Indian government wins crucial vote

The Indian government has won an important vote in parliament, allowing it to sell its shares in a leading aluminium company.

The BJP-led governing coalition defeated an opposition sponsored motion against the proposed privatization of Bharat Aluminium Company Ltd. BALCO.

Opposition parties had disrupted parliamentary business for several days, demanded an inquiry into alleged corruption in the sale of shares in the company.

The Indian government denies any corruption, and says it will press ahead with its privatisation programme -- despite all opposition.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service