Major bank unions in india have called a nationwide strike, prompting warnings from public sector lenders like State bank of india (SBI) and Bank of Baroda that banking services may be disrupted on 12 February 2026. This industrial action could impact routine branch operations, especially in public sector banks, as employees protest against government policies and labour reforms.

📅 When and Why the strike Is Happening

The strike is scheduled for Thursday, 12 February 2026. It has been organised by major employee and officer unions — including the All india bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), All india bank Officers Association (AIBOA) and the Bank Employees Federation of india (BEFI) — in coordination with 10 Central Trade Unions to protest the implementation of the new labour codes introduced by the government. Unions argue these codes weaken trade union rights and lessen worker protections.

Union leaders have also highlighted broader sector concerns, such as employment issues, recruitment delays and public sector bank strengthening, although the new labour laws are a central focus.

📌 Impact on banking Services

📍 Public Sector Banks Likely to Be Affected

• Branch operations at major public sector banks (like sbi, bank of Baroda, PNB, Canara bank, Union bank of India) could be partially or significantly disrupted on the day of the strike.
• Services like cash withdrawals and deposits, cheque clearing and other in‑branch transactions may data-face delays or limited availability.

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• Private sector banks (e.g., hdfc bank, ICICI bank, Axis Bank) are expected to be less affected or operate normally, as their employees generally do not take part in the union strike.
• Digital banking services (mobile/internet banking, UPI) are likely to remain operational, though some local delays in ATMs or cash logistics can occur due to reduced staff at branches.

📍 Branches May Stay Open but Functioning Limited

Although no official bank holiday has been notified for 12 February, banks warn that services may still be disrupted if union members participate in the strike — even if branches don’t formally close. customers are being advised to plan their transactions accordingly.

🤔 What customers Should Do

✔ Complete important banking work early, especially if it involves branch visits.
✔ Use online banking for routine needs like fund transfers or bill payments.
✔ Check with your bank (website or customer care) for updates on service availability.
✔ Carry out cash requirements in advance if possible, as ATM supplies may lag due to staff shortages.

📊 Context: Ongoing Labour Protests in Banking

This strike follows earlier actions by bank unions, including a nationwide protest on 27 January 2026 where unions demanded a five‑day work week and raised other issues related to employment conditions in public sector banks.

The movement reflects broader discontent among bank employees over work structures, rights under new labour laws and implementation of previous agreements with the government and indian Banks’ Association (IBA).

🧾 Summary

Aspect

Details

📅 strike Date

12 February 2026

📌 Organisers

Major bank unions (AIBEA, AIBOA, BEFI + CTUs)

❗ Main Issues

Opposition to new labour codes, worker rights, sector concerns

🔔 Impact

Possible disruption in public sector banks’ services

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Expected to operate normally

 

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