The Revolutionary Socialist Party on Tuesday called for revival of Left party unity to stall attempts by NDA for amending the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) Bill and Patent Act. Left parties, including the CPI and CPI(M), should maintain equal distance from the Congress and BJP as the latter was carrying on with the former's economic policies, RSP general secretary K Pankajakshan told reporters in New Delhi.

Sena leader Mahadik is dead

Senior Shiv Sena leader and former MP Wamanrao Mahadik died in Mumbai on Tuesday after a brief illness. He was 75. Mahadik, suffering from kidney ailment for the last six months, was undergoing treatment at the kem hospital, the Sena sources said. Fondly called "Appa" by Shiv Sainiks, Mahadik was active in all agitations launched by the party from time to time on various issues.

Sakshi Maharaj joins SP

Former BJP MP Sachchidanand Hari Sakshi, who campaigned extensively for Samajwadi Party after being denied BJP nomination for the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections, on Tuesday joined the same party. A former MP from Farrukhabad, Sakshi, whose campaign is believed to have substantially improved the fortunes of Samajwadi party in western UP, said he had no "greed" for power and would work relentlessly for the welfare of backward communities.

Basu reiterates desire to step down

West Bengal chief minister and veteran CPI(M) leader Jyoti Basu on Tuesday reiterated his desire to step down from office, but said the final decision would be taken by the party. Asked by reporters at the state secretariat in Calcutta on his retirement plans, the octogenarian leader said, "Why not? I am ageing. I am also not keeping well."

JD(s) executive to meet on Oct 26

The national executive of Janata Dal (S) and state party presidents will meet in New Delhi on October 26 to discuss the post-poll scenario.