India runs out of fuel, Army may come to rescue

The oil strike has literally crippled the country with almost 60 per cent of the fuel pumps going dry across India.

With the situation worsening with every passing hour, the Territorial Army is likely to step in to overcome petroleum strike.

Hopes of an end to the stalemate have been dashed and the strike is now into its third day

With his talks with the striking oil officers heading nowhere, Petroleum Minister Murli Deora is expected to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday.

Late night talks on Thursday between the government and the striking oil sector officers failed with both sides sticking to their stands.

"The meeting has been inconclusive but the doors are open we are going to discuss again," said Sarthak Behuriya, Chairman, Oil Corporation of India.

The Oil Sector Officers Association stuck to its demand for immediate sanction of higher wages in 14 public sector undertakings.

But the government had decided to take a tough stand and not give in to their demands. Deora had reportedly assured the striking officers that he would take up their issues with the Prime Minister. But hours before the talks, the Petroleum Secretary said the strike was totally illegal and that the officers cannot hold the country to ransom.

"Officials said the striking executives pressed for an immediate hike in their wages as an interim step before a final settlement is arrived at.

President of Oil Sector Officers' Association Amit Kumar said "the talks are inconclusive and our action is on".