Bharat Bandh 2026: Are Banks Open Today During the Nationwide Strike?

Bharat Bandh February 12, 2026: Will Banks Be Open or Closed?

Major bank unions have called for a nationwide strike on February 12, 2026, prompting customers to check whether bank branches will operate as usual. With routine transactions and business activities at stake, account holders are seeking clarity on potential disruptions.

What the Banks Are Saying

State Bank of India (SBI): The bank has made arrangements to ensure normal operations at branches and offices. However, some work may be impacted if the strike proceeds.

Bank of Baroda (BoB): The bank is taking all necessary steps to maintain smooth functioning but cautioned that branch operations could be affected if the strike materialises.

UCO Bank: While efforts are underway to keep operations running smoothly, some branch disruptions cannot be ruled out.

Who’s Behind the Strike?

The strike has been called by major bank associations including:

• All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA)
• All India Bank Officers Association (AIBOA)
• Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI)

The action is supported by 10 Central Trade Unions (CTUs) and protests the four new Labour Codes notified in November 2025. The unions argue that these codes are anti-worker and place stricter conditions on trade union registration. They have also reiterated demands for a five-day work week and better work-life balance.

Are Banks Open on February 12?

Currently, neither the RBI nor any major bank has declared February 12, 2026, as a holiday. Banks are therefore scheduled to remain open.

However, given the strike call, some operational disruptions at branches are possible. Customers are advised to plan their visits and transactions accordingly, especially for urgent or time-sensitive work.