Fuel first, terror later: Chidambaram defers US visit

New Delhi: Union Home Minister P Chidambaram's proposed trip to the US is believed to have been put on hold.

Sources said the minister, who had planned to go to Washington this week to hand over evidence against involvement of elements in Pakistan in the Mumbai terror attacks, has deferred the visit in view of his preoccupation in the wake of the strike by the officers of oil companies that is threatening to disrupt supplies across the country.

Chidambaram heads a group of ministers which will look into the demands of the officers and has been regularly holding meetings.

The sources said his presence may be needed for the meetings with the strikers' representatives.

Also, the US administration is in the transition stage with a new President to take over later this month and its focus currently on the volatile situation in West Asia.