India's epic election ends as Modi meditates

13 Sept 05:51 Key points summarised by AI

India's colossal six-week general election, the world's largest democratic exercise involving 900 million eligible voters, has concluded across 1.1 million polling stations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after an extensive campaign, embarked on a spiritual retreat to meditate in a Himalayan shrine as voting drew to a close.
Opinion polls suggest Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised for re-election, though possibly with a reduced majority, with votes set to be counted on a single day.
The acrimonious campaign was marked by high spending, social media bombardment, fake news, and instances of violence, with the opposition challenging Modi on job creation and economic issues.

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.