South Asia Brief
News and analysis from India and its neighboring countries in South Asia, a region home to one-fourth of the world’s population. Delivered Wednesday.
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The World’s Biggest Election Is Set to Begin
In India, the question is not whether Modi and his party will win but by how much.
How Pakistan Plays Into India’s Elections
Allegations that the Modi government orchestrated extrajudicial killings on Pakistani soil will give another boost to the ruling party.
Sri Lanka Hones Its Balancing Act
Colombo has demonstrated its own brand of strategic autonomy on issues from Russia’s war in Ukraine to China’s global footprint.
Modi Flexes Muscle as Elections Approach
In India, recent moves that stymie the political opposition will likely fire up the ruling party’s base.
Tensions Escalate on Pakistan-Afghanistan Border
Islamabad ordered cross-border strikes after a militant attack, dialing up pressure.
Why India Just Inked a New Free Trade Deal
The agreement with four European states is part of a subtle shift in policy from New Delhi.
India Expands Its Naval Presence With Planned Base
New Delhi aims to project its power with a new facility near the Maldives.
Bangladesh and U.S. Pursue Post-Election Reset
A U.S. delegation to Dhaka reflects a fresh approach to bilateral ties after a criticized Jan. 7 vote.
How Imran Khan’s Party Stunned Pakistan
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party won’t take power, but it capitalized on public discontent to deliver a rebuke to the establishment.
Pakistan Heads to the Polls Amid Crisis
The military has already shaped the outcome of the vote, which comes as the country’s challenges converge.
Tensions Rise on Pakistan’s Borders
Security threats along the frontiers with Iran and Afghanistan loom large ahead of elections next week.
India Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Macron
Hosting the French president as an honorary guest on Republic Day offers an opportunity to showcase the successful bilateral relationship.
The Ram Mandir Temple Is Part of Modi’s Playbook
The Indian leader fulfills a signature promise with his consecration of the controversial landmark—just as elections approach.
Bhutan’s Elections Are a Bright Spot in South Asia
This week’s vote reflects a smooth transition to democracy—which isn’t always a guarantee.
Bangladesh’s All-but-Certain Election
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her party are nearly guaranteed to win on Sunday. The rest of the region may welcome the result.
