New Delhi, September 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Customers of several public sector and old-generation private sector banks have been advised to complete important banking transactions in advance as bank employees’ unions prepare for a three-day nationwide strike beginning September 28.
The proposed strike, called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), is expected to affect branch operations across several banks and comes during the crucial half-yearly closing period. The UFBU claims to represent nearly 90 per cent of the country’s banking workforce.
The unions are seeking implementation of a five-day banking week, along with pension-related reforms and other employee welfare measures.
To reduce inconvenience to customers, the government has directed public sector banks to remain open on Sunday, September 27, allowing customers to complete urgent transactions before the strike begins.
State Bank of India (SBI) has advised customers to complete critical transactions in advance and use digital banking services, including YONO, internet banking, mobile banking, UPI, ATMs and cash deposit machines, wherever possible. The bank said it would make efforts to maintain essential services, though some operations could be affected during the strike.
Bank of India has also alerted customers about the planned strike and advised them to use its round-the-clock digital platforms, including internet banking, mobile banking, ATMs, business correspondent points and UPI services.
Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) are also expected to participate in the agitation, potentially expanding the impact on banking services.
New-generation private sector banks such as ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank are expected to continue normal operations, providing alternatives for routine banking needs during the strike period.
Earlier this week, the Finance Ministry appealed to bank employees’ unions to call off the strike and resolve pending issues through dialogue, maintaining that a majority of the concerns raised by the unions had already been substantially addressed.
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