Washington, Monday 08 Sept 2008: As India secured a historic waiver from the NSG to carry out nuclear commerce, all eyes are now on the administration of US President George Bush to commence the process with Congress for approval to operationally the deal.

The pressure is building on Congress from the Indian American community that played a phenomenal role in the run up to the passage of the Hyde Act with the refrain in community circles being that “anything” can be done in Washington provided there is a political will.

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has said she will start talks with Congress leaders today or tomorrow.

Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Howard Berman has supported the Hyde Act but is tough on non-proliferation issues; but even he too signaled yesterday that if the administration wanted Congress to change the rules of the time frame then a sufficient case must be put forth- that is the civilian nuclear agreement is in full conformity with the Hyde Act.