Employee unions of Punjab National Bank (PNB) have announced a nationwide strike on February 12, 2026, pressing for demands related to wage revision, working conditions, and staffing. The strike is expected to disrupt banking services across branches, highlighting ongoing tensions between management and unions in India’s public sector banking space.
Punjab National Bank (PNB), one of India’s largest public sector banks, faces a potential disruption as employee unions have called for a nationwide strike on February 12, 2026. The strike, announced through union representatives, is aimed at pressing demands for better wages, improved working conditions, and adequate staffing levels.
Union leaders stated that despite repeated discussions, several long-standing issues remain unresolved, prompting collective action. The strike is expected to impact services such as cash transactions, cheque clearances, and customer support across PNB’s extensive branch network.
Industry observers note that strikes in public sector banks often have a ripple effect on the wider financial system, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where PNB has a strong presence. The timing of the strike, coinciding with peak business activity in mid-February, could add to customer inconvenience.
PNB management has yet to issue a detailed response, but analysts believe the situation underscores the need for constructive dialogue between unions and management to ensure smooth operations and employee satisfaction.
Key Highlights
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Strike Date: February 12, 2026.
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Reason: Wage revision, working conditions, and staffing concerns.
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Impact: Likely disruption of banking services nationwide.
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Union Stand: Issues unresolved despite repeated discussions.
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Customer Effect: Cash transactions and cheque clearances may be delayed.
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Sector Context: Reflects broader challenges in India’s public sector banking.
Sources: Economic Times – PNB Union Strike Announcement; Business Standard – Public Sector Bank Employee Demands; Mint – Banking Sector Industrial Relations