Bank account holders and customers can now breathe a sigh of relief as the proposed nationwide bank strike has been postponed.
The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has decided to delay the strike scheduled for March 24
and March 25 after receiving assurances from the government following a meeting with bank union representatives.
This decision came after positive discussions with the Finance Ministry.
The Meeting and Government Assurance
The decision to postpone the strike was made after a meeting on Friday, mediated by the Chief Labor Commissioner in New Delhi.
The meeting involved the Finance Minister, Finance Secretary, the India Bank Association, and the Department of Financial Services.
During the meeting, the government assured the bank unions that their concerns would be addressed, leading to the postponement of the strike.
The next meeting to discuss the demands of the bank employees is scheduled for April 22, 2025.
Bank Employees’ Demands
The bank employees have raised several important demands, including:
1) Adequate staffing in all bank branches.
2) Regularization of temporary employees.
3) Implementation of a five-day work week in banks.
4) Withdrawal of the Performance Review and Productivity Linked Incentive Scheme.
5) Improved safety measures for bank officials and employees.
6) Amendment of the Gratuity Act to increase the maximum limit to Rs 25 lakh.
7) Exemption of staff welfare benefits from income tax.
8) Protection of the government’s shareholding in IDBI Bank, ensuring it remains above 51%.
9) Halt to outsourcing of permanent jobs in the banking sector.
As a result of the postponement, banking services will continue as usual on March 24 and 25 in both government and private banks across the country.
