SDE(Civil), Kannur
Com.Salim Kumar.E.V, AGM, Kollam
Com.Suresh Kumar.R, SDE, Kottayam
Com.Vimal.R, SDE, CO-Ernakulam

further details will be uploaded soon.....

Circle Conference on 9^th and 10^th of Nov 2018 at Ernakulam
View Notice || Invitation for Open Session on 09/11/18
XXIVth Circle Conference of SNEA Kerala Circle will be held on 9th and 10th November 2018 at Ernakulam. As a prelude to the Circle Conference, Pre-Circle Conference CEC will be held at Paulson Tourist Home, Ernakulam on 8th November 2018.

First day of Circle Conference including Open Session on 9/11/18 will be held at Hotel Highway Gardens (opposite Oberon Mall), NH Bypass, Palarivattom. Hon'ble MP Shri M.B.Rajesh will inaugurate the Open Session. CHQ Leaders - GS Com.Sebastin and CHQ President Com.A.A.Khan are also attending the Open Session.

Second day of Circle Conference on 10/11/18 will be held at YMCA Hall, Chitoor Rd. Stay for the Delegates are arranged at Paulson Tourist Home, a 5 min walk from Ernakulam South Railway Station.

Amendment to SNEA Constitution:

Suggestions if any for amendments to the Constitution of SNEA are invited by the Constitution amendment committee. Suggestion from the Circles may be forward by the Circle Secretaries. The suggestions should reach before 10 th November 2018 by mail to any of the following. No WhatsApp message is expected.

Chairman:
Com. George Varghese (gvsnea@gmail.com).

Members:
Com.BG Patel (bgpatel63@gmail.com),
Com.Dilip Saha (dsaha@mail.com),
Com.Ajay Trivedi (sneaupe@gmail).
Com.Dutta Majumdar, (sneamp@gmail.com)

George Varghese
Chairman
Constitution Amendment Committee

Meeting between the Secretary (Telecom) and the AUAB:

A meeting between Ms.Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary, Telecom and the All Unions and Associations of BSNL(AUAB) was held on 02.11.2018.

Com.P.Abhimanyu, GS/BSNLEU, Com.Chandeswar Singh, GS/NFTE, Com.K.Sebastin, GS/SNEA, Com.Prahlad Rai,GS/AIBSNLEA, Com.Ravi Shil Verma, GS/AIGETOA, Com.Suresh Kumar,GS/BSNL MS, Com. Revti Prasad, AGS/BSNL ATM, Com. Rashid Khan, AGS/TEPU and Com.H.P.Singh, Dy.GS/BSNL OA participated in the talks on behalf of the AUAB. From the DoT side, Ms. Anuradha Mitra/Member(Finance), Shri Ravi Kant/ Member(Services), Shri.N.Sivasailam/Special Secretary and Shri R. K. Khandelwal/ Joint Secretary(Admn) participated. From the BSNL Management side, Shri Anupam Shrivastava/CMD BSNL, Ms. Sujata Ray/ Director(HR), Shri Saurab Tyagi/Sr GM(Estt), Shri A.M.Gupta/ GM(SR) and Shri Sheo Shankar Prasad/DGM(Estt) participated.

At the outset, the representatives of the AUAB pointed out that DoT failed to take appropriate action to implement the assurances given by the Hon’ble MoS(C) in the meeting held on 24-02-2018, in view of which the AUAB has been compelled to go on agitational programme. On the 3rd Pay Revision issue, the Secretary, Telecom assured that the Cabinet Note, for getting the approval of the Cabinet, would be sent at the earliest. The AUAB pointed out that within three months the Pay Revision issue has to be settled fully, otherwise, Parliament elections would be announced, settlement of Pay Revision would become difficult. Secretary informed that some queries are there, it will be raised by DoT to BSNL in a week time. As and when BSNL replies, it will be processed. AUAB demanded the formalities of Cabinet memo to be completed before this month. Secretary, Telecom assured to act fast.

On the issues of allotment of 4G spectrum, Payment of Pension Contribution on the actual basic pay and Pension Revision issues, very useful discussion took place. On the 4G issue, the Cabinet Note has been sent for inter-ministerial consultation, and soon it will go for the approval of the Cabinet. On the issue of Payment of Pension Contribution on actual basic pay instead of maximum of the pay scale, the matter is being recommended for the approval of the Department of Expenditure, with a positive note of the DoT, by next week. On the Pension Revision of BSNL retirees, the Secretary Telecom appeared to be convinced with the arguments of the AUAB, that it should not be linked with the Pay Revision of the serving employees. She directed the Member (Services) to immediately discuss the issue with her. On the 30% Superannuation benefits for the Directly Recruited employees, the Secretary Telecom said that it should be settled by the BSNL. Thereafter CMD assured to examine another 2%.

We got an opportunity to discuss E2/E3 pay scales also eventhough it was not an agenda but related with 2nd PRC issues pending in DoT, on which SS(T) replied that DPE accepted the DoT decision which we countered nicely. We explained that DPE not agreed fully with DoT. The information submitted by DoT to DPE was wrong, so DPE could not give the correct direction to DoT. GS read out the relevant portion in the letter from DoT to DPE in which it was stated that 1) E1 and E2 are the pay scales approved for BSNL direct recruits, 2) E1A and E2A are onetime dispensation for the absorbed officers etc. Finally Secretary assured to examine how wrong information has been sent by DoT to DPE and corrective actions will be taken.

After the meeting with the Secretary, Telecom, the meeting of the AUAB was held. The meeting expressed it’s satisfaction about the discussions on the issues of Allotment of 4G spectrum, Payment of Pension Contribution and Pension Revision. Even though the approach of the Secretary, Telecom was positive, the AUAB meeting viewed that the progress in the matter of 3rd Pay Revision is not satisfactory. Hence, the meeting decided to go ahead with the agitational programme of holding Rally on 14.11.2018 and called upon the employees to effectively organise the rallies on 14-11-2018. It is decided that the AUAB will again meet on 14-11-2018, to review the situation.
View Minutes

Meeting with GM HR on 3/11/2018
CS along with ACS and DS-CO met GM (HR) on 3/11/2018 at 0930 AM.

1) We strongly protested against the pick and choose method adopted by the Circle Administration in considering transfer requests. GM HR admitted that it was a mistake from Management side and corrective mesures will be taken at the earliest and the transfer order of Com.Vivek, Com.Nissar and Com.Nazeer will be issued soon.

2) We requested GM HR to look into the release of 9 withheld vacancies of JTO LICE and 4 vacancies of JAO LICE.

3) First Increment issues of recently recruited DR-JTOs: We requested GM HR to review the first increment date of DR-JTOs recruited through GATE. We have recieved many queries from these DR-JTOs especially from units working under Circle office regarding wrong Increment date in ERP portal. The first increment date is taken as the date in which the induction training ended instead of start date. GM HR responded positively and promised to resolve the issue.

4) Mutual Transfer Cases: We requested GM HR to immediately release the orders for pending Inter Circle mutual transfer cases of JTOs before further promotion or resignation happens. GM HR assured speedy clearance.

Presentation by SNEA Kerala on BSNL Revival given to IIM team on 02-11-2018 at Thiruvananthapuram DoT, as per Government directions, had entrusted Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, for undertaking a study and preparing a revival plan for BSNL.
SNEA Kerala was invited for presenting our suggestions regarding the same today afternoon at CGMT office . SNEA Kerala represented by Com. T. Santhosh Kumar, CS, Com. G. Harikrishnan, Area Secretary South, and V. G. Sabu, DS, Trivandrum has given a comprehensive presentation covering almost all aspects related to much needed policy changes in HR/Finance management and improvement of services in all verticals. Our views and suggestions on spectrum management, launch of 4G/5G services, Govt. support, Pay, Pension and Promotion issues, Standard pay scales, FTTH expansion, delay in procurement of industry standard equipments for timely roll out of services, monetisation of land and buildings, BTS outsourcing, modernization of Optical Fiber Cable and transmission network were presented in detail. The IIM team has appreciated our efforts in this regard and asked us to share the PPT and supporting documents on certain key aspects like AMC issues and cadre restructuring to them by e-mail. GS SNEA was in constant touch with the circle leadership for the last couple of days and has given most valuable suggestions for preparing the presentation and documents which we will be sharing with the IIM team.
Lr from Admin || View PPT || View PDF

GS writes to CMD BSNL: Huge spending for AMC on CM verticals. 1800 Crores is the AMC charges alone. Appropriate measures can reduce it by atleast 1000 Crores.
The per line rate varies from Rs 33/ for Kerala Circle to Rs 295/ for J&K Circle and the BSNL average is Rs 159/-.
On analysing the equipments under AMC, it is observed that:

1) In many Circles, AMC is given for all the equipments so far purchased right from Phase 1 to Phase VII+.

2) The VLR of many Circles are below 50% which indicate that the numbers which are not in use are not removed from HLR after expiry of cooling period. This escalates the AMC cost.

3) The numbers catered from old equipments are not migrated to equipments installed newly though they are having sufficient capacity.

4) All installed equipments are retained in the in the network and AMC is awarded against the P.O whether they are actually required in the network or working at present.

The per line AMC cost is exorbitantly high in J&K, GUJ, TN, AP, UPW, PB, NE, MP, MH, RAJ & WB Circles, more than Rs 100/- per subscriber.
It is suggested to take immediate action by all Circles to minimise the AMC cost by optimising the network elements actually required as done by few Circles like Kerala, Odisha and UPE. This can have a saving of about 1000 Crores in CM vertical alone.

GS letter to CMD on reduction of AMC cost for CM vertical || AMC cost of different Circles || VlR & HLR data of different Circles during July 2018

View Glimpse of Photos of Dharna held on 30-10-2018 by AUAB.

View Photos

Circle Conference on 9^th and 10^th of Nov at Ernakulam View Notice
XXIVth Circle Conference of SNEA Kerala Circle will be held on 9th and 10th November 2018 at Ernakulam. As a prelude to the Circle Conference, Pre-Circle Conference CEC will be held at Paulson Tourist Home, Ernakulam on 8th November 2018.

First day of Circle Conference including Open Session on 9/11/18 will be held at Hotel Highway Gardens (opposite Oberon Mall), NH Bypass, Palarivattom. Hon'ble MP Shri M.B.Rajesh will inaugurate the Open Session. CHQ Leaders - GS Com.Sebastin and CHQ President Com.A.A.Khan are also attending the Open Session.

Second day of Circle Conference on 10/11/18 will be held at YMCA Hall, Chitoor Rd. Stay for the Delegates are arranged at Paulson Tourist Home, a 5 min walk from Ernakulam South Railway Station.

A review meeting for organising the Circle Conference was held at SNEA Bhavan, Ernakulam on 30/10/2018. Circle Leaders - CP Com.George Varghese, CS Com.Santhosh Kumar, CT Com.Premkumar, CVP Com.K.O.Aleyas, ACS Com.Ramana, DS-ENK Com.Joseph Lukose, DS-ALP Com.Vipin, DS-TCR Com.Gokulan and other District Executive Committee members of Ernakulam BA attended the meeting and reviewed the arrangements.

Dear District Secretaries, an online link will be opened shortly for the registration of delegates. All Branches shall elect Delegates as per the provision of the Constitution and remit all Circle/CHQ Quota before the Conference

View Copy of PRESS RELEASE to be issued by AUAB in the proposed Press meet on 29-10-18.

AUAB Struggle Call Update
There was a meeting at DoT yesterday on the charter of demands. In fact, Secretary called the AUAB for the discussion yesterday at 10.30 AM. Due to communication gap between BSNL and DoT, it could not communicate to AUAB. BSNL Management and Secretary DoT meeting took place. Meeting with AUAB is fixed on 02.11.2018 after Secretary returning from tour. We are getting further updates...
View Letter

Dharna on 30/10/2018 :
All Unions & Associations in BSNL (AUAB) has served notice on 17/10/2018, to the Secretary/DoT and CMD/BSNL for Dharna and rallies, demanding implementation of the assurances given by the Hon MoSC in the meeting held with the AUAB on 24.02.2018.

Demands:

(a) 3rd Pay Revision to BSNL employees.
(b) Implementation of Government Rules in payment of Pension contribution by BSNL.
(c) Allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL as per the proposal submitted by the BSNL Management.
(d) Pension revision for the BSNL pensioners.
(e) Settlement of left out issues of the 2nd PRC.

Programs:

1) Dharna at all levels on 30-10-2018.
2) Rallies at circle and districts levels on 14-11-2018.

Annual General Body Meeting of Malappuram BA was held on 25/10/2018 at NGO Hall, Malappuram
Circle Leaders - Circle Secretary Com.Santhosh Kumar, Area Secretary North Com.Gafoor and Circle Organising Secretary Com.Kamalraj attended the meeting. The AGB unanimously elected the new District body:

Dist Secretary : Mohammed Niyas
President : Pradeepkumar E
Dist Treasurer: Abdussalim Babu
CEC Member : Siddique T

Contempt case against CMD BSNL and GM Pers came up for hearing before Hon. CAT Ernakulam on 23.10.18. BSNL counsel filed application for exemption from personal appearance of CMD & GM(P) as directed by Hon.High Court. The bench postponed the case to next week for placing the matter before the same bench heard the case earlier.

GS writes to Hon MoSC Shri Manoj Sinha: It is high time for the Govt intervention for the revival of BSNL. As a first step, more than 6400 Crores rupees due from DoT, the administrative Ministry to BSNL is to be released immediately. Abnormal delay in reimbursement of huge amount is seriously affecting the cash flow and functioning of BSNL
GS letter to Hon MoSC regarding reimbursement of Rs 6400 Crores due for BSNL

CS writes to CGMT regarding outsourcing of BTS Infra O&M to a vendor which would also put huge financial burden over the circle which is already finding it difficult to improve revenue and profit figures
View Letter
We are deeply perturbed and very much disappointed to see the BSNL Corporate Office order issuing AWO to M/s.Mahindra & Mahindra Pvt. Ltd for carrying out O&M activities of BTS sites in Kerala Circle. It is understood that the vendor would be taking over all passive infrastructure in those sites and will be the custodian of entire infra elements for ten years. BSNL would be one of the tenants in those sites and hence would be under the mercy of the vendor even to carry out any service/capacity/radio resource additions, reengineering, reutilization and redeployment. This outsourcing model would be catastrophically dangerous for BSNL especially in a circle like Kerala where foolproof and tested mechanisms are already in place, unlike in many other circles, for carrying out operation and maintenance of BTS sites ensuring more than 99% network availability. The outsourcing model may double BTS operational expenditure in the circle as seen from the financial tables signed with the vendor. Hence, we are very much concerned about BSNL Corporate Office’ decision to include the best performing circle in the infra outsourcing list where we would be forced to pay around Rs.80k per site to the vendor where as it is nearly half at present.

It is therefore humbly requested that the circle administration may kindly consider the following as well:
1. The network uptime of BTS sites in Kerala has been consistently above 99% ever since operation commenced in the circle in 2002.
2. Kerala circle has already deployed the best O&M model for ensuring infra maintenance by employing housekeeping contracts with vendors including diesel filling, site maintenance etc.
3. Kerala circle has been using an online O&M portal by name “OMCWEB” which is developed and maintained by the in house talents for efficient management of all radio elements and passive infra items.
4. Proper and thoroughly audited AMC contracts are being deployed for efficient OAM of infra elements.
5. The circle has always achieved the Infra sharing target set by the BSNL corporate office for earning consistent revenue from time to time.
6. It is to be noted that we are hiring sites from passive infrastructure providers by incurring monthly expenditure of around Rs.35, 000/- per site.
7. The monthly OPEX charges of BSNL owned and operated GSM sites may come around Rs. 30,000/- per site.
8. There are good number of GSM sites working in the circle where BTS space has been provided by many agencies including state/central government departments with zero rentals and even zero energy charges in many sites.
9. Kerala circle has already replaced almost all infra elements including Power Plant and Battery in majority of the sites in the recent past and the process is still going on at great pace.
10. The O&M vendor will be taking over all these newly deployed infra and BSNL’ scope of redeployment of elements will be ceased forever.
11. BSNL will be at the liberty of the vendor for adding any radio elements for service/capacity augmentations like sector additions, tech additions in future which would affect network optimisation and QoS very badly.

Thus considering the above mentioned facts we don’t find any sufficient reasons for outsourcing the BTS Infra OAM to a vendor which would also put huge financial burden over the circle which is already finding it difficult to improve revenue and profit figures in the post JIO scenario. We don’t know whether the circle administration has been consulted before taking such a major policy decision which would neither improve operational efficiency nor revenue prospects but would incur additional expenditure by way of increased OPEX charges. Hence, it is requested that BSNL Kerala circle administration may kindly inform BSNL Corporate Office about the existing operational as well as financial statements regarding the existing O&M model already deployed in the circle and to review the decision positively to Kerala Circle.

CS writes to CGMT regarding enabling the HSDP+ feature in Huawei Node Bs at the earliest
View Letter
After the latest version upgrade done by M/S Huawei High speed 21.1 Mbps 3G data (HSDPA+) feature has been provided in the Huawei RNCs. Through put license of the RNCs are also increased considerably by this upgrade. During the testing period, the Node Bs in Huawei 408 RNC were supporting the HSDPA+ feature and through put of the Node Bs increased considerably. But when the original license was provided by Huawei in Node Bs after the upgrade, the HSDPA+ features is not available and the maximum through put is reduced to H 14.4 Mbps (HSDPA only). Many of the Node Bs in Huawei RNC area are capable to come under the VHT data traffic category if the HSDPA+ feature is made available .There are 949 Huawei Node Bs are radiating in Huawei area at present out of which only 62 are VHT sites. So kindly take necessary action to enable the HSDP+ feature in Huawei Node Bs at the earliest

All Unions & Associations in BSNL (AUAB) has served notice today, to the Secretary/DoT and CMD/BSNL for Dharna and rallies, demanding implementation of the assurances given by the Hon MoSC in the meeting held with the AUAB on 24.02.2018.

Demands:

(a) 3rd Pay Revision to BSNL employees.
(b) Implementation of Government Rules in payment of Pension contribution by BSNL.
(c) Allotment of 4G spectrum to BSNL as per the proposal submitted by the BSNL Management.
(d) Pension revision for the BSNL pensioners.
e) Settlement of left out issues of the 2nd PRC.

Programs:
1) Dharna at all levels on 30-10-2018.
2) Rallies at circle and districts levels on 14-11-2018.

GS writes to CMD, BSNL on austerity measures:
Measures to reduce the expenditure in view of the prevailing situation in BSNL:

1) Moratorium on sports and cultural activities for a period of two years:
2) Curtailment of expenditure towards appointment of consultants:
GS letter to CMD

DE to DGM promotion: The MA filed by BSNL for vacation of stay on DGM promotion was listed for hearing on 15.10.2018 at Hon CAT, Chandigarh. Due to paucity of time, MA postponed to 29.10.2018. On 29.10.2018, it will be heard along with the main OA, Hon Court told.

Appeal in the Hon Delhi High court on additional increment on post based promotion as per EPP: The appeal filed by DoT in the Hon Delhi HC against the Hon PCAT judgment quashing the DoT order dated 05.07.2017, rescinding the EPP provision for additional increment on post based promotion in the same pay scale was listed for hearing on 16.10.2018. Due to paucity of time, it is listed to Feb, 2019.

GS writes to Hon Minister Shri Manoj Sinhna on E2/E3 pay scales: Approval of BSNL proposal for revision of intermediary pay scales of 9850-250-14600 (E1A) and 11875-300-17275 (E2A) with the next higher standard pay scales of E2 and E3 for the JTO and SDE equivalent cadres in BSNL w.e.f. 01.01.2007 based on the clarification given by DPE on 29.08.2018. DPE directed DoT to decide the pay scales based on 1) affordability clause in the DPE OM dated 26.11.2008, ie. PBT for the year 2007-08, 2) intermediary pay scales are not allowed and 3) the pay scales are to be implemented by the CPSE in consultation with the Administrative Ministry.
GS letter to Hon MoSC

Group Term Insurance(GTI): The final premium quote received from LIC is Rs 1.6 per thousand rupees for a coverage of 50 lakhs for the age group upto 50 years. The rate will be reviewed after 3 years. The same slab will continue till they attain 60 years. The Committee will be submitting its report to DIR(HR) in this regard shortly. GS met GM(Trg) who coordinates the GTI scheme and held discussions today and requested to expedite the proposal. GS asked simultaneously to work out for an option if any Executive wants to opt out of the scheme.

All India Conference at Ludhiana, Punjab, from 28th to 30th November, 2018.

The delegate election should be done by the remaining Branches/Divisions/Districts/SSAs immediately by convening the General Body meetings, after notifying it. The number of delegates should be elected as per the provisions of the constitution. [One(01) delegate for every 30 members or part thereof being not less than 20, subject to a minimum of one per Branch/Division/District/SSA]. CHQ Office Bearers, CSs and CWC members shall be ex-officio delegates, in addition to the eligible delegates.

Considering the huge expenditure, the delegate fee is retained as Rs 1,250 per delegate, as in the last AIC. Host Circle made all the arrangements for the delegates. Observers are not allowed. Due to constraints, the host Circle made accommodation arrangements only to the eligible delegates. Host Circle requested that the observers if any reaching the AIC venue should make their own arrangements for the Accommodation.

Circles/SSAs/Branches not having held their respective Conferences within time frame stipulated in the constitution must hold their conferences immediately to be eligible to attend AIC.

GS writes to DIR(HR): Fixation of pay under FR22(1)(a)(1) and its consequential benefit on pay revision to the officiating JTOs.
GS letter to DIR(HR)

Meeting with Smt Sujata T Ray, DIR(HR&Fin) on 09.10.2018:

GS, President and AGS met DIR(HR) and reviewed the progress on the various issues in our charter of demands of the agitation programs. GM(SR) also present.

Initially we discussed the financial problems in the field units. All the payments are getting delayed and maintenance is severely affected. DIR(Fin) informed that the situation will improve shortly as the formalities for taking loan for CAPEX is getting cleared at various levels.

1) On CPSU Hierarchy notification, the committee is finalizing the report and it will be submitted to the competent authority. Some delay occurred due to unavoidable reasons.

On promotions, the recent SC judgment on reservation in promotion is to be examined thouroughly. The legal opinion received is to wait for the DoPT guidelines in this regard. At the same time, due to the election year, whether DoPT will take a quick decision in this regard is also doubtful. Management will work out some alternative mechanism also parallaly, DIR(HR) informed.

On JTO to SDE promotion, we requested to issue the promotion orders to the extent possible from the remaining JTOs, pending finalization of AIEL and the seniority can be finalized later on. DIR(HR) informed that now Pers section is pre-occuppied with the contempt case at Ernakulam and immediately after that we will try to find some way out. Management is waiting for the outcome of the contempt petition. We requested to reconsider it as more than 5000 vacancies are lying vacant and innocent JTOs are punished for none of their fault. Finally DIR(HR) told us to have further discussion with GM(Pers).

On AO to CAO promotion, legal opinion is to wait for the DoPT guidelines on reservation issue. We shared our apprehension that the decision on creamy layer may take much time as it is a political decision and it has to be worked out by the Govt before notification, with the approval of Union Cabinet. This means, on promotion, we are back to the same situation we had, few months back. Entire promotion should not be held up again we requested. DIR(HR) assured to find some way out.

Similarly AGM promotion also, management is waiting for the outcome of the contempt petition, DIR(HR) informed. Thereafter only it can be decided how to proceed further. After the recent judgment, it become more complicated.

2. Approval of E2 and E3 pay scales w.e.f. 01.01.2007: A DO letter from CMD to Secretary, DoT requesting to approve E2 and E3 scales as recommend by BSNL will be sent in a day or two as discussed with the Assn and thereafter it will be pursued.

3. First Time Bound Financial Upgradation as per EPP-2007, uniformly after 4 years, instead of 4 to 6 years: After lot of pursuation at different level, the proposal now moved from Pers section.

4. E1+5 increments for the post 2010 rect JTO/JAOs and equivalent cadres: Estt section examining the possibility to do it within the powers of MC. Since proposal is already in the Board for the rect upto 2014, matter is to be examined.

5. E1A and E2A scales notionally w.e.f. 01.10.2000 for the JTOs and SDEs in Civil, Electrical, TF, Arch, PA, PS etc and equivalent cadres: : Estt section examining it.

6. Increase the DGM(T) posts, atleast by another 800 for maintaining a ratio 1:4 and filling up all the DGM(T) vacancies on regular basis. The matter is under examination. The need for increase in the DGM posts is accepted. But a mechanism is to be worked out through HR Plan. Meanwhile work on finalization of HR plan is picking momentum. Meanwhile DIR(HR) assured to expedite the DPC work for DGM(T) posts pending vacation of stay on promotions.

On issuing orders for soft tenure break, it was informed that the file is resubmitted for the approval of DIR(HR) with positive recommendation to restore the Circle break on soft tenure posting.

GS writes to CMD/BSNL: Urgent need to increase the DGM(T) posts, atleast by another 800 and filling up all the DGM(T) vacancies on regular basis. The number of DGMs working is hardly 650 against the sanctioned strength of 1331. Recently the AGM(T) posts increased from 5303 to 8,713. The DGM(T) posts also to be increased proportionately. The number of DGM(T) posts are very less in Telecom Engineering side, resulting huge stagnation.
GS letter to CMD

All Unions and Associations of BSNL held its meeting at New Delhi on 08.10.2018. AUAB discussed the non-implementation of the assurances given by the Hon MoSC in the meeting held on 24.02.2018. AUAB decided to launch agitational programs for the implementation of the assurances given on
1) 3rd PRC implementation,
2) 4G spectrum allotment,
3) Pension revision and
4) Pension Contribution on actual basic pay.

AUAB also discussed:

a) 30% Superannuation benefits to BSNL directly recruited employees.
b) Outsourcing of Passive Infra Maintenance of Non BSNL Sites and
c) Repatriation of excess ITS Officers against the Cabinet decision for diminishing order.

Details will be updated----

Reply from DoT on the status of filling the vacant Functional Director posts [DIR(Fin), DIR(CFA) and DIR(CM)] in BSNL. SNEA has written to Hon Prime Minister on 30.08.2018 --- For the revival of BSNL, first and foremost requirement is to fill up all the three vacant functional Director posts in BSNL, Director(Finance), Director(CFA) and Director(CM) on urgent basis.
Reply from DoT on the PMO reference || GS letter to Hon PM on 30.08.2018

Meeting with Shri Anupam Shrivastava, CMD/BSNL on 04.10.2018: GS met CMD/BSNL and held discussion on the proposal of E2/E3 scales and its approval by DoT. GS informed CMD that the reply given by DPE is processed by DoT and the file is with Secretary/DoT for further directions. GS requested immediate intervention of CMD by personally taking up the matter with Secretary. CMD assured to discuss with Secretary once she returns to the office on 14.10.2018. Meanwhile a DO letter regarding early approval of E2/E3 pay scales will be sent from CMD, it is assured.

Meeting with Shri Keshav Rao, GM(Pers) on 04.10.2018: GS, President, AGS and Jt sec met GM(Pers) and held discussion on 1) resubmitting the Committee report on CPSU Hierarchy, 2) JTO to SDE promotion, 3) Soft tenure break and 4) promotion for the missing cases.

1) On the Committee report, it is informed that it may take few more days as some feedback is yet to get from some section.

2) On JTO to SDE promotion, we held detailed discussion based on our letter dated 17.09.2018. Since Hon HC permitted to give promotions even before finalization of AIEL, all possibility is to be explored for the promotions from the remaining JTOs, to the extent possible. The AIEL is finalized for the DoT rect upto 1999, DoT rect and BSNL rect are segregated by Hon HC and promotion orders are issued. Remaining JTOs can be promoted on interim measure. The promotion can be regularized after finalization of AIEL, we suggested. Management is trying to establish that there is no contempt and of opined that after giving much awaited promotions, management is facing contempt and other court cases which is not a positive sign. Finally GM(P) assured to examine the matter and continue the discussions next week.

3) Soft tenure break: The matter will be discussed with DIR(HR) for approval.

4) Promotion for the missing cases: Due to the contempt cases, further promotions are not processing, GM(P) informed. We explained that the pending cases are nothing to do with the contempt cases and they are very seniors, their juniors are already promoted. Finally GM(P) assured to discuss this with DIR(HR) and do the needful.

Meeting with Shri Sourabh Tyagi, Sr GM(Estt) on 04.10.2018: GS met Sr GM(Estt) and held discussion on 1) sending a DO letter regarding early approval of E2/E3 pay scales and 2) Board approval for E1/E2A pay scales notionally from 01.10.2000 for the Civil/Electrical/TF/Arch/PA/Ps etc and 3) Board approval for the AD(OL) scale:

Based on the discussions held earlier with CMD, DIR(HR) and GM(Estt), a draft DO letter is prepared, GM(Estt) informed.

On approval of E1A/E2A scales from 01.10.2000, the possibility of settling the issue without altering the Presidential order is under examination. Whether it can be shifted to another date to overcome the objections of DOT, it is under examination.

The AD(OL) pay scale proposal is an agenda in todays Board meeting and in all probability, it will be approved, informed GM(Estt).

GS writes to CMD/BSNL: Outsourcing of O&M activities of passive infra of Non-collocated BTS sites – the rates needed to be revisited again in view of 1) huge investment BSNL already made in the last few years, 2) the exorbitantly higher rates and 3) revenue from the BTSs.
GS letter to CMD

Meeting with Smt Smita Chaudhary, GM(FP): GS and AGS met GM(FP) on 03.10.2018 and held discussion of AO to CAO and CAO to DGM(F) promotions: On AO to CAO promotion, the legal opinion based on the final judgment of the Hon SC on reservation issue is expected from the Sr Lawyer. Earlier BSNL sought the legal opinion on application of reservation based on the interim order of the Supreme Court. However last week Hon Supreme Court delivered the final judgment and now the legal opinion is sought on the final judgment. The legal opinion is expected this week.
The CAO to DGM(F) promotion is resubmitted to the competent authority for approval.