In a recent wave of disturbing revelations, the Indian financial sector finds itself under scrutiny for fostering toxic work environments, particularly within sales and target-driven departments. Two videos capturing instances of employee harassment have gone viral, shedding light on the intense pressure faced by junior staff members.
The first video, circulated on April 24, captures a chilling scene at Bandhan Bank, where an officer identified as Kunal Bhardwaj launches into a tirade against a junior employee who allegedly failed to meet monthly targets. Bhardwaj’s aggressive demeanour, punctuated by foul language, underscores the hostile atmosphere within the institution.
In the footage, as the apologetic employee promises to rectify his mistake, Bhardwaj’s response is anything but empathetic. “Definitely correct sir?… Are you even ashamed of yourself? This is March?” he berates, exemplifying the culture of fear and intimidation prevalent in such environments.
The second video surfaced on 4 May, exposing similar misconduct at Canara Bank, where officer Lokapati Swain chastises employees for prioritising personal time over work commitments. His scathing remarks, laden with disdain for familial obligations, highlight a systemic disregard for work-life balance.
In a statement, Swain articulated a perspective that underscored corporate allegiance over personal welfare. He stated, “If you will not participate in recovery, including holidays because you want time after working to travel with your family but your hell to your family. What should I do? And the bank has given you a job for work not for travelling with family. I don’t care about my family, I don’t care about my family also, I care about Canara Bank.”
In response to the uproar, Bandhan Bank has issued a statement acknowledging the incident and denouncing such behaviour. The bank highlighted that it doesn’t endorse or promote such an approach and has initiated necessary action.
Similarly, Canara Bank has distanced itself from Swain’s remarks, emphasising its disrespect for employees and their families. Denying support to any such behaviour, the bank clarified that necessary action has already been taken.
As these videos spread across social-media platforms, they serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to reform workplace cultures within the financial sector, prioritising employee well-being over relentless pursuit of targets.
