New Delhi, Sept. 11: Banking operations faced disruption across India on Friday as employees of public sector banks joined a nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), pressing for implementation of a five-day workweek and resolution of pending wage-related issues.
The action affected branch-based services including cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque clearances and administrative work at several locations. Most branches of state-run banks were reported fully or partially closed as employees participated in the protest. Some older private banks also reported disruptions, while digital services such as UPI and internet banking continued to operate.
The UFBU represents seven bank unions and around 90 per cent of bank officers and employees. Bank Employees Association leaders said the strike followed a lack of positive progress on their demands and the absence of government agreement on the issues raised by the unions.
The five-day workweek remains a central demand. The unions want Saturdays declared holidays, citing an agreement reached under the 12th Bipartite Settlement signed with the Indian Banks’ Association in March 2024. The change, however, has not received government notification. Banks currently operate on the first, third and fifth Saturdays of each month.
Public sector banks had informed customers beforehand about the possible disruption. State Bank of India said it had made arrangements to maintain normal operations but also cautioned that work could nevertheless be affected by the strike.
The unions have also sought changes in pension-related benefits, a uniform dearness allowance formula for all pensioners and an option for employees covered by the National Pension System to move to the Old Pension Scheme.
The disruption is expected to return later this month. The banking union had announced in August that a three-day strike would be held from September 28 to 30, following the September 11 action.
The end of September could see further pressure on branch services, with September 26 already falling on the fourth Saturday and September 27 on Sunday. ATM and digital banking facilities may continue on strike days, depending on individual banks, cash availability and technical services.
Customers have been advised to plan essential transactions requiring branch services around the announced disruptions.
