Bank employees under the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) are set to begin a three day nationwide strike from September 28 to 30, which could affect branch based banking services across India.
The UFBU, representing seven bank unions and around eight lakh employees, is seeking the implementation of a five day banking week, with all Saturdays declared holidays.
The strike is expected to have its main impact on public sector bank and regional rural bank branches. It does not mean that every bank in the country will shut down, and private sector banks are generally expected to continue operations according to their individual arrangements.
Customers may experience delays in cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque processing, account related services and other transactions requiring branch staff.
However, UPI, internet banking, mobile banking and ATM services are expected to remain available, subject to normal technical and cash availability.
Businesses that depend heavily on branch transactions, cash management or cheque processing could also experience temporary delays during the strike.
The strike coincides with September 30, the half yearly closing date for banks, making the period particularly significant for banking operations.
Banks have advised customers and businesses to complete urgent branch-related transactions in advance and use digital banking services wherever possible.
The immediate impact will depend on employee participation and individual bank arrangements across different locations.
