Hassan: A video allegedly showing a bank manager locking junior employees inside a Karnataka Grameen Bank branch in Hassan district to make them work beyond office hours has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread criticism and raising concerns over workplace practices in the banking sector.
The incident reportedly took place on July 18 at the bank’s Arkalgud branch, where a Customer Service Associate (CSA) was allegedly prevented from leaving after completing his scheduled working hours.
Viral video sparks workplace harassment allegations
The video, which has been widely shared on social media, appears to show the branch manager locking the office gate after regular working hours while junior employees remain inside.
According to reports, the employee had already extended his working hours from the prescribed 5 pm closing time to 6 pm and requested permission to leave after completing his assigned work.
In the video, the employee is heard objecting to being made to stay beyond office hours and refers to the employment terms governing his work schedule.
The manager is allegedly heard saying, “Nahi jana hai toh nahi jana hai” (“If you are not allowed to leave, then you are not leaving”), before stating that “overtime is compulsory.”
Employee questions being locked inside
The video further shows the employee questioning the manager over the reason for locking him and other staff members inside the branch.
The manager allegedly does not provide a direct explanation before closing and locking the office.
The incident has drawn attention online, with many users alleging that the act reflects excessive workplace pressure and concerns over employee welfare.
There has been no official confirmation from the bank regarding the circumstances shown in the video.
Social media users condemn incident
The viral clip prompted strong reactions from social media users, many of whom criticised the alleged treatment of bank employees.
Several users claimed that employees in the banking sector often face heavy workloads, ambitious business targets and staff shortages.
Others argued that no employer has the authority to confine employees inside a workplace after office hours, with some describing the alleged act as unacceptable.
Some users also linked the incident to broader concerns over work-life balance and pressure faced by banking staff.
No official statement yet
As of now, Karnataka Grameen Bank has not issued an official statement regarding the incident or the authenticity of the viral video.
It also remains unclear whether any internal inquiry has been initiated or whether disciplinary action has been taken against those involved.
Authorities have likewise not announced whether any complaint has been formally registered in connection with the incident.
Conclusion
The viral video from the Karnataka Grameen Bank branch in Arkalgud has sparked debate over workplace culture, overtime expectations and employee rights in the banking sector. While the footage has drawn widespread criticism on social media, the bank is yet to issue an official response, and further clarification is awaited regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.