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.
Week one of the Ashling Murphy murder trial: what the court heard
Israel-Hamas war: two weeks that shook the Middle East
'A battle for the Polish soul' - why Poland voted for change
How one of Ireland’s biggest homelessness charities ran into trouble
Chuck Feeney: the Irish-American billionaire who gave his entire fortune away
Can Ireland beat New Zealand to make Rugby World Cup history?
Sinn Féin brands it a 'budget for landlords' - but who else does Budget 2024 help?
Israel-Hamas war: 'a mega-event in the history of the Middle East'
Gardaí v Drew Harris: who won in row over rosters?
How a Nazi fugitive became a French teacher in a prestigious Dublin school
Stardust Inquests: The cross examination of former manager Eamon Butterly
What will Budget 2024 mean for you?
TikTok discovers ‘covert influence operation’ targeting Ireland
Ireland's biggest drug bust: 'They didn't know one end of a boat from another'
Murders have doubled - but is Ireland really more dangerous?
Lough Neagh is dying. Whose fault is it?
The Sallins Train Robbery: Will the wrongly accused ever get justice?
Sally Hayden: A 'naval blockade' won't solve the crisis in the Mediterranean
Why did spinal surgeries on children fail in one Dublin hospital?
Can Patrick Kielty save The Late Late Show?
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free