SBI branches open Sunday ahead of three-day bank strike

State Bank of India (SBI) branches will remain open on Sunday, September 27, ahead of a three-day nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to 30, 2026. The unions are demanding a five-day banking week and pension reforms. Siasat.com reports SBI has advised customers to complete essential transactions before the strike dates, while Livemint notes the government declared Sunday a working day for public-sector and rural-sector bank employees.

Digital services such as UPI, internet banking, mobile banking and ATMs will continue to function normally, according to all sources. Services requiring in-person branch visits, including cheque clearance, demand draft issuance, locker access and cash deposits, may be disrupted. The Finance Ministry has urged employees not to participate, but the unions have confirmed the strike after conciliation talks failed. September 30 is also the half-yearly closing date, adding operational pressure on banks.

A separate continuous strike has also been proposed from October 26, 2026. Customers have been advised to use digital channels and keep sufficient cash for essential expenses.