Amid several rumors that the external affairs minister SM Krishna might be eased out of the cabinet in the cabinet reshuffle which is to take place this Sunday, Mr. Krishna has resigned from his position. This mean another free slot to incorporate another new face to the position. However, the new member to fill out the position is now not known.

External Minister had earlier canceled a scheduled visit to Laos in which he was to accompany the Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh. Congress leaders said that he would be a key member in the party affairs in Karnataka, where he was once the Chief Minister. It is highly likely that he would lead the party for the next assembly elections.

(AW- Anil)