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Bank customers may face branch service disruptions as nationwide three-day strike begins from September 28, 2026 (Images: X)
New Delhi: Bank customers across India may face difficulties with several branch-related services as bank unions are set to observe a three-day nationwide strike from September 28 to 30, 2026. The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), with demands including the implementation of a five-day banking week, changes in pension-related benefits and other service matters.
The disruption could be more noticeable as the strike coincides with the half-yearly financial closing period on September 30, 2026. Public sector banks and regional rural banks are expected to witness a larger impact, while private banks may see comparatively limited disruption.
The nationwide strike has been announced by bank unions under the banner of UFBU. The unions are raising several demands, including the introduction of a five-day banking week and issues related to pension benefits and employee service conditions.
The strike is expected to mainly impact traditional banking operations that require physical branch staff.
Customers visiting bank branches for over-the-counter cash transactions may face difficulties during the strike period. Cash deposits and withdrawals that require manual assistance could remain unavailable at affected branches.
2. Cheque Clearing and Demand Draft Services
Cheque processing may experience delays as clearing-related activities involving branch operations could be affected. Customers needing fresh demand drafts may also have to wait until normal branch services resume.
Physical services such as passbook printing, account updates and other branch-dependent requests may not be processed during the strike. Customers requiring in-person KYC verification or documentation work may need to postpone their visit.
4. Loan Processing and Locker Access
Loan applications, document verification and other credit-related activities requiring bank staff may face delays. Customers using physical locker facilities may also be unable to access them while branches remain closed.
1. UPI Payments Will Continue
Digital payment systems, including UPI transactions are expected to remain available during the strike. Customers can continue making routine payments through UPI-enabled apps.
2. Mobile and Internet Banking to Remain Functional
Online banking services are expected to continue operating. Customers can use banking applications and internet portals for fund transfers, bill payments and other digital services.
3. ATMs and Cash Machines Likely to Work
ATM services are expected to remain operational during the strike. However, cash availability may vary depending on location, withdrawal demand and ATM replenishment schedules. Cash deposit machines may also continue functioning wherever the facility is available.
Private Banks May See Limited Impact
Private-sector banks are expected to be less affected compared to public sector banks. However, customers are advised to check specific bank updates before visiting branches during the strike period.
In an unusual move, public sector banks and regional rural banks were allowed to operate on Sunday, September 27, ahead of the three-day strike. The move was aimed at reducing inconvenience for customers and allowing them to complete urgent banking work before the strike began. The Finance Ministry said banks would function normally on Sunday, with approvals allowing branches, offices, ATM-linked branches and currency chests to remain operational.
Customers with urgent branch-related work, including cash requirements, paperwork, KYC updates or other manual banking tasks are advised to complete them before the strike begins.
While digital banking services are expected to continue, physical banking operations may face delays until normal services resume.
