Key Takeaways
- Date & Impact: A nationwide bank strike on Monday, January 27, 2026, will disrupt services at major public sector banks.
- Affected Banks: SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, and others. Private banks like HDFC and ICICI will operate normally.
- Customer Advisory: Use ATMs, online, and mobile banking. Plan cash and cheque transactions in advance.
Banking services across India face significant disruption as employees of public sector banks begin a nationwide strike today. The action, called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), protests the government’s proposed privatisation of state-owned banks.
Which Banks and Services Are Affected?
The strike impacts branches of major public sector banks, including:
- State Bank of India (SBI)
- Punjab National Bank (PNB)
- Bank of Baroda (BoB)
- Canara Bank
Services like cash withdrawals, deposits, cheque clearing, and loan processing may be delayed or unavailable at physical branches.
What Will Remain Functional?
Customers have several alternatives:
- ATMs: Expected to remain operational for cash needs.
- Digital Banking: Online and mobile banking services will function normally for most transactions.
- Private Banks: Operations at HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank are unaffected.
Why Are Bank Employees Striking?
The UFBU, representing nine unions, opposes the government’s move to privatise public sector banks. They argue this could harm financial inclusion and stability. Other key demands include:
- Adequate recruitment to address staff shortages.
- Compensation for extra work performed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Reversal of plans to merge regional rural banks.
Broader Context and Resolution Efforts
This marks the second major bank strike in recent months, following a similar disruption in December 2025. The Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) is expected to hold talks with union representatives, but the strike is proceeding as scheduled for now.
Customers are strongly advised to plan essential banking work and utilise digital channels to minimise inconvenience.
