Ensure fair polls: EC
As the nominations began today for the May 10 Assembly polls in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala and the Union Territory of Pondicherry, the Election Commission asked the political parties to work towards holding a free and fair poll.

BALCO talks fail, Jogi blamed
The Centre today sought to distance itself from the BALCO controversy by blaming the Chhatisgarh Chief Minister, Mr. Ajit Jogi, for the continuing stalemate. ``I fail to understand Mr. Jogi's behaviour. The stalemate is because of the Chhatisgarh Chief Minister,'' the Union Mines Minister, Mr. Sunderlal Patwa, told newsmen after the breakdown of tripartite talks among the Centre, BALCO unions and the Chhatisgarh Government.

Jayalalitha files nomination in Krishnagiri
The AIADMK general secretary, Ms. Jayalalitha, today filed her nomination papers for contesting from the Krishnagiri constituency.

Consulate officials take possession of Karachi house
The Karachi police is believed to have evicted the illegal occupant of the residence of the Indian Consul General in Karachi, which has been lying vacant since the decision of the Pakistan Government to close down the Consulate in January 1995.

U.S. official discusses Afghanistan with Pak.
The United States Assistant Secretary of State, Mr. Alan Eastham, who arrived here on a two-day official visit, called on the Pakistan Interior Minister, Lt. Gen. (retd) Moinuddin Haider, and exchanged views on a host of issues, including Afghanistan.