J&K Bank Fires Chief Manager Sajad Bazaz For State's Security Interests
The Jammu and Kashmir Bank has dismissed a Chief Manager-level officer, Sajad Bazaz, due to concerns related to the state's security interests. The bank's decision to terminate him was accompanied by the choice to forgo a formal investigation. Sajad Bazaz is recognised not only as a Chief Manager but also as a prominent economic affairs and banking columnist for the local daily Greater Kashmir.
According to the bank's communication, the Managing Director emphasised that, considering the significance of the state's security interests, conducting an inquiry into the case of Sajad Ahmad Bazaz would not be appropriate or beneficial. Thus, his role as Chief Manager has been promptly terminated, based on a comprehensive evaluation of the situation provided by reliable agencies.
Sajad Bazaz had been assigned to the Internal Communication and Marketing department of the bank. The dismissal aligns with the relevant regulations, particularly Rule/Provision 12.29 of the Organizational Service Manual (OSM).
The bank clarified that this action underscores its unwavering commitment to upholding integrity and safeguarding the organisation's and the state's overall interests. Notably, this is the first instance of an employee being dismissed from the bank without undergoing a formal inquiry.
The Lieutenant Governor of J&K defended the decision, highlighting the constitutional provision for stern measures against those threatening the integrity and sovereignty of the state and the nation. He emphasized a firm stance against individuals involved in terrorism support and illegal means of obtaining government positions.
Previously, around 50 government officials were terminated by the J&K Government using provisions under Article 311 (2) (c), which bypasses the need for departmental trials or investigations except for security agency reports.
In April 2021, the J&K Government established a Special Task Force (STF) to identify and scrutinize government employees connected to security threats or anti-national activities.
Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti questioned the bank's move, asserting that selectively terminating Kashmiri employees under allegations of terrorist sympathies and ISI connections has become normalized. She criticised the absence of a chance for the accused to prove their innocence, expressing concern over such actions aiming to intimidate the people of Kashmir into submission.
