Shillong: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has expressed concern over the Union Government’s decision directing all Public Sector Banks and Regional Rural Banks to function normally on Sunday, September 27, ahead of the proposed three-day nationwide bank strike.
The government has directed the banks to remain open on Sunday to prevent prolonged disruption to customers ahead of the proposed strike scheduled from September 28 to 30. Bank branches, offices, ATM-linked branches and currency chests are expected to function on the day.
The VPP opposed the decision, describing it as “uncalled for” and urging the Union Government to reconsider the directive.
The party pointed out that Sunday is ordinarily observed as a weekly day of rest and, particularly in Meghalaya and other parts of the Northeast, is also an important day of public worship for the Christian community.
According to the VPP, requiring banks to operate normally on a Sunday under such circumstances deserves reconsideration, particularly given the religious and social significance of the day in the region.
The party urged the Union Government to engage with bank employees through dialogue and address their concerns while respecting their service conditions and rights.
The proposed nationwide bank strike from September 28 to 30 centres on demands raised by bank employees, including the implementation of a five-day banking week.
