India state examines snooping allegation against PM candidate Modi

A state governed by Indian opposition candidate for prime minister Narendra Modi has launched an investigation into allegations he ordered invasive surveillance of an architect, in a case his opponents say shows a tendency to abuse power. Modi has topped several recent opinion polls ahead of general elections in six months, but the allegations could tarnish his carefully crafted image as a pro-business and graft-free administrator. "A commission has been formed to find out the truth in connection to these allegations," said Gujarat state cabinet minister Nitin Patel. Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party has dismissed the charges as part of "dirty tricks" in the lead-up to the elections.