Bank employees to strike for three days, UPI and ATMs unaffected

Bank employees across the country are set to go on a three day strike on September 28, 29 and 30, 2026. The nationwide strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions. Public sector banks and rural banks will remain closed during these three days, which could cause difficulty for customers who need to visit a branch for essential work.

The biggest question on people's minds is whether the strike's impact will be limited to bank branches or whether it will also affect services such as UPI, ATMs and internet banking. The answer is that the strike is likely to affect the day to day functioning of branches the most, while services such as UPI, internet banking, mobile banking and ATMs are expected to continue functioning as on normal days.

This means UPI will not be shut down because of the strike. During these three days, people will still be able to send money through UPI, make payments via QR code and pay bills online. However, if any digital service faces a technical glitch or a server issue, that would be a separate matter unrelated to the strike. Those with an important payment pending should avoid waiting until the last day.

ATM services will also remain functional during this period. Several banks have advised their customers to use ATMs and other self-service facilities during the strike days. Even so, a particular ATM running out of cash or developing a technical fault could cause inconvenience. Those who need cash would do well to withdraw some money before the strike begins.

Work that requires the direct assistance of a bank employee may prove difficult during these three days. This includes depositing cash at a branch, withdrawing money over the counter, depositing or clearing cheques, completing any specific KYC related process, submitting required documents and other counter based work at the branch, none of which will be possible during the strike days. Customers should plan ahead for any such work so that they do not have to rush during these three days.