New Delhi, May 8, 2026 – Workmen-category employees of the State Bank of India (SBI) are set to observe a two-day nationwide strike on May 25 and 26, 2026, following a call by the All India State Bank of India Staff Federation (AISBISF). The strike, notified under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, is being organised over a 16-point charter of demands concerning staffing shortages, pension issues, service conditions, and recruitment policies.
The federation has highlighted several long-pending grievances, including alleged delays in implementing earlier agreements. A major focus of the agitation is the National Pension System (NPS), with employees seeking greater flexibility to switch pension fund managers — an option already available in other public sector banks.
Key Demands Include:
- Immediate recruitment of Messengers and Armed Guards to address critical staffing gaps.
- Option to change Pension Fund Manager for NPS-covered employees.
- Inter-circle transfers for staff recruited since 2019.
- Halt to outsourcing of permanent jobs and filling of vacant positions through fresh recruitment.
- Review and improvement of the Career Progression Scheme.
- Pay parity and other compensation-related matters.
- Enhancements in the medical reimbursement scheme, including higher physician consultation charges.
- Resolution of pending pension benefits for retirees, such as inclusion of additional pay components for 7th BPS retirees and notional increments.
- Fixes to issues in the HRMS (Human Resource Management System).
- Other points covering stopping alleged mis-selling in cross-selling products and appointment of a workmen employee director on the SBI board.
Union leaders have expressed concerns over increasing workload, job security, and the long-term financial security of employees, particularly those who joined after 2004 and fall under the NPS framework.
Likely Impact on Banking Services
The strike is expected to disrupt branch-level operations across the country on Monday, May 25, and Tuesday, May 26. With May 23 and 24 being weekend days, customers may face limited in-person services for up to four consecutive days in many locations.
While digital banking channels — including internet banking, mobile apps, UPI transactions, and ATMs — are likely to remain operational, there could be delays in cheque clearing, cash deposits/withdrawals, and other branch-dependent services. The strike primarily involves workmen-category staff, though overall functioning may be affected depending on participation levels.
As of now, no breakthrough in negotiations has been reported. Customers are advised to complete essential banking transactions before the strike dates and rely on digital alternatives where possible.
This latest strike reflects broader unrest in India’s public sector banking industry regarding staffing, outsourcing practices, and pension-related reforms. Further updates are expected in the coming weeks as the strike date approaches.
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