In a significant move to address pressing challenges faced by the banking sector and its members, the All India Bank Officers’ Confederation (AIBOC) has announced a two-day nationwide strike, tentatively scheduled for February 24 and 25, 2025. This decision was finalized during the 102nd Executive Committee Meeting held on January 6, 2025, via a virtual platform.
The meeting ratified decisions taken at the earlier Working Committee Meeting held in Mumbai on November 12, 2024, as highlighted in Circular No. 25 dated November 13, 2024.
Key Demands Raised by AIBOC
- Adequate Recruitment: Address the shortage of staff across all cadres in banks.
- Five-Day Work Week: Implement a five-day work week for the banking industry.
- Withdrawal of DFS Directives: Demand the immediate withdrawal of the Department of Financial Services (DFS) directives on performance reviews and the Performance Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which threaten job security, create divisions among employees, and undermine the autonomy of public sector banks (PSBs).
- Safety of Bank Staff: Ensure protection for bank officers and staff against customer assaults and abuses.
- Fill Vacant Posts: Expedite the appointment of workmen and officer directors in PSBs.
- Resolution of Pending Issues: Resolve residual issues with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA).
- Amend the Gratuity Act: Increase the gratuity ceiling to ₹25 lakhs, similar to government employees’ schemes, and provide income tax exemptions.
Issues Opposed by AIBOC
- Micromanagement of PSBs: Stop undue interference by the DFS in policy matters, which undermines the autonomy of PSB boards.
- Unfair Labour Practices: End discriminatory and exploitative practices in the banking industry.
Action Plan and Agitation Programs
The executive committee has proposed to initiate agitation programs immediately after serving the strike notice later this month. Detailed schedules will be shared with all state units and affiliates.
Call for Unity and Collective Action
AIBOC leaders have urged all affiliates to prepare for the upcoming struggle by conducting meetings at all levels to communicate the resolutions. Members are encouraged to organize grassroots-level engagements at district and branch levels to strengthen unity and foster commitment to the movement.
A Message of Resilience and Solidarity
Addressing members, AIBOC leaders said, “The path ahead is challenging, but our collective strength and solidarity will guide us. History has shown that we can overcome adversity through unity and determination. Together, we will safeguard our legitimate rights and uphold the integrity of the banking sector.”
The banking fraternity is now gearing up for a significant battle to ensure justice and fairness for employees while protecting the sector’s autonomy and stability. Further updates will follow as the agitation programs unfold.
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