Nov 17: In a significant announcement, the All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), the largest association representing bank employees, has revealed plans for a series of strikes that will span over 13 days, affecting banking services across the country. The strike is set to take place on different days between December 4 and January 20, disrupting operations in various nationalized and private banks. Contrary to a continuous shutdown, AIBEA has strategically planned the strikes on different dates to maximize impact and draw attention to their demands. Among the key issues raised by the association are concerns about the ongoing recruitment of bank employees and the practice of outsourcing. The strike schedule outlined by AIBEA includes a series of strikes in different nationalized and private banks from December 4 to 11. Following this, bank employees in various states will participate in the protest from January 2 to 6. The culmination of this nationwide movement will be marked by a two-day, all-India bankers’ strike on January 19-20, 2024.
CH Venkatachalam, the General Secretary of AIBEA, voiced the association’s opposition to the government and banks’ attempts to increase the number of supervisory staff while reducing the number of clerks and subordinate employees. This move is seen as an effort to trim the workforce under the Industrial Dispute Act, a stance vehemently opposed by AIBEA. As the strike dates approach, it is essential for the public to stay informed and plan their banking activities accordingly, given the expected disruptions in services.
Private banks will join strike
Private banks will also go on an all India strike on December 11. The impact of the strike can be major on January 19 and 20 when all banks, including public and private, will go on strike.
Strike to begin on December 4
The all India strike will begin with strikes at SBI, Punjab National Bank, and Punjab and Sind Bank on December 4. Different banks will be closed on December 5, 6, 7, 8, and 11.
State-wise bank strike
However, from January 2, the strike will convert into state-wise halts of work. On that day, employees of all banks in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Pudducherry, Andaman & Nicobar, and Lakshwadeep will go on strike. State-wise strikes will be held on January 3, 4, 5, and 6.
UP and Delhi bank strike
The banks in Uttar Pradesh and New Delhi will remain closed on January 4 and 5, respectively.
Two-day all India bank strike
All banks, including public and private, will go on a two-day strike on January 19 and 20.
