India begins second phase of national elections with Modi’s BJP as front-runner

NEW DELHI (AP) — Millions of Indians began voting Friday in the second round of multi-phase national elections as polarization grows with Prime Minister Narendra Modi whipping up an assertive brand of Hindu nationalist politics in his campaign.

People lined up outside polling stations as voting opened at 7 a.m. The turnout was expected to pick up as the day progresses.

The outcome of Friday’s voting across 88 constituencies in 13 states with 160 million voters will be crucial for...