A nationwide strike and Bharat Bandh on february 12, 2026 is expected to disrupt banking services in india, particularly at public sector banks. Major bank unions have announced participation in coordinated protest action alongside central trade unions and other worker groups, raising concerns among customers and businesses about possible service interruptions.
🔴 Why the strike Is Happening
The strike has been called by several major bank employee organizations in support of a broader general strike (Bharat Bandh) scheduled for february 12. The protest is aimed at opposing a set of four consolidated labour codes introduced by the government, which unions argue weaken worker protections and make it harder to register or organize unions. Unions also cite long-standing demands such as a five‑day work week and better working conditions.
The Bharat Bandh has support from multiple labour and farmers’ groups, who have expanded the strike to include many sectors, not just banking.
🏦 Which Banks Are Expected to Be Affected
Public Sector Banks
Public sector banks are likely to feel the strongest impact because these institutions have a higher presence of unionized staff:
- State bank of india (SBI) has alerted customers that services may be affected on february 12, with the possibility of limited branch operations.
- Bank of Baroda and other public sector lenders have formally notified stock exchanges about potential disruptions if the strike proceeds as planned.
- In gujarat alone, around 25,000 banking employees from thousands of branches are expected to participate, which could have a significant impact on local services there.
Regional Rural Banks
Associations representing regional rural bank employees have also declared their participation in the nationwide strike, potentially widening the scope of the disruption.
Private Sector Banks
Private lenders, such as hdfc bank, ICICI bank, and Axis bank, may not see significant disruption because union representation is lower in the private sector. However, localized effects are possible depending on staff participation.
🕐 What services Could Be Disrupted
While banks are not officially closed and no bank holiday has been declared by the Reserve bank of india, routine services at physical branches may be affected:
Possible Impact
- 🔸 Cash transactions and deposits at counters may run slowly or be unavailable in some branches.
- 🔸 Cheque processing and clearance could be delayed.
- 🔸 Passbook updates, account modifications, and new service requests might face interruptions or slower service if staff participate in the strike.
Services Likely to Function Normally
- ✔ Digital banking through mobile and internet platforms.
- ✔ UPI, IMPS, NEFT and RTGS transactions are expected to work since these systems operate outside branch counters.
- ✔ ATMs should remain available, though heavy usage at some outlets might deplete cash in machines faster than usual if replenishment is affected.
Customers are advised to plan ahead for cash needs and essential branch work before february 12.
🚇 Broader Impact of the Bharat Bandh
The strike is part of a larger Bharat Bandh (national shutdown) called by central trade unions and allied organizations. Beyond banking, several other services and sectors could be affected:
- 🚌 Public transportation may see disruptions due to rallies and road blockades in some states.
- 🏢 Government offices and markets may witness lower attendance or partial closures, especially in areas with stronger mobilization.
- 🏫 Schools and colleges are not officially ordered to close nationwide, but some institutions may shut locally based on conditions.
However, emergency services, airports, and essential utilities like electricity and water are expected to function normally.
📌 Customer Advisory: What You Should Do
To avoid inconvenience during the strike on february 12:
- 🗓 Complete pending branch transactions — such as large cash withdrawals, cheque deposits, or signature updates — ahead of the strike day.
- 📱 Use wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital channels like mobile banking, net banking, and UPI for most routine needs.
- 📞 Check with your local branch for specific operating details or any notices displayed at physical branches.
📍 Final Thoughts
The nationwide strike called for February 12, 2026 reflects deep concerns among trade unions over labour policies and workers’ rights. For bank customers, the most immediate impact could be delays in branch‑based services, while digital banking services are expected to remain largely intact. Planning ahead and using online banking tools can help minimize inconvenience during this period of industrial action.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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