New Delhi, Feb 20 (PTI) Normal banking operations like cheque clearances, withdrawing and depositing of money at branches were hit as employees of public sector banks went on a two-day strike beginning today. The nation-wide strike call, demanding early wage revision among other issues, was given by United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) that comprises nine national unions. It was, however, business as usual at private sector banks like ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank. Employees of public sector insurance companies, including LIC and New India Assurance, participated in the strike. Apprehending disruption in normal operations, many public sector banks had already informed customers about the strike. Sources said banks have taken steps to ensure that public do not face problems at least on the cash front during the strike period. Banks have replenished ATMs to meet the requirements in these two days. Despite these measures, some ATMs went dry at commercial hubs. All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) General Secretary C H Vekatachalam claimed clearing operations, electronic fund transfers, forex transactions and money market operations were completely disrupted across the country. Bank unions are pressing for early wage revision of employees, which they said is due from November 2012. They are also opposing banking sector reforms and any plan for merger of banks. There are 26 public sector banks with employees strength of around 10 lakh. PTI DP NS
