All-India Bank Strike On February 12 May Disrupt Branch Services, SBI Alerts Customers
All-India Bank Strike On February 12 May Disrupt Branch Services, SBI Alerts Customers
Major bank unions have called for a nationwide strike over labour codes and work reforms, though digital banking is expected to remain available.
The State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an alert to customers regarding a nationwide bank strike scheduled for February 12, 2026, warning that banking services across the country may be affected to a limited extent.
According to SBI, the strike has been called by major bank unions, raising concerns about possible disruption in routine branch operations. While February 12 has not been declared a bank holiday by either banks or the Reserve Bank of India, branches are expected to remain open. However, services may still face delays if employees participate in the protest.
The strike is part of a broader nationwide agitation supported by 10 Central Trade Unions, with unions opposing the four new labour codes notified by the government in November. These new codes are intended to replace 29 existing labour laws, but trade unions argue that the changes weaken worker protections and make it harder to register unions.
Apart from labour code opposition, bank unions have also reiterated long-standing demands such as improved work-life balance and the implementation of a five-day work week in the banking sector.
Bank of Baroda has also informed the stock exchange about the potential impact. In a filing to the BSE, the bank said it is taking steps to ensure smooth functioning, but cautioned that branch and office operations could be affected if the strike proceeds as planned.
Banks have advised customers to plan important transactions in advance. Routine branch-based services such as cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque clearing, and in-person customer support may experience delays.
However, digital banking services including mobile banking, internet banking, and ATM access are expected to remain largely unaffected, providing customers with alternative options during the strike period.
With the strike expected to impact branch functioning in several regions, customers are being encouraged to complete essential banking work ahead of February 12 to avoid inconvenience.
