Bank customers across India may face disruptions in banking services next week if the bank unions proceed as planned for a nationwide strike from September 28 to September 30, 2026.
As per the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), the bank unions have called a 3-day nationwide strike beginning September 28, which may impact banking services for five days. This strike, if it materialises, would coincide with the half-yearly closing of the banking sector.
Since September 26 is the second Saturday and September 27 is Sunday, bank branches could remain closed for five consecutive days, from September 26 to 30.
The strike has raised concerns among customers who need to complete important banking transactions, including cash deposits, withdrawals, cheque-related work and other branch-based services. It is advisable for customers to complete essential banking activities ahead of the proposed strike.
Hence, the five-day strike period includes:
- September 26, Saturday: Second Saturday bank holiday.
- September 27, Sunday: Weekly holiday.
- September 28, Monday: Proposed nationwide bank strike.
- September 29, Tuesday: Proposed nationwide bank strike.
- September 30, Wednesday: Proposed nationwide bank strike.
Previously, bank unions under UFBU had gone on a nationwide strike on September 11 over their demand.
Why are bank employees going on strike?
UFBU claims to represent 90 per cent of the banking workforce, and their other demands include the updation and improvement of pension, a uniform dearness allowance formula for all pensioners and an option for employees covered under the National Pension System (NPS) to switch to the old pension scheme (OPS). Along with this, the implementation of a five-day banking week is also being demanded by the union.
Earlier, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) Secretary informed of a meeting on Monday with the chief executives of public sector banks (PSBs) and regional rural banks (RRBs) to discuss measures to ensure continuity of banking operations and essential customer services during the strike period, according to a communication sent to banks.
Will ATMs, UPI and online banking be functional?
Service availability can vary between banks; hence, it is advisable that customers plan their essential banking activities in advance to reduce inconvenience during the strike period.
