Discussions between the managements of the State Bank of India (SBI) and the five associate banks with the unions under State Sector Bank Employees Association (SSBEA) in Mumbai ended in a stalemate with managements and unions sticking to their respective positions.
The SSBEA protested against violating bipartite settlements and unilateral changing of settled service conditions in the name of ‘Career Progression Scheme.’
“Such steps from the managements were highly improper and illegal,” said K.S. Krishna, General Secretary, SSBEA.
Centre’s stance
The Union government in the Lok Sabha, Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), and the Chief Labour Commissioner had clarified the position that all banks, including associate banks, could not violate bipartite settlements, he added.
The SSBEA urged upon the managements to hold constructive dialogues to arrive at mutually agreeable service conditions. It also demanded absorption of all casual and temporary employees who have been working with the associate banks for long.
To this demand, “the management approach was not positive,” said Mr. Krishna. With regard to the demand for implementation of the Union government directive relating to compassionate ground appointments and revision of staff housing loan, the managements were non-committal, he added.
“The managements sought time and further discussions. Hence the talks were inconclusive.”
Strike as scheduled
As decided earlier Raj Bhavan marches in States and dharna in Delhi on October 24 will be conducted by the union.
Meanwhile, the SBT Employees’ Union has decided to raise the issue of absorption of temporary employees before all political parties of the State.
Unions are going ahead with agitation programmes, including dharna by the casual and temporary employees and their families at State capital on October 2.
Union alleges violation of accords; managements averse to absorbing casual employees
