AIBOC Delhi Requests Public Holidays for Govardhan Puja and Bhaiya Dooj

The All India Bank Officers’ Confederation (AIBOC), Delhi Unit, has made an earnest appeal to the Chief Minister of Delhi to declare 22nd and 23rd October 2025 as public holidays on the occasions of Govardhan Puja  and Bhaiya Dooj. The organisation seeks that these days be recognised as official bank holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, which governs holidays for banks and financial institutions in India.

Image - AIBOC letter to the Chief Minister of Delhi 

Purpose of the Request
In the letter dated 14 October 2025, the State Secretary of AIBOC Delhi Unit, Ravindra Singh, explained that these two festivals hold deep cultural, social, and emotional significance for Hindu employees, particularly those working in the banking sector. The Confederation emphasised that the observance of such festivals reflects India’s rich traditions and family values, and recognising them officially would strengthen the spirit of inclusivity within workplaces.

Govardhan Puja, celebrated the day after Diwali, is a festival that symbolises gratitude towards nature and divine blessings. Bhaiya Dooj, on the following day, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, marking affection, protection, and family unity. These two consecutive festivals are considered among the most cherished occasions for Hindu families across the country, especially in northern India.

Context and Background
Earlier in the year, the Delhi Government had declared public holidays for major festivals such as Janmashtami, Ram Navami, and Valmiki Jayanti. However, these were not included under the provisions of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, which means they did not apply to banks. As a result, bank employees in Delhi were unable to avail holidays on those culturally important days.

The AIBOC Delhi Unit pointed out that this omission created dissatisfaction among bank officers and staff, as they felt that their cultural sentiments were not fully acknowledged. To address this issue, the Confederation has urged the government to formally include Govardhan Puja and Bhaiya Dooj under the Act so that all bank branches can remain closed and employees can observe the festivals with their families.

Significance for Bank Employees
Bank employees often work under tight schedules, dealing with long hours and high responsibilities. For many, festivals are the few times they can reconnect with their families and communities. Declaring Govardhan Puja and Bhaiya Dooj as official bank holidays would allow employees to celebrate without work-related stress, helping to improve morale, motivation, and cultural belonging  within the banking workforce.

The Confederation also stated that such a step would demonstrate the Delhi Government’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for all religious traditions. By recognising these days officially, the government would reinforce its image as a socially sensitive administration that values the cultural diversity of its employees and citizens.

A Humble Appeal to the Government
In the concluding part of the letter, Ravindra Singh respectfully appealed to the Chief Minister’s office to consider this request positively and to issue directions for the official declaration of 22nd and 23rd October 2025 as public holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act. He expressed hope that the Delhi Government would acknowledge the importance of these festivals and respond to the appeal in a favourable manner.

The Confederation believes that this gesture would not only enhance the relationship between employees and the administration but also promote a harmonious work environment built on mutual respect and understanding.

Demand Meaningful Action
The AIBOC Delhi Unit’s request reflects a broader effort to ensure that cultural and emotional values are respected within professional institutions. Recognising Govardhan Puja and Bhaiya Dooj as official bank holidays would be a meaningful step towards strengthening inclusivity, preserving cultural heritage, and improving employee satisfaction within the banking community.