New Delhi: Bank customers across the country have received major operational relief ahead of a proposed three-day nationwide bank strike set to begin on September 28, 2026. Because bank branches are routinely closed on September 26, the fourth Saturday, and 27 September (Sunday), the upcoming strike threatened to paralyse traditional banking channels for five consecutive days.

To avert a prolonged disruption, the Union Finance Ministry announced that all Public Sector Banks (PSBs) and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) will remain fully operational on Sunday, September 27.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has sanctioned the working of bank branches, administrative offices, currency chests and ATM-linked centers on the day. The measure ensures that individuals and business owners can execute critical over-the-counter transactions before the strike begins.

A statement from the Ministry emphasised that customer convenience remains the government's primary focus. Official appeals have been issued to union leaders to postpone the agitation, while contingency steps have been implemented to keep basic financial infrastructure accessible.

 

Why are bank unions calling a strike? 

The industrial action has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella body representing approximately 90% of India's banking workforce. The primary catalyst behind the protest is the long-standing demand for a five-day working week.

Conciliation talks held on Tuesday between UFBU delegates and the Deputy Chief Labour Commissioner ended without a resolution. Following the meeting, the UFBU clarified its position, stating it would consider calling off the strike only if bank managements, the Indian Banks' Association (IBA), and the Department of Financial Services (DFS) present a concrete plan regarding the transition to five-day banking.

Beyond the reduced workweek, the UFBU's charter of demands includes

  • Upgrade and periodic revision of pension schemes.
  • Standardised Dearness Allowance (DA) formulas for all existing retirees.
  • An option for employees under the National Pension System (NPS) to migrate to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).

Impact on half-yearly financial closing

The timing of the proposed three-day walkout directly overlaps with September 30, the half-yearly closing date for financial institutions. This deadline is vital for account reconciliation, quarterly provisioning, treasury functions and interbank operations.

In response to the standoff, several public sector lenders have released customer advisories urging account holders to rely on digital channels, including UPI, Internet Banking, Mobile Banking applications, BC Points and ATMs, to complete essential transactions during the disruption period.