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Customers of State Bank of India may face major banking disruptions later this month as employee unions have announced a nationwide strike over pending demands. The proposed agitation could affect branch operations for four consecutive days, creating inconvenience for customers relying on offline banking services.

The strike call has reportedly been given by the All India State Bank of India Staff Federation (AISBISF), which plans to hold a two-day nationwide strike on May 25 and 26 if talks with the bank management fail.

Why Customers May Face a 4-Day Banking Disruption

The strike dates are expected to coincide with existing bank holidays, which could lead to an extended shutdown of branch-based banking services.

Here is the expected schedule:

• May 23: Fourth Saturday – Banks closed
• May 24: Sunday holiday
• May 25: First day of proposed strike
• May 26: Second day of proposed strike

Because of this sequence, customers could experience four straight days of limited branch operations.

Bank users have been advised to complete important tasks such as cash deposits, cheque clearances, passbook updates, and loan-related paperwork before May 22 to avoid last-minute inconvenience.

Why SBI Employees Are Planning the Strike

The employee union has reportedly placed a 16-point charter of demands before the management.

Union representatives claim that recruitment for several support-level posts, including messenger positions, has not taken place for nearly three decades. Employees allege that staff shortages in clerical and operational departments have significantly increased workload pressure.

Another major concern raised by unions is the lack of recruitment for armed security guards after retirements, which they claim could affect bank security arrangements.

The union has also objected to the increasing use of contractual workers for permanent roles, alleging that it violates previous agreements and impacts employee rights.

Salary and Pension Concerns Also Raised

Apart from staffing issues, employees are reportedly unhappy over salary-related disparities between officers and general staff members.

The union has also raised concerns regarding the National Pension System (NPS), which continues to remain a sensitive issue among public sector bank employees.

According to reports, workers believe existing compensation structures and staffing conditions need urgent revision.

What Banking Services May Be Affected?

If the strike goes ahead, several branch-related banking services may be impacted.

Services Likely to Be Affected

• Cash deposits and withdrawals at branches
• Cheque clearing services
• Passbook updates
• Loan processing and branch assistance
• In-person customer support

Services Expected to Continue Normally

• Internet banking
• Mobile banking platforms including YONO SBI
• ATM services
• UPI and digital payment services

Customers are still expected to access most digital banking facilities without interruption.

Protest Campaign to Continue Throughout May

Before the proposed strike dates, employee unions are reportedly planning a month-long protest campaign. This may include social media campaigns, candle marches, demonstrations, and memorandums addressed to the Prime Minister and Finance Ministry.

Union leaders have indicated that the final decision on the strike may depend on the outcome of discussions with the bank management in the coming days.

Customers Advised to Plan Early

Given the possibility of a prolonged disruption in branch operations, customers are being encouraged to plan financial activities in advance.

Those requiring cheque processing, large cash transactions, loan paperwork, or branch verification services may benefit from completing these tasks before the holiday and strike period begins.

While digital services are expected to remain active, heavy usage during the strike period could still lead to temporary delays in some banking channels.