Indian workers strike over inflation

Demanding the government control soaring prices, Indian workers go on a 24-hour strike.

Trade unions, bank employees, postal workers and bus drivers across the country are protesting the government's anti-labour policies.

Business owners also closed shop Tuesday.

Workers want to see steps to control inflation and provide universal social security, among other demands.

(SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) RAMESH SINGH, A BANK EMPLOYEE, SAYING:

"Our demands are major, the anti-trade union labour activities implemented by the government should be withdrawn. The labourers should be given proper wages. If all the central trade unions are on strike, then definitely the labourers are suffering. The government is implementing pro-capitalist policies, which has led to the breakdown of the country's administration. Farmers are committing suicide, labourers are suffering because of hunger and the capitalist are going on increasing their capital."

The protests are not expected to significantly affect banks and financial markets in Asia's third-largest economy, but there could be some volatility in the bond market if volumes are lower than normal.

(SOUNDBITE) (Hindi) DINKAR MAHALAYA, A LOCAL, SAYING:

"People who are not involved in the strike, suffer without any reason. The commuters face problems in travelling. BMC (Bombay Municipal Corporation), railways are shut and who is going to pay for their losses? But on the other hand, people who go on strike are right on their part, because of soaring prices, it is impossible to run a family on 5,000-10,000 rupees."

Meanwhile, fighting broke out in West Bengal at the communist party office when members of the ruling provincial party reportedly attacked.

With the office ransacked, a party leader blamed the local government.

The ruling Congress Party is facing elections in five states amid a spate of recent protests.

Lindsey Parietti, Reuters