Two-Day Bank Strike Disrupts Services, Branches to Remain Closed

Bank customers may face inconvenience over the next two days as bank employees observe a two-day strike, leading to the closure of several bank branches. Due to this strike, routine banking operations at physical branches have come to a halt. Customers planning to visit banks during this period may find branches closed. However, digital services such as online banking, mobile banking, ATMs, and UPI transactions will continue to function as usual.

Which Banks Are Affected by the Strike

The strike is being observed mainly by employees of rural banks. In Haryana, officials and staff of Haryana Gramin Bank have begun protests, particularly in Rohtak. As a result, rural bank branches across the state are closed for two days. Employee unions have warned that if their demands are not addressed, the strike could be extended beyond the scheduled dates.

Reasons Behind the Bank Employees’ Protest

According to the Haryana Gramin Bank Officers Association, employees feel they are being treated unfairly. The association president stated that income tax has effectively become a prepaid burden on employees, as they are forced to bear it themselves. The employees are demanding that the bank should pay the full tax amount on their behalf, similar to benefits provided in other public sector banks.

Disparity in Allowances Raises Concerns

One of the major issues highlighted by the association is the large difference in petrol allowance. Rural bank clerks receive petrol allowance equivalent to only 10 liters per month, while Scale-3 officers receive 25 liters. In comparison, employees of Punjab National Bank are given petrol allowance for up to 95 liters per month. Employees argue that this gap is unjustified, especially given their workload and responsibilities.

Demand for Furniture Allowance

Another key demand relates to furniture allowance. At present, this benefit is provided only to Scale-4 officers in rural banks. Scale-1 to Scale-3 officers are excluded from this facility. The association has demanded that furniture allowance should be extended to all eligible officers, similar to the benefits given to PNB employees.

Unresolved Issues Lead to Strike Action

There are around 690 rural bank branches in the state, employing nearly 3,600 staff members. Despite generating higher profit per employee compared to some large banks, rural bank employees continue to receive lower allowances. The association noted that protests held in February last year led to assurances, but none of the agreed demands were implemented. After several failed discussions with management, employees decided to go on strike on 2nd and 3rd February.

Conclusion

The two-day strike has once again highlighted long-standing issues faced by rural bank employees. While customers may experience short-term inconvenience, employees hope this protest will push authorities to address their demands seriously.

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Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Banking operations, strike schedules, and services may vary by location and are subject to change based on official announcements. Customers are advised to check with their local bank branch or official bank notifications for the latest updates.