Today (23.01.26) again a meeting was held between UFBU, DFS, IBA, CLC and Bank Management for implementation of 5-Day Banking. The meeting was held at 3:30 PM in continuation to yesterday’s (22.01.26) meeting. Yesterday, the talks between UFBU and the Government of India failed, and the strike continued. Today also, the talks between UFBU and the government failed, and the strike will be conducted all across India on 27 January 2026.
Once again, the conciliation proceedings started to discuss the issue contained in the strike notice dated 08.01.2026 for the proposed strike to be held on 27.01.2026. At the outset, the Ld. representatives of DFS submitted that things are moving in the right direction and some decisions have been taken yesterday in favour of the Financial Sector. Accordingly, he requested the Ld. representatives of UFBU to reconsider their stand and defer the strike reflecting good gesture which may lead to positive outcomes.
At this stage, the Ld. representatives of IBA also requested in the same line of DFS and reiterated to consider the appeal so as to ensure that the dignitaries persuading their causes before the competent authorities may be strengthened to put forth their submission positively.
On the other hand, the Ld. representatives of UFBU reiterated that they are aware about the meaning and consequence of strike which is the ultimate legal right with the workmen. As such, they are not also of the intent to use such a stringent measure for pressing on the demand but as they have already deferred three such consecutive occasions of the proposed strike on some of the issues which contained the issue of 5 days banking also. As the Govt. is not at all responding on the issue of 5 days banking, they do not have any option in such compelling circumstances but resort to strike.
As the stalemate continued, the CLC(C) as Conciliation Officer also made an appeal to the Ld. union representatives to reconsider and avoid any direct action in the public interest so that industrial harmony be maintained. At the same time, the CLC(C) also advised other stakeholders to convey the message at appropriate level and try their level best to resolve the issue in public interest. It is also pertinent to mention at this stage that office of the CLC(C) is always open to facilitate the dialogue whenever it is required.
In the meantime, the provisions contained u/s 33(1) and 22 of the ID Act, 1947 shall remain in vogue. Next date in the matter is fixed on 09.03.2026 at 11.30 AM.
🗞️ What's happening right now about Strike
Nationwide bank strike planned for January 27, 2026 — Bank employee unions under the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) have called a one-day nationwide strike to press for the implementation of a full five-day work week (i.e., both Saturdays off).
Banks likely to be closed for up to four days, from Jan 24–27, 2026 — because the strike overlaps with regular weekend holidays and Republic Day holidays.
Disruption in banking services expected across Gujarat and other states on Jan 27, with many branches closed and services slowed down. Around 800,000 bank employees are expected to participate nationwide; in Bihar alone, about 8,100 branches and 50,000 staff are involved.
Unions have also been urging political support (for example from West Bengal’s Chief Minister) to strengthen their strike call and demands.
The strike demand centers around the five-day working week, a change that was recommended by the banking industry earlier but hasn’t yet been formally implemented by the government.
📌 Why it matters
Customer impact: Physical bank branches may be shut on the strike day — but digital services (mobile banking, ATMs, online transfers) often remain available. Plan ahead for essential transactions.
Union demands: The main focus is the five-day work week, but bank workers often include other issues in agitation (staff shortages, working conditions, staffing norms etc.).
If you’d like, I can pull specific state-wise closure lists or official notifications from your local banks for Jan 27 specifically.
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