New Delhi: Banking services across India may face disruption as the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has called a three-day nationwide strike from September 28 to 30, with the State Bank of India (SBI) advising customers to complete important branch-related work in advance.
The proposed strike comes after a nationwide bank strike on September 11 and is part of the unions’ ongoing agitation over several demands, including the introduction of a five-day banking week and other employee-related issues.
Five days of possible disruption
For customers, the timing could mean a longer interruption in branch services. September 26 and 27 fall on Saturday and Sunday, followed by the three-day strike from September 28 to 30.
SBI has advised customers to complete transactions requiring branch visits, staff assistance or document verification before the strike. The bank said branch operations could be affected depending on employee participation.
Digital banking services likely to continue
Customers can use ATMs, Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines, Customer Service Points, internet banking, mobile banking, UPI and SBI’s YONO platform for routine transactions during the strike period.
However, services requiring physical visits or staff assistance may face delays if branches are affected.
The Finance Ministry has also called a meeting with the heads of public sector banks, regional rural banks, the Indian Banks’ Association and NABARD to discuss contingency measures and ensure essential banking services remain available during the strike.
The UFBU has also announced a further continuous strike from October 26 if its demands remain unresolved.