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PNB Officers’ Federation’s Two-Day Strike: Why was it Deferred? What are the Reactions?
The All India Punjab National Bank Officers’ Federation (AIPNBOF) has deferred its planned two-day strike on 26 and 27 December 2024 after a conciliation meeting on 20 December 2024, with the next meeting scheduled for 20 January 2025.
Author: Abhivad
Published: December 22, 2024
All India Punjab National Bank Officers’ Federation (AIPNBOF), has postponed its two-day nationwide strike after a conciliation meeting held on 20 December 2024. The strike, initially planned for 26 and 27 December, was aimed at addressing grievances, including a five-day banking week, staff transfers, and tax issues.
(A picture from the conciliation meeting. Source: platform X)
Outcome of Conciliation Meeting
According to the minutes of the meeting circulated on social media, AIPNBOF stressed in the conciliation talk that unresolved issues would leave them with no choice but to proceed with the strike. PNB management reiterated its commitment to resolving concerns amicably, emphasising that strikes are counterproductive. Key agreements were reached, including deferring TDS deductions on perquisites and revisiting issues like transfers and special leave.
The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to continue bilateral discussions on unresolved matters and to reconvene on 20 January 2025. The conciliation officer urged cooperation to reach a consensus on all demands.
Criticism and Explanation on Social Media
The deferment sparked criticism on social media, with several bankers questioning the federation's commitment. Posts suggested the strike call was a routine exercise, meant to be withdrawn after conciliation.
(An X post criticising AIPNBOF on deferment of the strike.)
AIPNBOF General Secretary Krishnakumar addressed these concerns, stating on platform X that the strike was not called off but deferred to continue discussions. He explained that the five-day banking demand was omitted from the conciliation note as it wasn’t signed by the DFS representative, though the proposal is pending with the Finance Ministry. He acknowledged the strike by 6,000 officers alone wouldn’t resolve an issue affecting 15 lakh bankers but stated that it successfully brought the matter into focus. He revealed that six UFBU constituents might soon call a strike on the issue and assured that AIPNBOF is prepared to strike solo if no action is taken within a month. Kumar emphasised the federation’s independent strategy and focus.
(Krishna Kumar’s post on platform X.)
Krishna Kumar’s responses on platform X indicate consensus was reached on seven of the 21 demands tabled. These included deferring TDS on perquisites and implementing a revised transfer policy aligned with Department of Financial Services guidelines, effective 01 April 2025. Additionally, the management agreed to address MRM protocols, NPS fund manager selection, and other HR issues.
While the strike was postponed, AIPNBOF asserted their firm stand on their demands and plans to take further action if necessary. The federation aims to achieve favourable outcomes through continued negotiations ahead of the next conciliation meeting.