Banking services across India have been badly affected due to a nationwide bank strike. The strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions, also known as UFBU. This organisation represents various bank employees’ unions across the country. The main demand of the unions is the introduction of a five-day work week instead of the current six-day schedule.

Because of this strike, many public sector banks are unable to provide normal services to customers. Government-owned banks such as State Bank of India (SBI), Punjab National Bank (PNB), Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank are among the worst affected. Several branches of these banks across cities and towns have either shut down completely or are working with very limited staff.

As a result, common banking activities have been disrupted. Customers are facing problems with cash deposits and withdrawals at bank counters. Cheque clearance has been delayed in many places, and regular counter services are not functioning smoothly. Many customers who visited bank branches returned disappointed as their work could not be completed.

On the other hand, private sector banks are mostly operating as usual. Banks like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IDFC First Bank, and Axis Bank have not been affected by the strike. Their branches remain open, and customers are able to carry out their banking work without major trouble.

According to sources, digital banking services have been kept active to reduce customer inconvenience. Net banking, mobile banking applications, and UPI services are working normally across most banks. Customers can still transfer money online, pay bills, and use other digital facilities without interruption.

ATMs are also open in many areas. However, there are concerns that some ATM machines may face cash shortages if the strike continues for a longer period. Customers are therefore advised not to rely completely on cash withdrawals and to use digital payment options whenever possible.

The bank unions had earlier held discussions with the Chief Labour Commissioner in an attempt to resolve the issue. However, the meeting did not lead to any solution. Since their demands were not accepted, the unions decided to go ahead with the strike as a last option.

Union leaders have stated that bank employees have been demanding a five-day work week for a long time. They argue that employees are under heavy work pressure and need better work-life balance. According to them, many other sectors already follow a five-day work system, and bank employees should also be given the same benefit.

The timing of the strike has added to customer difficulties. After a series of holidays, the sudden shutdown of public sector banks has increased problems for people who had urgent banking needs. Many small business owners, senior citizens, and daily wage workers are among those most affected.

Financial experts are advising customers to avoid visiting bank branches unless absolutely necessary. They suggest completing urgent banking tasks through online platforms wherever possible. Digital transactions are not only safer during such disruptions but also faster and more convenient.

Customers are also being asked to stay updated through official bank notifications and avoid spreading rumours. Bank officials have assured that once the strike ends, normal services will be restored and pending work will be cleared as soon as possible.

For now, the situation remains challenging, especially for those who depend heavily on public sector banks. Until a solution is reached between the unions and authorities, customers may continue to face inconvenience.