The first semi-high-speed train, designed entirely locally, has been unveiled as a symbol of the Modi government’s “Make in India” strategy. But along the railway corridor between Gujarat and Maharashtra, protests by farmers and tribal communities continue, with claims of forced land acquisition and inadequate compensation.
A recent shooting at a casino has put the spotlight on reports of incivility, looting, and clashes with locals over trivial motives. The problem is linked to cross-border tourism in towns and cities bordering India, which draw thousands of people to visit casinos, hotels, and liquor stores, often returning home before they can be prosecuted.
Asian members from Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka are part of the global humanitarian expedition. The son of Faisal Edhi, a leading figure in Pakistan’s humanitarian community, is among the people detained. As his fate remains unknown, his father has appealed to Pakistani authorities to obtain his release. For Asian activists, theirs is not just a "symbolic" participation.
The appeal made at the funerals of the three Baptist leaders killed in recent days during renewed clashes between the Kuki-Zo and Naga tribal groups: “I forgive those who killed my father in the name of the Lord and in the broader interest of peace.” The slain pastor had worked tirelessly for reconciliation between the two groups. Concern remains for six people still being held hostage.
On 13 May, two Salesian priests, Fr Albert Panmei Aching and Fr Peter Poji Küvisie, were abducted and later released after 24 hours in captivity. The provincial expressed his relief and thanked all those who helped secure the release of his confreres.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court backs Hindu nationalists, ending the practice that since 2003 had allowed Muslims and Hindus to pray in the same historical complex on different days. The ruling specifically cites the Ayodhya case, which has had a domino effect in archaeological studies and claims in various parts of India.
