United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), a joint platform of major bank employees’ and officers’ unions, has announced a nationwide strike over its demands, including implementation of a five-day working week. The unions have announced a phased agitation in September and October 2026.
UFBU comprises nine major bank organisations that are demanding a five-day working week. Bank employees and officers have long been seeking closure of banks on Saturdays in addition to Sundays.
Under the current arrangement, bank branches are generally closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, while they remain open on other Saturdays. If the five-day working week demand is accepted, Saturday and Sunday could become regular weekly holidays.
The unions have also demanded withdrawal of the government’s revised performance-linked incentive (PLI) system. According to the bank unions, the government’s approach to these issues has not been positive, prompting the decision to launch the agitation.
UFBU has called the first nationwide bank strike for September 11, 2026, which falls on a Friday. If the strike is followed by weekend holidays, some customers may have to wait longer for branch-related services. However, actual availability of banking services will depend on the respective bank, local arrangements and employee participation.
The unions have subsequently announced a three-day nationwide strike from September 28 to September 30, 2026.
During this period, normal branch operations may be affected, including transactions, documentation and other banking work. Customers may need to plan essential branch-related work around these dates.
UFBU has also announced the most extensive phase of its agitation. According to the unions, if their demands are not resolved, an indefinite nationwide bank strike may begin from October 26, 2026.
The unions have said that bank employees would not return to work until an agreement or resolution is reached on the issues. The final impact, however, will depend on further discussions and decisions.
During the strikes, branch services such as cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque-related work, drafts, document submissions and other counter services may be affected. Branch operations could also slow if a large number of employees participate in the strike.
UPI, internet banking, mobile banking and some digital payment services may continue to remain available because many of these services operate through online systems. However, the availability of any particular service will depend on the technical arrangements of the respective bank.
