Ruling Party's Win Paves Way for Nuclear Deal in India

The Indian government's survival of a confidence vote today should clear the way for approval of a landmark nuclear energy deal with the US, the Washington Post reports. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government survived by 19 votes, despite allegations of bribery and back-room shenanigans. Under the US-brokered deal, India will get access to the global market for nuclear fuel and technology.

"This vote gives a clear message to the world that India's head and heart are sound and India is prepared to take its rightful place in the comity of nations," said Singh, whose foes waved duffel bags full of money in the assembly building to drive home the bribery charges. The nuclear deal still must be approved by international regulators and the US Congress.  Singh's opponents say it makes India beholden to US interests.