India-US nuclear deal faces criticism

INDIA: A nuclear cooperation pact touted as the cornerstone of an emerging India-U.S. partnership has faced pointed criticism from India's political left and right, underscoring how far the countries have to go as they try to overcome decades of mistrust.

Some have called it an American attempt to undermine India's cherished atomic weapons program. Others have suggested Washington wants to dictate New Delhi's foreign policy.

The criticism has intensified since U.S. President George W. Bush on Monday signed a law allowing Washington to ship nuclear fuel and technology to New Delhi. The new law, which reverses 30 years of U.S. atomic policy, was a key step toward implementing the deal.

NEW DELHI, Wednesday, AP