S P O T L I G H T

STD rates
New Delhi, December 18
In a steep reduction in long-distance (STD) rates, private cellular operators today announced 50 per cent cut in rates on mobile to mobile calls with effect from January 26. STD rates during night hours (from 9 pm to 9 am), would cost just Rs 6 per minute for national and Rs 3 for regional calls, while during the peak hours, 9 am to 9 pm the rates would be reduced from the current Rs 24 per minute to Rs 12 for a national call. PTI

Tehelka’s plea rejected
New Delhi, December 18
The Venkataswami Commission today rejected Tehelka. com’s application seeking details of accounts of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Samata Party besides passport and other details of some of those appearing in the portal’s videotapes on corruption in defence deals. Commission Chairman Justice K. Venkataswami passed an order rejecting the plea by the portal. UNI