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#5DaysBanking Delayed While ‘Govt Is Now Pushing Bankers to Work Sundays’— United Forum of We Bankers Demand Overtime
The United Forum of We Bankers has opposed a recent directive requiring staff to work on Sundays. The forum highlights that Sunday duty must be compensated through lawful overtime, not just compensatory leave. They also raised concern over the continued delay in implementing Five Days Banking despite prior commitments.
Author: Kalyani Mali
Published: August 4, 2025
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On August 3, 2025, the United Forum of We Bankers (UFWB) issued a statement in response to instructions for bank staff to report to duty on a Sunday. The forum emphasised that employee service conditions are governed by legal agreements, and any additional work must adhere strictly to these norms.
Overtime Compensation is a Legal Entitlement
UFWB stated that performing duties on Sundays or declared holidays qualifies as work beyond the standard schedule and is covered under established service rules. The forum highlighted that compensatory leave cannot replace overtime pay, which is a legally mandated benefit under applicable settlements.
Image: Official statement from United Forum of We Bankers
Courtesy: WeBankers
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Legal Provisions Under Settlements Must Be Followed
According to UFWB, compensation for additional work is governed by service conditions laid down in industry-level awards and settlements. These do not support the practice of substituting overtime with compensatory leave, and employees should be aware of their rights under these agreements.
Forum Encourages Responsible and Informed Action
UFWB has requested employees to ask for specific written instructions if asked to work on Sundays or holidays, and to demand lawful overtime compensation as per settlement provisions, instead of accepting compensatory leave.
Concerns Over #5DaysBanking and Sunday Work Directive
Speaking to Kanal, a representative of the United Forum of We Bankers said, "There is growing concern among employees that despite the signing of the 12th Bipartite Settlement with a 17% increase in the payslip component. The follow-up on key demands such as #5DaysBanking has not progressed. Although an MoU was signed with IBA to pursue the matter further with DFS regarding #5DaysBanking, nothing has happened yet. Instead, the Government is now pushing bankers to open bank branches even on Sundays. Instead of giving a notice for an immediate strike call, there is now a collective request for just one day of compensatory off."
The United Forum of We Bankers reiterated that work on Sundays or holidays must align with established labor agreements. It called for adherence to due procedures and legal provisions while addressing employee concerns.
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