Banking operations at public sector banks across the country are expected to be impacted on Tuesday as bank unions proceed with a nationwide strike demanding the immediate implementation of a five-day work week. The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella body representing nine unions of bank officers and employees.

The decision to go on strike comes after a conciliation meeting held on January 23 with the Chief Labour Commissioner failed to produce any assurance on the unions’ demand. With banks already closed on Sunday and Republic Day on Monday, branch-level services are likely to remain disrupted for three consecutive days.

UFBU leaders said the demand for a five-day work week was agreed upon during the 12th Bipartite Settlement signed with the Indian Banks’ Association in March 2024, but the required government notification is still pending. Union representatives argued that the proposal includes an additional 40 minutes of work per day from Monday to Friday, ensuring there would be no loss of productivity.

Services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, cheque clearances, and routine administrative work at public sector banks, including SBI, PNB, and Bank of Baroda, are expected to be affected. However, private sector banks such as HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank are likely to function normally, as their employees are not participating in the strike.

Digital banking services, including UPI and internet banking, will continue to operate, though ATM cash availability may face localised disruptions. Several public sector banks, including SBI, have cautioned customers about possible inconvenience due to the strike.