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The United Forum of Punjab & Sind Bank Unions (AIPSBOF–AIPSBOU) has decided to postpone its nationwide strike that was scheduled for May 19, 2025. The decision was made after a conciliation meeting held on May 14 at the office of the Regional Labour Commissioner (RLC), New Delhi.
The meeting was mediated by Mr. Ashok Perumalla, Regional Labour Commissioner, and attended by representatives from both the bank’s management and the unions. The strike was initially called to protest against the bank’s new Transfer Policy and the lack of transparency in the Promotion Policy, as stated in the union’s strike notice dated May 2, 2025.
Meeting Minutes
The Bank Union said:
The conciliation proceedings held as scheduled. After prolonged discussions, the management has agreed to hold a meeting with the union on the issues framed by the union in their strike notice, within a week’s time, in order to resolve them. The unions have also agreed to defer the strike on the issues raised by them, on the request of management. Next conciliation proceeding will be held on 22/5/25 at 1500 Hrs.
Key Demands Raised by the Unions
1. Transfer Policy
The unions strongly objected to the recently introduced transfer policy, calling it harsh and unfair. They claimed that it had caused widespread confusion and unrest among staff.
- The bank management responded that the policy was approved by the Board and cannot be withdrawn.
- The RLC suggested the possibility of modifying the policy instead of scrapping it entirely.
- As a result, the management has been instructed to meet with the unions within a week to discuss potential changes.
2. Promotion Policy
The unions raised serious concerns about the lack of fairness and transparency in recent promotions.
- Many promotions were reportedly given to staff in controlling offices, while field staff were overlooked.
- The unions demanded the release of interview and group discussion marks used in the promotion process.
- Although the bank agreed to disclose these marks from next year, the union insisted they should also be released for the current promotion cycle.
- If implemented, this would mark a major achievement for the union and a step toward fairness in promotions.
3. Disciplinary Actions
The unions also alleged that disciplinary proceedings were being misused to harass employees.
- The management denied the claim and maintained that the process was fair.
- The RLC advised the unions to bring specific examples to the next meeting.
- The management was asked to ensure greater transparency and fairness in disciplinary actions going forward.
Strike Postponed, But Unions Remain Vigilant
After detailed discussions and on the advice of the RLC, the unions agreed to defer the planned strike. However, they made it clear that if the bank moves ahead with any orders before further talks, the strike could still happen. The union stressed that their key demands — especially changes to the transfer and promotion policies — must be addressed sincerely by the bank. The next conciliation meeting is scheduled for May 26, 2025.
Who Attended the Meeting?
Union representatives present:
- Sanjay Kumar Khan, General Secretary (AIBOA)
- Ratneshwar Chaudhary, General Secretary (AIPSBOF – Code 91)
- Samir Mantrao, President (AIPSBOF – Code 91)
- Vijay Krishna Mathur, Deputy General Secretary (AIPSBOF)
- Jhataklal Yadav, Deputy General Secretary (AIPSBOF)
- Pradeep Kumar, President (AIPSBOU)
- And other senior leaders
Management representatives included:
- Deputy General Manager (HRD) Harjinder Singh
- S. Santosh Chaudhary, Assistant General Manager – Industrial Relations (AGM-IR)
- Others from the HR team
Final Message from the Union
The United Forum has urged all its members to stay united and prepared. Updates will be shared as the situation develops. The union continues to hope for a fair and constructive resolution in the best interest of staff and the institution.
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