Power tussle in Puducherry: CM-LG truce for now

A conflict arose in Puducherry between Lieutenant Governor K Kailashnathan and Chief Minister N Rangaswamy. The issue was the appointment of a health department director. The LG's action, done without consulting the CM, led to protests. Rangaswamy and his ministers abstained from office. Discussions for full statehood emerged. BJP in-charge Nirmal Surana intervened, persuading the CM to resume work.