The Delhi High Court has instructed the Delhi Police to identify an alternative location for bank employees’ unions to conduct a protest in the national capital by September 28. This directive was issued following the police’s refusal to grant permission for, and delay in granting permission for, a planned dharna at Jantar Mantar on September 28, 29, and 30.

Justice Amit Mahajan presided over the matter, responding to a plea submitted by the United Forum of Bank Unions Delhi State (UFBU). The court mandated that the police communicate their decision regarding the alternative site to the union by Monday.

The court’s ruling does not guarantee permission for Jantar Mantar itself; however, it compels the police to respond with a suitable location before the strike commences. The decision aims to uphold the right of bank employees to assemble and voice their concerns.

Nationwide Bank Strike Scheduled

The planned protest is associated with a three-day nationwide bank strike organised by UFBU from September 28 to 30, which is anticipated to disrupt operations at bank branches across the country. This action follows several ongoing disputes concerning employee rights and working conditions.

Shiv Shankar Singh, the Working President of the All India Bank Officers’ Confederation in Delhi, spoke about the objectives of the strike. Among the principal demands is the implementation of a five-day work week for bank employees. Singh pointed out that this proposal was agreed upon during the last wage settlement on March 8, 2024, but has yet to be put into effect.

Singh also highlighted the union’s preference for the Old Pension Scheme over the current system, stressing its benefits in offering financial security after retirement or in the event of an employee’s demise. The current New Pension Scheme reportedly lacks certain financial safeguards for spouses and families.

Additional Demands and Financial Considerations

The unions have outlined several other significant demands that they hope to address during the protests. These include a call for an income tax exemption on the extra four per cent contribution made by banks to the National Pension System (NPS). Unions argue that such a measure would alleviate financial burdens on bank employees.

Moreover, the unions are urging for an increase in the gratuity ceiling under the Gratuity Act. They are also advocating for adjustments to pension updates, a uniform Dearness Allowance (DA) on pensions, and a revision of ex-gratia payments for pensioners. These changes are to be effective starting from November 2022.

The upcoming strike is, therefore, a culmination of various unresolved issues confronting bank employees, reflecting the ongoing tension between financial institutions and their workforce. The outcome of the court’s directive regarding protest locations remains a pivotal factor for the unions as they prepare for the strike.

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