Silchar: Banking services across the Barak Valley are expected to face disruptions on May 25 and 26 following a two-day nationwide strike announced by the All India State Bank of India Staff Federation (AISBISF). The strike is a protest against what the federation describes as the bank management's 'indifferent attitude' towards long-pending employee demands.
Press Conference in Silchar
Addressing a press conference in Silchar, AISBISF deputy general secretary Soumen Roy Choudhury and zonal secretary Animesh Roy confirmed that all branches under the SBI Silchar Zone would observe a complete work cessation during the strike period. They alleged that despite repeated discussions with management, employee concerns remain unresolved.
Employee Grievances
Roy Choudhury claimed that bank staff are working under immense pressure due to acute manpower shortages, leading to physical and mental stress. He also raised concerns about workplace security, noting that several branches operate without adequate safety arrangements.
Key demands include the immediate recruitment of messengers and armed guards, adequate staffing in all branches, and an end to the outsourcing of work meant for permanent employees. The federation also protested against the widening wage gap between officers and general staff, alleging that officers have received special allowances resulting in significant salary hikes while subordinate employees were left out.
Additional demands include freedom for NPS-enrolled employees to choose pension fund managers, restoration of inter-circle transfer facilities for staff recruited after 2019, and implementation of an improved medical reimbursement scheme.
Agitation Intensified
Federation leaders stated that the agitation began with lunch-hour demonstrations, poster campaigns, and social media outreach since May 2. They warned that the movement would be intensified if the management fails to respond positively to their demands.
Impact on Services
The proposed strike is expected to affect cash transactions, cheque clearance, and other banking services across the Barak Valley, causing inconvenience to customers.
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About the Author: BB Goswami is a seasoned journalist with The Times of India, reporting from Silchar. Known for his sharp political insights and grassroots coverage, he brings depth to stories from Barak Valley and beyond. His work reflects a commitment to factual reporting and amplifying voices from Assam's southern frontier.
