The Indian banking sector is bracing for a two-day strike on March 24 and 25, 2025, called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), a coalition of nine bank unions, demanding urgent reforms. The strike is expected to severely disrupt banking transactions, cash withdrawals, cheque clearances, and loan disbursals.
Key Demands of UFBU:
The UFBU has presented a charter of demands that includes:
✔ Recruitment: Adequate recruitment in all cadres, and regularisation of temporary staff.
✔ Gratuity: Raising the gratuity ceiling to Rs 25 lakh.
✔ Job Security: Withdrawal of Department of Financial Services directives on performance reviews and performance-linked incentives, which the unions say threaten job security.
✔ Five-Day Work Week: Introduction of a five-day banking system.
✔ IDBI Bank: Keeping at least 51% government equity in IDBI Bank.
Who Will Be Affected?
- Public sector bank customers
- Small businesses and traders relying on daily transactions
- ATM and online banking users (potential cash shortages and service disruptions)
- Government and private employees receiving salaries via bank transfers
Scale of the Strike:
- Employees of public sector banks belonging to the UFBU’s unions are expected to participate.
- Public sector banks, including SBI and PNB, are likely to see reduced staffing.
Impact on Banking Services:
❌ Branch Operations Halted – No cash deposits, withdrawals, or cheque clearances.
❌ Loan Disbursals Delayed – New loans and approvals may be postponed.
❌ ATM and Digital Banking – Potential cash shortages in ATMs due to reduced staff.
Government’s Response & Future Outlook
Talks between the unions and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) failed earlier in March, and the unions have said the strike will go ahead.
Conclusion:
The two-day bank strike is expected to cause major disruptions across India, affecting millions of customers and businesses. The government and bank unions must find a middle ground to prevent further escalation and ensure smooth banking operations. Customers are advised to complete urgent banking transactions before the strike begins.
