Public sector bank strike on January 27 disrupts branch services as unions press for five-day work week

Banking operations at public sector banks across India faced disruption on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as bank employees went on a nationwide strike to press for a five-day work week. For many customers, the immediate impact was practical rather than political: branches that were open operated with reduced capacity, and in some locations branch activity was largely shut for the day.

What the unions want: all Saturdays off, five-day week

The strike was called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella body representing bank officers and employees. At the heart of the demand is the push to declare all Saturdays as holidays, effectively moving the system to a Monday-to-Friday work week. Unions argue this would align banks with other institutions that already follow a five-day schedule, while also improving work-life balance in an industry where customer-facing branch hours can be intense.

Reports also point out that the issue has been discussed repeatedly in conciliation and settlement contexts, with unions saying the move has been pending despite earlier understandings. With negotiations failing to produce a definitive timeline, unions proceeded with the January 27 action.

What services were hit and what continued

Branch-dependent services—cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque clearances and routine administrative work—were among those most affected at public sector banks. Several major lenders had already cautioned that work could be impacted. Since January 27 followed January 26 (Republic Day) and a Sunday holiday, customers also worried about a longer disruption window, especially for time-sensitive cheque and branch filings.

Digital channels, including UPI, internet banking and mobile apps, were expected to remain available. However, customers were warned that ATM cash replenishment could face localised delays in places where branch logistics were affected.

What customers should take away

For individuals and small businesses, the main lesson is that branch-reliant tasks—cash-heavy operations, paper cheque cycles and certain documentation—are the first to feel the impact of industrial action. Where possible, shifting routine payments to digital channels and planning branch visits around announced strike dates can help reduce friction, especially during holiday-heavy weeks.