UFBU nationwide agitation demanding the immediate implementation of a 5-Day Banking Week.

UFBU nationwide agitation demanding the immediate implementation of a 5-Day Banking Week.

Strike announced on January 27

Chandigarh 5 January ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), the apex body representing over ten lakh bank employees and officers across the country, organised a centralised demonstration at Bank Square, Sector 17, Chandigarh, as part of its nationwide agitation demanding the immediate implementation of a 5-Day Banking Week. UFBU reiterated that the demand is both reasonable and overdue. At present, over 99% of banking transactions are conducted through digital channels such as UPI, mobile banking, internet banking and ATMs. Customers already have uninterrupted access to banking services on Saturdays and Sundays through these alternative digital platforms. Hence, a 5-Day Banking Week will in no way affect public convenience.

UFBU leaders pointed out that Central, State, government institutions and regulatory bodies, including the Reserve Bank of India, are already working under 5 day work-week models, recognising the importance of productivity, efficiency and work-life balance. After prolonged negotiations, UFBU and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) reached an agreement in March 2024 to introduce a 5-Day work Week in Banking. However, despite the agreement, the Government of India has not yet accorded approval, causing widespread dissatisfaction among bank employees and officers.

Addressing the gathering, UFBU leaders warned that continued delay is unjustified and discriminatory, particularly when similar benefits have been extended to other sectors. They called upon the Government to honour the agreement and implement the decision without further delay. UFBU categorically stated that if the 5-Day work Week is not implemented, the agitation will be intensified, culminating in an All-India Bank Strike on 27 January 2026.

The demonstration was addressed by prominent UFBU leaders including Com. Jagdish Rai (AIBEA), Com. Iqbal Singh Malhi (NCBE), Com. Priyvrat (AIBOC), Com. Rajiv Sirhindi, Com. Pankaj Sharma, Com. Sachin Katiyar, Com. Kranti, Com. Binay Sinha, Com. Manju Sharma, Com. Prem Pawar, Com. Vinay Kumar, Com. Harvinder Singh, among others.