Public sector banks across India are waiving all ATM transaction charges beyond standard free limits for customers from September 28 to 30 to minimize public inconvenience during the upcoming three-day nationwide strike called by employee unions. Led by major state-owned lenders like the State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, and Bank of Baroda, institutions are ensuring that individuals can withdraw cash freely from any bank’s automated teller machines without incurring standard penalty fees typically applied after exhausting monthly quotas. The strike, organized by the United Forum of Bank Unions alongside regional rural bank employees, proceeds despite appeals from management and financial authorities, driven by core demands that include the implementation of a five-day banking workweek and the withdrawal of performance-linked incentive structures. Although the government has put the incentive scheme in abeyance, unresolved disputes over workweek modifications have pushed unions to move forward with the protest, which threatens to create an extended five-day banking shutdown when combined with the preceding weekend. To mitigate disruptions, financial authorities and the Reserve Bank of India arranged for all public-sector banks, regional rural banks, and currency chests to remain fully functional on Sunday, September 27, giving customers an extra working day for essential branch visits. Furthermore, digital payment channels such as UPI, IMPS, NEFT, and mobile banking applications will remain completely operational throughout the strike period, providing continuous alternative access for routine fund transfers and payments. While employee federations have raised administrative objections regarding Sunday operations, the coordinated administrative measures, fee waivers, and robust digital infrastructure aim to cushion the blow for citizens reliant on seamless financial services. Unions have warned of further escalation, including an indefinite strike slated for late October if negotiations fail to yield a permanent resolution.
Bank Unions Push Forward With Three-Day Strike Over Five-Day Workweek Demand as Digital Channels Remain Active
