Jana Krishnamurthi ratified BJP chief
The BJP national executive committee today showed the seriousness of its concern at the allegations against its former president, Mr. Bangaru Laxman, virtually closing the doors on his possible return to his post.

Venkataswami to probe charges
The NDA Government, which has been rocked by the Tehelka expose, today announced the appointment of the former Supreme Court judge, Mr. Justice K. Venkataswami, as head of the Commission of Inquiry to go into allegations of bribery in defence deals as revealed by the portal's videotapes.

India fully backs peace: Solheim
The Norwegian special envoy, Mr. Erik Solheim, who has been trying to bring the Kumaratunga Government and the LTTE together for negotiations, has said in an interview to The Hindu that contrary to speculation, he was convinced the Indian Government was fully supportive of the peace process in Sri Lanka.

Bush backs Annan for second term
The United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Kofi Annan, received a major boost for his second five-year term on Friday when the U.S. President, Mr. George W. Bush, endorsed his candidacy. Mr. Annan was here for a meeting with the Secretary of State, Gen. Colin Powell, and his first meeting with the President at the White House.

Seven chargesheeted in Red Fort shootout case
The Delhi police have chargesheeted seven persons, including a Pakistani national, in the Red Fort shootout case in which two-member Lashkar-e-Toiba suicide squad had stormed the historic monument and killed two Armymen and a civilian here on December 22.