Public Sector Banks to Operate Normally Amid Upcoming Strike

In light of a planned three-day strike by bank employees, the Finance Ministry has announced that all public sector banks will operate normally on September 27. This decision aims to ensure that the banking needs of the public are met during the strike period from September 28 to 30. The Reserve Bank of India has approved the operation of all bank branches and ATMs on that day. The government has also urged unions to reconsider the strike, as they have already addressed one of the unions' key demands regarding the Performance Linked Incentive scheme. The situation remains dynamic as discussions continue to resolve outstanding issues.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 23, 2026, 16:27 IST

Bank Operations During Proposed Strike

Representational Image

New Delhi, September 23: To mitigate the impact of a planned three-day nationwide strike by bank employees, all public sector and regional rural banks will operate as usual on Sunday, September 27, as stated by the Finance Ministry on Wednesday.

The statement highlighted that the strike, organized by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to 30, coincides with the weekend holidays of September 26 and 27. The government has taken measures to ensure that the banking needs of the public are met during this period.

The Reserve Bank of India has authorized all bank branches, offices, ATM-linked branches, and Currency Chests to remain fully functional on September 27.

The Finance Ministry emphasized that prioritizing the welfare and convenience of bank customers is paramount. The government and bank management have urged unions to postpone the planned strike and have implemented steps to maintain essential banking services without interruption.

Additionally, the government has requested employees of public sector and regional rural banks to reconsider their strike plans, noting that one of their key demands—the suspension of the Performance Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme—has already been addressed.

The United Forum of Bank Unions, along with other unions from public sector and regional rural banks, has called for strikes to advocate for a five-day banking week and the withdrawal of the PLI scheme. In response to the concerns raised, the government has decided to suspend the PLI scheme after thorough discussions, fulfilling one of the unions' primary demands.

The Finance Ministry further stated, “As most of the unions' concerns have been significantly addressed, and the remaining demand is under review, we encourage bank employees to avoid strikes, engage in dialogue to resolve issues, and ensure uninterrupted banking services.”