The nation is observing a Bharat Bandh on Thursday following a nationwide strike call by a joint forum of central trade unions against the Centre’s alleged anti-worker policies. The strike also involves banking unions.Thus, amid the strike, uncertainty looms over banking operations, with customers across cities unsure whether branches will function normally or face disruptions as several bank unions align with the strike call.

Will banks remain open today?

While banks will remain open, services might face disruptions as major institutions like State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, and UCO Bank have notified the BSE about potential service impacts during the Bharat Bandh.Bank of Baroda has informed customers through its BSE filing that while it is preparing for normal operations, branch services might be affected if the strike takes place. Similarly, SBI noted that although necessary arrangements have been made to ensure normal functioning, work in branches and offices may be impacted to a limited extent.UCO Bank made similar statements in its BSE filing, stating that steps are being taken for smooth operations but branch functioning could be affected if the strike materialises.For customers wondering about bank services on February 12, it is important to note that while banks are not officially closed, planning transactions in advance may help avoid inconvenience due to possible service limitations.Follow live updates on Bharat Bandh

Which bank unions are participating — and why?

Major bank unions including the All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA), and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) joined forces with 10 central trade unions for this protest. They have raised concerns over the new labour codes, alleging that the reforms are unfavourable to workers and could make trade union registration more restrictive.The protest also comes at a time when bank associations have been actively campaigning for improved working conditions, including the long-pending demand for a five-day work week to enhance work-life balance for employees.Over 10 central trade unions called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh to protest the government’s “anti-worker” policies. The strike was supported by farmer organisations and other groups across multiple sectors.The bandh was announced as a demonstration against what the unions described as “anti-worker, anti-farmer and anti-national pro-corporate policies of the central government.”Trade unions estimated that nearly 30 crore workers from various sectors were likely to take part in the agitation. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) urged farmers to join trade union workers to ensure the success of the all-India general strike.