Bank union strike stalls cash and cheque services at public sector banks nationwide

A nationwide strike organized by the United Forum of Bank Unions crippled branch-level operations of public sector banks across multiple Indian states, halting cash handling, cheque clearing and most over-the-counter services. While Mumbai’s branches stayed technically open, transaction volumes fell to one to three per day, and cities like Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Telangana, Kolkata and Uttar Pradesh experienced near-total shutdowns, especially in tier-3 and tier-4 locations.

Attempts by bank management to staff branches with senior executives failed as striking staff blocked entry. Banks issued advisories urging customers to rely on ATMs, one outlet and internet banking, which remained functional and were stocked with cash. The UFBU, representing seven unions, called for an immediate five-day banking week and the repeal of the performance-linked incentive scheme, warning of further action including an indefinite strike if demands are unmet. A three-day strike is planned for late September, coinciding with banks’ half-yearly closing, potentially amplifying disruption.