CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: On the call of UFBU, bank officers and employees in the capital city of Bhopal held a strong, disciplined, and united demonstration demanding the implementation of a five-day banking week. The protest took place at the PNB Press Complex, with office-bearers and a large number of officers and employees from various public sector banks in attendance.

The event saw the dignified presence of Anil Kumar Srivastava, President of the State Bank Officers’ Association, Bhopal Circle; Sanjeev Mishra, General Secretary; Rajneesh Pauranik, Circle Deputy General Secretary; and Arvind Pandiyar, Circle Media In-Charge.

Also present on the stage were senior office-bearers of UFBU and the All India Bank Officers’ Confederation, including Subin Sinha, President of Madhya Pradesh, V.K. Sharma, Nazir Quraishi, Nirbhay Singh, Sanjay Kudesia, Sunil Singh, Deepak Ratan Sharma, and Deepak Nair.

The demonstration also witnessed the active participation of senior officers and employees from various banks, including office-bearers of the All India Bank Employees’ Association such as Praveen Meghani, Pankaj Thakur, Vasu Jethani, and Siddharth Singh.

Key Statements by Speakers

Anil Kumar Srivastava said:

“The five-day banking week has become a mandatory need for bank employees today. It is not merely a matter of convenience but a fundamental issue linked to work-life balance, health, and the quality of banking services.”

Sanjeev Mishra stated:

“Most institutions in the country already follow a five-day work schedule, yet bank employees continue to be assigned additional work. It is now necessary to end this unjust practice.”

Rajneesh Pauranik added:

“Rising targets, pressure, and long working hours are severely affecting the mental and physical health of bank officers. A five-day banking week is a timely demand.”

Subin Sinha emphasized:

“This movement under the UFBU banner is a symbol of unity across the country. If the government does not take prompt action, the movement will escalate further.”

Senior Comrade V.K. Sharma said:

“The five-day banking week will not only provide relief to employees but will also make customer service more organized, effective, and high-quality.”

Arvind Pandiyar, Media In-Charge, added:

“This movement is a powerful medium to carry the voice of bank employees to policymakers. Through the media, the message is clear: any further delay in decision-making will not be accepted.”

During the protest, slogans demanding the implementation of a five-day banking week echoed throughout the complex. In conclusion, the joint platform warned that if positive action is not taken promptly, the movement will be intensified at both the state and national levels.

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