UNITED NATIONS: A disagreement between Russia and the United States on the role of the UN chief has prevented the Security Council from reaching consensus on an Iraq statement. The lack of agreement effectively leaves the situation here in limbo, following four-day US and British air strikes against Iraq which divided the Council, until the 15-member Council resumes discussions next Monday after the Christmas holiday break. Meanwhile, Iraq said today it was still under US and British military attack despite the failure of Washington and London to destabilise president Saddam Hussein.

CSE age limit up

NEW DELHI: The upper age limit for appearance in Civil Services Examination, 1999 has been raised from 28 to 30 for recruitment to All India Services, Central Services and other civilian posts under the Centre, an official release said here today. The increase in the age limit will not apply for recruitment to armed forces or paramilitary forces including AssamRifles, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force and Indo-Tibetan Border Police, the official report said.

Businessman shot

MUMBAI: A businessman was injured here tonight when two unidentified persons opened fire on him at Mahim. Shaukhat Karia (35), was in his office near R C Mahim School, Walmia Lane, when two people entered and opened fire. Shaukhat was hit on his head and has been admitted at the Hinduja Hospital.