Banking services hit as Unions strike nationwide for five-day workweek

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, September 11, 2026: Banking services, particularly at public sector banks, were affected across the country on Friday as employees and officers observed a nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), demanding the immediate implementation of a five-day workweek and resolution of pending wage-related issues.

The strike did not affect the operations of private sector banks.

Several branches of public sector banks remained completely or partially closed as employees and officers participated in the strike. Services including cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque clearing and administrative work were affected at many public sector bank branches and some old-generation private sector banks.

However, digital banking services such as UPI and internet banking continued to function normally.

All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) General Secretary C.H. Venkatachalam said the strike was called after the government failed to respond positively to the unions’ demands.

“Since there was no positive outcome and the government did not agree to our demand, this strike is forced on us. Bank employees and officers are highly aggrieved that they alone are being discriminated against,” he said.

Most public sector banks had informed customers in advance about the likely disruption to branch operations.

The State Bank of India (SBI), in an advisory to customers, said it had made arrangements to ensure normal functioning of branches and offices, but acknowledged that operations could be affected due to the strike.

The unions are seeking all Saturdays to be declared holidays, a demand that was reportedly agreed upon as part of the 12th Bipartite Settlement signed between the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and bank unions in March 2024. However, the decision is still awaiting formal notification from the government.