New Delhi, September 11, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Banking services were disrupted across India on Friday as employees affiliated with the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) observed a nationwide strike demanding the immediate implementation of a five-day workweek and resolution of pending wage-related issues.
The UFBU represents seven bank unions and around 90 per cent of bank officers and employees. Several public sector bank branches remained fully or partially closed as employees joined the protest, affecting routine branch operations.
Cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque clearances and administrative work were disrupted at several locations. Some private sector banks also reported limited impact, while digital services such as UPI and internet banking continued to operate.
Bank union leaders said the strike was called after discussions failed to produce a positive outcome and alleged that the government had not agreed to their key demands. Several public sector banks had alerted customers in advance about possible disruption.
The unions are seeking implementation of a five-day banking week, with Saturdays declared holidays. They said the move was part of the 12th Bipartite Settlement signed with the Indian Banks’ Association in March 2024 but is still awaiting government notification. Banks currently operate on the first, third and fifth Saturdays of the month.
Other demands include improved pension benefits, a uniform dearness allowance formula for all pensioners and an option for employees covered under the National Pension System to shift to the Old Pension Scheme.
The unions have also announced another three-day strike from September 28 to 30. The disruption is expected to be more pronounced towards the end of the month, as bank branches will already be closed on September 26, the fourth Saturday, and September 27, Sunday.
Customers have been advised to plan essential branch-based transactions accordingly. ATM and digital banking services may continue during strike days, depending on individual banks, cash availability and technical services.
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