Indians are preparing for a major nationwide Bharat Bandh on 12 February 2026, called by central trade unions and backed by farmer groups. Alongside broader protests against new labour codes, major bank employee unions, including the All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers’ Association (AIBOA), and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI), have also announced their participation in a one-day nationwide bank strike.
This has left many customers wondering whether banks will remain open or be closed on Thursday, February 12. Despite these developments, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not declared February 12 as an official bank holiday, meaning branches are legally expected to remain open for business. However, both customers and industry watchers are bracing for possible service disruptions and delays as staff participation may affect routine operations.
Bank Closed Tomorrow on Feb 12?
No, an official bank holiday has not been declared for February 12, 2026. The RBI has not listed the day as a holiday under its official calendar. This means banks are expected to remain open across most parts of the country.
However, since several banking unions have called for a nationwide strike, branch-level operations may not function as smoothly as usual. Banks have warned that services could be affected depending on employee participation. So while banks are technically open, customers may face limited services at some locations.
Bharat Bandh Tomorrow on Feb 12
The Bharat Bandh has been called by central trade unions and supported by farmer groups and other labour organisations. The strike will begin from midnight on February 12 and aims to protest against government labour reforms and other worker-related issues.
Major banking unions, All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), All India Bank Officers’ Association (AIBOA), and Bank Employees Federation of India (BEFI) — have announced their participation in the nationwide strike.
The bandh is expected to impact multiple sectors beyond banking, including transport and public services in some states.
Which Banks Are Affected on Feb 12 Bharat Bandh?
Public sector banks are likely to feel the impact more strongly due to higher union participation.
State Bank of India (SBI)
In a filing to the BSE, SBI has said:
“We have been advised by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) that All India Bank Employees’ Association (AIBEA), Bank Employees’ Federation of India (BEFI) and All India Bank Officers’ Association (AIBOA) have served a notice, informing their decision to go on a nationwide bank strike on Thursday, 12th February 2026.”
The bank further added that while it has made arrangements to ensure normal functioning, work may be impacted to a limited extent.
Bank of Baroda (BoB)
BoB also confirmed receiving strike notice. In its regulatory filing, the bank stated:
“We inform you that the All India Bank Employees Association – AIBEA, All India Bank Officers Association – AIBOA and Bank Employees Federation of India – BEFI have served notice informing their decision to go on Strike on Thursday, February 12, 2026, on various issues/demands.”
The bank added that although it is taking necessary steps to ensure smooth functioning, branch operations may be affected if the strike materialises. Private sector banks have not issued major disruption warnings so far.
Why Bank Unions Are Striking on Bharat Bandh on 12 February?
Bank unions are participating in the broader Bharat Bandh to protest against four Labour Codes introduced by the government, which replace 29 existing labour laws.
In a letter to its units, the unions said, “The labour codes proposed to be implemented are totally against the workers, and stringent conditions have been prescribed to register trade unions.” Unions have also been demanding better working conditions, improved work-life balance, and the implementation of a five-day work week in the banking sector.
Additionally, the World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU) has expressed support. It stated in a press release:
“We understand with shock and anguish that the Narendra Modi Government of India has passed and notified Four Labour Codes superseding 29 labour related Acts of the Indian Parliament. These Labour Codes are designed to hit hard the Right to Association, Right to Collective Bargaining and Right to Strike. The joint strike action of the Indian trade unions is demanding outright scrapping of these anti-worker Labour Codes along with the ‘Shram Shakti Niti, 2025’.”
Impact on Customers: What to Expect on February 12 Bharat Bandh
Even though banks are officially open, customers should prepare for possible disruptions:
- Cash deposits and withdrawals at branches may take longer.
- Cheque clearance services could be delayed.
- Counter services may run with reduced staff.
- Loan processing and in-branch customer assistance could slow down.
However, digital banking services such as UPI, mobile banking, internet banking and ATMs are expected to function normally. Customers with urgent banking needs should complete transactions in advance or rely on digital platforms.
State-Wise & Sector Impact During Bharat Bandh on Feb 12
The impact of the Bharat Bandh may vary from state to state. In states where trade unions are stronger, transport services, markets and some government offices may experience disruptions.
Public transport services could slow down in certain regions. However, essential services such as hospitals, emergency services and utilities are expected to function normally.
Schools and private offices are likely to make decisions based on local law and order conditions.
Why Bank Unions Are Striking on 12 February Bharat Bandh?
At its core, the strike reflects growing concerns among worker groups about labour reforms and employment protections. Bank unions argue that the new labour framework weakens collective bargaining power and reduces safeguards for employees.
By joining the nationwide strike, banking unions aim to send a strong message regarding worker rights, labour laws and future employment conditions in India.
What Does This Mean for You?
Banks are not officially closed on February 12, 2026. However, due to the Bharat Bandh and participation by major bank unions, services at several branches — especially public sector banks — may face disruptions. Customers are advised to plan and use digital banking options wherever possible.
