The planned three-day nationwide bank strike, set to take place from September 28 to 30, has been postponed after a meeting between the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU). Announced in a circular issued by the UFBU on September 27, this decision followed discussions that took place at 9:30 pm the previous evening.

The UFBU has stated that a high-level committee comprising members from both the IBA and UFBU will be established immediately. This committee aims to address the demand for designating remaining Saturdays as holidays and will explore alternative solutions that can be mutually agreed upon by all parties involved, including customers.

Furthermore, the two sides have reportedly consented to initiate discussions regarding the Performance Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme applicable to Scale IV and above officers. The IBA will propose amendments to the government in order to address concerns raised by various unions and associations regarding this scheme.

Focus on Previous Commitments and Issues

In the circular released by the UFBU, it was also mentioned that residual matters outlined in the meeting minutes from March 8, 2024, will be prioritised for discussion and prompt resolution. This indicates a commitment from both sides to address outstanding issues that have been lingering for some time.

“Given these developments, the UFBU has decided collectively to postpone the proposed strike actions and other protest programmes,” the circular stated, indicating a collaborative effort towards resolving the matter at hand.

Prior to this, the UFBU had announced its intention to initiate a three-day nationwide strike. During a press conference held in Shimla, Narendra Sharma, the UFBU Himachal Pradesh Convenor and President of the Bankers United Forum of Himachal Pradesh, expressed that unions felt compelled to consider industrial action. This was due to commitments made in an agreement with the government over two and a half years ago that have yet to be fulfilled.

Main Concerns of Bank Employees

Sharma elaborated on the unions’ main demands, which include the implementation of a five-day banking week with Saturdays and Sundays designated as weekly holidays. Another critical issue raised was the unilateral implementation of the new Performance Linked Incentive scheme by the Department of Financial Services.

He noted that more than two and a half years have passed since the initial agreement was signed, yet the commitments within it have not been realised, pushing unions towards the brink of agitation. This lack of action has caused frustration among bank employees and officers.

Sharma emphasised that the intent of bank employees is not to disrupt services for customers. He acknowledged the significance of maintaining uninterrupted banking operations and the potential challenges customers might encounter during any strike action. However, he reiterated that when legitimate demands remain unaddressed for such an extended period, industrial action becomes necessary to attract the government’s attention.

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