Chambers express concern over SBI strike

The disruption of the clearing business is becoming a matter of concern in Uttaranchal courtesy the ongoing strike by employees of the State Bank of India (SBI).

The Indian Industries Association (IIA) Uttaranchal President Pankaj Gupta in a statement expressed concern over the issue stating that the strike might create law and order problem in the state as the salary date is only two days away.

He said, "It is therefore our request to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to allow clearing business by some other banks like Punjab National Bank (PNB)." Gupta said.

Since all cheques of the industry sector have been held up, the industry itself would not be in a position to pay the salary, Gupta noted.

The Kumaon-Garhwal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KGCCI) and the Confederation of India (CII) officials also expressed similar concern over the on-going strike. "We are really worried over the strike as our all payments have been stopped," said Yogesh Kumar Jindal, president of the KGCCI.

Meanwhile, the agitated employees of the SBI did not allow the conduct of the clearing business in the PNB premises at Clock Tower are of Dehra Dun. As soon as the PNB put up clearing house, the SBI employees began slogan shouting and disrupted the work.

However, efforts are still on to give the task of clearing business to some other banks. In this regard, the government has assured the RBI officials that it would provide all possible help.