The All India Bank Officers’ Confederation (AIBOC), Uttar Pradesh State Unit, has formally requested Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to declare March 15, 2025 (Saturday), as a public holiday under Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, in observance of Holi. Bank Holidays List 2025.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, AIBOC highlighted that the Uttar Pradesh government, through its notification dated December 17, 2024, had announced the list of holidays for the year 2025. According to this notification, March 14, 2025, has been declared a public holiday for Holi, while March 15 has been categorized as a restricted holiday.
The confederation pointed out that Holi is one of the most significant festivals in Uttar Pradesh, symbolizing cultural unity, love, and social harmony. Since the festival is traditionally celebrated over two days, with major festivities and rituals taking place on the second day, restricting the holiday on March 15 could inconvenience a large section of the population. Bank Holidays List 2025.
The letter further emphasized that Holi fosters a sense of joy and brotherhood among people, and granting a public holiday on March 15 would allow employees across various sectors, including banking, to fully participate in the celebrations.
AIBOC argued that keeping March 15 as a restricted holiday instead of a full-fledged public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, does not align with the cultural and social significance of the festival. Bank Holidays List 2025.
Lakshman Singh, General Secretary of AIBOC, stated that the request was made keeping in mind the sentiments of the people and the widespread celebration of Holi in Uttar Pradesh. He expressed confidence that the Chief Minister would take a positive decision, ensuring that the festival is observed in its true spirit without any constraints.
The Uttar Pradesh government is now expected to review the request. If accepted, the move would provide relief to many employees, particularly those in the banking sector, who would otherwise have to report to work on a day of great cultural importance. The final decision from the state administration is awaited, and further announcements are expected soon. Bank Holidays List 2025.