Top News

Bank Union Strike News: Normal banking operations across the country are set to be affected for the next four days starting today. A prolonged period of bank closures has begun with the nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) for September 11. Following the September 11 strike, banking operations will remain suspended due to the second Saturday, Sunday, and the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi in several states. Consequently, operations conducted through bank branches will be directly impacted.

Why will banks remain closed for four consecutive days? Here is the full schedule:

September 11 (Friday): Nationwide bank strike led by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU).

September 12 (Saturday): Regular bank holiday across the country as it is the second Saturday of the month.

September 13 (Sunday): Weekly off.

September 14 (Monday): Banks in specific states will observe a holiday for Ganesh Chaturthi, in accordance with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar.

It is important to note that the list of bank holidays varies by state depending on local festivals; therefore, customers are advised to verify the bank holiday calendar for their specific region. You can view the official RBI holiday calendar by clicking here.

Why was the strike called on September 11? Here are the key demands:

The unions have organized this strike against the government and bank management to press for several long-pending demands. The primary issue driving the strike is the demand to implement a five-day work week. This demand is based on the agreement and joint note signed between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and bank unions on March 8, 2024. Under the proposed arrangement, banks would observe holidays on all Saturdays except the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, while the daily working hours for employees from Monday to Friday would be extended to compensate for the lost time. Additionally, bank unions are opposing the Performance-Linked Incentive (PLI) structure applicable to senior bank executives and are demanding changes to it.

Will all services be shut down? Here is what will happen with online banking and UPI.

Despite bank branches remaining closed, banking services will continue via digital channels. Customers can use UPI, internet banking, and mobile banking for routine fund transfers, bill payments, and other online banking services without interruption. ATMs and other self-service banking facilities are expected to remain operational for cash withdrawals. However, tasks requiring a physical visit to the bank branch—such as submitting physical documents, cheque clearing, and KYC-related procedures—may face disruptions or delays during these four days.

What are the options and advice for customers?

For any branch-related tasks, customers are advised to contact their respective branches before visiting or to opt for digital alternatives. Using mobile apps or internet banking is the easiest option for routine transactions, money transfers, and bill payments. Those with cheques currently being processed should plan their financial decisions keeping the four-day holiday period in mind.

Warning of further strikes in the coming days

If no consensus is reached regarding the bank employees' demands, banking services could be affected in the future as well. Bank unions have announced further strikes on September 28, 29, and 30. Following this, there are plans to go on an indefinite strike starting October 26, 2026. Although banks state they will make arrangements to minimize inconvenience to the public, delays in branch-level services cannot be ruled out.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Money Control. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.