New Delhi: Customers of several public sector and old-generation private sector banks have been advised to complete important banking transactions in advance as bank employees’ unions prepare for a three-day nationwide strike starting September 28.
The proposed strike is expected to disrupt branch operations across several banks and comes during the crucial half-yearly closing period for the banking sector.
Bank Unions Call Three-Day Nationwide Strike
The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), which claims to represent nearly 90 per cent of the country’s banking workforce.
The unions are demanding the implementation of a five-day banking week, along with pension-related reforms and other employee welfare measures.
To reduce inconvenience to customers, the government has directed public sector banks to remain open on Sunday, September 27, allowing customers to complete urgent transactions before the strike begins.
SBI, Bank of India Issue Customer Advisories
State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an advisory stating that while it will make efforts to maintain essential services at branches and offices, some banking operations could be affected during the strike period.
SBI has urged customers to complete critical transactions in advance and use digital banking channels, including YONO, internet banking, mobile banking, UPI, ATMs and cash deposit machines wherever possible.
Bank of India has also alerted customers about the planned strike and advised them to use its round-the-clock digital platforms, including internet banking, mobile banking, ATMs, business correspondent points and UPI services.
Regional Rural Banks Also Expected to Join Strike
Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) are also expected to participate in the agitation, potentially widening the impact on banking services across the country.
However, new-generation private sector banks such as ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and IndusInd Bank are expected to continue normal operations, providing customers with alternatives for routine banking services during the strike.
Earlier this week, the Finance Ministry appealed to bank employees’ unions to call off the strike and resolve pending issues through dialogue. The ministry maintained that a majority of the concerns raised by the unions had already been substantially addressed.
The three-day strike is scheduled to begin on September 28.