Convener News Desk
Jammu, Jan 27: The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) on Tuesday successfully observed a nationwide strike and demonstrations as part of its countrywide agitational programme, demanding the immediate implementation of a five-day work week in the banking industry.
Following the strike call, banking operations across the country remained largely shut, reflecting the overwhelming response and unity of bank employees and officers. Massive demonstrations were held at major centres, where employees participated in large numbers, raising slogans and displaying placards in support of their long-pending demand for improved work-life balance and humane working conditions.
Addressing the media, AIBOC leaders Rajesh Mehta and Vishal Verma said the demand for a five-day work week is legitimate and long overdue, having already been agreed in principle between the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and UFBU during wage revision talks in March 2024. However, they said the required government approval and formal notification have been inordinately delayed, forcing bank employees to intensify their protest.
They pointed out that three earlier strike calls were deferred on the basis of assurances, but continued inaction left unions with no option but to resort to a strike. “This agitation is not abrupt; it is the result of repeated delays despite consensus at the negotiating table,” they said.
The leaders highlighted that bank employees today face unprecedented workload pressure, extended working hours, and frequent deployment on holidays and weekends, even as the sector has rapidly shifted to digital banking platforms. With most routine transactions now taking place online, they said the continuation of a six-day work week is outdated, irrational and harmful to employee well-being.
Employees and officers from public sector banks, several private banks, and regional rural banks participated in the strike under the UFBU banner. Memoranda submitted during demonstrations stressed that employees are not opposed to public service, but are seeking fair, sustainable and humane working conditions, which would ultimately strengthen the banking system.
UFBU reiterated that the strike was peaceful, disciplined and entirely within the constitutional framework. The forum asserted that responsibility for disruption of banking services rests with the authorities for failing to act despite repeated representations and assurances.
Appealing to the Government of India, UFBU leaders urged that the five-day work week be approved, implemented and officially notified without further delay.
Reaffirming its resolve, the UFBU said the agitational programme will continue until justice is delivered. “The unity, discipline and massive participation witnessed today send a clear message that bank employees across the country are determined to secure their rightful demand,” the forum stated.
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