A planned three-day nationwide bank strike, originally scheduled to commence on September 28 and continue until September 30, has been called off. This decision follows late-night discussions held on Sunday between the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) and the Indian Banks' Association (IBA), culminating in a mutual understanding.
Key Agreements and Future Discussions
The UFBU confirmed the deferral, stating that an agreement was reached during a meeting held at 9:30 PM on Sunday. Central to this understanding is the immediate formation of a high-level committee comprising representatives from both the IBA and UFBU.
Saturday Holidays and Performance Incentives
- Saturday Holidays: The committee's primary mandate will be to explore the demand for declaring the remaining Saturdays as holidays for bank employees. This initiative aims to find solutions acceptable to all stakeholders, including, significantly, the banking customers.
- Performance Linked Incentive (PLI): Discussions will also encompass the Performance Linked Incentive scheme for officers in Scale IV and above. The UFBU indicated that talks could begin with the IBA proposing modifications to the government regarding the scheme, addressing observations raised by various unions and associations.
Additionally, other outstanding issues from the minutes dated March 8, 2024, are slated for discussion between the two parties, with a focus on achieving an expeditious resolution.
In light of these developments and agreements, the UFBU confirmed its decision to defer the proposed agitational programs and strike actions.