The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has announced a two-day nationwide strike on March 24 and 25, 2025. The primary demands driving this action include the implementation of a five-day workweek and adequate recruitment across all cadres in public sector banks.
Key Demands of the UFBU:
1. Five-Day Workweek: The UFBU is advocating for a five-day workweek in the banking sector, a proposal that has been under discussion but not yet realized.
2. Adequate Recruitment: The union emphasizes the need for sufficient hiring across all levels to address current staff shortages and enhance operational efficiency.
3. Withdrawal of Recent DFS Directives: The UFBU is calling for the immediate retraction of recent directives from the Department of Financial Services (DFS) concerning performance reviews and Performance Linked Incentives (PLI). The union argues that these directives compromise job security, create divisions among employees, and undermine the autonomy of public sector banks.
4. Appointment of Workmen and Officer Directors: The union demands the prompt appointment of workmen and officer directors in public sector banks to ensure balanced representation in decision-making processes.
5. Resolution of Long-Pending Issues: The UFBU seeks the resolution of various longstanding issues with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), including matters related to employee welfare and operational policies.
The UFBU has indicated that if these demands are not addressed, more stringent actions may follow. Agitation programs are set to commence soon after the official strike notice is served later this month.
This planned strike underscores the ongoing tensions between bank unions and management, highlighting critical issues such as employee welfare, operational efficiency, and the autonomy of public sector banks. Stakeholders and customers are advised to stay informed about developments to mitigate potential disruptions during the strike period.