Nationwide bank strike called off after talks on five-day work week

Strike Deferred

A planned three-air nationwide bank strike from September 28 to 30 has been put on hold. The United Forum of Bank Unions announced the decision on Sunday, September 27, following a late-night meeting with the Indian Banks' Association.

Core Demands

The talks focused on the long-pending demand to make all Saturdays holidays for bank employees. A high-level committee will now be formed to discuss this proposal along with customer interests and other stakeholder views.

Other Issues

Unions and management also plan to discuss the Performance Linked Incentive scheme for Scale IV and above officers. Both sides will look at other pending matters listed from earlier discussions in March 2024.

Context

Bank unions in India have long pushed for a five-day work week, as banks currently remain open on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of each month. Resolving these demands typically involves prolonged talks between employee unions and banking bodies to balance staff work conditions with public service needs.