Can My Bank Force Me to Transfer to a Remote Area While My Wife Is Pregnant?

Hello all, I am working with a bank and received a transfer order to a remote area named Wokha in Nagaland. However, due to COVID-19, the transfer has been put on hold. Now, my wife is two months pregnant, and Wokha does not have all the necessary medical facilities for me to take her there. Additionally, I wish to stay with my child until he or she reaches the age of 1.5 to 2 years. Therefore, I have requested my bank for a transfer to a location near my hometown or to allow me to remain in my current branch. Can the bank compel me to relocate to Wokha in such circumstances?

Transfer of employees is based on administrative requirements. Generally, the administration of an organization does not welcome interference. Nevertheless, your situation is different, and on compassionate grounds, if you have asked for the revocation of the transfer order, there is nothing wrong per se. Wait for the decision of the senior management personnel. By chance, if the company officials do not oblige your request, then I recommend submitting one more application. However, that will be the last chance.

Nevertheless, you were transferred anyway, and because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the transfer was put on hold. Against this backdrop, pending the transfer, you could have waited for the family expansion.

Thanks,
Dinesh Divekar

Maybe it works. Why don't you try all possible channels? Meet the concerned officers who have the authority to decide in such matters. Carry documents to prove your case. If you are in the officers' cadre, I believe you may be a member of the staff union. I know office bearers of the unions are capable of helping in such situations. Also, consult your senior colleagues or branch manager for help or suggestions from their side. However, keep in mind that deflecting a transfer posting is not an enforceable right for employees.