S P O T L I G H T

Maran’s condition deteriorates
Chennai, October 20
The condition of Union Commerce Minister Murasoli Maran deteriorated today and he continues to be in a critical condition, according to a bulletin here from Apollo Hospital where he is undergoing treatment. “There has been deterioration in his (Maran’s) condition and he continues to be on ventilatory support and renal dialysis”, the Hospital Superintendent, Dr Radha Rajagopalan, said in the bulletin. PTI

Temples’ closure
Dehra Dun, October 20
After allowing pilgrims for six months, the shrines of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples would be closed for the winter season on November 5, officials said today. This year, ‘Annakut’ festival would fall on November 5 and the doors of two temples would be closed on that day, the officials said. Also, Badrinath temple would be closed for the pilgrims on November 17 and Kedarnath on November 6. PTI

20 hurt in rioting
Thane, October 20
Twenty persons, including two policemen, were injured in communal violence which erupted tonight in Badlapur town of Maharashtra’s Thane district. The police said the riot broke out following an altercation between two youths belonging to different communities. People from both sides gathered and resorted to stone-throwing, sparking the riot. PTI