Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 11: Bank employees across India held protests today, calling for a 5-day work week and permanent recruitment to address staffing shortages.
The demonstrations took place at various regional, zonal, and head offices, organized by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), which includes organizations like AIBOC, AIBEA, NCBE, BEFI, INBEC, INBOC, NOBW, and NOBO.
Union leaders, including Vishal Verma, AIBOC President, Jammu and Kashmir and Rajesh Mehta, AIBOC Secretary, Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh UT, led the protests in Jammu.
A major demand of the unions is the introduction of a 5-day work week in the banking sector.
Union representatives pointed out that, although an agreement was made in March 2024 for this change, the Government has not yet implemented it.
“With digital banking services available 24×7 and most Government offices already following a 5-day week, it’s time for the banking sector to do the same,” said a UFBU spokesperson.
Another key demand is permanent recruitment across all cadres to reduce the workload on existing employees and improve customer service.
Unions also raised concerns about increasing workloads due to staff shortages and requested fair policies on promotions and transfers.
They opposed attempts at privatization and unfair labor practices within the banking sector.
These protests are part of a larger movement, which includes a nationwide strike planned for 24th and 25th March 2025.
The Union leaders warned of intensified protests if their demands are not met.
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