Banking services at public sector banks across India are likely to be disrupted on Tuesday, as employee unions go ahead with a nationwide strike to press for a five-day work week.
The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella body representing bank employees and officers. Talks with authorities have failed to produce a breakthrough, prompting unions to proceed with the protest.
WHICH BANKING SERVICES MAY BE AFFECTED?
Customers may face difficulties with branch-level services, including:
- Cash deposits and withdrawals
- Cheque clearances
- Passbook updates
- Other over-the-counter services
Major public sector banks such as SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda and other PSU lenders are expected to be impacted.
Will online banking and UPI work?
Digital services like UPI, mobile banking and internet banking are expected to remain functional. However, ATM cash availability may be uneven in some areas due to reduced staff movement during the strike. Private sector banks are not part of the strike, and their operations are likely to continue as usual.
WHY ARE BANK UNIONS STRIKING?
The unions are demanding that all Saturdays be declared holidays, effectively shifting banks to a five-day work week. They argue that such a system was agreed to earlier but has not yet been formally implemented. According to union leaders, the move would improve work-life balance, reduce burnout, and align banks with other government offices and financial institutions that already follow a five-day schedule.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR CUSTOMERS?
With banks already closed on Sunday and Monday, the strike could result in three consecutive days of limited branch services, potentially delaying routine transactions. Customers are advised to plan essential banking work in advance and rely on digital channels where possible.
