Bank strike paralyzes India as unions demand five-day work week
A 24-hour nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) on Friday will severely disrupt public sector banking services across India. The strike coincides with the second Saturday of the month, followed by Sunday and Ganesh Chaturthi, effectively closing bank branches for four consecutive days in most parts of the country. Retail customers, traders, and businesses face significant financial hardship due to the extended closure.
The strike occurs during a sensitive period as India hosts the 18th BRICS summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, with global leaders and international delegations in attendance. The central government and bank management appealed to unions to postpone the strike or resolve the matter through dialogue, citing India's international standing. Union leaders rejected the appeal and remained firm on their long-pending demand to immediately notify a five-day work week.
The strike's impact varies across public and private sector banking structures differently.
