Bank Strike Today (January 27, 2026): Are Public Sector Banks Open for Customers?

Today — January 27, 2026 — a major nationwide bank strike is affecting public sector banks across India. The strike has been organized by bank employee unions to demand the immediate implementation of a five-day work week for bank staff. As a result, many bank branches are likely to experience limited services or remain closed for customers. 0

📌 What Is Happening Today?

On January 27, employee unions under the umbrella of the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) have called a nationwide strike. This labour action comes after recent negotiations with authorities failed to reach an agreement. The unions specifically want all Saturdays declared bank holidays so that employees can enjoy a five-day week. 1

📅 Are Public Sector Banks Open Today?

Technically, today is not an official bank holiday according to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar. The informal closure is caused by the strike action, not a government-declared holiday. 7

However, because a large number of employees at public sector banks are participating in the strike, many branches may either be closed or offer only critical or limited services. Customers visiting branches of institutions like the State Bank of India (SBI), Punjab National Bank (PNB), Bank of Baroda and other major public sector lenders should expect disruptions. 8

🏦 Public Sector Banks Affected

Public sector banks expected to see disruptions today include:

• State Bank of India (SBI)
• Punjab National Bank (PNB)
• Bank of Baroda
• Union Bank of India
• Canara Bank
• Bank of India

These banks have indicated that their branch operations may be affected and customers are advised to anticipate delays or closures in physical branch activities. 9

📉 What Services Are Likely Disrupted?

The strike primarily affects services that require in-branch presence. These include:

• Cash deposits and withdrawals
• Cheque clearances and processing
• Passbook updates
• Account openings and closures
• Loan processing and administrative tasks

Due to staff shortages and participation in the strike, customers may find that routine over-the-counter services are delayed or unavailable today. 10

📲 Services That Are Expected to Work

Even though branch services may be disrupted, most digital and automated banking systems should continue operating normally:

• Internet banking platforms
• Mobile banking apps
• UPI and IMPS transactions
• RTGS/NEFT transfers
• ATMs and cash dispensers*

Digital banking and mobile transactions are generally unaffected by strike action, as they operate through automated systems. However, some ATMs may experience temporary cash shortages in certain areas due to reduced banking staff available for cash refills and logistical operations. 11

🏦 What About Private Sector Banks?

Importantly, private sector banks such as HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, IDFC First Bank and similar lenders are not part of this strike, as their employees are generally not members of the unions participating in the industrial action. These banks are expected to operate normally today, and customers with urgent banking work may consider visiting them if possible. 12

📌 Why Is the Strike Happening?

The core issue behind today’s strike is the demand for a **five-day working week** for bank employees. Traditionally, public sector banks in India operate six days per week, with some Saturdays off depending on the RBI calendar. The employees’ unions argue that bank staff should enjoy the same work schedule as other government offices, like the RBI, LIC, GIC and financial regulators, which typically follow a five-day week. 13

Unions claim that this change would improve work-life balance for employees, reduce burnout, and align the banking sector with modern work standards. Although agreements on this issue were discussed during past negotiations, formal government approval and implementation remain pending, prompting today’s strike action. 14

📊 Impact on Customers

Customers planning branch visits today may face significant challenges completing routine work. With Republic Day on January 26 and a Sunday preceding today, this strike potentially results in an extended period — up to three consecutive days — of limited branch banking services, posing inconvenience for many customers. 15

📌 Tips for Customers on Strike Day

• Use digital channels for transfers, bill payments, and other routine transactions.
• Check your bank’s website or social media updates before visiting a branch.
• Confirm branch status by phone if a physical visit is necessary.
• Withdraw cash in advance if you anticipate needing cash today.
• Consider private banks for urgent in-person needs since they are not on strike. 16

📌 Conclusion: Are Banks Open Today?

✔️ Public sector bank branches are likely to be closed or operating with limited services due to the strike. 17 ✔️ Most digital banking services and automated systems remain functional. 18 ✔️ Private sector banks are open and operating normally. 19 ✔️ Customers should plan essential transactions using online banking and UPI to avoid inconvenience. 20

If you have urgent banking tasks today, using digital channels or visiting private bank branches could save time and stress. Stay informed with your bank’s advisories and plan accordingly.