Bank branches across the country will remain open this Sunday, September 27, the Union government said on Wednesday, saying the move will safeguard the banking needs of citizens amid a nationwide strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU). The bank unions have called for a strike from September 28 to 30, coinciding with the preceding weekend holidays of September 26 and 27--which could lead to a 5-day branch banking service disruption.
“In order to ensure that the genuine banking needs of the public are not adversely affected for an extended period, all Public Sector Banks and Regional Rural Banks will function normally on Sunday, September 27, 2026,” the Ministry of Finance said in a statement.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given approval for all bank branches, offices, ATM-linked branches and Currency Chests to remain fully operational on Sunday, September 27.
The ministry noted that the step was taken as a proactive measure to safeguard the banking needs of citizens, as the proposed three-day nationwide bank strike is coinciding with the preceding weekend holidays of September 26 and 27.
Earlier, the Government and bank management have appealed to unions to defer the proposed strike, given the potential impact on public services and financial operations.
What Is The Main Demand Of Bank Employees?
Currently, banks across India are closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, while the first, third, and fifth Saturdays are open. Bank unions are demanding that all Saturdays be declared holidays, meaning that banks operate only from Monday to Friday. This demand was also a key part of the wage agreement reached between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and bank unions.
Which Services Will Be Affected During Strike Period?
Bank branch operations on the strike day - such as cash deposits, cash withdrawals, passbook updates, and drafts will be severely affected. Cheque clearing operations may be disrupted, resulting in longer than usual check clearance times. Filing and approval of new loans may also be disrupted.