State Bank of India staff threaten permanent strike

No, really. And as well as an indefinite strike, union leaders want more money and a promise not to privatise India's largest bank.

In a report by The Times of India, State Bank of India (SBI) Staff Association chief secretary O N Bindroo stated an indefinite strike in July is impending if their demands are not met. These include pension-related issues, pay revision, outsourcing, and the bank's privatisation.

The staff association has also held talks with the Indian Bank Association (IBA) regarding job on compassionate ground. Bindroo added that they have only been offered 15 percent wage revision, compared to 45 percent for Central government employees.

Prior to the potential indefinite strike, SBI staff will go on strike on 12 June 2009 to lobby their demands.