Nearly one billion Indian citizens are eligible to vote in a lengthy election that began on April 19th and runs until June.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi looks set to retain power, in part thanks to the economic transformation that has lifted millions of Indians out of poverty on his watch. But Modi himself is an enigma.
For her podcast series Looking for Modi Australian journalist Avani Dias set out to profile one of the most powerful people in the world.
She tells In the News about the humble background that endeared Modi to voters. But his backstory has some holes in it, like his formative experiences with a far-right Hindu nationalist organisation, the secret marriage he walked away from, and his role in fomenting India’s deadly religious tensions.
As South Asia bureau chief for Australia’s ABC News, Dias was based in New Delhi until her investigation into allegations Modi's government was behind the assassination of Indian dissidents in Canada resulted in the non-renewal of her visa.
Modi’s suppression of his critics is having a chilling effect on the media and undermining the democratic process, she says.
This episode tells the story of Modi's origins, his rise in politics and the questions over the direction of India under his leadership.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why a billionaire is buying up land in one Irish county - and why its farmers are unhappy
Boris Johnson ducks and dives at the UK Covid inquiry
What the latest corporation tax bonanza means for the economy
The feis-fixing scandal that rocked Irish dancing
Asylum seekers now face sleeping rough amid high tensions
Are sinister conspiracies behind the Dublin riots? Yes, say 'alternative' media stars
Napoleon and The Crown are riddled with historical howlers. Does it matter?
Why is an oil CEO leading the world's biggest climate talks?
Dublin Riot aftermath: the victims, the investigation and the political fallout
'I go up the stairs on all fours to conserve energy' - Ireland's ignored health crisis
Can Patrick Kielty pass the Toy Show test?
Dublin stunned after dark day of violence
Who is Javier Milei, "The Madman" elected president of Argentina?
How Ben Dunne's bad behaviour changed Ireland - with Fintan O'Toole
Inside the Martens Trial (Part 2): Molly Martens according to the Corbetts
Inside the Martens Trial (Part 1): The carefully planned character assassination of Jason Corbett
Will Hong Kong's freedom survive China's clampdown?
Leaked docs reveal Russian oligarch Abramovich's secret Chelsea deals
David Cameron's shock return to UK politics
Why BSE in one Irish cow worries China - and spells trouble for farmers
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The New Abnormal