Bank Unions Call Three-Day Strike From September 28; Branch Services to Face Disruption

Bank customers across India may face disruption in branch-based services as bank unions prepare to observe a three-day nationwide strike from September 28 to 30. The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), which has listed the implementation of a five-day banking week among its key demands, along with changes to pension benefits and other service-related issues.

The timing could make the impact more visible, since the strike overlaps with the half-yearly financial closing on September 30. Public sector banks and regional rural banks are expected to be the most affected, while private-sector banks are likely to see comparatively less disruption.

Services that may be hit

Work that depends on a physical branch or manual processing is most at risk during the three days. Over-the-counter cash deposits and withdrawals may not be available at affected branches, and passbook printing could be delayed. Cheque clearing and other transactions requiring physical processing may also slow down, while the issuance of fresh demand drafts may not be possible.

Customers needing in-person document verification, KYC updates or account-related changes may have to wait until branches reopen. Loan-related work — including applications, documentation and verification — could be delayed, and access to physical bank lockers may not be possible while branches remain closed. Internal operations linked to the September 30 financial closing could also be affected.

What is expected to keep working

The strike is primarily expected to affect physical branch operations. Routine UPI transactions are expected to remain available, and customers can continue using mobile and internet banking for fund transfers, bill payments and other digital services. ATMs are expected to remain operational, though cash availability could vary by location and replenishment. Cash deposit machines may continue to accept deposits where the facility exists. Private-sector banks are expected to be less affected, but customers should check individual bank advisories before visiting a branch.

Sunday window before the strike

To soften the impact, the government allowed public sector banks and regional rural banks to operate on Sunday, September 27. The Finance Ministry said these banks would function normally that day, with RBI approval for branches, offices, ATM-linked branches and currency chests to remain operational. The step was aimed at helping customers finish urgent banking work before the strike begins on Monday.

Customers with pending paperwork, cash-related tasks or other branch-dependent work may treat September 27 as the last opportunity before the strike, subject to local arrangements at their branch.