Last week, the authorities evicted security staff and residents from Forman Christian College University. They were given “24 hours” to remove all property and historical artefacts. The administration is seeking a legal solution to retain control of the building. Christian activist: “The government has hurt the community’s feelings”.
Despite the Indian National Congress party’s gains in southern India following the latest local elections, the dispute over the Mekedatu dam project remains unresolved. Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are at loggerheads over the management of the Kaveri’s waters, a dispute that has lasted for over a century and flares up particularly during periods of drought.
In northern Bangladesh, the project to erect one of Asia’s largest statues of the Hindu god Ram has been halted. Muslim leaders are calling for the statue’s permanent removal, whilst Christian and Hindu representatives denounce a climate of mounting pressure on non-Muslim communities.
Born online as satire following a controversial statement by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the movement has brought into the streets millions of supporters, including students and young people with no job security. At the core of its complaint are unemployment, public exam scandals, and the growing disconnect from traditional parties. Analysts urge caution, but see the phenomenon as a sign of widespread dissatisfaction.
Three Indian nationals died in a US attack on a tanker carrying Iranian oil. Despite the public outrage, New Delhi is keeping a low profile to avoid angering Washington: in the background, a possible meeting between Trump and Modi on the sidelines of the G7. Meanwhile, the White House announced a deal with Tehran. Saudi Arabia reboots trade with Lebanon.
Services have been cut by 50% due to protests within the sector. The discontent is fuelled by rising costs and the government’s failure to grant fare concessions. 25% of vehicles had already voluntarily ceased operations earlier due to financial difficulties. The crisis for commuters, who describe the operators’ decision as “a severe blow”.
