The State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an advisory to customers ahead of a three-day nationwide bank strike scheduled for September 28 to 30, 2026, as reported by NDTV India and Indian Express. The strike, called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), will affect branch operations nationwide, though essential services like ATMs and digital banking will remain available.

The advisory, issued on September 19, 2026, urges customers to complete critical branch-related transactions before the strike period. SBI warns that branch operations may be disrupted depending on employee participation across locations. The strike follows a previous nationwide protest on September 11 and is part of an ongoing agitation by the UFBU, which has also announced a continuous strike beginning October 26.

According to the advisory, customers can use ATMs, Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs), and Customer Service Points (CSPs) for select banking services during the strike. Digital banking channels, including internet banking, mobile banking, YONO, and Unified Payments Interface (UPI), are expected to remain operational for routine transactions. However, services requiring physical documentation or staff assistance, such as cheque-related processes, may face delays or disruptions.

The UFBU has outlined several demands, including the implementation of a five-day banking week, improvements to pension benefits, and a uniform dearness allowance formula for all pensioners. The union also seeks an option for employees under the National Pension System (NPS) to switch to the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). According to PTI, the UFBU claims to represent around 90 per cent of the banking workforce. The union had previously observed a nationwide strike on September 11 over these demands.

The Finance Ministry has called a meeting with the chief executives of public sector banks (PSBs) and regional rural banks to discuss contingency measures to ensure the continuity of banking operations and essential customer services during the strike. The meeting is expected to focus on minimizing disruption and maintaining access to critical banking facilities.

The strike is scheduled to begin on September 28, with September 26 and 27 falling on a Saturday and Sunday, respectively, potentially extending the period of limited branch access to five consecutive days. The exact impact on customers and the broader economy remains unclear, with further details expected as the strike approaches.