SBI Bank Strike Alert: Will All SBI Branches Really Remain Closed for 6 Days? Here’s the Full Truth
India’s largest public sector lender, State Bank of India, is likely to witness major disruptions over the coming days as employee unions have announced a two-day nationwide strike. Reports claiming that SBI branches may remain shut for six consecutive days have created concern among crores of customers across the country.
The possible closure period includes weekends, strike days, and regional holidays, which could affect branch banking services such as cash deposits, cheque clearances, account-related work, loan processing, and in-person customer assistance.
Why Are SBI Branches Expected to Remain Closed?
According to reports, the banking disruption is linked to a planned strike by the All India State Bank Staff Federation (AISBISF). The union has announced a two-day strike on May 25 and May 26, 2026, demanding improvements in employee rights, recruitment, pension-related issues, promotions, and working conditions.
In addition to the strike, weekend holidays and Bakrid holidays in several states may further impact branch operations.
Expected SBI Branch Closure Schedule
| Date | Reason for Closure |
|---|---|
| May 23 | Fourth Saturday |
| May 24 | Sunday Holiday |
| May 25 | SBI Employees’ Strike |
| May 26 | SBI Employees’ Strike |
| May 27 | Bakrid Holiday in Several States |
| May 28 | Bakrid Holiday in Some Regions |
If all these holidays and strike schedules overlap in certain states, many SBI customers may experience banking interruptions for nearly six days.
Why Are SBI Employees Going on Strike?
The employees’ union says several decisions are being implemented without proper consultation with staff members. Workers claim this has negatively affected employee rights and workplace conditions.
The union has raised nearly 16 major demands before management.
Main Demands Raised by Employees
- Fresh recruitment for messenger and support staff
- Better promotion policies
- Improved workplace facilities
- Pension-related reforms
- Equal salary benefits for workmen staff
- Improved security arrangements in branches
Employees have also highlighted concerns over the shortage of armed security guards in many branches, especially after recent robbery incidents in some SBI locations.
Concerns Over Pension and Salary Structure
The union has expressed dissatisfaction regarding the National Pension System (NPS). Employees claim they do not receive certain pension-related flexibilities available to workers in other public sector banks.
There are also complaints about salary-related disparities. According to union representatives, officers are receiving benefits through special pay structures while workmen staff are allegedly being excluded.
Will Online Banking Services Stop?
Even if physical branches remain affected, SBI’s digital services are expected to continue functioning normally.
Customers may still be able to use:
- SBI YONO App
- Internet banking
- UPI services
- ATM withdrawals
- Mobile banking
- Debit and credit card services
However, services requiring branch-level approvals or manual processing could face delays.
What Should SBI Customers Do Now?
Customers are advised to complete important banking work before the possible disruption period begins. This includes:
- Cash withdrawals
- Cheque deposits
- Demand draft requests
- Loan-related documentation
- Passbook updates
- Large fund transfers requiring branch approval
Business owners and salaried individuals are especially advised not to wait until the last moment for urgent banking work.
Are All Branches Guaranteed to Stay Closed?
The actual impact may vary from state to state depending on local holidays, employee participation in the strike, and branch-level staffing availability. Some branches may continue limited operations, while others could remain fully shut.
Customers should regularly check official updates from SBI Official Website for the latest information regarding branch operations and holiday notifications.
