Hindu nationalist Modi the favourite as India votes

21 Sept 07:08 Key points summarised by AI

India's massive six-week election commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist BJP widely favored for a third term, facing a weakened and fragmented opposition.
Modi's decade in power has seen India's diplomatic and economic influence grow, bolstered by his strong appeals to the Hindu faithful and initiatives like the inauguration of the Ram temple.
The opposition alliance struggles against government probes and financial restrictions, which critics argue are tactics to undermine rivals and suppress democratic dissent.
Despite concerns from human rights groups over press freedom and treatment of minorities, Western nations continue to engage with India, valuing it as a strategic ally.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Today 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.