Two dead as monster cyclone batters eastern India

13 Sept 15:36 Key points summarised by AI

Cyclone Fani made landfall in eastern India, causing two deaths and immediate widespread destruction, including power outages, water cuts, and uprooted trees.
The 'monster' storm, with winds up to 180 km/h, prompted the evacuation of over a million people in Odisha and hundreds of thousands more in West Bengal and Bangladesh.
Extensive preparedness measures were implemented, including 3,000 shelters, emergency food supplies, and cancelled transport, to mitigate the forecasted 'total destruction' of infrastructure and crops.
The Hindu holy town of Puri, a major tourist destination, was severely impacted, becoming a 'ghost town' with immediate utility cuts and significant environmental damage.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.