India's PM Modi unveils controversial £300m 'Hindu Vatican' built on ruins of 16th century mosque

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today opened a controversial Hindu temple built on the ruins of a historical mosque in the flashpoint city of Ayodhya. 

The temple, which is still under construction, is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Ram and fulfils a long-standing demand by millions of Hindus who worship the revered deity. 

Portrayed as a Hindu awakening from centuries of subjugation by Muslim and colonial powers, the consecration of the Ram Mandir temple is also being seen as a crucial step in catapulting Modi to a record third successive term in upcoming elections.