A three-day nationwide bank strike is set to begin on Monday, September 28, potentially disrupting several branch-based banking services. The impact i…
1/9Cash deposits and withdrawals may be affected | Cash deposits and withdrawals at branches of participating banks are likely to be disrupted during the strike. Customers can use ATMs and ADWMs for their cash requirements, subject to availability. (Image: Canva)
2/9Cheque clearance could face disruption | Cheque clearance is among the banking services that could be affected during the three-day strike. Transactions that depend on branch-based processing could face delays. (Image: Canva)
3/9Branch services at several banks may be disrupted | Branches of public sector banks, old-generation private banks and regional rural banks are expected to face disruption as employees participate in the nationwide strike. State Bank of India has said it will make efforts to provide essential banking services at branches and offices, but cautioned customers that certain services may be affected.
4/9ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank branches to remain open | Branches of new-generation private sector lenders, including ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank, will remain open during the three-day strike, according to the PTI report. Customers of these banks can therefore continue to access branch services, subject to the banks’ normal operations.
5/9UPI and digital payments likely to remain available | UPI and other digital banking services are likely to remain available during the strike. Customers can use digital payment channels for routine transactions, subject to normal service availability.
6/9Mobile and internet banking can be used | Mobile banking and internet banking are also expected to remain available. These services can allow customers to carry out several routine banking transactions without visiting a branch. (Image: Canva)
7/9ATMs, ADWMs and SBI YONO offer alternatives | Customers can use ATMs and ADWMs for cash requirements during the strike. SBI has also advised customers to use YONO, internet banking, mobile banking, UPI and other digital channels wherever possible. (Image: Canva)
8/9Why are banks on a three-day nationwide strike? | The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) and follows a one-day nationwide bank strike observed on September 11. Bank unions are seeking a five-day working week, along with demands related to pension benefits, dearness allowance and pension options for employees covered under the National Pension System. The finance ministry has urged bank employees to resolve the remaining issues through dialogue. (Image: Canva)
9/9What customers should do during the strike | Customers who need branch-based banking services should check with their bank before visiting a branch during the strike. For routine transactions, they can use UPI, mobile or internet banking, ATMs and ADWMs, wherever available.