A major two-day nationwide bank strike begins today, March 24, 2025, as bank unions continue to demand a five-day work week and other employee benefits. The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) after discussions with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) failed to resolve key demands.
Bank Strike Today: Unions Push for Five-Day Work Week, Government Takes Serious Note
Key Demands of the Bank Unions:
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Implementation of a five-day work week in banks
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Recruitment across all levels in public sector banks
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Withdrawal of performance-linked incentive (PLI) policies
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Amendments to the Gratuity Act, raising the ceiling to ₹25 lakh
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Reduction of government micromanagement in banking operations
Government’s Response
According to reports, the government is taking the unions’ demands seriously and has assured discussions on implementing a five-day work week. However, with no immediate resolution, the strike is expected to affect banking services across the country.
Impact on Customers
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The strike follows a long weekend (March 22 being the fourth Saturday and March 23 a Sunday), leading to an extended bank closure.
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Customers are advised to use digital banking services during this period to avoid inconvenience.
Further negotiations between the unions and the government are expected, but as of now, the strike will continue as planned.
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