Credit: Special arrangement
Bengaluru: Banking operations at public sector banks in Bengaluru were disrupted on Tuesday, following a nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU).
The umbrella body of nine unions, representing officers and employees, observed a day-long strike demanding, among other things, the implementation of a five-day work week.
While branches of several public sector banks, including the State Bank of India, Canara Bank and Union Bank, remained open, most wore a deserted look as a majority of employees participated in the strike.
To ensure emergency services, some branches pressed employees from other districts into service.
Although banks had issued advisories warning customers of possible disruptions on January 27 due to the strike, many customers remained unaware and returned disappointed.
Services requiring physical presence, including cash deposits and withdrawals and cheque clearances, were affected.
“I wasn’t aware of the strike. After three days of bank holidays, I was eagerly waiting to visit the bank today as I have an urgent matter to attend to,” said Dinesh, a mechanic.
Senior citizens, who rely heavily on staff assistance for deposits and withdrawals, were left confused after security personnel asked them to return on Wednesday.
Staff demands
Key demands of the employee unions include a five-day banking week, regulated working hours, and revision of pension and insurance benefits.