Bank Strike From September 28: Centre Advances Salaries, Orders Banks To Open On Sunday

A three-day nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to 30 will run into a weekend and the half-yearly closing of bank accounts, prompting the central government to take advance steps to limit the inconvenience to customers.

According to a PTI report, central government employees will receive their September salary on September 25, and banks, including Regional Rural Banks, have been directed to remain open on Sunday, September 27.

The UFBU, which says it represents around 90 per cent of the banking workforce, has called the strike over several demands, including a five-day banking week and uniform pension provisions across the banking sector.

September 26 and 27 are weekend holidays, and the strike is proposed from September 28. September 30 also marks the half-yearly closing of bank accounts, a period when branches usually handle a heavier volume of transactions. Taken together, customers could have faced a stretch without a banking window if the strike goes ahead as called.

Salaries and pensions to be paid early

The Finance Ministry has advised ministries and departments to disburse September salaries, wages and pensions ahead of schedule. An office memorandum issued by the Controller General of Accounts permits salaries and wages to be drawn and paid on Friday, September 25, instead of the normal schedule.

The arrangement covers central government employees, including those in Defence, Posts and Telecommunications. September pensions for central government pensioners can also be released on September 25.

The payment will be treated as an advance. Any adjustment required after the full month's salary, wages or pension is determined will be made from the October 2026 payment. Departments have also been advised to process payments and other banking transactions due towards the end of September in advance, wherever possible.

Branches to function on Sunday

The Reserve Bank of India has approved the full operation of bank branches, ATM-linked branches, offices and currency chests on Sunday, September 27. The Finance Ministry said the measure was being taken because September 26 and 27 are weekend holidays, followed by the three-day strike from September 28.

Banks have begun advising customers not to wait until the last moment for essential transactions. Many public sector banks are asking customers to use digital channels where possible, including mobile banking, internet banking and UPI. Customers can also use ATMs and Business Correspondent points for eligible services.

Banks have also been asked to ensure sufficient cash availability at ATMs during the strike period. For customers who need branch-based services, Sunday, September 27, offers an additional window before the strike begins.

Why it matters

Bank strikes affect services that run through branches and clearing systems, including cheque clearing, cash deposits and withdrawals, government receipts and payments, and some loan-related transactions. Customers with payments, EMIs or cheques due around the end of the month may wish to complete them before September 28, or use digital channels that continue to function.

The government's measures are aimed at cushioning the impact if the strike proceeds as called. Customers are advised to check with their own bank for specific branch timings and service availability on Sunday, September 27, and during the strike days.