Bank Strike: Banking services for customers nationwide may face disruptions during the final week of September due to a proposed three-day strike by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to 30, 2026. The UFBU, claiming to represent around 90 percent of banking sector staff, is organizing the strike.
In preparation for potential branch closures during the strike, SBI has recommended that customers complete essential banking tasks early, although the bank assures that efforts will be made to maintain crucial services. The level of impact on branches will be determined by employee participation in the strike.
Uttar Pradesh Gramin Bank has informed its customers about the potential service disruptions during the strike from September 28 to 30, 2026, advising customers to conduct necessary transactions beforehand. However, the bank’s ATM, UPI, Mobile Banking, Internet Banking, and BC services will remain operational during this period.
Implications of the five-day period from September 26 to 30
– The strike scheduled for September 28th to 30th falls after two consecutive holidays on September 26th and 27th, making it challenging for customers to access branches for five continuous days.
– The impact may vary based on the holiday schedule and strike participation in different states. Customers with urgent banking needs should aim to complete them by September 25th.
Prioritize the following tasks:
Depositing cash, processing checks, updating KYC, submitting documents, issuing demand drafts, or seeking employee assistance should be done early as these tasks may experience delays during the strike. Some check-related processes could be delayed as well.
Essential Checklist for Customers
– Before September 25: Complete necessary tasks at the branch.
– Arrange required cash in advance through ATM/ADWM.
– Maintain adequate balance for EMI/SIP payments.
– Utilize UPI/Net Banking for digital payments.
– Complete cheque processing, KYC, and documentation work early.
– Finish any pending tasks with deadlines between September 28 and 30 beforehand.
Continuation of UPI, YONO, and net banking:
The strike is anticipated to impact branch services primarily; SBI recommends utilizing digital channels like internet banking, YONO, mobile banking, and UPI for transactions. These platforms facilitate money transfers, bill payments, and other digital transactions, but may face temporary disruptions during maintenance or technical issues.
EMI and credit card bill payments
– Payments for EMIs or credit card bills can be made through UPI, net banking, mobile banking, bank apps, or other digital channels during the strike.
– Ensure sufficient funds in your account for timely payments to avoid any disruptions.
Reasons for the strike
The UFBU is advocating for the implementation of a five-day banking system and resolution of various employee-related matters, including pension reforms, a uniform dearness allowance formula for all pensioners, and the option for NPS-covered employees to switch to the old pension system.