Bank employees across India staged widespread protests today, advocating for a 5-day work week and permanent recruitment to alleviate staffing shortages and improve working conditions.
Nationwide Protests Led by UFBU
The demonstrations took place at various regional, zonal, and head offices, organized by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU). The UFBU comprises major banking organizations such as AIBOC, AIBEA, NCBE, BEFI, INBEC, INBOC, NOBW, and NOBO.
Prominent union leaders, including Vishal Verma, AIBOC President of Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajesh Mehta, AIBOC Secretary of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh UT, spearheaded the protests in Jammu. Their presence underscored the urgency of addressing employee concerns within the banking sector.
Key Demand: Implementation of a 5-Day Work Week
One of the major demands raised by the unions is the introduction of a 5-day work week for bank employees. Although an agreement was reached in March 2024, the government has yet to implement the policy.
“With digital banking services operational 24×7 and most government offices already following a 5-day week, it is only fair that the banking sector follows suit,” stated a UFBU spokesperson. Employees believe that adopting a shorter workweek will enhance productivity, reduce stress, and align the industry with global banking standards.
Read also: Mass Unemployment in Jammu & Kashmir – Here’s How the J&K Govt. Plans to Fix It
Addressing Staffing Shortages: Permanent Recruitment Needed
Another pressing issue raised during the protests is the need for permanent recruitment across all cadres. Union representatives emphasized that the lack of sufficient staffing has led to increased workloads, affecting both employee well-being and customer service quality.
By filling vacant positions with permanent employees, banks can improve operational efficiency, provide better service to customers, and ensure a healthier work-life balance for existing staff.
Concerns Over Workload, Promotions, and Privatization
The protests also highlighted concerns over unfair workload distribution, the lack of transparent promotion policies, and transfer-related grievances. Many employees feel that privatization efforts and unjust labor practices threaten job security and overall work conditions in the banking industry.
Unions have strongly opposed any moves towards bank privatization, arguing that it will only exacerbate staffing issues and lead to further job instability.
Nationwide Strike Scheduled for March 2025
The ongoing protests are part of a larger movement aimed at pressuring the government and banking authorities to take action. A nationwide strike is planned for March 24th and 25th, 2025, if these demands are not met.
Union leaders have warned that if authorities fail to respond to their concerns, protests will intensify in the coming months, potentially disrupting banking operations nationwide.
The Road Ahead: Will the Government Respond?
As tensions rise, all eyes are on the government and banking regulators to address these pressing issues. The implementation of a 5-day work week, permanent hiring, and fair labor policies could significantly impact the future of the banking sector in India.
With employee dissatisfaction growing, it remains to be seen whether policymakers will take proactive steps or face escalating industrial action in the months ahead.
