Are Banks In India Going To Be Closed For Six Days In September?

A WhatsApp message widely circulated in India claims the banks in the country are going to be closed for six days in September creating confusion among the customers.

“Dear All, Pl, note that all the Banks will remain closed for six days. 2nd Sept- Sun, 3rd Sept-Janmashtami, 4^th, 5^th Sept - Banks strike protest for pension. 8^th, 9^th Sept- sat & sun - Closed. All ATM's may remain cashless. Pl, plan accordingly,” read one message being circulated on WhatsApp.

It is true that Sunday, September 2 is a bank holiday. But, September 3, Janmashtami, is not a gazette holiday in all states. The strike on September 5 and 6 is called by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) employees. The United Forum of Reserve Bank Officers and Employees will go on mass casual leave on September 4 and 5, pressing their long-pending demands over pension related issues. However, it will not affect the functioning of other banks.

A senior bank official has told Outlook that the ATMs do not go cashless on bank holidays as they get replenished even on bank holidays.