Public Release- Rajahmundhry | 21 July 2026
The All India Bank of Baroda Officers' Union (AIBOBOU), affiliated to AIBOA, has issued a significant declaration titled "The Voice Cannot Be Withdrawn", reaffirming its unwavering commitment to democratic trade unionism, institutional accountability and the welfare of officers of Bank of Baroda.
Released on the occasion of the 119th Foundation Day of Bank of Baroda, the declaration draws a symbolic connection between the celebration of one of India's premier public sector banks and the larger democratic values that sustain strong public institutions. The Union has asserted that while achievements in business, profitability and market valuation are important, the true strength of any institution ultimately rests upon transparency, fairness, accountability and a willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.
AIBOBOU has clarified that raising concerns regarding administrative decisions should never be misconstrued as criticism of the institution itself.
The Union emphasized that Bank of Baroda is a national institution built through the dedication of generations of employees and belongs to the people of India—not to any individual office bearer, department or administration.
According to the declaration, questioning administrative actions, seeking transparency and highlighting officers' concerns are acts intended to strengthen the institution rather than weaken it.
The Union reiterated that over the years it has consistently represented numerous issues affecting officers, including:
Transparent and fair transfer policies
Promotion processes and merit-based evaluation
Appraisal systems
Adequate staffing and manpower planning
Work-life balance
HR transparency
Institutional dialogue
Protection of officers' dignity and service conditions
AIBOBOU stated that every representation submitted by the Union has been guided by one objective—to make Bank of Baroda stronger, more transparent, equitable and professionally managed.
A major focus of the declaration is the Bank's order dated 24 June 2026, withdrawing the Check-Off Facility extended to the Union.
The Union expressed serious concern over the decision and stated that it has consistently sought a clear legal basis for such action.
According to AIBOBOU, matters affecting the functioning of a registered trade union deserve transparent legal justification and open institutional dialogue.
The declaration also notes that discussions held with the Bank on 6 July 2026 created hope for a constructive resolution. While appreciating the cordial atmosphere during the meeting, the Union observed that dialogue must ultimately result in meaningful action.
In one of the strongest messages contained in the declaration, AIBOBOU announced that withdrawal of administrative facilities would never result in withdrawal of the officers' collective voice.
The Union declared four major commitments:
To pursue legal remedies against the withdrawal of the Check-Off Facility before the appropriate judicial forum with full faith in the rule of law.
To continue representing officers irrespective of administrative restrictions.
To regularly communicate issues concerning officers, institutional governance and accountability in a responsible and factual manner.
To continue raising legitimate questions relating to governance, transparency and institutional reputation whenever public interest so requires.
Appealing to officers across the country, AIBOBOU stated that trade unions exist not merely to celebrate institutional milestones but also to responsibly represent employees whenever fairness, transparency and accountability are perceived to be compromised.
The Union observed that institutions become stronger when constructive criticism is welcomed and democratic dialogue is encouraged.
Calling upon every officer to actively participate in strengthening the institution, the declaration concludes with an appeal to remain:
Fearless but never reckless;
Firm but always fair;
Vocal but always responsible.
It asserts that administrative decisions may change, facilities may be withdrawn and circulars may be questioned, but the voice of a conscientious Barodian officer can never be withdrawn.
The declaration describes this voice as the collective voice of officers committed to ensuring that Bank of Baroda continues to uphold the highest standards of transparency, fairness, accountability and democratic values.
Releasing the declaration, Com. K. Srinivasarao, General Secretary, AIBOBOU, said that the Union remains firmly committed to democratic methods, constructive engagement and lawful institutional dialogue.
He stated in his letter to the Bank's Management that AIBOBOU will continue to represent officers' concerns with responsibility, objectivity and complete faith in constitutional and legal processes, while simultaneously working towards strengthening Bank of Baroda as one of India's leading public sector banks.