Bank Strike on September 28-30: SBI Asks Customers to Finish Branch Work Early — What Stays Open
The State Bank of India (SBI) has advised its customers to complete important branch-related work in advance, ahead of a three-day nationwide bank strike from September 28 to 30, 2026.
The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella organisation of bank employees' unions. It follows the forum's nationwide strike on September 11, and more protest action has been announced for later this month. The UFBU has also announced a continuous strike from October 26 as part of its ongoing agitation.
Since September 26 and 27 fall on a Saturday and Sunday, customers could face limited access to regular branch services for five consecutive days. The impact is expected to be felt across public sector banks, as the strike call covers bank employees nationwide.
What will remain available
SBI has said it is taking steps to keep essential banking services running during the strike. However, branch operations may be affected depending on how many employees participate at each location.
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs) are expected to remain available for cash withdrawals and other eligible transactions. Customer Service Points (CSPs) will also function for select banking services.
Digital banking channels are expected to remain available for routine transactions. Customers can use internet banking, mobile banking, the YONO app and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to transfer funds, pay bills and carry out day-to-day banking without visiting a branch.
What may be affected
Services that require physical documents or staff assistance may be disrupted. Cheque-related processes and other branch-dependent services could face delays or interruptions during the three days, the bank has indicated.
What customers can do
SBI has asked customers to plan ahead. Those who need to deposit or withdraw large amounts, submit documents, update Know Your Customer (KYC) details or complete other work that requires a branch visit should try to do so before September 28.
Customers may also consider keeping some cash on hand in case ATMs in their area run out of money or face technical problems, and using digital payment methods for everyday purchases.
The bank's advisory, and similar updates from other banks, are generally posted on official websites and apps. Since the effect of a strike can vary from place to place, customers are advised to check with their own branch or the bank's official channels for local updates.
Readers should note that strike plans announced by unions can change. Official confirmations from banks or the unions concerned remain the most reliable source of information as the dates approach.
