Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank Employees’ Union Appeals for Public Holiday on Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

The Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank Employees’ Union (UPGBEU) has written to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh requesting that 7 October 2025 (Tuesday), Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti, be declared a public holiday for banks as well, under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.

Image- UPGBEU Letter to Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh

In its letter dated 4 October 2025, the union pointed out that the state government has already declared a public holiday on this occasion at the state level. However, this order does not automatically extend to banks, which operate under specific rules of the Negotiable Instruments Act. Therefore, the union has asked the government to issue a formal notification so that banking staff and officers may also observe the holiday.

The union explained that Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti is celebrated across Uttar Pradesh with devotion, reverence, and cultural programmes. Maharishi Valmiki, remembered as the Adi Kavi (first poet) and the author of the Ramayana, is revered for his message of equality, truth, humanity, and moral values. His teachings continue to inspire society towards justice and harmony.

According to the union, allowing banks to remain closed on this day would give employees the opportunity to pay homage to the great sage, participate in community events, and strengthen the values of unity and social harmony. The letter emphasised that recognising this holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 would demonstrate respect for cultural traditions and also reinforce moral values in society.

The union has therefore urged the Chief Minister to issue necessary instructions without delay so that the holiday is formally applicable to all banks in the state.