BJP-Samata standoff on Manipur continues
The stand-off between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Samata Party, its NDA ally, continued today with the latter expressing dissatisfaction over the BJP's promise to support the Radha Binod Koijam Government in Manipur, which faces a trust vote tomorrow.

Govt. in a bind over naming CDS
Sharp differences between the Indian Air Force and the Navy are holding back the revamp of the defence apparatus. The rift appeared after the Government began debating the appointment of a Chief of Defence Staff. In the Government's view, the CDS would head the country's nuclear forces and also serve as its principal military adviser.

NDA meet to review poll setback today
Leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will meet at the Prime Minister's residence tomorrow evening to review the political situation in the aftermath of the adverse electoral results in the recent Assembly polls.

Shabir invites Hurriyat for talks
In yet another move to seek approval for his response to the Centre's offer, the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party (JKDFP) chief, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Shah, has invited the All-Party Hurriyat Conference for a discussion to reach a consensus.

Pak. top brass to meet
The top brass of the Pakistan military is meeting here tomorrow to take stock of the situation on the International Boundary and review the developments in Kashmir. The meeting of Pakistan's Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (JCSC) will be presided over by the Chief Executive, Gen. Pervez Musharraf.

PM undergoes medical tests
The Prime Minister, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee, today underwent several medical tests at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in preparation for the right knee surgery planned for June 7 in Mumbai.

Anti-terrorism Day today
May 21 will be observed `Anti-terrorism Day' every year to educate and wean away people, especially the youth, from terrorism and violence. An official spokesman today said the Home Ministry had asked the State Government and the Union Territory administrations to organise programmes in government offices, public sector undertakings and public institutions tomorrow.

IA denies Antony ticket
The Kerala Chief Minister, Mr. A.K. Antony, who arrived here this evening on his first visit to the capital after assuming office, was denied a ticket by Indian Airlines on Government account.