Over 140 SBI ATM Guards Dismissed in Jamshedpur; Protests Erupt

Jamshedpur: More than 140 security guards deployed at State Bank of India (SBI) ATMs across Jamshedpur and surrounding areas lost their jobs following a sudden dismissal by their agency. The decision sparked intense protests on Saturday as both male and female guards took to the streets, leading to dozens of SBI ATMs operating without security throughout the city.

Protests at SBI Main Branch and Police Station

Hundreds of security personnel gathered at the SBI Main Branch in Bistupur during the afternoon to register their opposition. The protesters later marched to the Bistupur police station and submitted a written complaint. The guards stated they had served honestly for years under the agency WWSO Enterprises Limited, Bengaluru, but were served notices on April 30 informing them that May 1, 2026, would be their final working day.

Allegations of Retaliation Over PF Demands

Protesters alleged that the agency terminated them in retaliation for demanding Provident Fund (PF) and other mandatory allowances. The guards had previously filed cases regarding these benefits in the Chaibasa Court and with the Assistant Labour Commissioner in Dhanbad, both of which remain pending. The workers characterized the dismissal as a conspiracy orchestrated by Channel Head RK Pandey to undermine their legal fight for labour rights.

Mediation Fails to Resolve Crisis

In response to the growing unrest, Bistupur police attempted to mediate a discussion between guard representatives and State Bank ATM Service officials on Saturday evening. However, the lengthy negotiations ended without a resolution. The abrupt termination has left more than 140 families facing immediate financial instability and the threat of starvation.