Prathama UP Gramin Bank Officers’ Federation Announce Agitation Over Unresolved Demands

The Prathama UP Gramin Bank Officers Federation (PUPGBOF) has issued an official notice to the bank's management, announcing an agitation program starting February 17, 2025. The agitation stems from unresolved demands raised by the union, which they claim have been ignored despite repeated communications.

Image: PUPBOF letter to the bank’s Chairman on agitation against unresolved demands.

Key Demands Raised by PUPGBOF

The AIRRBOF affiliated federation highlighted several pressing issues affecting the welfare of the bank's staff:

1. 14% NPS Contribution from Employer:
   The federation has repeatedly demanded the implementation of a 14% employer contribution under the National Pension System (NPS), as per the 12th Bipartite Settlement. Despite clear instructions from the Department of Financial Services (DFS), the bank has yet to comply, resulting in significant financial losses for employees.
2. Parity in Allowances and Benefits:
   While the bank revised salaries and disbursed arrears following the 12th Bipartite Settlement, other benefits like revised allowances and leave rules remain unimplemented. The federation criticized the management's partial compliance as neglecting staff welfare.
3. Compassionate Appointments:
   Families of deceased employees face prolonged delays in receiving compassionate appointments. The federation urged the creation of new vacancies to alleviate financial hardships for these families.
4. Increase in Staff Termination and Dismissals:
   The union expressed concerns over a rise in disciplinary actions, including suspensions and terminations. They alleged that branch staff often face penalties for errors made under pressure from controlling offices to meet targets. The union demanded accountability at all levels, including monitoring authorities.
5. Irregularities in Insurance Business:
   The union alleged malpractice in the bank’s insurance business, particularly in tie-ups with Future Generali Insurance and Care Health Insurance. They demanded a thorough review and punitive action against malpractices, including a potential termination of partnerships with these firms.
6. Tax on Perquisites:
   The federation raised the issue of staff bearing additional tax liabilities on perquisites and demanded that the bank take responsibility for these costs to prevent a substantial erosion of employees' take-home pay.

Agitation Schedule

The union outlined a phased protest program:

• February 17, 2025: Members will wear black badges as a symbol of protest.
• February 18, 2025: Members will exit official WhatsApp groups managed by the bank.
• February 19, 2025: Strict adherence to rulebooks and a "work-on-time" policy.
• February 20, 2025: Cessation of all third-party product sales, focusing solely on core banking operations.
• February 21, 2025: A one-day dharna in front of the bank's head office in Moradabad.

Appeal to Management

The union emphasized its commitment to protecting staff rights while ensuring the bank's smooth functioning. They urged the management to act promptly to avoid industrial unrest and maintain harmony within the institution. The federation also warned that if their demands remain unresolved, they would escalate to a full-fledged strike.

The agitation call reflects a broader sentiment among RRB employees about the lack of parity in benefits and welfare measures compared to their public sector counterparts. The coming weeks will determine whether the management will address these concerns or face further disruption.