Banking operations across India could see limited disruption on February 12, 2026, as major bank unions have called for a nationwide strike. State Bank of India has informed customers that services may be affected to some extent on the day of the protest.
“Work may be impacted to a limited extent during the strike,” the country’s largest public sector bank stated. IDBI Bank has also confirmed receiving formal notice of the strike from bank unions.
The strike has been announced by leading unions including the All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA), and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI). These unions are participating in a broader protest led by 10 Central Trade Unions.
The protest is primarily against 4 new labour codes notified by the government in November. These codes aim to replace 29 existing labour laws. Bank unions argue that the proposed changes weaken workers’ rights and make it more difficult to register trade unions.
Apart from opposing the labour codes, unions have also reiterated demands for improved work-life balance and the implementation of a 5-day work week in the banking sector.
Despite the strike call, neither banks nor the Reserve Bank of India have declared February 12 as a bank holiday. This means branches are expected to remain open. However, routine branch operations such as cash transactions, cheque clearing, and customer assistance may experience delays if employee participation is significant.
Bank of Baroda has also informed the stock exchange about the potential impact. In its filing to BSE, the bank said it is taking necessary steps to ensure smooth functioning but acknowledged that branch and office operations may be affected.
Banks have advised customers to plan important transactions in advance. Digital services, including mobile and internet banking, are expected to remain largely unaffected.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
