Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 20: State Bank of India (SBI) has advised customers to complete important branch-related banking transactions in advance of a proposed three-day nationwide strike by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to 30, 2026.
The advisory follows the UFBU's nationwide strike on September 11 and comes ahead of another planned phase of protest action later this month. The union forum has also announced a continuous strike from October 26 as part of its ongoing agitation.
SBI has urged customers to plan transactions requiring branch visits ahead of the proposed strike to avoid possible disruptions.
Services involving physical visits, staff assistance, document verification and other in-person procedures could be affected if a significant number of employees participate in the strike.
The bank said it was taking steps to ensure the availability of essential banking services during the proposed strike. However, it cautioned that branch operations could face limitations depending on the level of employee participation at individual locations.
SBI has advised customers to use alternative banking channels during the strike period.
Customers requiring cash can use Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs), while Customer Service Points (CSPs) will continue to provide select banking services.
The bank also said its digital platforms would remain available for routine transactions. Customers can use internet banking, mobile banking, YONO and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services for fund transfers, payments and other day-to-day banking needs without visiting a branch.
However, SBI cautioned that certain services cannot be completed entirely online. Transactions requiring physical documentation, some cheque-related processes and other branch-dependent services could face delays if branch operations are affected by the strike.
The proposed industrial action could effectively result in a longer period of limited access to regular weekday branch services. With September 26 and 27 falling on a weekend, the September 28-30 strike could create a five-day stretch during which customers may have limited access to normal branch operations.
Customers have therefore been advised to complete time-sensitive branch transactions before the proposed strike dates and make use of digital and alternative banking channels wherever possible.