IBA-UFBU Meet On 12th BPS Talk: What Do Bankers Demand? What Are The Concerns?

Amidst the ongoing negotiations for the 12th Bipartite Settlement (BPS) between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and the United Forum for Banking Unions (UFBU), bankers are expressing a blend of optimism and apprehension. While progress towards a final settlement is viewed positively by some, underlying concerns persist, particularly regarding the potential scenario after the Lok Sabha elections and the unresolved demands within the settlement.

Social Media Outcry Over Key Issues
Bankers, both officers and workmen, have taken to social media platforms to voice a myriad of concerns regarding the 12th BPS. Among the most contentious issues is the merger of Special Pay, with uproar erupting over the proposed increase from 16.5% to around 25%. Despite ongoing legal proceedings on the matter, the IBA's reluctance to engage in discussions is fueling discontent among union leaders who argue that settlement within the BPS would nullify the need for further court action.

Contention Over Additional Duties for Clerical Cadre
Another focal point of contention is the proposal to assign additional duties to clerical cadre members, a move vehemently opposed by workmen. According to a senior workmen’s union leader, the IBA has conceded to minor demands but aims to leverage the provision to assign additional duties to clerical cadres. While some officers view this provision as a means to redistribute responsibilities, workmen fear encroachment on their protected rights under labour laws. This disagreement is expected to dominate discussions during the negotiation talks.

Call for Work-Life Balance and Competitiveness
Deepak, an employee of Canara Bank and organiser of the Bank Employees Federation of India, underscores the necessity of implementing 5-days banking. “It would help to alleviate stress and improve productivity. But the challenge is to compete with private banks operating on extended schedules. The authorities need to think of innovative solutions to maintain competitiveness while prioritising employee well-being”, he said.  

Shifts in Trade Union Dynamics
Reflecting on the evolving landscape of trade unionism in the banking sector, Jinsil, an SBI officer, observes a shift away from traditional bargaining tactics. He notes a sense of apprehension among bankers to voice dissent due to perceived indifference and punitive actions from the government. This, he suggests, has constrained the ability of unions to mobilise effectively, signalling a new era of challenges in advocating for bankers' rights. He thinks this phenomenon has influenced the 12th BPS talks as well. 

Responding to this observation, G Kripakaran, the convenor of UFBU in Tamil Nadu commented that it is not fair to say the bargaining capacity of the trade unions has declined. “The general reluctance among young bankers to join unions is a reflection of the socio-political atmosphere in the country. But all the banking unions are working towards improving their influence among youngsters who constitute the majority of the workforce”, he told Kanal. He also added that the collective bargaining strength of the unions in the banking sector has increased and it is visible from the outcome of the 12th BPS talks.   

United Pursuit for a Fair Settlement
The meetings holds significant importance as stakeholders strive to reach a mutually beneficial agreement, navigating through the complexities of the banking sector and the broader socio-political landscape.

Despite challenges and uncertainties, bankers stand united in their pursuit of a settlement that addresses their concerns and safeguards their interests in an evolving banking landscape.