Bank unions across India have announced a nationwide strike on February 12. The All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA), and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) have invited their members to participate in the strike, alongside 10 Central Trade Unions (CTUs). The unions are protesting against four new Labour Codes introduced by the government in November, which replace 29 existing labour laws, and have highlighted concerns over “increasing attacks on the working class,” ET reported. In a letter to its units, the unions said, “The labour codes proposed to be implemented are totally against the workers and stringent conditions have been prescribed to register trade unions.” The associations have also long campaigned for improved work-life balance and the adoption of a five-day work week.The news has left customers uncertain about their usual banking transactions on the day and whether banking services will be able. Knowing bank schedule can be helpful for users to plan their transactions and other banking activities.
Will banks stay open on February 12?
Most banks will remain open as no major bank has announced a holiday. While the RBI has not declared February 12, Thursday a holiday, institutions have flagged potential operational disruptions. Bank of Baroda informed the BSE, “The Bank is taking all the necessary steps for the smooth functioning of bank’s branches and offices on the day of the strike, in the event the strike materialises, the functioning of the branches and offices may be affected.” Similarly, SBI stated, “We advise that while the bank has made necessary arrangements to ensure normal functioning in its branches and offices on the day of strike, it is likely that work in the Bank may be impacted to a limited extent.” Both banks confirmed that they had received official notice of the strike from AIBEA, AIBOA, and BEFI regarding their decision to take industrial action over various demands.
