The proposed three‑day nationwide bank strike has been deferred after “understandings were reached” between bank unions and managements during late‑night discussions on Sunday.
The All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) confirmed that all banks will function normally, as talks with the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) addressed key union demands. Among the most pressing issues was the demand for a five‑day working week, which has long been sought by employees.
A high‑level committee comprising representatives from the IBA and United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) will be formed immediately to deliberate on declaring the remaining Saturdays as holidays. The committee will also review other demands raised during the meeting.
C. H. Venkatachalam, General Secretary of AIBEA, said: “We had three main demands. Discussion was held on all of them. One of them was for a five‑day working week. Decision has been taken to form a committee to see how it can be implemented.”
The strike call had earlier triggered concerns about disruption in banking services nationwide. With the deferment, customers can expect normal operations, while unions continue negotiations to secure better working conditions.
