Stories about South Asia from May, 2024
The latest defamation bill further tightens restrictions on free speech in Pakistan
The Punjab Assembly recently passed the Defamation Bill 2024, which aims at curbing the spread of fake news across print, electronic, and social media platforms against government officials and institutions.
Riots against foreign students in Kyrgystan undermine its people-to-people ties with South Asia
The Kyrgyz government reacted strongly to the incident, condemning violence, apologizing to the students, and promising that such incidents would not happen again.
Fossil fuels dependency exacerbates Pakistan’s power crisis
Pakistan is currently facing a severe energy crisis characterised by electricity shortages and frequent electricity cuts, which has a detrimental impact on household activities, industries, and the overall economy.
Southerly winds: How Nepalis are perceiving the ongoing Indian elections
Nepal has traditionally enjoyed a syncretic blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. However, if Modi's BJP wins in Indian elections, some fear that Nepal will slide back to Hindu nationalism.
Chai? Tea? How do Indians take their tea?
India is one of the largest producers of tea in the world, and we consume most of what we produce.
Pakistan administered Kashmir faces internet shutdown amidst protests
In May 2024, Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir witnessed significant unrest, with daily life profoundly impacted by internet shutdowns and the violent suppression of protests by Pakistani security forces.
Tea is a daily delight for Bangladeshis, yet plantation workers face immense hardships
For most Bangladeshis, tea signifies a fulfilling life, but for the tea garden workers, their meagre wages mean tea leaves with rice is all they can afford in a meal.
The Global Coalition for Language Rights: A space for language justice
Half of the world's languages are endangered. One new prize champions language justice by awarding language activists from across the world the Language Rights Defenders Award.
‘D voters’ remain a key issue in Assam during India's general elections
In Assam, some voters who lack proper documents to prove their Indian citizenship are labeled as 'D Voters', disenfranchised and barred from voting in the ongoing general elections.
South Asia sizzles: Record heatwave and extreme weather blamed on climate crisis
A scorching heatwave is ravaging South Asia, impacting the lives of hundreds of millions. Schools have been forced to close and the risk of health hazards has risen dramatically.
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