Two Indian states hold elections, Modi's party expected to win

Voters are casting ballots in two Indian states where Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist party is seeking a second consecutive term.

Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party is expected to win the elections on Monday in Maharashtra in the west and Haryana in the north after its dominant victory in national elections earlier this year.

In both states, opposition campaigns were lackluster due to infighting and desertions in the run-up to the vote.

Sachin Tendulkar (left), wife Anjali and his son Arjun show their inked finger after casting vote in Mumbai.

Opinion surveys predict a BJP romp in Harayana, where its main opposition, the Congress party, could face a near decimation.

In Maharashtra, the BJP and Shiv Sena coalition is expected to retain power.

The counting of votes will take place on Oct.24.

Associated Press