Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank Union Brace For Strike Over Unmet Demands

The Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank Employees’ Officers Federation (UBGBEOF) in Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank (UBGB) has issued a strike notice, declaring a one-day strike on August 9, 2024. This decision comes after numerous attempts to address staff-related grievances with the management of UBGB failed to yield satisfactory results.

In a letter dated July 17 to the Chairman, the federation outlined a comprehensive list of demands aimed at improving working conditions and addressing management issues. One of the key demands is the timely resolution of transfer-related issues, which have been significantly delayed. The strike announcement comes in the backdrop of the recent protest by the federation on July 10 demanding action against the Regional Manager of the bank.

Demands and Grievances

The federation has also highlighted issues related to policy violations and unfair staff transfers. They accuse the management of disregarding established policies and conducting transfers that negatively impact staff morale and efficiency. They insist that these unfair transfers be reversed and that future transfers be conducted transparently and in accordance with organisational policies.

Furthermore, the federation has called for an end to unethical practices in loan renewals, particularly concerning Kisan Credit Card (KCC) renewals. They demand an immediate halt to these practices and corrective measures to ensure ethical standards are maintained.

As the employees brace for the strike, a member of the federation, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Kanal, “Our foremost demand is the immediate removal of the regional manager of Darbhanga, who has created an environment of fear and intimidation. Other issues that need to be addressed include transfers, infrastructure, staff shortages, and the benefits of the 12th BPS.”

Few of the demands highlighted in the letter of the federation are as follows:

• Immediate transfer of the abusive Regional Manager. 
• Filling all existing vacancies to address the staff shortage crisis as per S.K Mitra committee guidelines.
• Implementing proper leave rules as per the 12th Bipartite Settlement and 9th joint note.
• Providing necessary infrastructure such as furniture and air conditioning in line with increasing staff and business demands.
• Scrap the late office hour work culture.
• Ensuring proper restroom facilities for female staff members.
• Addressing issues related to the verification of vouchers at the branch level.
• Providing adequate fuel allowances for employees.

Image: Letter of unresolved demands and  strike call by UBGBEOF to the UBGB Chairman 

As per the bank employees, the upcoming strike underscores the brewing discontent among the employees of Uttar Bihar Gramin Bank due to unmet demands and ongoing management issues. As a result, the federation has given the call of agitation until all the demands are satisfactorily addressed and to ensure a more equitable and productive work environment.