Egyptians vote to usher in democracy after revolution

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Political positioning over the government's decision to allow 51%FDI in retail dominates the front pages of most papers. With the Opposition and some UPA allies opposing the decision, the Hindustan Times writes "FDI face-off deepens as govt. says no roll back". Highlighting the government's attempts to find a way out, the Asian Age reports "All-party FDI meet today". 

The Delhi High Court granting bail to DMK MP Kanimozhi and four others in the 2G spectrum allocation case is prominently covered in the papers. "High court bails Kani out of Tihar" reports the Mail Today. The Hindu writes that the court granted bail applying the principle of parity with the Supreme Court having granted bail to five corporate executives last week. 

Most papers take note of the expulsion of Babu Singh Kushwaha, former minister in the Mayawati government in UP, from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). "BSP throws out Kushwaha for anti-party activity" reports the Pioneer. The Tribune writes "BSP expels former minister, blames him for CMO killings".

Citing the recommendations of Parliament's Standing Committee on Law and Order on the proposed Lokpal Bill, the Times of India reports that NGOs and some private companies may also come under the ambit of the Lokpal. Commenting on the draft bill, the Statesman says "Lokpal panel yet to decide on PM issue".

Many papers speculate on the possibility of a further cut in petrol prices. The Hindustan Times says "Another petrol price cut likely tomorrow" while the Asian Age writes "Petrol prices maybe slashed by Rs.1".  

And finally, in international news, elections held in Egypt yesterday are widely noticed in the papers. "Egyptians vote in first post Mubarak election" reports the Statesman. The Pioneer notes "Egyptians vote to usher in democracy after revolution".