Episoder
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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 15th of November and here this week’s headlines.
The first phase of Jharkhand’s Assembly elections, covering 43 seats, recorded a voter turnout of 66 per cent. The seats are in the tribal-dominated South Chotanagpur, northern Pala-mu, and Kolhan regions, with 20 reserved for Scheduled Tribes and six for Scheduled Castes. While the BJP has offered 25 promises as part of its Sankalp Patra, the INDIA bloc has underlined seven “guarantees” in the fields of education, domicile policy, social justice, food, Maiyya Samman Yojna, jobs, and farmers’ welfare, replicating its model in Karnataka and Telangana.
Over 2 lakh new beneficiaries above the age of 70 received cards under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana within the first week of Prime Minister Narendra Modi rolling out the expanded version of the flagship health insurance scheme to cover all elderly. According to data available till 7th of November with the National Health Authority, Kerala has registered the highest number of new beneficiaries under the extended version, with nearly 89,000 cards issued for the elderly. The data also shows that 32,000 additional beneficiaries above the age of 70 have re-registered to avail the cover of Rs 5 lakh provided in the extended version with no income limit.
In response to escalating violence in Manipur, the central government has deployed 20 additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces to the state. The forces, comprising around 2,000 personnel from CRPF and BSF, will be stationed until 30th of November to maintain order. This follows recent clashes, including the killing of suspected militants in Jiribam and the continued disappearance of six individuals from the May-tee community, including three children, after the violence on Monday.
Delhi's air quality reached hazardous levels, with an AQI of 423, prompting serious disruptions at the Indira Gandhi Airport. 151 flights were delayed, and 282 departures faced delays averaging 45 minutes. Environment Minister Gopal Rai called for stricter enforcement of GRAP II measures to combat pollution. He noted an expected improvement in air quality due to rising wind speeds, as the capital continues to struggle with pollution-related issues affecting public health and daily operations.
On the global front, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed at least six people, including three young siblings, as the conflict in the region intensifies. In Lebanon, an Israeli strike on an apartment building near Beirut killed six and injured 15. Meanwhile, the Biden administration has decided not to restrict weapons transfers to Israel, citing limited progress in facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza. These actions come amid ongoing violence and international calls for increased humanitarian support for Gaza's civilians.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’s Asad Rehman discusses the Supreme Court’s ruling on the practice of ‘bulldozer justice’ and how Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath popularized it.
Next, The Indian Express’s Sohini Ghosh explains mediation centers, how they help people in the middle of personal legal disputes, and how they reduce the court’s caseload (10:35).
And finally, a quick update on the controversy involving an independent candidate from Rajasthan slapping a sub-divisional magistrate (19:48).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
Manglende episoder?
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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 14th of November and here are the headlines.
At a rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted Congress, accusing some of viewing the killer of Sambhaji Maharaj as a messiah. He questioned if such individuals were against Maharashtra’s pride and identity. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi responded, mocking BJP claims about his “red book” with blank pages. Gandhi defended his use of the book, while BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis alleged it was a tactic to gain support from urban Naxals and anarchists.
Delhi's air quality reached hazardous levels, with an AQI of 423 at 11 am, prompting serious disruptions at Indira Gandhi Airport. 151 flights were delayed, and 282 departures faced delays averaging 45 minutes. Environment Minister Gopal Rai called for stricter enforcement of GRAP II measures to combat pollution. He noted an expected improvement in air quality due to rising wind speeds, as the capital continues to struggle with pollution-related issues affecting public health and daily operations.
Rajasthan Police arrested Congress rebel Naresh Meena after violent clashes between his supporters and the police, leaving over 50 injured and 60 vehicles torched. Meena, who contested the Deoli-Uniara bypolls as an Independent, was filmed allegedly slapping the local SDM during voting. He claimed the SDM allowed fake voters at a polling station, prompting a standoff with police. Meena's actions sparked protests, and his arrest followed a night of tensions in Tonk district.
The Argentinian delegation has withdrawn from COP29, reportedly on the orders of President Javier Milei. The move, just days into the conference, raised concerns about Argentina’s stance on climate action, especially given Milei’s ties with US President-elect Donald Trump. Speculation about Argentina’s potential exit from the Paris Agreement intensified, although no official confirmation was made. The decision marks a significant shift in the country's international climate policy as Milei consolidates power since taking office in November.
Sri Lankans are voting in a crucial parliamentary election, pivotal for President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's government. Dissanayake’s September presidential win, marking a rejection of traditional parties, has fueled hopes for economic recovery. However, his failure to secure over 50% of the vote has raised doubts about his party's future success in the election. As the Marxist-leaning president seeks to solidify power, the results will determine his ability to implement economic reforms and navigate the island nation's political landscape.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Parthasarathi Biswas shares details on the two crops that are socio-politically and economically the most important crops of Maharashtra and can impact the upcoming Assembly elections.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Divya Goyal about the PM-SHRI scheme and its implementation in Punjab. She shares why the scheme took so long to get implemented in the state, what was the impact of the delay and the current update regarding the same. (12:47)
Finally, we talk about Delhi entering the severe category of the Air Quality Index causing massive smog and flight diversions. (22:50)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda.
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 13th of November and here are the headlines.
The Supreme Court ruled that demolishing properties without due process, based solely on allegations of crime, violates the rule of law. The court emphasized that executive authorities cannot act as judges, punishing individuals by demolishing their property. Such actions were deemed an overreach of authority. The court directed that specific procedures be followed before demolitions occur. The ruling came during a hearing on petitions challenging property demolitions by state authorities as punishment for alleged criminal involvement.
The first phase of Jharkhand’s Assembly elections, covering 43 seats, recorded a voter turnout of 46.25% by 1 pm. The seats are in the tribal-dominated South Chotanagpur, northern Palamu, and Kolhan regions, with 20 reserved for Scheduled Tribes and six for Scheduled Castes. The Chatra and Simaria constituencies, located in a backward district, are also voting today. Bypolls are being held in several states, including Kerala, where Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi is making her electoral debut in Wayanad.
In response to escalating violence in Manipur, the central government has deployed 20 additional companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to the state. The forces, comprising around 2,000 personnel from CRPF and BSF, will be stationed until November 30 to maintain order. This follows recent clashes, including the killing of suspected militants in Jiribam and the continued disappearance of six individuals from the Meitei community, including three children, after the violence on Monday.
The Pakistan government has instructed its cricket board not to accede to India's request to shift the 2025 Champions Trophy games to Dubai. The BCCI had asked for India's matches to be moved due to security concerns. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stated that, as the host, it will not relocate any games outside Pakistan. The ICC had informed the PCB about India’s decision, but the PCB maintains its stance on hosting the event in Pakistan.
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed at least six people, including three young siblings, as the conflict in the region intensifies. In Lebanon, an Israeli strike on an apartment building near Beirut killed six and injured 15. Meanwhile, the Biden administration has decided not to restrict weapons transfers to Israel, citing limited progress in facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza. These actions come amid ongoing violence and international calls for increased humanitarian support for Gaza's civilians.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Abhishek Angad discusses the overarching narrative in this year's Jharkhand Assembly elections, highlighting what the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the BJP are promising to voters.
Next, The Indian Express’ Divya A talks about Canada ending its popular fast-track student visa program and how this decision will impact Indian students (18:05).
Finally, we provide a quick update on why the Kerala government has suspended two IAS officers (27:48).
Hosted and written by Shashank Bhargava
Produced by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 12th of November and here are the headlines.
On Tuesday morning, police recovered the bodies of two Meitei men from houses in Jiribam, Manipur, a day after security forces killed 10 suspected militants. Six people from a relief camp are missing after the gunfight on Monday. The clashes, involving armed Hmar militants and security forces, erupted after CRPF and Borobekra police stations were attacked. The militants reportedly targeted homes and shops in Meitei settlements earlier. The violence occurred near Pherzawl district, bordering Hmar-majority areas.
Mumbai police arrested Faizan Khan, a lawyer from Raipur, on Tuesday for allegedly threatening Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan. Khan demanded Rs 50 lakh from Khan last week, and the arrest followed a failure to attend a summons from the police. The threat was made via a call on Tuesday, and police have yet to clarify the motive behind the threat. Faizan Khan, 42, is being transferred to Mumbai for further legal proceedings.
On Monday, the Kerala government suspended two IAS officers, K Gopalakrishnan and N Prasanth, amid controversies. Gopalakrishnan faced backlash for a WhatsApp group called "Mallu Hindu Officers," while Prasanth stirred conflict by posting derogatory content against another senior officer. The suspensions followed recommendations by Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasizing that officials must adhere to proper norms and procedures. Minister K Rajan reaffirmed the government's stance on administrative conduct.
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza on Monday night killed at least 14 people, including two children and a woman, in a humanitarian zone. One strike hit a makeshift cafeteria for displaced people in Muwasi, killing 11, including the children. Palestinian medical officials confirmed the deaths. This comes as Israel faces pressure from the Biden administration to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, with a deadline this week to comply or face possible restrictions on U.S. military funding.
President-elect Donald Trump has selected South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as the next Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, according to reports. Noem, a Republican leader with national recognition, is serving her second term after winning re-election in 2022. She became prominent for her stance against a statewide mask mandate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Noem's appointment marks a key decision in Trump’s cabinet selections as he prepares for his upcoming administration.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt explains the new expanded Ayushman Bharat Scheme. She talks about the scheme's launch, the reason behind its expansion and its distribution across states.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Sujit Bisoyi about the myth that there is a secret chamber in the treasure trove of the Jagannath Temple in Puri. He shares the logic behind the myth, why it persisted for so many years, the survey that was done to find out if it was true or not and what was revealed. (9:46)
Finally, we talk about a massive fire that was followed a blast at the Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) refinery in Vadodara district’s Nandesari town. (17:44)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Niharika Nanda
Today is the 11th of November and here are the headlines.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna took oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice D Y Chandrachud. President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office to Justice Khanna during the ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Among the few judges who were elevated to the Supreme Court even before becoming the Chief Justice of any high court, Justice Khanna will super annuate in May 2025, after a tenure of a little over six months. He was part of several Constitution Bench rulings, including the one upholding the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution and striking down the 2018 electoral bonds scheme, among others.
Over 2 lakh new beneficiaries above the age of 70 received cards under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana within the first week of Prime Minister Narendra Modi rolling out the expanded version of the flagship health insurance scheme to cover all elderly. According to data available till 7th of November with the National Health Authority, Kerala has registered the highest number of new beneficiaries under the extended version, with nearly 89,000 cards issued for the elderly. The data also shows that 32,000 additional beneficiaries above the age of 70 have re-registered to avail the cover of Rs 5 lakh provided in the extended version with no income limit.
Over the last four years, the J-K administration has terminated 74 government employees under Article 311(2)(C) of the Constitution, which allows the government to act without seeking an explanation or holding an inquiry into their conduct. Former chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti has written to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, seeking an immediate review of the termination of government employees dismissed by the Jammu and Kashmir administration. Mufti demanding that the government set up a committee to review the termination cases wrote, quote “The abrupt dismissal of government employees without due process, a pattern that started since 2019, has left many families devastated and, in some cases, destitute.” unquote
Meanwhile, Supreme Court instructed the Delhi Police Commissioner to establish a special cell to enforce the firecracker ban. The top court also said the police have not taken the ban in the national capital seriously and stated that “What the Delhi government did is a mere eyewash.” It added quote, "The right to live in a pollution-free atmosphere is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution. We are of the view that no religion promotes any activity that promotes pollution or compromises with health of the people," unquote. The top court further asked the Delhi government to decide before 25th of November on a "perpetual" firecracker ban after consulting stakeholders.
On the global front, The US President-elect Donald Trump held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and conveyed his intention not to escalate the Ukraine war, as President Joe Biden plans to lobby with Trump not isolate Ukraine in the war. A Reuters report said that Trump spoke with Putin in recent days. Earlier during the presidential campaign, Trump had criticised the scale at which the US military and financial aid was being provided to Kyiv. When asked about the Trump and Putin’s call, Ukraine’s foreign ministry stated that they weren’t aware of any advance call being made between them and declined to object or endorse it.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
Yesterday, DY Chandrachud retired after a tenure as the longest-serving Chief Justice of India in over a decade. Beginning his judicial career as a Bombay High Court judge in 2000, he played a pivotal role in landmark decisions, including recognizing the right to privacy, de-criminalizing homosexuality, and striking down the electoral bond scheme.
Last week, he reflected on his career in a conversation with The Indian Express’ Vandita Mishra and Apurva Vishwanath. Today, we bring you an excerpt from that discussion, part of Express Adda, a series featuring individuals at the forefront of change.
Produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 08th of November and here are the headlines.
A tragic accident occurred in Uttarakhand’s Almora on Monday, where at least 36 people died when a bus carrying 42 passengers lost control and fell into a gorge near Marchula. The bus was traveling from Kirath to Ramnagar when it went off the road. Initial reports indicated that the crash was so severe that several passengers were thrown from the vehicle.
Leaders of Canada’s three major federal parties condemned violent clashes that occurred during a visit by Indian consular officials to a Hindu temple in Brampton. Following the incidents, the High Commission of India expressed disappointment over the disruptions affecting routine consular work. Sikhs for Justice, a banned group advocating for Khalistan, claimed responsibility for the protests against the Indian officials, who were present to offer administrative services, including pension assistance for seniors.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump scripted history on Wednesday, becoming the first President in 120 years to return to power after being ousted after his first term. Addressing his supporters after winning three swing states of North Carolina, Georgia and Pennsylvania, Trump laid the blueprint of his second term. With at least 51 Senate seats secured, Republicans will retake control of the chamber for the first time in four years. As soon as the results were officially declared, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated American President Donald Trump on his election and stated, quote “As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership,” unquote.
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution for the restoration of its special status, calling upon the “Government of India to initiate dialogue with elected representatives” of the Union Territory to work out “constitutional mechanisms for restoring these provisions”, even as the BJP protested the move. The resolution said that the Assembly “reaffirms the importance of the special status and constitutional guarantees, which safeguarded the identity, culture, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and expresses concern over their unilateral removal”. It further added that “any process for restoration must safeguard both national unity and the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.
Sharad Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party chief, hinted at retiring from active parliamentary politics, signaling his intention to pass the leadership baton to younger generations. Speaking about Maharashtra’s Baramati constituency, Pawar emphasized the importance of youth leadership for the next 30 years. While Pawar stated he would step back from electoral politics, he confirmed his continued involvement in public service. His message underscored his faith in his family’s legacy and the need for fresh leadership, urging support for Yugendra Pawar in the upcoming Assembly elections.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Ajoy Sinha Karpuram talks about the Supreme Court's verdict on the Madarsa Act 2004. He shares everything you need to know about the act, the verdict and more.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Kiran Parashar who shares with us the story of a village in Karnataka where untouchability is still a practice. He talks about an incident that happened in 2014 and verdict that was given by the court regarding it, according to which 98 people were punished with life imprisonment. (14:35)
Finally, we talk about Canada introducing a change in its visa policy. (25:38)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 07th of November and here are the headlines.
The Bandra police in Mumbai received a threatening call demanding Rs 50 lakh from Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. The caller, who threatened to kill Khan, was identified as Faizan Khan from Raipur, Chhattisgarh. An FIR has been registered under sections related to extortion and criminal intimidation. Police teams have been dispatched to Raipur for his arrest. The call was made on Tuesday evening, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Supreme Court of India ordered the liquidation of Jet Airways under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), overturning a National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) decision that approved the transfer of ownership to the Jalan KalRock Consortium. The bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud ruled in favor of the lenders, including the State Bank of India. The consortium had proposed an Rs 4783 crore payment, but the liquidation order now takes precedence.
The Goa government issued a clarification responding to criticism of its tourism infrastructure, including comparisons to international destinations like Sri Lanka. The Department of Tourism emphasized that Goa is a state within India, and comparing it to foreign countries may give an inaccurate perspective. The clarification follows public discussions about the state’s tourism sector and infrastructure, defending Goa's position while addressing concerns raised about its current tourism offerings.
A Hindu temple priest in Brampton, Canada, has been suspended for spreading violent rhetoric during clashes between Khalistani supporters and other temple attendees. The incident, which occurred on November 3 at the Hindu Sabha temple, saw protestors carrying Khalistani flags clashing with attendees, leading to fistfights and pole strikes. Unverified videos circulating on social media show the altercations disrupting a consular event co-organized by the temple and the Indian Consulate.
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Donald Trump on his election victory, urging China and the US to improve dialogue and manage differences. Despite past tensions, including Trump labeling China as a “strategic rival,” Xi emphasized communication. Trump’s administration had imposed tariffs on Chinese imports, a policy he has indicated will continue in his new term. Both nations are expected to navigate complex trade and diplomatic challenges as they continue to assert their global positions.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor, Shubhajit Roy, discusses what Donald Trump being elected as the US's 47th President means for India.
Next, The Indian Express’ Vikas Pathak talks about the BJP’s promise to carve out an exemption for the tribal community in the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), and explains why the party is choosing to do so (11:02).
And finally, The Indian Express’ Naveed Iqbal shares reactions to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passing a resolution to restore the region’s special status (20:15).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Niharika Nanda.
Today is the 06th of November and here are the headlines.
Starting with global news, Donald Trump scripted history today, becoming the first President in 120 years to return to power after being ousted after his first term. Addressing his supporters after winning three swing states of North Carolina, Georgia and Pennsylvania, Trump laid the blueprint of his second term. With at least 51 Senate seats secured, Republicans will retake control of the chamber for the first time in four years. As soon as the results were officially declared, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated American President Donald Trump on his election and stated, quote “As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership,” unquote.
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly today passed a resolution for the restoration of its special status, calling upon the “Government of India to initiate dialogue with elected representatives” of the Union Territory to work out “constitutional mechanisms for restoring these provisions”, even as the BJP protested the move. The resolution said that the Assembly “reaffirms the importance of the special status and constitutional guarantees, which safeguarded the identity, culture, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and expresses concern over their unilateral removal”. It further added that “any process for restoration must safeguard both national unity and the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.
Pulling up Uttar Pradesh authorities for their “high-handed” approach in demolishing a house for widening a road without giving notice, the Supreme Court today directed them to pay the owner Rs 25 lakh as compensation. The three-judge bench, which was presided over by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, was hearing a suo motu writ petition registered in 2020 based on a letter complaint by Maharajganj resident Manoj Tibrewal Aakash, whose house was demolished in 2019. CJI Chandrachud said, quote “This is completely high-handed. Where is the due process followed? We have the affidavit that says no notice was issued. You only went to the site and informed the people through a loudspeaker,” unquote.
The BJP expelled 37 office-bearers across the state today who are set to contest as Independents in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, citing “indiscipline”. Highly placed sources in the BJP confirmed the development and said that despite repeatedly urging the rebels to withdraw their candidature, these 37 candidates who hold different posts in their respective district units did not pay heed to the party’s request. A senior party functionary stated, quote “In the BJP, there is no scope for anti-party activities. Party leaders tried to reason with each leader but those who fail to conform to party norms have to pay the price,”, unquote.
With both sides of the border grappling with a common crisis, Marriyum Aurangzeb, Senior Minister in the Government of Punjab in Pakistan, has told The Indian Express that it is “high time for India and Pakistan, and especially Punjabs on both sides of the border, to initiate a joint smog mitigation plan”. Two days ago, the air quality index in Lahore hit a high of 1900, briefly giving it the unenviable tag of the world’s most polluted city. In an SOS from across the border, Aurangzeb, who also holds the environment protection and climate change portfolio in Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif-led Punjab provincial government, claimed the “Eastern corridor winds blowing from India towards Lahore” were taking the smog to dangerous levels.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Manraj Grewal Sharma talks about the violent clash that happened at a temple in Brampton, Canada. She shares how it unfolded, why it happened and how it impacts the relationship between India and Canada.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Aditi Raja who talks about the Dinosaur park and museum of Balasinor in Gujarat. She shares details of the fossils it houses, its history and the challenges the park faces. (12:18)
Finally, we talk about an accident that happened at the construction site of the Mumbai-Ahmadabad bullet train. (28:34)
Written, produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 5th of November and here are the headlines
In a landmark decision, a 9-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled that not all private property can be considered a "material resource of the community" under Article 39(b) for redistribution. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud delivered the majority ruling, supported by six justices, while Justice BV Nagarathna agreed in a concurring opinion. Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia dissented. This ruling, which overturns decades of legal precedent, is a significant shift in the interpretation of property rights in India.
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V. Anitha, criticized by Jana Sena Party (JSP) leader Pawan Kalyan for rising crimes against women, responded by accepting the criticism constructively. Anitha, a two-time MLA, expressed that the feedback motivates her to improve and better meet public expectations. Despite the criticism, she emphasized her focus on addressing concerns seriously. Anitha, who is an ally of Kalyan’s party, added that she spoke to him over the phone and will continue to work towards improving the situation.
Sharad Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief, hinted at retiring from active parliamentary politics, signaling his intention to pass the leadership baton to younger generations. Speaking about Maharashtra’s Baramati constituency, Pawar emphasized the importance of youth leadership for the next 30 years. While Pawar stated he would step back from electoral politics, he confirmed his continued involvement in public service. His message underscored his faith in his family’s legacy and the need for fresh leadership, urging support for Yugendra Pawar in the upcoming Assembly elections.
The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004, with one major exception. The court ruled that provisions allowing the Board to award higher degrees like Fazil and Kamil are unconstitutional, as they conflict with the University Grants Commission Act of 1956. A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, overturned an earlier Allahabad High Court ruling that had declared the Act unconstitutional, marking a significant judgment on madarsa education regulations.
Voting has begun in more than 20 U.S. states for the 2024 Presidential Election, including key battlegrounds like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and North Carolina. Other states joining in the process include Ohio, Georgia, and Virginia. The first ballots were cast in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, in a long-standing tradition, with both Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican contender Donald Trump tied with three votes each. As polls open across the country, all eyes are on these swing states to determine the election's outcome.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor, Shubhajit Roy, discusses the ongoing tensions between India and Canada and the significance of the allegations against Home Minister Amit Shah.
Next, The Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt shares key highlights from the latest Global TB Report and the challenges India faces in eliminating tuberculosis (11:38).
Finally, The Indian Express’ Mihir Vasavda talks about India’s plans to adjust its Olympic funding scheme following its lackluster performance in Paris (21:26).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 4th of November and here are the headlines.
A tragic accident occurred in Uttarakhand’s Almora, where at least 36 people died when a bus carrying 42 passengers lost control and fell into a gorge near Marchula. The bus was traveling from Kirath of Nainidanda to Ramnagar when it went off the road. Initial reports indicate that the crash was so severe that several passengers were thrown from the vehicle. Rescue operations are ongoing, and officials warn that the death toll may rise as efforts continue.
In a dramatic session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, lawmakers engaged in a heated debate as it convened for the first time in six years. The discussion was ignited by People’s Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Para, who proposed a resolution opposing the abrogation of Article 370. In response, the Council of Ministers called for restoring statehood, reflecting public sentiment. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured members that the government would do everything possible to restore the state’s status.
The Mumbai Police are facing a significant issue with over Rs 7 crore in unpaid dues from various government agencies for security services. Data revealed through a Right to Information request shows that at least 14 agencies owe a total of Rs 7,10,67,252 for services rendered over the past seven years. The Income Tax department is the largest defaulter, followed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Leaders of Canada’s three major federal parties condemned violent clashes that occurred during a visit by Indian consular officials to a Hindu temple in Brampton. Following the incidents, the High Commission of India expressed disappointment over the disruptions affecting routine consular work. Sikhs for Justice, a banned group advocating for Khalistan, claimed responsibility for the protests against the Indian officials, who were present to offer administrative services, including pension assistance for seniors.
As the United States presidential elections approach, the spotlight is on the tight race between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump. Both candidates plan to hold rallies in Pennsylvania and visit swing states. Recent opinion polls show Harris receiving strong support from female voters, while Trump is gaining traction among Hispanic men. Trump aims for a comeback after his controversial exit in 2020, while Harris seeks to make history as the first woman president.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
Are you someone who does not have health insurance? Or you do, but are wondering if you should switch plans, or worried that you missed out on something? In this special episode, we speak to Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt to discuss the A to Z of getting health insurance. We will break down jargon, consider all important factors, and bust myths to help you make an informed decision.
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
(This episode was first published on 1st July, 2024).
Timestamps:
01:50 - Why you should get health insurance
04:42 - How health insurance works
05:15 - At what age should you get health insurance?
06:45 - Is there an age limit?
07:28 - Should one choose a public company or a private one?
08:07 - What is a claim settlement ratio?
08:58 - The importance of a good network of hospitals
09:50 - How much coverage should you get?
10:47 - What is a waiting period?
12:06 - How much would you typically end up spending on health insurance?
12:54 - Is the insurance provided by your workplace sufficient?
13:56 - Benefits of sticking to an insurance plan
14:27 - What factors determine your premium?
15:45 - Why you should not lie when getting health insurance
17:32 - Why almost no one covers OPD expenses
19:34 - What do policies usually exclude?
21:37 - How insurance companies avoid paying for mental health treatment
23:02 - Are maternity-related expenses covered?
23:54 - Are daycare procedures covered?
25:32 - Discussing hospital room rents
26:08 - Beware of Co-pay
28:20 - How are pre- and post-hospitalization costs covered?
30:20 - What is a no-claim bonus?
31:02 - What are sub-limits?
31:57 - Benefits and disadvantages of a family floater plan
33:55 - Common reasons why claims get rejected
34:44 - The types of individuals that insurance companies try to avoid
36:39 - Key takeaways - Vis mere
