Banking services across India are expected to face significant disruptions on February 12 as employee unions have called for a nationwide strike. Major financial institutions, including the State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, and IDBI Bank, have already notified their customers regarding the potential impact on branch operations and counter services.

The Core Grievances: The strike is primarily directed against the implementation of four new labor laws. Union leaders argue that these legislations dilute employee rights, complicate the process of union registration, and grant unilateral powers to management. Additionally, the long-standing demand for a 5-day work week—aimed at improving work-life balance amidst rising professional stress—remains a central pillar of the protest. Issues regarding pending salary revisions and unfilled vacancies have further intensified the unrest.

Impact on Customers: While the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not declared February 12 as a holiday, the physical presence of staff at branches is likely to be thin. This could lead to delays in check processing, loan approvals, and cash transactions. However, digital banking channels, including UPI, IMPS, and Net Banking, are expected to function normally. Banks have advised customers to complete urgent high-value transactions in advance to avoid any last-minute inconvenience.