Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank Employees Stage Protests Over Unmet Demands in Mandi.
Shimla:
Employees of Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank launched a significant protest in Mandi today, intensifying their efforts to address unmet demands. Organized by the Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank Employees Union and the Himachal Pradesh Officer Organisation, the rally drew hundreds from over 270 bank branches across the state, marching from Seri Manch to the bank’s headquarters on Jail Road.
Under the banner of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, protesters voiced grievances against bank management, accusing them of harassment and negligence. Chander Veer Singh Katoch, President of the Himachal Pradesh Officer Organisation, highlighted several key issues, including the full implementation of the 12th Bipartite Settlement, misuse of disciplinary actions, disrespect towards employees, irregularities in promotions and transfers, and payment concerns for sanitation staff.
Despite multiple notices, management has yet to address these concerns, prompting employees to prepare for further action. General Secretary Vishal Sharma warned that if the issues remain unresolved, all branches of Himachal Pradesh Gramin Bank would shut down starting October 28.
Additionally, a protest is planned for November outside the Punjab National Bank headquarters in Delhi, for which the bank management will be held accountable. Employees have vowed to escalate their actions if their demands continue to be ignored, with further strategies to be discussed in a meeting set for November.