Banking operations across India continue to face disruptions today as the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has called for a nationwide strike on January 27, 2026, over the implementation of a five-day workweek.
The strike comes after a conciliation meeting held with the Chief Labour Commissioner on January 23 failed to yield a resolution.
What banks would be affected?
Customers planning their visit to public sector banks like State Bank of India (SBI), Punjab National Bank (PNB), and Bank of Baroda may face disruptions. Banking services like cash deposits, withdrawals, cheque clearances, and administrative work are expected to be affected across these banks.
However, digital banking services, including UPI and internet banking, will continue to function to as usual. Although ATM cash availability may face issues due to logistical delays.
Several public sector lenders, including banking giant SBI, have informed stock exchanges about the potential impact.
“We advise that while the bank has made necessary arrangements to ensure normal functioning in its branches and offices on the day of the strike, it is likely that work in the bank may be impacted by the strike,” SBI said in a regulatory filing on Friday (January 23)
Third consecutive closure
This strike marks the closure of banks for three consecutive days. Prior to this banks were closed on January 26 on account of the public holiday of Republic Day while on January 25 they were closed for the weekend Sunday holiday.
In a social media post on X (formerly known as Twitter), CH Venkatachalam, General secretary of All India Bank Employees Association urged bank employees across India to strike and participate in the rally. Adding that strike is for the betterment of their future.
“Despite detailed discussions during the conciliation proceedings, there was no assurance on our demand. Hence, we have been compelled to proceed with the strike action,” All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA), a constituent of UFBU, General Secretary C.H. Venkatachalam told PTI.
Commenting on the same National Confederation of Bank Employees (NCBE) General Secretary L. Chandrasekhar told PTI that , “This movement is not against customers, but for a sustainable, humane, and efficient banking system. A rested banker serves the nation better. A balanced workforce strengthens financial stability. Five-day banking is not a luxury; it is an economic and human necessity.”
(With inputs from new agency PTI)