New Delhi: In a fresh effort to resolve the ongoing impasse in Parliament over the issue of "tainted" Ministers, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had a telephonic talk with NDA (National Democratic Alliance) Chairman Atal Bihari Vajpayee this evening (July 5, 2004).

He made the call as both the House of Parliament were adjourned today without transacting any business after BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) stalled the proceedings on the issue of "tainted" ministers in the Government.

Singh had a telephonic talk with Leader of the Opposition L K Advani on Saturday.

Opposition has decided to boycott the presentation of the Railway Budget as Railway Minister Laloo Prasad is the prime target of its attack on 'tainted' ministers.

The opposition also gave ample indications of making the session a tough affair for the ruling coalition by declaring its intention to raise a variety of other contentious issues including Amarnath Yatra and train dacoities.

The budget session, spread over 30 sittings, is likely to witness a fresh battle between the ruling UPA (United Progressive Alliance) and opposition NDA on the issue of election of a new Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha with Congress firmly ruling out re-nomination of incumbent Najma Heptulla who has joined BJP.

A highlight of today's meeting convened by the Speaker was the decision to allow telecast of all proceedings of the Lok Sabha including zero hour.