Circular No. 23/VII/2019

December 19, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

v       NATIONAL STRIKE ON 8^TH JANUARY 2020

v       SAVE ECONOMY – SAVE PUBLIC SECTOR BANKS/UNDERTAKINGS

v       ENSURE JOBS AND JOB SECURITY

In pursuance of the decision taken at the Central Trade Unions convention held at Delhi on 30th September 2019 pertaining to the present state of the economy, shrinkage of jobs, disinvestment of profit making public sector units to bridge the budget deficit etc., the Nation wide strike call was given at the conclusion of the convention.

2.         Banking is considered to be the Central Nerve System of the economy of the Nation.  It is plagued with huge bad loans.  The present economic condition/situation is alarming.  The symptoms are akin to the “Global slow down of 2008”.  Some of them are: –

ð Slowing down of the economy

ð Unabating Price rise

ð Industrial Index has come down successively for the last four months

ð Unemployment is rising without any efforts to halt the same.

ð The cascading effects on account of slowdown, investment by small entrepreneurs for producing the essentials has literally stopped / halted

ð Proposed Bank mergers and resultantly the halting of fresh recruitments

ð Bad loans due to slowdown coupled with suppression by Banks and subsequent disclosures by RBI/SEBI [eg.] State Bank of India, Union Bank of India, Indian Bank, Central Bank of India etc..

ð Worst agriculture crisis and no relief to the farmers in any form.

ð Privatisation of BPCL, proposed sale of AIR INDIA 100% to Private Parties forced exit of employees of MTNL/BSNL:

ð Allowing the private players to enter Indian Railways in bits and pieces.

ð The condition of the unorganised sector is “less” said the “better”.

ð In the times of crisis, the beneficiaries are selected corporates, who control the conduct of the Government directly or indirectly, as of now.

3.         AIBOA, in its CC meeting held at Indore on 19^th-20^th September 2019 unanimously decided to participate in the strike call given by 10 Central Trade Unions, as the focus of our organisational approach is “Save Economy, Save Public Sector Banking and ensure jobs and job security”.  In our Industry, five organisations are to participate in the National Strike.  An appeal has been made by us to AIBOC organisation to participate in the National Strike on 8^th January 2020, as the present crisis is not going to exclude anyone in our country.

Our State Committees and affiliated Units are directed to ensure participation of our members in the National Strike to preserve the Nation to “Gennext”.  The task is important and ensure co-ordination with other four organisations in our Industry along with other participative organisations too.

ONWARD MARCH TO 8^TH JANUARY 2020 STRIKE.

Yours comradely,

 /S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.22/VII/2019

December 5, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

WAGE REVISION – TALKS HELD WITH IBA ON  05-12-2019

UFBU CIRCULAR :Another round of negotiations was held today between IBA and UFBU in the IBA office in Mumbai.  IBA team was led by Shri. Rajkiran Rai. G (MD-CEO, Union Bank of India), Chairman of the Negotiating Committee and from UFBU, representatives of all the nine constituent unions were present. Discussion was held on following points.

Increase in wage hike %age :  From our side, we demanded that their earlier offer of 12% is not at all adequate and hence IBA should improve their offer.  IBA informed that looking to various constraints of Banks profitability, it would be difficult to improve their offer to which we did not agree.  IBA thereafter stated that they would discuss amongst themselves and let us know during the next round of meeting.

Mandate issue:  IBA informed that the issue of mandate upto scale VII stands resolved. 

Merger of Special Allowance with Basic pay:  We insisted that the present special allowance be merged with basic pay while working out the revised pay/scale under the ensuing settlement.  IBA informed that our demand can be accepted if the additional cost involved towards superannuation benefits is found to be affordable.  It was agreed that the cost would be worked out in detail and a final decision would be taken thereafter.

Improvement in Family Pension:  IBA reiterated that they are seized of the matter and already in touch with the different stake holders to get it approved at the earliest possible.

Updation of pension:  IBA stated that while they appreciate the demand for updation of pension, looking to the different categories of pensioners of the past ranging from 1986, the cost is very high to which the unions demanded the data to get it calculated from their actuaries. IBA   sought the names of the actuaries from UFBU side to whom the data was to be shared for computing the cost.

PLI:  From UFBU we pointed out our concerns especially linking ROA as an ingredient for the purpose of working out the performance matrix and creation of more steps in the gross operating profits so that the maximum number of banks get the benefit of PLI.  IBA appreciated our view points and agreed to provide us with a revised formula for our consideration, where after the issue would be discussed further.

5 Day Banking:  Regarding 5 day banking IBA advised that they are seized of the importance of the issue and assured the unions that they will try to take it forward.  However, there were constraints on account of other stake holders.  We insisted that this issue should be addressed and resolved on priority.

IBA informed that they would like to sort out all these issues at the earliest so that we can move towards reaching understandings to finalise the settlement.  We informed that we would also seek an early settlement provided our justified demands are considered favourably.

=UFBU=

Yours comradely,

 /S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

AIBEA-AIBOC-AIBOA-BEFI-INBEF-INBOC

19^th November 2019

Dear Comrades                                                                                    

MASSIVE DHARNA BEFORE PARLIAMENT ON 10.12.2019

OPPOSING MERGERS OF BANKS & ANTI-COMMON MAN BANKING REFORMS

All our members are aware that our organisations are opposed to merger of banks, which are totally unwarranted. However, Government has been pursuing the policy of merger of Public Sector Banks despite the adverse implications.

Mergers of Associate Banks with State Bank of India demonstrated to the world at large that it was a financial disaster. The amalgamation of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank with Bank of Baroda has also amply established that it was another failure.  Now, a mega merger of ten banks has been announced.

Experience of mergers in the country and across globe has clearly shown that no benefit accrues to any of the stake holder. On the other hand, in the name of rationalization of branches, large number of branches would be closed affecting the common man. Millions would be affected as employment - both direct and indirect - would take a hit.   Merger of Public Sector Banks will definitely deprive affordable banking to the poor and the needy. Equally important is that the attention of the banks will be shifted from recovery of stressed assets/NPA/bad loans and serving the common, to merger related complications. Mergers create monopolistic situation and cost of banking services is bound to go up, hurting the interest of common man. Merger is nothing but a calculated move to divert the nation’s attention from the piling up corporate defaults.

We continue to protest and oppose any reform that is not in the best interest of the countrymen and the banking industry. In this background, it is felt necessary to intensify our agitation and protest against the proposed merger of ten banks. Accordingly, it is decided to hold a massive

DHARNA BEFORE PARLIAMENT AT 10-30 AM ON 10^TH DECEMBER, 2019.

Further programmes are being finalised in consultations with all Unions and Associations.

We request all our affiliates and members to participate in large numbers and make the Dharna a total success.

                                                           With greetings,

 C.H.VENKATACHALAM - SOUMYA DATTA-S.NAGARAJAN-DEBASISH BASU CHOWDHURY-SUBHASH S.SAWANT-K.K.NAIR

                                               AIBEA                  AIBOC                 AIBOA               BEFI           INBEF           INBOC                                                                                                       

Circular No.21/VII/2019

November 16, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

“WAGE REVISION – TALKS HELD WITH IBA ON 15-11-2019

UFBU CIRCULAR :  ‘ Another round of negotiations was held today between IBA and UFBU in the IBA office in Mumbai.  IBA team was led by Shri. Rajkiran Rai. G (MD-CEO, Union Bank of India), Chairman of the Negotiating Committee and from UFBU, representatives of all the nine constituent unions were present.

PLI Scheme:  In continuation of the discussion held on 18-10-2019, IBA wanted to know the views of UFBU on introduction of PLI-Performance Linked Incentive scheme and our suggestions on the modalities of the scheme proposed by them.  IBA clarified that the proposed scheme would be applicable to public sector banks and on an optional basis in the private banks.  From UFBU, we conveyed our concurrence for the introduction of the scheme and the same may be incorporated  in a separate agreement.  We further informed that our views on the modalities would be submitted for further discussions.

Mandate issue:   IBA reiterated their assurance that the mandate issue would be resolved amicably to cover all officers upto scale VII. 

Merger of Special Allowance with Basic Pay:  On our demand for merger of Special Allowance with Basic Pay, IBA informed that if the entire Special Allowance is merged with Basic Pay, the impact on retirements would be substantial and wanted us to consider the possibility of merging a portion of the allowance keeping the cost in mind.  We reiterated our demand for merging entire Special Allowance with Basic Pay, however the details provided in the meeting by IBA needs to be verified.  The issue needs to be discussed further.

Updation of Pension:  On our demand for updation of pension, IBA informed that as per the Actuarial Report obtained by them, the additional cost of funding the Pension Fund is not affordable by Banks at present. We contested the cost burden and expressed the view that we would like to refer the issue to our Actuary.  After discussions IBA agreed that UFBU may suggest the name of Actuary to whom IBA would entrust the job to get the valuation done again after which the issue can be addressed based on the outcome of the report.

Family Pension:  Regarding our demand for improvement in Family Pension, IBA was quite positive and suggested that if not at uniform, 30% for all  family pensioners without any ceiling, some proportionate enhanced ceiling could be thought of.  We requested the IBA to resolve the issue.

Ex-Gratia of Pre-1986 Retirees:  We also brought to the attention of the IBA that the revision in the Ex-Gratia amount being paid to pre-1986 retirees/spouses at Rs. 350 p.m. and Rs. 175 p.m. respectively + DA needs to be adequately improved upon, as the number of beneficiaries are negligible in numbers.  IBA assured to do their best in this regard.

Contribution at 14% under NPS:   We emphasized our demand that for the post-2010 employees covered by New Pension Scheme, the management’s contribution should be enhanced to 14% of Pay + DA.   After discussion, IBA was inclined to agree to this demand.

5 Day Week Banking:   IBA repeated the constraints as explained in the last round of talks.  From our side we have reiterated our demand and strongly urged upon the IBA to consider the demand favourably.

Medical Insurance Scheme for Retirees:   We suggested to IBA to have an exclusive scheme applicable to retirees tailored to suit their requirements and keeping the affordability of  premium in mind.  IBA assured that the issue can be discussed further.

Increase in wage hike %age :  We reiterated that IBA’s earlier offer of 12% hike in payslip cost is unacceptable and needs to be improved upwards.  IBA informed that once the issues of costing of various items as above are finalized, they would be able to take a decision in this regard because they need to keep the overall cost in mind.

Discussions on other pending non-financial demands:  It was agreed that a Small Committee meeting on officers’ issues would be held on 21^st November and on workmen’s issues on 28^th November, 2019 “.

=UFBU=

Yours comradely,

 /S.NAGARAJAN/

GENREAL SECRETARY

Circular No.20/VII/2019

October 28, 2019

To:
ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Circular No.19/VII/2019

October 22, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

DECISIONS OF THE 4^TH CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEETING HELD AT INDORE

Ø           Programmes of actions “opposing merger of Banks”

Ø           Participation in the General Strike called by CTUs on 8^th January 2020

Ø          Campaign to enhance the deposit coverage from Rs.1 lac to Rs.50 lacs under DICGC cover

The 4^th Central Committee of our organisation was held at Indore [M.P.] on 19^th and 20^th October 2019 under the Joint Presidium of Com.Alok Khare, Vice Chairman and Com.A.N.Suresh, President of our organisation, in the venue “Hotel Lemon Tree” in the heart of commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh at Indore.  The meeting commenced its proceedings at 10.30 hrs.

2.         Welcome Address:  Com.Shreyansh Bafna, Regional Secretary, MPBOA and also organising Secretary Bank of Maharashtra Officers Association, the Gen Next, welcomed the CC members of AIBOA with a confidence that the two day’s session will pave way for a new direction in building the organisation in the days to come, to combat the challenges forced up on the entire working class in general and Bankmen in particular.

3.         In Memorium: Shri Ananthakumar, Union Minister, Shri Arun Jaitley, former Finance Minister, Ms.Sushma Swaraj, Former External Minister, Shri M.H.Ambareesh, former Union Minister, Shri C.K.Jaffer  Sharief, former Union Minister, Sri George Fernandez, Former Union Minister, Sri Manohar Parrikar, CM of Goa, Sri Janakiraman, former CM of Pondicherry, Ms.Sheila Dikshit, former CM of Delhi, Sri N.D.Tiwari, Former CM of UP, Sri K.M,Mani, Former finance Minister of Kerala, Com.Shameem Faizee, Leader of the working class, Com.M.Sujana Priyan, General Secretary, AITUC Kerala, Com.Bhusari, former Office Secretary, AITUC, Brigadier K.S.Chandpuri, Hero of Longwala, Dr.Girish Mishra, an economic Historian, teacher and author, Sri Girish Karnad, Renowned artist- [his fearless stand against forces of intolerance and hatred], Shri Kadri Gopalnath, Saxophone Chakravarti, Com.S.Bardhan, former General Secretary BEFI,  Com.G.Gunasekaran, Treasurer, AIBOA,

The CC observed two minutes silence in the memory of departed souls.

4.         Leave of absence: The Office Bearers and CC members Com. Dr.Kumar Arvind, Com.M.A.Srinivasan, Com.I.Haranath, Com.S.A.Sridhar, Com.Ajoy Routray, Com.Anil Limbachiya,  Permanent Invitees  Com.Rajen Nagar, President, AIBEA and Com.C.H.Venkatachalam, General Secretary, AIBEA, were granted leave of absence by the CC, as they were held up in various personal engagements and unavoidable circumstances too.

5.         Confirmation of 3^rd CC Meeting:  The minutes of 3^rd Central Committee meeting held at RJS Bhavan, Mamallapuram was placed before the house by Com.V.Ramabadhran, Secretary, AIBOA, which was adopted by the house unanimously.

6.         Issues presented before the CC Members :  The important developments during the last one year, prominent amongst them are [i] Proposed mergers of 10 Banks [ii] Developments in the wage revision with the particular reference to Performance Linked Incentive{PLI} [iii] Deferred Strike action by the Four Officers’ Organisations were placed for the discussion before the Central Committee.  35 comrades have participated in the discussion expressing their concern on the following issues:

            [a]        Problems on account of proposed mega mergers of Banks

            [b]        Performance linked incentives in the current wage revision

[c]                   [c]        Abrupt announcement of strike by 4 officers’ organisations and its reflections in States.

            [d]        IBA circular on their status pertaining to complaints etc.

            [e]        Protest against release of adhoc by IBA

            [f]         Specific emphasis on North Eastern Allowance

[g]                   [g]        Campaign to be launched to secure the interest of the depositors to cover upto Rs.50 lacs from the present limit of Rs.1 lac

[h]        Meeting of Presidents and General Secretaries of 10 Banks to finalise the collective and consensus approach in dealing with enlarging situations.

General Secretary, while folding up the discussions presented the organisational approach on the three major issues.

            On Mergers:  Independent programmes to be undertaken, as decided by the Secretariat on 09.09.2019.

1)             Campaign through leaflet

2)         Letter to President of India

3)         Communication by e mail to all M.Ps.

4)         Postering campaign

5)         Press conference to be held by the State Committees on a common date

6)    The 10 Banks Presidents and General Secretaries will meet at Chennai on 8^th November 2019

`           On Wage Revision:  As the CLC [C] had already directed / advised in May 2018 to commence the talks with 15%, we are confident of taking forward the present offer of 12% on payslip components [ie] Rs.6318 crores to further level ; 5 days week to be clinched with other Non-financial demands also.

            On PLI :  It was explained in detail that PLI is over and above the Industry level wage agreement, it is based on gross profit and also return on assets; it is for the banks as a whole.  The proposed model presented during the discussions will benefit 6 Banks [September 2018] – now 5 only.  The benefit will be prospective as a whole.  While IBA is willing to have a detailed and further discussions, we will be providing the document with specific inputs to understand the impact of the proposal.

On Updation of Pension : Though it is certainly tough due to yield on the investment getting reduced, valuation by actuaries needs to be attempted as that of  “2010 exercise”.  AIBOA stands for updation given by RBI, as the Pension Scheme is akin to RBI.

            On the Deferred strike action on 26^th-27^th September 2019 – By and large , the CC was convinced about the circumstances under which the decision to participate in the strike was taken by 4 Officers’ organisations; however, it was expressed that  it would be a preferred exercise to align with the first trade union of pre independent of India, in future.  It was also decided that the coordination committee established couple of years back should be revived to bridge the communication gap if any.

            On DICGC Cover:   The recent exposure of “PMC Bank” and the diversion of the deposit to select few vested interests, jeoparadising the interest of small depositors evoked debates.  Looking to the DICGC cover is only upto Rs.1,00,000/=, the time has come to demand to enhance the deposit cover upto Rs.50,00,000/-.  A campaign has to be taken forward as wage earners normally deposit their life savings in Banks / Cooperative Banks for monthly higher interest benefits.

7.         Special Address by a Veteran:  The 4^th CC at Indore had the benefit of sharing the trade union life experience by Com.Vasant Shintre, Vice President, All India LIC Employees’ Federation, a leading comrade of our movement.  In his brief greeting and address to the CC he traced history of our Nation, progress achieved and ultimately present stage of stagnation in the economy of our Nation.  In his assessment, he emphatically advised that achievements can  be advanced/enhanced by sustained struggles by all Trade unions along with the common people of the Country.

8.         Organisation:

I.                   The CC unanimously decided to participate in the General Strike by CTUs on 8^th January 2020 as a the policies pursued by the present Government is certainly not benefiting the country as a whole and disinvestment process of Public Sector Organisations is on fast forward movements.

II.                 TWO ROSES – Our affiliates in the Private Sector Bank – Ratnakar Bank Officers’ Organisation has handed over the cheque for 230 Life subscriptions to the Two Roses as part of their commitment.

III.                The following newly elected representatives from the affiliates to the CC were introduced, to CC.

®     AIPSBOF       Com.C.Joshi [President]  Com.Ratneshwar Choudhary [General Secretary]

®     AIOBOA         Com.Sanjay Sharma [President],Com.R.K.Mahendru [General Secretary]

®     AIABOA         Com.Sandeep Akhauri [General Secretary]

®     CBOU             Com.H.Vinod Kumar [General Secretary]

®     KMBOA          Com.A.Chandrasekhar [General Secretary] unanimously re-elected

IV.               

              Granting of affiliation:

®     Bank of Baroda Officers Union formed on 14.04.2019 was granted affiliation by CC.

®     The Indian Institute of Bankers’ Officers’ Association which sought affiliation with our organisation was considered favourably by the CC.

V.                  Filling the Vacancies in the Trust : In the Silver Jubilee Conference held in Delhi in February 2006, a property trust was established by late Com.RJS.  Subsequently, AIBOA has acquired the properties at Chennai and Hyderabad.  The vacancies caused due to the untimely demise of Com.R.J.Sridharan, and Com.G.Gunaekaran,  the CC has been informed about the induction of Com.A.N.Suresh and Com.R.Jawaher respectively in the vacancies caused.

The trade Union representative [trustee position] has been accorded to Com.Amarjeet Gaur, a leader of the Working class of the Country.

VI.               Bye Law Committee: It has been decided to hold the Bye law committee at Chennai on 7^th November 2019 to consider the amendments to bye law.

VII.               Extension of time – The CC took the suggestion to seek the concurrence of extension of time to hold our conference, as the present term shall end in December 2019, which was accepted unanimously.

VIII.        The CC was informed about the resignation submitted by Com.S.S.Shishodia, from the post of Chairman, AIBOA.

IX.                Placement of Statement of Audited Accounts:  The Statement of audited accounts for the year ended 31.12.2018 was presented by Com.R.Jawaher, Treasurer to the CC and the same was adopted unanimously.

X.                  The CC was participated by 22 Office Bearers, 16 State Secretaries and 10 General Secretaries of affiliates and 6 Special Invitees

9.         Vote of Thanks : Com.D.S.Ganesan, Secretary, AIBOA from Central Office placed on record the elaborate arrangements made by the members of MPBOA team in a silent and brilliant manner deserve sincere appreciation by the entire CC.

The ambience provided was rich in content together with conduct of the meeting with time precision by the Joint Presidium were excellent.

With Deepavali Greetings,

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.18/VII/2019

October 4, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

AIBOA EXTENDS FRATERNAL SUPPORT

TO THE JOINT STRIKE CALL BY

AIBEA-BEFI – 22.10.2019

Under the specious plea of “Alternative Mechanism”, the merger of Vijaya Bank, Dena Bank with Bank of Baroda was announced by the Government of India on 17.09.2018.  The process stipulated was reversed, where Banks were compelled to get it approved by the Boards sidelining the temple of democracy [ie;] elected representatives of both the houses of Parliament.  AIBOA, after due deliberations in the Secretariat, decided to challenge the exercise carried out by Government of India in the Court of law.  The main petition filed at Hon’ble High Court of Rajasthan, Jaipur in December 2018 was transferred at the behest of Bank of Baroda to Hon’ble Supreme Court in February 2019, till today Govt. of India is yet to file the counter affidavit though it was directed to file the same by 11^th March, 2019.

2.         It was a bolt from blue.  On 30^th August, 2019, Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of India announced the proposed merger plan thereby the shrinkage of the number of Public Sector Banks from 18 to 12.  There were demonstrations on 31^st August 2019 throughout the country, followed by the Dharnas etc., before respective Banks to lodge our protest.  In the UFBU meeting held on 11.09.2019, at Delhi, there was near unanimity to observe the strike against the proposed merger of Banks but it eluded the conclusion on account of multiple issues or only one focussed issue, to be projected in the strike call.

3.         AIBEA and BEFI have launched programmes of actions culminating in a days ALL INDIA STRIKE ON 22.10.2019.  AIBOA extends its fraternal support to the Joint call given by AIBEA and BEFI.

4.         Our organisation calls upon the officers not to do the clerical jobs on the strike day.

With greetings,

Yours comradely,

  /S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.17/VII/2019

October 3, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

In response to the communication received from IBA, for release of adhoc, as a good will gesture, UFBU Convenor sought the response from the constituents.

Our Four Officers’ Organisations, have collectively responded to UFBU on 01.10.2019 itself.  UFBU Convenor has communicated today the protest against the decision of IBA for release of adhoc.

We are forwarding the communication for the information of members and Units.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Encl: as above

UFBU LETTER NO UFBU/2019/10     DATED 03.10.2019    ADDRESSED TO SHRI V.G.KANNAN, CE, IBA, MUMBAI

Dear Sir,

Our attention has been drawn to a communication from IBA dated 1-10-2019 under your signature to all member Banks advising them to disburse an adhoc amount equivalent to one month’s salary to all employees and officers who were in service as on 1-11-2017 and who continue to be in service today and to disburse 15 days’ salary for employees and officers who joined between 1-11-2017 and 31-3-2019 pending finalization of the wage revision settlement.

You are aware of the advisory from the Finance Ministry, Government of India dated 12-1-2016 advising the Banks and Indian Banks’ Association to initiate the process of negotiations/wage revision of the employees and to conclude it prior to the effective date i.e. 1-11-2017.

You are also aware that having regard to this Advisory, our Workmen Unions and Officers Associations had also submitted the Charter of Demands well in advance with a request to IBA to commence the negotiations in advance so that we may conclude it before the stipulated date.

You will also recall that when the initial round of discussion was called by the IBA on 2-5-2017, from the UFBU we had expressed our view that the discussion should be held on regular basis and concluded at the earliest.  IBA also agreed to the same.  But, records will speak, that talks were held after a lot of time gap every time and this is the main reason for the delay.  This delay is not attributable to the Unions. 

Even though the negotiations commenced in May, 2017, only after a period of one year, that is in the discussions held in May, 2018, IBA made its first offer of 2%.  Thus one full year of negotiation was without any offer from IBA.  This delay is also solely on the shoulders of the IBA and not the Unions.

Even in the communication under reference, IBA has presumed and stated that it would take some more time to conclude the negotiations and sign the Settlement.  This clearly shows that IBA wants to further delay the Settlement with a deliberate intention to frustrate the employees and officers and to divert the wrath of the workforce against the unions.

If IBA expects further delay in the Settlement, for whatever may the reason, and hence wanted to pay an adhoc amount, it should have been taken up with the Unions during negotiations.  Even in the last round of negotiations held on 17-9-2019,  there was no inkling of what was there in the mind of IBA and no such proposal was mooted by IBA. 

Hence, the decision to pay adhoc amount, is not only unfair, unilateral and arbitrary but it is also a deliberate attempt to undermine the role of unions and their right of collective bargaining.  This is a naked attempt to de-unionise the workforce.  Such attempts are bound to have an adverse impact on the otherwise healthy industrial relations in the banking industry.  It is unfortunate that, after negotiating with the Unions for more than two years so far, instead of expediting the Settlement, IBA has chosen to decide to pay ad-hoc amount on its own for the reasons best known to you.

We do not want to deal with the goodwill gesture on the part of IBA as employees and officers of the Banks are capable of understanding the motive behind this decision.  Suffice it to say that this goodwill gesture was absent in payment of overtime wages/compensation to employees and officers when they bore the brunt during the demonetisation period and during the implementation of Jan Dhan Yojana scheme within a short period and such other occasions.   Even till now, many Bank managements are defaulters in this regard.  We wish that such goodwill gesture should have been shown in those times when employees and officers were suffering under so much of stress and strain.

On behalf of all the negotiating unions, we wish to convey our strong resentment, displeasure and protest against the unilateral decision of the IBA in this regard. 

Please take note of our strong views in this regard.

Thanking you,

Yours faithfully,

/sd./ Sanjeev K.Banclish

CONVENOR

ALL INDIA BANK OFFICERS’ CONFEDERATION (AIBOC) 

ALL INDIA BANK OFFICERS’ ASSOCIATION (AIBOA) 

INDIAN NATIONAL BANK OFFICERS’ CONGRESS (INBOC) 

 Camp: New Delhi

Date: 23^rd September, 2019

To:

All Affiliates of AIBOC/AIBOC/INBOC/NOBO

Dear comrades,

DELEGATION OF FOUR OFFICERS’ ORGANIZATIONS MET FINANCE SECRETARY, GOVT. OF INDIA 48 HRS.STRIKE BY OFFICERS’ ORGANIZATIONS STANDS DEFERRED

Today our delegation met Shri Rajeev Kumar, Finance Secretary, with whom the issues related to mergers, Wage revision, the full mandate from the remaining five banks,  incorporation of Sec 17[A] of PC Act, 2018 as a part of the service conditions, introduction of full 5 day week, reduction of cash transaction hours, issues related to retirees and also scrapping of selling of third party products were discussed threadbare.

2. The Finance Secretary was positive in formation of a committee consisting of all concerned to address the issues arising out of the proposed meger of 10 banks including preserving the identity of all the banks.  An appeal was made to us to revisit our strike call in view of the discussions.

3. In view of the consideration of the positive and workable solution by the Finance Secretary, Govt. of India, the 48 hours strike from midnight of 25^th September, 2019 to 27^th September, 2019 stands deferred.

We shall inform the developments in due course

With revolutionary greetings,

Yours comradely,

/sd./ 

                   General Secretary              General Secretary                General Secretary       General Secretary

                              AIBOC                             AIBOA                                     INBOC                      NOBO 

Circular No.16/VII/2019

September 12, 2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Dear Comrades 

STRIKE BY  FOUR OFFICERS' ORGANISATIONS

ON 26TH AND 27TH SEPTEMBER 2019.

As decided in the Secretariat meeting on 09th September, at Bengaluru was presented through a communication to UFBU convenor.

2.       In the meeting held at New Delhi yesterday, there were discussions on the items listed in the agenda.  Our organisation was represented by Com.Vinod Bakshi, Vice President, Com.Sanjay Khan Secretary and the undersigned.

3.       Though there was near consensus on the issue of launching an agitation against the mega mergers announced by Govt of India on 30th August, 2019, due to certain positions taken by the constituents  of UFBU, Four Officers' Organisations, after mutual consultations, decided to observe 2 days strike on 26th and 27th September 2019, focusing on the issues:

Ø  Opposing Merger of Banks and

Ø  Demanding settlement of wages and other issues.

4.       The strike notice addressed to Chairman IBA is sent herewith for the information and necessary action. Make all out preparations to make the strike successful.

The detail programme will follow in due course.

Yours Comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.15/VII/2019

September 9, 2019

TO

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

DECISION OF THE SECRETARIAT MEETING

The events are overtaking our industry. Government moves are forcing us to take serious and effective trade union actions. Bad loans are increasing in the new cycle of crisis of the slowdown syndrome in our country. Current climate of wage revision is not conducive for the present and future workforce in our industry.

In this background, our secretariat met at Bengaluru today to discuss issues confronting the industry and also the workforce. AIBOA Karnataka State Committee provided the facilities to host the meeting. Com M A Srinivasan, DGS was granted leave of absence due to an unexpected situation in the family front.

Merger of Banks, current wage revision, attacks on Officers in various banks in various forms, new proposal – PLP/PLI were the issues listed and discussed threadbare by participant Office Bearers and special invitees from the host unit.

It was unanimously decided to adhere to the following programmes/actions:

1)     1] MERGER OF BANKS: The present case of the writ filed in the High Court which is resting at the highest court of the country should be pursued with required urgency. If need be, to be tested under Article 32 of the constitution. 

2)     2] PLP/PLI: On wage revision it has been decided to reject the proposal in toto before the proposed committee and submitting our view points in writing.

3)     3] Attacks on Officers: Regulation 20 (1) and list of non-performers in the banks (Union Bank of India, Syndicate Bank, OBC etc.,) to be opposed.

4)     4] Govt of India’s instructions to refer all departmental enquiries having vigilance angle to CBI under Prevention of Corruption Act, a new threat to field level functionaries to be withdrawn as there are settled cases by the highest court.

PLAN OF ACTION: MERGERS
AIBOA should chalk out the following independent programmes to be undertaken by State Committees:
  a) Postering campaign
  b) Press conference by State Committees on a particular date throughout the country.
  c) Communication by email to all MPs
  d) Letter to President of India
  e) Leaflet to be released to spread the message
  f) Campaign through social media by AIBOA Central Office

In the meanwhile, since the UFBU is scheduled to meet at Delhi on the 11^th Sep 2019 to decide the issue of PLP/PLI, it is decided to place on record the grass root level feelings to resort to agitational programmes as the situation has undergone seriously altering the expectation.

A meeting of the Presidents and General Secretaries of our affiliates in the nine banks that are in the merger process will be held in Chennai on the 19^th Sep 2019.

Comrades, the programmes of action decided by us are to be taken forward with all required seriousness and urgency. It is time to turn the tide to save the central nerve system of the country. Let us perform the national patriotic duty of retaining the public sector character of banks intact.

With fighting greetings,

Yours Comradely

 /S NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.14/VII/2019

August 29, 2019

Camp: MUMBAI

To:                                                      

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES                                                                                                

Dear Comrades,

WAGE REVISION DISCUSSIONS WITH IBA.

One more round of discussions on wage revision was held at Mumbai to-day at IBA office, Mumbai, after a lapse of more than two months. All the nine constituents have participated in this round of discussion. Our organisation was represented by the undersigned.

2.         IBA team was led by Shri.Rajkiranrai, Chairman Negotiating Committee (UBI), Shri.Prashant Kumar, DMD/CFO SBI, Shri.Alok Kumar Choudhary SBI, Shri. R.K.Sharma MD&CEO, IDBI, Shri.V.G.Kannan CEO IBA, Shri.B.Rajkumar Dy.CEO. IBA, Shri.S.K.Kakkar Sr.Advisor IBA, Shri.K.S.Chauhan Advisor IBA besides officials of personnel department of IBA.

3.         The Chairman Negotiating Committee, while initiating the discussions expressed happiness of participation of all unions in the meeting. He recalled the earlier discussion in a quick review: viz. Fixed Pay 10% + variable pay 6% ; mandate issue still kept open up-to Scale V; decision on variable pay to be arrived at as the future recruitment will be cost to company model. Reacting to the quick review the representatives made it abundantly clear that the offer of 10% Fixed Pay is unacceptable and far below the expectation of the entire workforce; the concept of variable pay can be discussed separately; mandate issue needs to be resolved necessarily and there cannot be a precondition to the discussion. Further the common issues like 5 day week, Family Pension and Up-dation of Pension are also to be taken forward for resolution besides specific issues pertaining to officers and workmen are also to be concluded.

4.         Responding to the submissions made by the representatives, Chairman  Negotiating committee stated that Fixed Pay + variable Pay + mandate are interlinked as some of the banks are yet to approach the  respective boards. On 5 day week, though it is flagged off, there is no forward and favourable movement. Though there is no mandate from banks to discuss the post retirement issues, still steps have been initiated in the matter of family pension; however on updation of Pension, the corpus required is more or less equal to the total wage bill. It was suggested to have a small committee constituted for the purpose of discussing the inputs related to Variable Pay, as part of current wage revision. The end result is issues are interlinked.

5.         INSURANCE BACKED HOSPITALISATION SCHEME: In the earlier round held on 19^th June 2019, the plan of action to have a unquestionable way to finalise the issue was shared with unions by IBA, based on the questionnaire and responses received from the member Banks. In this round of discussion Team IBA informed that 3 Public Sector Insurance companies and 5 private sector Insurance Companies have responded to the tender floated for the introduction of scheme as per the present terms of settlement and Joint Note signed by the organisations with IBA, to cover in service employees and past retirees. The decision related to the quantum of premium is to be decided upon, with required safety clause to benefit the total work force, past and present. There was a power point presentation by the service provider for easy access of the details through technology intervention to benefit the policy holders under medi-claim policy.

6.         UFBU MEETING: In the meeting held our organisation was represented by Com.Narendra Kotiawala, Dy.Gen.Secy, Com.V.Ramabhadran, Convenor Wage Committee and Secretary, Com.V.Viswanathan State President AIBOA (MSC) besides the undersigned. It was decided in the meeting that the representatives will meet at Delhi on 11/09/2019 to decide the collective approach on interlinked issues ie Fixed Pay + Variable Pay + Mandate.

To conclude, it is so near  but  still  so far........................................

Yours Comradely,

 S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.13/VII/2019

July 19,  2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Dear Comrades,

FIVE DECADES OF  EXPERIENCES  OF BANK NATIONALISATION.

COUNTRY BELONGS TO MASSES NOT TO BUSINESS HOUSES.

The historical move initiated by Mrs.Indira Gandhi of Nationalisation of Private sector Banks on 19^th July 1969 was hailed as one of the bold step, which had triggered the political turmoil in our country. In her broadcast to the nation on 19^th July she said:

“As early as December 1954 Parliament took the decision to frame our plans and policies within a socialist pattern of society. Control over the commanding heights of the economy is necessary, particularly in a poor country where it is extremely difficult to mobilise adequate resources for development and to reduce inequalities between different groups and regions”

Further she explained these objectives as follows:

a.    a.Removal of control by a few; b. Provision of credit for agriculture, small scale Industries and export, c. Giving a professional bent to management of banks, d.Encouragement of new classes of entrepreneurs, e. Provision of adequate training as well as terms of service to bank Staff.

In the post independent India, there were 97 Scheduled Banks, one Imperial Bank of India, 51 exchange Banks and 81 other banks with a deposit base of Rs.2000 crores The banking system was limited both in numbers and service terms too. Today the entire scenario has changed in terms of number of banks and also services, rather it is increasing on a continuous basis. Today 149 scheduled banks with 1,40,133 bank branches. A total business mix of Rs 200 lacs crores is handled by the banking workforce. In terms of services, today we have one bank branch for every 10000 as against 1,00,000 at the time independence.

Indian banking sector responded well and remained strong during the tough times of Asian Economic Crisis in 1997 when many Asian countries were in turmoil facing currency shortages and credit crisis etc. The sub prime crisis of 2008 which critically affected the western world, our Nation’s immunity level was high and the global disturbances never affected our sector. While developmental economies suffered, Indian economy did not. All round appreciation from International print media was accorded to Indian Banking system.

The period from 1946 to 1969 the banking was under private sector control and 1969 to 1992 the banking sector was more or less under public sector control. Neo liberal economic policies adopted by the Government of India did not exclude our sector too. Acquiring the capital from the private hands was forcefully attempted to begin with State Bank of India, followed by Oriental Bank of Commerce etc. When our nation suffered the balance of payment crisis, we further succumbed to International monetary agencies conditions. Merger of New Bank of India with Punjab National Bank was the first one that happened where equity holding of Government of India was 100%.

Government of India constituted committees to go into the details of performance of the public sector Banks and the recommendations of both the committees were not enlarging the public sector philosophy for which the Nationalisation of Banks was made. The process of pricing the loans even for Agriculture Sector, dismantling of development financial Institution, reduction of exposure limit to priority sector, and merger of Banks etc are the specific recommendations. Our collective resistance through oft repeated strike actions postponed the implementation but could not halt the same.

It is cause of concern that such a strong, efficient, strategic Banking System of our Nation now face negative analysis and is being shown in poor light. It was late Com.Tarakda, the then General Secretary AIBEA on 4th September 1997, published the first volume of bank defaulters list at New Delhi, urging upon the Owners of the Public Sector Banking to take urgent steps to arrest the situation. The owners were unable to visualise the situation at that point of time with required urgency. Non Stop growth of NPAs and also increase in number of frauds committed by corporates are seriously disturbing the citizen of this Nation.

The questions arise in the context of finding justifications as to how far banks can go on writing off debts in the name of following business practices and also instructions of the controller of the Banking System? Banks, as Trustees of Public money, collect deposits from Public and operate their banking business. In the name of prudential norms and regulations, how can a Bank defend itself be decorating its Balance sheet at the cost of Public Money and interest? Banking is nothing but credibility that is created among the Public.

The position of the Banking system aimed at consolidation exercise. It started with the Associate Banks ie 2008,2010 and 2017 with State Bank of India. The parent bank suffered on many counts. But the wrath was passed on to the customers. One of the quarterly profit figure published by the Bank was on account of levying the charges for utilising the ATMs etc. The next dose of Mergers have been rolled out on 17^th September 2018, even without consulting the temple of democracy.

The sudden announcement of demonetisation on 8^th November 2016, introduction of FRDA bill and  also its abrupt withdrawal by the Parliament, Enactment of IBC code where hardly 5 to 10% of recovery from wilful defaulters and long queue before the NCLT by the corporatesy to declare themselves as insolvent are of serious developments that we are witnessed.

We, banking workforce, took the responsibility of financial inclusion and added nearly 22 crores accounts crossing the deposits collected Rs 1,00,000 crores under government announced scheme. Apart from this, all schemes introduced by the Government to uplift the citizen to a reasonable living are handled by us. Prominent amongst them is Mudra loans, will it be of a repeat exercise of 1978 scheme loan melas and subsequently loan waivers?

It is said that “ Trade unions are instruments for Social Change”. The first trade union of Bankmen in pre independent India , as envisaged in the foundation conference on 20^th April 1946, fulfilled its objectives of Nationalisation of Banks, making the class Banking to mass Banking. AIBOA hails the journey of Bank Nationalisation and its Success in 50 years to benefit the people at large. To conclude:

“Each of us can look back upon someone who made a great difference in our lives, some one whose wisdom or simple acts of caring made an impression upon us. In all likelihood it was someone who sought no recognition for their deed other than joy of knowing that, by their hand, another’s life had been made better”

-Stephen M.Wolf-

We bow our heads in the memory of founding fathers of great trade union movement of bankmen in pre independent India for their commitment to convert the pains of struggle as a result oriented one. Public Sector Institutions are nation Building Instruments. It has to be preserved, protected and promoted.

Yours comradely

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.12/VII/2019

July 7 ,  2019

To:

ALL UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,

ISSUES RELATED TO PENSIONERS

HISTORY TO BE REVISITED

Social media is used, misused and abused by one and all and retired Bank employees are also equally active.  One of the prominent question that is often raised was that why pensioner’s issues are not taken up with the IBA a representative body of the Bankers, by the nine constituents in the wage talks.

Let us turn the pages of history to rekindle our memory.

In the background of RBI employees getting the “Pension in lieu of Provident Fund”, the need was felt to raise the demand of Pension and clinch the same with utmost care and urgency.  When it was demanded to be included as an issue in the second joint note exercise for officers by the AIBOA Founder General Secretary Com.P.K.Menon, we were left alone, and resultantly did not sign Joint Note in 1989, due to non inclusion of the demand for meaningful resolution.

Pension in lieu of Provident Fund

Comparing the Pension scheme available in State Bank of India, there were serious debates, whether “two” retiral benefits are beneficial or “3” available in SBI was best.  But it was AIBOA that spearheaded the campaign that “two” is always beneficial than “3” and finally established its supremacy in clinching the introduction of pension on 29^th October 1993 with effect from 1st January, 1986.    Claiming superiority, Banking workforce, some of them misguided by the then “JAC” [Joint Action / Attack Committee] exercised the option in favour of DA upto 1148 points scheme in which DA was credited to PF account of the non-optees...  The first settlement signed on 29^th October 1993 was without any extra contribution to pension fund ie; 10% of Basic Pay

One more option achieved in 2010 – with additional contribution by PF optees:

The Government of India was adamant in considering the one more option,  the corpus required was stated to be Rs.26000 crores by GOI.  A committee was constituted by IBA with two independent actuaries one from Hyderabad and another from Kolkata along with 9 UFBU representatives to arrive at the mutually accepted pension corpus of Rs.6000 crores

To get back to same scheme of 1993 after 17 years ie; 2010, out of the additional corpus of Rs.6000 crores, Rs.4200 crores was credited to pension fund to extend Pension cover to serving employees 2,65,000 and 65,000 retirees.  Thus pension became a reality.  When an officer was inflicted with compulsory retirement, he / she was not extended the option in the year 2010.  It was AIBOA, which took steps to secure the cover for “compulsorily retired” officer under pension scheme too.

As on date, there are few important issues concerning the retirees.

a.              a. Family Pension

b.              b..100% DA for the retirees, retired on or before 01.11.2002. [Supreme court dismissed the case]

c.              c.Updation of pension

d.              d.Insurance backed hospitalisation scheme

In the history of wage negotiations, it was on 25.05.2015, the record note was signed by the nine constituents covering many issues including the above listed one.  In addition to the Record Note of 2015, retirees prior to 1986, they are being paid an ex-gratia of meagre amount with the approval of Government of India.  The number of retirees being few and also aged 93 years, the amount of exgratia needs to be enhanced.

One thing all of us should appreciate that when the serving employees issues are moving in a snail pace, there is a need  to have restrain in expressions in the social media by the retirees.  Getting the family pension settled gains importance and priority besides the updation of pension on account of RBI getting the nod from Government of India in the first week of March 2019, as there exists minutes of 1994 on record between both the parties.

The existing pension corpus also includes  employees’ recruited upto 31.03.2010.  While the expectations are genuine, we should also develop patience to clinch the matter, without comprising the set of rules meant and established over a period of time.

Efforts are sincerely made to realise the above demands.  Equally patience is the need of the hour.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.11/VII/2019

June 25, 2019

To:

All UNITS / STATE COMMITTEES

Comrades,  

WAGE REVISION - STALEMATE.

Vide our circular dated  19th instant issued from Mumbai, it was informed that offer of covering up to Scale V officers in all Public Sector Banks is hanging in balance  due to unacceptance by all organizations. Out of the three essential ingredients of wages viz. Date of effect, Merger of D.A. for construction of New Pay scales and quantum in % terms, the first two are already agreed upon and the third one is yet to be arrived at. So far, the proposal offered is 10% Fixed Pay and 6% variable pay by IBA. Variable Pay as stated is linked to Profit earned and return on Assets of the individual Banks. In a service Industry like banking, variable pay is not going to benefit uniformly and promotes discrimination. Hence, our organization is opposed to it.

In the background of latest stand of I.B.A, the four officers' organizations held a meeting at Bengaluru to take stock of the situation for taking forward the issues for a meaningful conclusion to benefit the entire banking workforce. Our organization was represented by Com.Alok Khare, Vice Chairman, Com.A.N.Suresh, President, the undersigned and Com. V.Ramabhadran, Secretary and Convenor Wage revision committee. After a threadbare exchange of information’s amongst the representatives, it was decided to place before The Chaiman IBA for redressal of the much vexed issue latest by 02/07/2019 so as to enable the organizations to participate in the exercise of wage revision. The said communication is appended herewith.

We shall keep the units informed of the developments.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY