All Christian educational institutes across the country will remain closed on Friday to protest the violence against churches and Christian institutions in Orissa where surge in violent activities has claimed 10 lives so far.

Accusing the Naveen Patnaik government of being responsible for the failure of law and order in Orissa, the CPI on Thursday demanded its immediate resignation saying it was "colluding" in the spread of anarchy in the state.

Work at Tata Motors plant in Singur almost came to a halt as workers who turned up for duty were allegedly threatened by the Trinamool Congress.

Pondicherry Chief Minister N Rangswamy resigned on Thursday, bringing an end to the month-long political uncertainty following a revolt by his cabinet colleagues against his leadership.

Controversial Nihang sect chief Ajit Singh Phoola was taken to the civil hospital here Thursday after he was set on fire by some fellow prisoners inside the Amritsar central jail, the police said.

"A rising star, known by the single name Mayawati, is challenging Sonia Gandhi's position as the country's most powerful woman." Forbes magazine said.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren will seek to prove his majority on the floor of the house on Friday.

The devastating fire at a chemical factory at Bhosari claimed lives of ten women workers while injuring nine others, fire brigade officials said on Thursday.

Jammu is on high alert again as authorities suspect the presence of more terrorists. Three infiltrators were killed by security forces during a 19-hour hostage drama.