NATIONWIDE BANK STRIKE DEFERRED AFTER IBA-UNION TALKS

September 28, 2026

The proposed three-day nationwide bank strike scheduled for September 28 to 30 has been deferred following talks between the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) on Sunday evening. The decision is expected to prevent disruption to banking services at the beginning of the week.

The discussions focused on the unions’ longstanding demand for a five-day banking week, under which all Saturdays would be holidays. The two sides agreed to constitute a high-level committee to examine the demand, consult stakeholders and work towards a mutually acceptable solution while taking customers’ interests into account.

The talks will also cover issues concerning the Performance Linked Incentive scheme for senior officers and other unresolved matters recorded in earlier discussions between the unions and the banking association. The UFBU said its proposed agitation and strike actions would be deferred in view of the developments.

The strike had been expected to affect branch-level banking operations, particularly at public-sector banks and regional rural banks. It had been called over demands including a five-day banking week, pension-related issues and changes concerning the pension scheme for employees covered by the National Pension System.