Bank Strike 28–30 September: SBI Asks Customers to Use Digital Channels, Complete Branch Work in Advance

New Delhi: Bank customers across India may face disruptions in branch services as bank unions have proposed a three-day nationwide strike from 28 to 30 September 2026, which, combined with the weekend holidays on 26 and 27 September, could effectively keep many branches non-functional for five consecutive days. newindianexpress.

The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), which claims to represent about 90% of the banking workforce in public sector banks and regional rural banks. Key demands include immediate implementation of a five-day banking week, withdrawal or revision of the Performance Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, and improvements in pension-related issues, including a uniform dearness allowance formula and an option for National Pension System (NPS) employees to shift to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).indianexpress
In view of the proposed strike, State Bank of India (SBI) has issued a fresh customer advisory, urging account holders to complete important branch-dependent transactions—such as cheque clearances, fixed deposit renewals, KYC updates and loan documentation—before 26 September to avoid inconvenience. moneycontrol

While SBI said it is making “all possible efforts” to maintain essential banking services during the strike, it cautioned that branch operations may be affected depending on employee participation. The bank has advised customers needing cash to use ATMs and Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs), and to utilise Customer Service Points (CSPs) where available.kotakneo+4
For routine transactions, SBI has encouraged the use of digital channels such as internet banking, the YONO app, mobile banking and Unified Payments Interface (UPI). These platforms can be used for fund transfers, bill payments, recharges and other day-to-day banking activities without visiting a branch. timesofindia.indiatimes

The Finance Ministry has already held discussions with public sector bank and RRB chiefs to ensure continuity of essential services and minimise customer hardship during the strike period. economictimes.indiatimes+1
Other major banks, including Union Bank of India and Punjab National Bank, have issued similar advisories, asking customers to plan ahead and rely on ATMs and digital banking during the strike window.