"Originally, the VRS was applicable to all, however, SBI has now stipulated that only officers of the age of 55 years and above are eligible," newly formed associations convener YL Marianna said in a press release. While there were no such regulations in other banks, SBI has applied them only to the officer grade. This, he said, was discriminatory and denied the opportunity of a VRS to officers willing to avail of the scheme.

Fourteen per cent of the bank's officers had opted for a VRS. SBI, in order to limit the figure to 10 per cent, was therefore debarring a section of the staff from participating in the scheme, he said.

The national body of the association will meet in New Delhi soon to chalk out an action plan, besides attempting to schedule a meeting with the finance minister, the release added.