Bank unions have renewed their demand for stronger job security and better working conditions following the implementation of the government’s four new Labour Codes, which replace 29 earlier labour laws. During a recent meeting with the Financial Services Secretary, representatives of the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) urged the Centre to prioritise permanent employment over contractual hiring, stating that stable jobs are essential for ensuring fair benefits, safer workplaces, and long-term social-security protection.
In the meeting, union representatives highlighted several pending issues affecting banking sector employees. They reiterated their long-standing request for a five-day banking week, saying the measure would support employee well-being and enhance productivity. The UFBU also raised concerns over delays in appointing workman and officer directors on bank boards, noting that these roles are important for balanced governance.
The unions further stressed the need for fresh recruitment across clerical, substaff, and security categories. Many branches, they said, continue to face manpower shortages, increasing the workload for existing employees. Updating the pension structure for retirees was also identified as a key priority, with unions stating that many former staff members are awaiting overdue revisions.
The activation of the new Labour Codes has drawn mixed reactions from workers’ groups. Some trade unions have expressed concerns that the revised framework may weaken certain employee protections even as it aims to streamline and modernise labour regulations.
Bank unions maintained that while reforms are necessary to address changing workplace requirements, any new measures should safeguard existing employee rights. They also urged the Labour Ministry to engage more closely with central trade unions to address concerns through constructive dialogue.
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