Bank employees stage protest in Shivamogga demanding five-day work week

Employees of various banks got together for a protest in Shivamogga on January 27 demanding implementation of a five-day work week, in response to a nationwide protest call given by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU). The protest hit financial transactions in the city.

The bank employees gathered in front of the State Bank of India branch on B.H. Road and later marched on the road. The protesters claimed that over 10 lakh people across the nation were taking part in the protest. They had been demanding the five-day workweek facility, and several rounds of talks had been held on the issue. They claimed that the Central Government had not approved their demand, which prompted the employees to hit the streets.

The protesters carried placards with slogans demanding a five-day week. They claimed the bankers could serve customers better if they got sufficient breaks from work. This facility was essential for the employees to maintain good health, and healthy employees could serve society better, and longer. They also said most of the sector, including insurance, had already implemented the five-day work. A majority of the Central Government offices work only five days a week. The same should be extended to commercial banks as well. Moreover, customers would not be affected by this facility, as ATM and online services were available.