First, Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy talks to us about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Brunei and Singapore. He shares the significance of these visits and how they will enhance India's bilateral ties with both the countries.

Next, Indian Express’ Divya A speaks to us about the controversy around Netflix' recently released series IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack. She shares what the controversy is about, why were the Netflix representatives summoned by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and what solution has been chalked out for the same. (13:03)

And in the end, we talk about what Bangladesh's interim government’s chief advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus had to say regarding ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her presence in India. (23:45)

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The headlines of the day from the Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Apurva Vishwanath talks about the Supreme Court granting bail to Telangana MLC K Kavitha in the excise policy case and the observations made during the hearing.

Next, Indian Express’ Abhishek Angad discusses the reasons behind former Jharkhand Chief Minister and senior JMM leader Champai Soren’s decision to join the BJP and how this move is expected to benefit the party in the upcoming assembly elections (10:40).

Finally, Indian Express’ Vikas Pathak reports on the controversy surrounding actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut’s statements on the farmers' protests and explores how the party typically handles members who speak out of line (18:45).

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First, Indian Express' Maulshree Seth talks to us about the Ram Temple and the water leak and water logging that it is facing. She shares the reasons behind the leak and the details of what the chief priest and the temple authorities had to say about it. 

Next, Indian Express’ Amitabh Sinha speaks to us about the need to develop disaster resilient infrastructure. He shares how with the rising temperatures and instances of landslides, heavy rain, cyclones and other natural disasters are making the critical infrastructure vulnerable and how that needs to change. (9:12)

And in the end, we give you an update on the arrests that have been made by the CBI in the NEET UG paper leak case. (19:57)

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 27th of June and here are today's headlines.

Addressing a joint sitting of both Houses today, President Droupadi Murmu said, quote “Opposing policies and disrupting proceedings of Parliament are two different things. When Parliament is run smoothly, there’s healthy debate, then people have faith in the administration.” unquote. She also spoke about the ‘paper leak’ cases, saying that a high-level probe has been initiated into the allegations.

Meanwhile, Congress MP K C Venugopal, General Secretary in charge of the Organisation, wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla today, saying that his reference to the Emergency in his acceptance speech yesterday was “deeply shocking” and “unprecedented”. Released by the Congress, the letter said, quote “Making of such a political reference from the Chair is unprecedented in the annals of the history of Parliament.” unquote.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested two persons in connection with the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam today, days after registering a criminal case. On Sunday, the National Testing Agency (NTA) sent show-cause notices threatening debarment to 17 candidates in Patna, based on the report sent to the Centre by the Bihar Police’s Economic Offences Unit. Those arrested have been identified as Manish Kumar and Ashutosh Kumar.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment yesterday sought a detailed report from the Tamil Nadu labour department on the issue of married women not being allowed to work at the Foxconn India Apple iPhone Plant. Foxconn has informed the government that 25 per cent of its new hires are married women and its safety protocol, which requires all employees to avoid wearing metal irrespective of gender or religion, is not discriminatory, sources said.

As many as 24 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces in three separate airstrikes on Gaza city on Tuesday, and one among those killed included a sister of Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of militant Islamist group Hamas, Gaza health officials and medics told Reuters. Israeli tanks ventured further deep into western areas of Rafah, firing up homes and two schools, killing 14 and another strike on a house in Shati camp left 10 others dead.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt discusses the Centre's rebranding of its flagship Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers as "Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs," and how two North-Eastern states have opposed this idea.

Next, Indian Express’ Apurva Vishwanath explains the significance of the role of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and how the Speaker's impartiality has been questioned over the years (09:50).

And in the end, we provide a quick update on Sam Pitroda's reappointment as the chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress (19:42).

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 26th of June and here are today's headlines.

Lok Sabha MP Om Birla was elected as Lok Sabha Speaker today by a voice vote for the second time in a row. The Opposition did not press for a division of votes and pro-tem Speaker Bhartruhari Mahtab declared Birla as elected, saying the “ayes have it”. With Birla’s election, Mahtab said, the other motions to propose and second the candidature of K Suresh became infructuous. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who the Congress has named Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, congratulated Birla as he took charge.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal addressed the Court asserting that CBI sources fabricated information in the media. He clarified, quote “I have not made any statement holding Sisodia responsible. Yesterday, I made it clear that neither AAP nor Sisodia can be blamed.” Unquote. These developments follow arguments in court regarding the CBI’s arrest of the AAP leader. The Supreme Court today, allowed him to withdraw his plea against the High Court’s interim stay on the trial court’s bail order in the ED case.

A day after Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said that his party’s doors would remain open to MLAs who had sided with Ajit Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) hit back today, saying that it showed the desperation of a party struggling to find leaders to contest the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra. NCP spokesperson Umesh Patil told The Indian Express today, quote, “Sharad Pawar saheb’s party is saddled with a handful of MLAs and he is now looking for leaders who will contest on its ticket,” Unquote.

According to new data published in the Lancet Global Health, half the adult Indian population does not meet the World Health Organisation’s guidelines on sufficient physical activity. More women (57 per cent) than men (42 per cent men) are physically inactive. Most alarmingly, the prevalence of insufficient physical activity among Indian adults has risen sharply from 22.3 per cent in 2000 to 49.4 per cent in 2022. This means unchecked, 60 per cent of our population would be unfit by 2030 and at risk of disease from not doing enough physical activity.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange returned to his homeland Australia aboard a charter jet today, hours after pleading guilty to obtaining and publishing US military secrets in a deal with Justice Department prosecutors that concludes a drawn-out legal saga. The criminal case of international intrigue, which had played out for years, came to a surprise end in a most unusual setting with Assange, entering his plea in a US district court in Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands. The American commonwealth in the Pacific is relatively close to Assange's native Australia and accommodated his desire to avoid entering the continental United States.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Abhinaya Harigovind talks to us about the Delhi water crisis and the reasons behind it. She shares the sources through which Delhi gets its water and the Supreme Court's order according to which Delhi should receive water from Himachal Pradesh and Haryana. 

Next, Indian Express’ Nikhil Ghanekar speaks to us about the government's plan to develop Great Nicobar through the Great Nicobar Project. This is a Rs 72,000 crore worth infrastructure upgrade project that is facing opposition by conservationists and researchers. (8:38)

And in the end, we talk about BJP leaders launching a series of posts on social media site X about the imposition of Emergency in 1975 on its 49th anniversary. (17:53)

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his is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 25th of June and here are today's headlines.

The Bombay High Court has ordered the release of a juvenile accused in the Pune Porsche crash case. The court allowed a habeas corpus plea by his aunt seeking quashing of remand orders sending him to observation home. The paternal aunt of the child in conflict with law had claimed that he was sent to custody in an “unlawful and arbitrary” manner. The court observed that the custody order was illegal and passed without jurisdiction and directed that his custody will be handed into care and custody of the paternal aunt.

The Opposition has fielded Congress leader K Suresh for the post of Lok Sabha Speaker after the BJP refused to make a commitment for the post of Deputy Speaker, which the Opposition has been pushing for. Meanwhile, the NDA has nominated Om Birla for the Speaker’s post. The election for the post will be held tomorrow. Earlier, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had said that the Opposition was willing to support the NDA’s candidate for the post of Lok Sabha Speaker provided the government followed the convention and gave the deputy speaker’s post to them.

The Delhi High Court today stayed the regular bail granted by trial court to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy case stating that the lower court did not “apply its mind” while passing the order. Justice Sudhir Kumar Jain passed the order while hearing ED’s application seeking stay of trial court order which had granted bail to Kejriwal on 20th of June. A day earlier, the Supreme Court had said it will wait for the High Court verdict and hear his plea against the HC move on 26th of June.

Meanwhile, addressing a press conference today, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh, stated, quote, “Since Atishi is admitted in the ICU, we must discontinue the ‘anischitkalin anshan’ (indefinite fast) for water. We will continue the agitation in other ways.” Informing the media about Atishi’s health, the Minister said, “Atishi is still admitted in the Lok Nayak ICU after her state in night became unstable, her medical examination is going on. Presently, there are doctors in the hospital ICU looking after her… We are also writing a letter to the PM today to consider the matter (of the water crisis in Delhi).”

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange landed in Bangkok today, as he is on the way to enter a plea deal with the US government that will free him and resolve the legal case that spanned years and continents over the publication of a trove of classified documents. He's expected to plead guilty to an Espionage Act charge of conspiring to unlawfully obtain and disseminate classified national defence information, according to the US Justice Department in a letter filed in court. He is expected to return to his home country of Australia after his plea and sentencing.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Apurva Vishwanath discusses why a trial court granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, why the Delhi High Court stayed the decision, and what the Supreme Court will now be considering.

Next, Indian Express’ Mihir Vasavdatalks about how India wants the inclusion of sports like Twenty20 Cricket, Kabaddi, Chess, Squash, and Kho Kho, as well as Yoga, in the 2036 Olympics (11:28).

And in the end, Indian Express’ Liz Mathew shares the highlights of the first day of the 18th Lok Sabha and explains what made it different from the previous sessions under the PM Modi-led NDA government (18:50).

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 24th of June and here are today's headlines.

In the first sitting of the 18th Lok Sabha today, Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi were seen holding up copies of the Constitution book as Prime Minister Narendra Modi walked up to take oath as the member of the House. Talking about the display in Parliament, Rahul said it was done to show that the attack by “the PM and Amit Shah on the Constitution is not acceptable to us, we will not let this happen”. Among other Congress leaders who took oath were Manish Tewari, who spoke in Punjabi.

Meanwhile, sharing his remarks ahead of the first sitting where all 280 new MPs will take oath, PM Modi said all efforts will be made to move forward with “consensus” to serve the people of the country. The resurgent Opposition which is gearing up to push the NDA government for answers on several issues including the ongoing NEET-NET exam paper leak row among others has begun its aggressive stance over Mahtab’s appointment as the pro-tem Speaker and said it will not “help or assist the government” in this matter

The Supreme Court today adjourned the hearing till June 26, on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea challenging the Delhi High Court order putting on hold the bail granted to him by a trial court in a money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the alleged excise policy scam. The vacation bench took note that the high court is yet to pronounce the final order in the matter. The bench said it would wait for the high court order to come on record without which it would not be able to ascertain the reasoning.

The Bihar Police’s Economic Offences Unit, which has handed over the probe into the alleged irregularities in NEET-UG to the CBI, said it has arrested a “solver gang” member. This individual had received a PDF of the solved question paper on his phone on 4th of May, a day before the exam. Baldev Kumar, alias Chintu, was among five people arrested by the EOU from Jharkhand. The EOU produced them before a Patna court, which sent them to judicial custody. In a statement, the Bihar Police agency said Baldev Kumar is associated with the alleged kingpin of the “solver gang”, Sanjeev Kumar, who is at large.

A fire at a lithium battery manufacturing factory near South Korea’s capital today left at least 16 people dead, seven injured and six missing, officials said. Rescue workers at the factory in Hwaseong city, just south of Seoul, retrieved the bodies after combing through the site. Local fire officials said most of the missing people were foreign nationals including Chinese and those found dead likely failed to escape via stairs to the ground. President Yoon Suk Yeol earlier ordered officials to mobilize all available personnel and equipment to find survivors

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' National Education Editor Ritika Chopra talks to us about the irregularities that have come to light about the NEET UG 2024 examination. She also shares the steps that have been taken by the authorities and the reasons behind the postponement and cancellation of other national examinations.

Next, Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy speaks to us about Indo-China relations post the Galwan clash of 2020. He also shares the recent developments between the two nations and how they might impact future relations. (15:31)

And in the end, we talk about Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal approaching the Supreme Court challenging the High Court's hold on his bail order. (26:10)

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 21st of June and here are the top stories of the week.

Under scanner for the cancellation of UGC NET and facing criticism for the NEET issue, the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday said that the enquiry conducted till now shows evidence of “errors in some regions”, and assured students that everyone involved in the security breach will be punished. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, said the main reason for paper leaks is that educational institutions have been dominated by the BJP and its parent organisation RSS and paper leaks will not stop unless that is reversed. Congress has decided to hold a nationwide protest today demanding justice for the NEET candidates.

Three months after he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy case being probed separately by the CBI, AAP leader and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was granted bail Thursday by a Delhi court. While granting bail, Special Judge Niyay Bindu also declined ED’s plea to keep the bail order in abeyance for 48 hours. Arrested on March 21, Kejriwal had stepped out last month on interim bail to campaign in the Lok Sabha elections. He surrendered on June 2.

Two days after 10 persons were killed following a collision between the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express and a goods train in Darjeeling, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Northeast Frontier Railway said on Wednesday that the freight train was moving at a high speed on the day of the accident and that drivers of the train were not ‘following the procedure’. At least nine persons were killed and around 40 injured in the accident.

Around 68 Indians are among scores of those who have died during the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca amid the scorching heat, a diplomat told news agency AFP. On Tuesday, AFP reported that at least 550 people have died on the Hajj pilgrimage. Out of those, 323 were Egyptians who died due to heat-related illness, the international news agency reported citing two Arab diplomats. According to Saudi media reports, temperatures rose to 51.8 degree Celsius in the shade at the Grand Mosque in Mecca on Monday.

In what seemed to be a direct reply to the Canadian parliament's tribute to the pro-khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was allegedly assassinated last year, the Indian consulate in Vancouver reiterated New Delhi's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism globally and gave a reminder of the Khalistani bombing of Air India 'Kanishka' flight in 1985. The embassy further announced that it would hold a memorial next week commemorating the anniversary of the flight bombing resulted in the deaths of 329 individuals, including 268 Canadians and 24 Indians. The Indian Consulate's statement is a sign that bilateral ties between India and Canada are likely to spiral further downwards.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 29th of August and here are the headlines.

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee today said that a ‘malicious disinformation campaign’ has been unleashed against her over her speech made on Wednesday at the students rally.” She added, quote “Not uttered a single word against students or their movement, I have spoken against BJP because they are trying to create anarchy.” Meanwhile, the BJP is all set to sit on a dharna near Kolkata’s Esplanade today. This comes a day after the party called a 12-hour bandh in the state to protest against the alleged police action on protesters during the Nabanna Abhijan.

Amid incessant rain in Gujarat, a runway side wall of the Rajkot International Airport collapsed today. Rescue operations are underway across the state, where the rain fury has claimed about 35 lives since Monday. The Army and Indian Coast Guard have been evacuating people from flood-affected districts. Meanwhile, after remaining closed for almost two days, the NH 27 which is one of the two lifelines of Kandla and Mundra ports in Kutch has been reopened for vehicular traffic on Thursday morning as floodwaters receded in the area.

The IMD said today that a cyclone is likely to develop over the north Arabian Sea, off Gujarat coast tomorrow. The cyclone is most unlikely to affect Indian coasts, as the prevailing deep depression over Saurashtra-Kutch would have moved away to the north Arabian Sea by tomorrow. If realised, this will be only the second cyclone to develop in the Arabian Sea since August 1964. Upon intensifying into a cyclone, it will acquire the name Asna, christened by Pakistan.

Former BJP MP and Wrestling Federation of India ex-president Brij Bhushan Singh sought the quashing of all criminal proceedings against him over allegations of sexual assault of wrestlers before the Delhi High Court today. He argued that there was “a hidden agenda” behind the complaints against him as he was the president of WFI at the time. The 1,500-page chargesheet against Singh for alleged sexual harassment, assault and stalking of six women wrestlers had included statements of at least 22 witnesses from across four states, including wrestlers, a referee, a coach and a physiotherapist.

Australia’s Education Minister Jason Clare on Tuesday announced plans to introduce a National Planning Level to cap the number of new international students at 2.7 lakh for the calendar year 2025 which is pending parliamentary approval. This cap marks the lowest intake in the past five years, and a significant decrease from the 5.61 lakh international students who started their studies in 2023. The announcement comes merely a month after a hike in Australia’s visa processing fee came into effect on 1st of July.

This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Ankita Upadhyay tells us about North India’s first heat stroke unit, set up at RML Hospital, and about Raju Kumar, who was recently admitted there.

Next, Indian Express’ Abhinaya Harigovind discusses the Ministry of Education’s decision to cancel the recently conducted University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) (08:42).

And in the end, Indian Express’ Mihir Vasavda talks about the expert who will be accompanying the Indian Olympic contingent to help them improve their sleep (13:30).

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 20th of June and here are today's headlines.

As the controversy around the NEET-UG 2024 heightens, the Supreme Court refused to put a stay in the counselling process ,while hearing fresh petitions seeking cancellation of the exam. The apex court sought responses from the Centre, the National Testing Agency and others on petitions seeking the cancellation of NEET-UG 2024, and a court-monitored probe into the alleged irregularities in the medical entrance exam. Meanwhile, the Congress has decided to hold a nationwide protest on June 21 (Friday) demanding justice for the NEET candidates.

Patna High Court set aside the Bihar government’s notifications to raise reservations in government jobs and educational institutions from 50 per cent to 65 per cent today. On 7th of November last year, the Nitish Kumar-led Mahagathbandhan government raised the Bihar quota and reservation in the state effectively became 75 per cent when the 10 per cent quota for economically weaker sections (EWS) is taken into consideration. The bench said that it is “infringing upon right to equality”.

The death toll in the hooch tragedy in Tamil Naidu increased to 34 today, with around 100 others hospitalised — five of them in critical condition. Most of the victims consumed the spurious liquor at Karunapuram in Kallakurichi on Tuesday night. As the spurious liquor started to take effect yesterday, they were admitted to hospitals. Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed his shock and sorrow over the incident, and emphasised the urgency of holding those responsible to account.

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay has levied a fine of Rs 1.2 lakh — almost equal to a semester’s fee — on a student who participated in a play titled “Raahovan” during the institute’s Performing Arts Festival held in March this year. The play, loosely based on the Ramayana, sparked protests from a section of students who alleged it was disrespectful to Hinduism and derogatory towards Ram and Sita. At least seven other students were penalised, but the nature of disciplinary action and quantum of fine, could not be ascertained.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay foundation stones of multiple development projects in Jammu and Kashmir today. PM Modi will be on a two-day tour in the Union Territory and he will lead the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations in Srinagar tomorrow. Assembly elections are due in Jammu and Kashmir this year and PM Modi’s first visit after forming his third government assumes significance in this backdrop.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Jayprakash S Naidu explains what happened in Chhattisgarh where 8 Maoists were killed in an encounter by the security forces on June 15. He also shares how the frequency of such anti-Naxal encounters are increasing and why is it so.

Next, Indian Express’ Divya A speaks to us about the extradition of Nikhil Gupta to the United States. Indian national Nikhil Gupta was arrested in Czech Republic last June on the allegation that he was involved in the murder plot of Khalistani Separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. (8:22)

And in the end, we talk about the rise in fatalities due to the heatwave conditions prevailing across many states in India and what the Health ministry is doing in order to improve the situation. (16:31)

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 19th of June and here are today's headlines.

Beeda Madhuri, the daughter of YSRCP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao, allegedly ran over a 22-year-old man sleeping on a pavement in Chennai on Monday evening. The incident has sparked a furore as Madhuri, who was allegedly driving the BMW car, was released on station bail after she surrendered on Tuesday morning. According to a top police source, the police erred by letting the accused leave on station bail instead of court bail. The incident has triggered anger among locals and the victim’s relatives who have accused the police of inaction.

A Delhi Court today extended the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal till 3rd of July in the money laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy case. His regular bail arguments were also heard. The CM, who is currently in judicial custody, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on 21st of March in the case. The Supreme Court had granted him interim bail from 10th of May to 1st of June, allowing him to campaign ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Delhi CS Naresh Kumar has been given additional charge of New Delhi Municipal Corporation Chairperson.

After inaugurating the new campus of Nalanda University, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said a golden era of India will begin with the rebuilding of the ancient University. Along with ambassadors from 17 countries, Union Minister for External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar were present at the event. Ahead of the inauguration, PM Modi visited the ancient ruins of Nalanda University, located less than 20 km from the campus.

Hundreds of visitors have died during the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca amid scorching heat, according to press reports and foreign ministries. At least 550 people have died on haj, diplomats told AFP on Tuesday. Saudi state TV said temperatures rose on Monday as high as 51.8 degrees Celsius (125.2 Fahrenheit) in the shade at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Three hundred and twenty-three of the dead were Egyptians, most of whom perished due to heat-related illness, AFP reported, citing two Arab diplomats.

A United States group of lawmakers, following their visit to the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama today, asserted that they would not allow China to influence the choice of his successor. Former United States Congress Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, quote, "His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, you'll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything." Unquote.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Chief of the National Bureau Ritika Chopra discusses the changes made to the 11th and 12th standard NCERT political science textbooks regarding the Babri Masjid demolition and the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Next, Indian Express’ Apurva Vishwanath explains why writer and activist Arundhati Roy and Dr. Sheikh Showkat Hussain, a former professor at the Central University of Kashmir, may soon face prosecution under the stringent anti-terror law, UAPA (10:50).

And finally, Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt talks about a private medical college where not a single batch has graduated in 13 years, the reasons the National Medical Commission has taken action against it, and the harassment she encountered while reporting on this story (19:45).

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 18th of June and here are the top stories of the week.

Hearing petitions highlighting the alleged irregularities in this year’s National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) exams, the Supreme Court today told the Centre and the National Testing Agency that “even if there is 0.001% negligence on the part of anyone, it should be thoroughly dealt with”. The bench said that all these matters ought not to be treated as adversarial litigation. The court also referred to the effort candidates put in to prepare for the exam.

Saddam Qureshi, who was among three people allegedly assaulted by a mob in Chhattisgarh’s Raipur while they were transporting cattle, died in hospital today after battling for his life for 10 days. The two others with him died on June 7 – the day of the alleged attack. According to doctors the 23-year-old had been in a coma until his death. Chhattisgarh Police had registered a case of attempted murder and culpable homicide in the case after Qureshi’s relative Shoaib said he had received a frantic call from him while the three were being assaulted.

Curfew was imposed in Odisha’s Balasore town late last night following a clash between two communities over suspicion of cow slaughter earlier in the day. Though the administration initially imposed prohibitory orders under CrPC Section 144 in certain pockets of the town, it later decided to impose curfew in the entire town to prevent the situation from escalating. The state government has also ordered suspension of internet services in Balasore town and nearby areas. Additional director general of police, law and order, said 34 people from both communities have been arrested and the number is likely to go up.

AAP Rajya Sabha member Swati Maliwal has written to NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, the Congress’s Rahul Gandhi, the Shiv Sena’s (UBT) Uddhav Thackeray and the Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav seeking appointments with them to discuss the assault she was allegedly subjected to at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s home. All the parties are constituents of the Opposition INDIA bloc. Maliwal also alleged that she had been receiving “multiple rape and death threats” since the AAP started a “smear campaign” against her in “electronic and social media to undermine my reputation, character and credibility”.

With 172 nuclear weapons, India is now ahead of Pakistan in the ranking of nuclear-armed countries across the world, according to findings of Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). According to the report, India’s nuclear arsenal has seen a slight expansion in a year, growing from 164 warheads in January 2023 to 172 warheads in January this year, placing it 6th among the world’s nuclear-armed states. Pakistan, meanwhile, has recorded no increase in the number of warheads which stood at 170 both in January 2023 and 2024. In the same period, China’s nuclear arsenal has increased significantly from 410 warheads in January 2023 to 500 by January 2024.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Deeksha Teri joins us to talk about the NEET UG 2024 controversy. She talks about the high-powered committee that was formed to look into the grace marks awarded to the candidates and whether or not it was fair to do so. She also shares the recommendations of the committee. 

Next, Indian Express’ Nikhil Ghanekar speaks to us about the Western Ghats and why protecting their ecology is of utmost importance. He also shares how parts of the Western Ghats have been identified as eco-sensitive areas but that is causing friction between the states and the authorities. (10:44)

And in the end, we talk about a tragic train accident where the Kanchanjunga Express was hit by a goods train in West Bengal, killing 9 people and leaving 25 injured. (20:29)

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 17th of June and here are today's headlines.

At least nine people were killed and 25 others were injured today after the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga  Express was hit by a goods train in West Bengal’s New Jalpaiguri. According to reports, three coaches at the back of the Kanchanjunga Express derailed between Neechbari and Rangapani stations under the Indian Railways’ Northeast Frontier Railway zone due to the impact of the goods train and fell to the side. Meanwhile, rescue work to get the trapped passengers out was affected by the heavy rain that has been lashing Siliguri since the morning.

The revised NCERT Class 12 Political Science textbook, which hit the market last week, disclosed changes where the chapter on secularism in both versions of the textbook has two paragraphs on ‘vote bank politics’ in a section on “criticism of Indian secularism”. The book reads, quote,"Vote bank politics in India is associated with “minority appeasement” and this means political parties “disregard the principles of equality of all citizens and give priority to the interests of a minority group”.

As the Indian economy grapples with the problem of flagging consumption, policymakers in the government are in favour of rationalising the existing income tax structure, especially at lower income levels. According to two government officials The Indian Express spoke with, it is likely that tax rate cuts for those earning less may likely take precedence over freebies or excessive welfare spending given the focus on fiscal consolidation.

Indian national Nikhil Gupta, who is accused by the US of being involved in a murder-for-hire plot against Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, was extradited from the Czech Republic on 14th of June. Officials at the Czech Ministry of Justice told The Indian Express the decision to extradite Gupta was taken on 3rd of june. India has said it is holding a high-level probe into the US inputs on the alleged assassination plot since November last year, but there have been no outcomes so far.

In the first visit by a senior American official since Prime Minister Narendra Modi was re-elected for a third term, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan reached India on a two-day official visit beginning today. Sullivan met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval today. Sullivan’s visit comes at a time when India-US ties are going through challenges, especially in the context of an alleged assassination plot against Khalistani separatist figure Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Aditi Raja tells us about the residents of a housing complex in Gujarat who are protesting against a Muslim woman and her family moving into the area.

Next, Indian Express’ Adrija RoyChowdhury discusses the efforts made by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to find evidence for the Mahabharata (13:24).

And in the end, Indian Express’ Deeptiman Tiwary explains the context behind the recent comments made by RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat (25:08).

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his is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 14th of June and here are the top stories of the week.

In the midst of a controversy over the NEET-UG results declared on 4th of June, including allegations of a paper leak, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that there was no evidence of a paper leak. NTA and the Union Education Ministry formed a committee last week to review the normalisation policy that was adopted for over 1,563 candidates who were awarded “grace marks” to compensate for the “loss of time” suffered while appearing for this year’s NEET UG.

Kannada film star Darshan Thoogudeepa and nine others were taken into custody on Tuesday morning in connection with a murder that took place in Bengaluru. The police on Sunday had recovered the dead body of a man from a drain and identified the deceased as Renukaswamy. Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B Dayananda said that it is alleged that Renukaswamy was sending abusive messages and comments to Pavithra Gowda, who is in relationship with Darshan.

As many as fifty people have been detained so far in connection with the recent terror attack on a bus ferrying pilgrims in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. Nine pilgrims were killed and over 41 injured after terrorists fired on their bus in Reasi, which resulted in the vehicle plunging into a gorge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday chaired a review meeting of the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, wherein he was apprised of the counter-terror efforts being undertaken in the Union Territory. The meeting comes in the wake of four militant attacks in three days in the region.

This week, apart from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his cabinet of ministers taking oath, TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu in Andhra Pradesh, four-time MLA Mohan Majhi in Odisha and BJP leader Pema Khandu in Arunachal Pradesh were sworn-in as Chief Minister ministers along with their respective council of ministers.

Kuwaiti authorities have identified the bodies of 45 Indians and three Filipino nationals killed in the tragic fire incident in a building housing foreign workers in the Gulf Kingdom. The number of people from Kerala who died in the Kuwait fire tragedy has risen to 24, while five deceased victims are from Tamil Nadu. The blaze erupted early on Wednesday morning in southern Kuwait’s Mangaf area claiming 49 lives and injured 50 others. Kuwait’s Foreign Minister assured full support to the Indians affected in the fire and vowed to promptly investigate the tragedy, hours after meeting Indian Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Ritu Sharma talks to us about the situation in Gujarat. The state has been facing unusually heavy rainfall and that has caused flooding in many districts and cities. She talks about the rescue operations, fatalities and more.

Next, Indian Express’ Venkata Krishna B speaks to us about Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, being appointed as the new chair of the International Cricket Council, ICC. He shares what makes his appointment at this point crucial and what challenges lie ahead of him.(9:14)

And in the end, we talk about President Droupadi Murmu talking about the Kolkata doctor rape and murder case. (20:05)

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First, Indian Express' Arun Sharma joins us to talk about the terrorist attack that happened in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district, where 9 pilgrims were killed and 33 were left injured when fire was opened on a bus which then plunged into a gorge. 

Next, Indian Express’ Amrita Nayak Dutta speaks to us about the Agnipath scheme that was introduced by the government for recruitment of young individuals in the armed forces. She talks about the scheme, the opposition it faced and how the government responded to it. (9:16)

And in the end, we talk about a fraud that is being investigated by the CBI in Odisha. It pertains to the submission of forged class 10 certificates for recruitment in postal services. (20:00)

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Produced and written by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 13th of June and here are today's headlines.

BJP leader Pema Khandu was sworn in as Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister for the third consecutive term at Itanagar today. The BJP returned to power in the northeastern state for the third time in a row, winning 46 seats in the 60-member Assembly. Chowna Mein secured the Deputy Chief Minister’s position again and a total of 10 other ministers were inducted into the Cabinet.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan dismissed all reports of paper leaks in NEET UG 2024 today and came out in support of the National Testing Agency who has announced a retest for the 1563 candidates who were awarded grace marks due to ‘loss of exam time’. As per the decision announced by NTA today, the affected candidates will now be given two options — either to accept the score that they were originally awarded, without the grace marks, or re-appear for the exam on the 23rd of June. Meanwhile, the Opposition demanded an SC-monitored investigation into the NEET UG case.

The Indian Express has learnt the Army is conducting an internal survey on the Agnipath scheme to assess its impact on its recruitment process so far. Based on the findings, it is likely to draw up recommendations for the incoming government on possible changes to the scheme. One of the changes being discussed is a hike of retention percentage from the current 25 per cent to 60-70 per cent for regular troops and nearly 75 per cent for technical and specialist soldiers, including Special Forces.

At least five workers were killed and five others injured in an explosion at an explosives manufacturing factory in Nagpur today. ANI news agency quoted the Police Commissioner saying, quote, “About four-five people died in this incident, including 4 women. Our investigation is ongoing. Our team, crime branch and senior officers are present on the spot, and action is being taken.” Unquote. The incident took place at Chamundi Explosive Pvt Ltd at Dhamna when the workers were packing explosives.

Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya assured full support to the Indians affected in the fire at an apartment housing foreign workers and vowed to promptly investigate the tragedy that killed 49 people, including about 40 Indians. He gave this assurance after meeting Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, who landed in the country this morning. About 24 people from Kerela and 5 from Tamil Nadu are among the 40 Indian casualties.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Kiran Parashar tells us about the murder case involving popular Kannada actor Darshan, who has been taken into police custody.

Next, Indian Express’ Sujit Bisoyi talks about Odisha’s new Chief Minister, the reasons behind the BJP's choice, and the challenges that lie ahead for him (09:22).

And in the end, we provide a quick update on a massive fire that broke out in a building in Kuwait yesterday, killing at least 49 people, most of whom were Indian nationals (18:58).

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Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

his is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 12th of June and here are today's headlines.

Hours after a Central Reserve Police Force personnel died following an encounter with militants during a search operation in Kathua, the Jammu and Kashmir Police today killed a second militant hiding in the area. The slain militant had managed to flee on Tuesday night after the death of his accomplice. The police and paramilitary forces had then launched a search operation in the Kootah area. The two militants had entered a house in the village last night and asked for water, following which they opened fire and injured a civilian.

Calling the newly-sworn National Democratic Alliance dispensation “crippled”, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have to change his attitude. Rahul told voters at Ernanad assembly constituency under Wayanad, which has voted him as MP for the second consecutive time. This is his first visit to the constituency since his election, quote “The Opposition has dealt a fatal blow to the BJP. Even Prime Minister Modi’s attitude will have to change, because the people of India have sent him a clear message." Unquote.

On Tuesday, Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and his friend Pavithra Gowda were arrested over the recent murder of a 33-year-old man in Bengaluru. The victim has been identified as Renukaswamy, a resident of Chitradurga district and a fan of the actor. Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B Dayananda said their investigations so far suggest that Darshan was upset with Renukaswamy for allegedly sending “abusive comments and messages” to Pavithra on Instagram.

A fire broke out in a building housing workers in the city of Mangaf in southern Kuwait early on Wednesday, killing at least 41, including several Indians, and injuring more than 50. The building reportedly had nearly 160 people living in it, who are workers of the same company. The Kuwaiti health ministry said about 43 people were hospitalized due to the fire, and four of those people had died. Posting about the incident on the social media site X, External Affairs of India, Dr S Jaishankar expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. The Indian ambassador visited the Al-Adan hospital in Kuwait, where the injured are undergoing treatment.

A day after Chinese Premier Li Qiang congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his re-election for a third term, spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi today said that Beijing was willing to work with India to push forward bilateral relations in the right direction. A post on X stated and I quote, “#China and India are important neighbouring countries. Relevant border issues should be handled properly. A sound and stable #ChinaIndia relationship is in the interest of both countries, and conducive to the peace and development in this region and beyond,” Unquote.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Vikas Pathak joins us to talk about the new cabinet that has been formed under the Modi government 3.0. With some changes and some similarities, the new cabinet is signaling towards continuity. 

Next, Indian Express’ Rural Affairs Editor Harish Damodaran speaks to us about the appointment of Shivraj Singh Chouhan as the Union Agriculture minister and what makes this appointment particularly important. (12:34)

And in the end, we talk about US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's possible visit to India to discuss projects and initiatives that India and the US are taking up together. (22:14)

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Produced and written by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.It’s the 11th of June and here are today's headlines.

The Supreme Court today issued notice to the Centre and National Testing Agency (NTA) on a plea seeking cancelling of NEET-UG 2024 exams over allegations of leak of question papers. The bench said the “sanctity has been affected” and that they need answers. However, the court refused to stay the counselling process for admission of those who have cleared the exam. Two days after the NEET-UG 2024 results were declared, The Indian Express reported that out of the 67 top scorers, 44 got a basic Physics question wrong but were awarded “grace marks” because of an error in an older version of the NCERT Class 12 textbook. More than 13,000 NEET-UG 2004 candidates challenged it, citing information in the textbook indicating a different answer, even though the provisional answer key released by the NTA selected the correct answer from the choices given.

Two days after the swearing-in of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers, S Jaishankar assumed charge as the Minister of External Affairs once again. Expressing confidence in Modi 3.0’s foreign policy, Jaishankar highlighted key priorities such as addressing challenges posed by China’s tactics along the frontier and safeguarding India’s interests amidst developments in West Asia and the conflict in Ukraine.

The national capital today witnessed massive power cuts, following a fire at UP’s power grid, Delhi minister Atishi said. She wrote on X, quote, “This is due to a fire at a sub-station of Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) in Mandola, UP,” Unquote. However, she said that the process of restoration had begun and power had returned in some areas. While highlighting that Delhi has a very limited production of power, the AAP minister said that she would speak to the Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and the Chairman of PGCIL to ensure that such a major failure is not repeated.

In his first public remarks on the outcome of the elections in which the BJP fell short of a majority in Lok Sabha, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that a true sevak (one who serves the people) does not have “ahankar” (arrogance) and works without causing any hurt to others. Referring to the bitter poll campaign, he said “decorum was not maintained”.

Malawi’s vice president and nine others were killed in a plane crash, the country’s president said today. The wreckage of the military plane carrying Vice President Saulos Chilima was located in a mountainous area in the north of the country in a search that lasted more than a day. There were no survivors of the crash, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera said in a live address on state television. Hundreds of soldiers, police officers and forest rangers searched a missing military plane carrying Malawi's vice president, a former first lady and eight others.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Deeksha Teri discusses the controversy surrounding the NEET UG results, where an unprecedented 67 candidates scored a perfect 720 out of 720 marks.

Next, Indian Express’ Sukrita Baruah talks about the fresh tensions arising in Manipur and the recent attack on a police convoy escorting Chief Minister Biren Singh (10:22).

And in the end, we provide an update on a large mob that rampaged through the Baloda Bazar district collector’s office in Chhattisgarh, torching part of the government building and several vehicles within its perimeter (19:18).

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Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 10th of June and here are today's headlines.


A day after Narendra Modi took oath as the Prime Minister along with his new Cabinet and Council of Ministers, he signed his first file authorising the release of around Rs 20,000 crore to about 9.3 crore farmers. Approving the 17th installment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, he said, quote, “Ours is a government fully committed to Kisan Kalyan. We want to keep working even more for the farmers and the agriculture sector in the times to come.” Unquote. Meanwhile, all eyes are now on who gets what in NDA 3.0. The new portfolios are likely to be announced today prior to the new Cabinet’s first meeting this evening.

Former Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna Monday has been remanded to 14 days in judicial custody in first of the three sexual assault cases lodged against him. He has been remanded to the Bengaluru Central Prison till June 24. The special investigation team (SIT) probing these cases may seek custody in a second case of sexual assault for custodial investigations at a later stage. Prajwal has sought anticipatory bail in the two other cases and the matter is being heard by a special court.

Sikkim Krantikari Morcha convenor Prem Singh Tamang took oath as the chief minister of the Himalayan state for the second consecutive term today. Tamang and his Council of Ministers were administered the oath of office at the Paljor stadium in Gangtok. The ruling SKM secured a resounding victory in the state, by capturing 31 out of 32 seats in the assembly elections. In contrast, the Sikkim Democratic Front only managed to secure a victory in the Shyari constituency.

Indicating that the battle for the control of the Nationalist Congress Party would continue, NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule said today her party will continue to pursue the case in the Supreme Court strongly. On the occasion of the 25th foundation day of NCP, she said the voters have stood strongly behind the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) and the party was very grateful to them.

Pakistan's coalition government is expected to lay out ambitious fiscal targets in the 2024/2025 (July-June) budget on Wednesday that will help strengthen its case for a new bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund, officials and analysts said. Pakistan is in talks with the IMF for a loan estimated to be anything between $6 billion to $8 billion to avert a default for an economy that is growing at the slowest pace in the region.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Deeptiman Tiwary joins us to talk about the demands that have been extended by BJP's alliance partners TDP and JD(U). With the NDA forming a coalition government, these longstanding demands have been highlighted, Deeptiman shares what these demands are and whether or not can they be materialized. 

Next, Indian Express’ Varinder Bhatia speaks to us about the electoral setback faced by the BJP in Haryana, what caused this setback and how it is going to impact Haryana's upcoming assembly elections. (11:54)

And in the end, we talk about 9 people being killed and 33 getting injured in a suspected terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where fire was opened at a bus full of pilgrims on their way to Katra. (19:27)

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Produced and written by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 7th of June and here are the top stories of the week.

The Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Party is set to return for a third term by winning 293 seats in the 18th Lok Sabha elections. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party suffered a major setback as it fell short of a majority – with 240 seats – on its own as it was heavily dependent on alliance partners such as the TDP and JD(U) to secure 272 seats required to form the government.

The Opposition INDIA bloc combined by the Congress, the Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam won a total of 232 seats. The Congress got back on its feet with 99 seats and the SP gave a stunning show by winning 37 seats from a mere 5 seats in Uttar Pradesh in 2019. The TMC won 29 seats in West Bengal while the DMK had leads in 22 seats. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP won 7 seats and the Shiv Sena of Uddhav Thackeray secured 9 seats. In Bihar, the RJD was ahead in 4 constituencies and the AAP and JMM in 3.

In Odisha, the BJP is all set to form a majority government of its own for the first time, winning 78 out of 147 seats in the assembly elections of the coastal state. The outcome brings to an end the five-term reign of Naveen Patnaik’s BJD, which managed to retain only 51 seats this time. Patnaik was eyeing to become the longest serving Chief Minister in India, but fell short by 76 days.

Actor Kangana Ranaut, who recently won the Mandi Lok Sabha seat on a BJP ticket, was allegedly slapped by a woman constable of the CISF at the security area of Chandigarh airport. Afterwards, the CISF constable, Kulwinder Kaur, suggested her actions were linked to a statement Ranaut had made about women joining the farmers’ protest. The CISF suspended the constable, initiated departmental inquiry, and lodged a police complaint against her. Ranaut, who was taking a Vistara flight to New Delhi and was accompanied by members of her family, said she will file a complaint with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry, which congratulated Narendra Modi, the BJP and NDA on their election victory, has protested the exchange of messages between Taiwan President Lai Ching-te and Modi on the poll outcome. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, responding to a question on the interaction between Modi and Lai, said there is no such thing as ‘president’ of the Taiwan region and that China opposes all forms of official interactions between the Taiwan authorities and countries having diplomatic relations with China. She further stated that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People’s Republic of China.

  This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 28th of August and here are the headlines.

In her first reaction to the alleged rape and murder of a junior doctor at R G Kar Medical College in Kolkata, President Droupadi Murmu today said that she was “dismayed and horrified” over the incident and asked the country to wake up to the “perversion” of crimes against women. The President told news agency PTI, “Those who share such views then go further and see the female as an object… We owe it to our daughters to remove the hurdles from their path of winning the freedom from fear." The President added that no civilised society can allow daughters and sisters to be subjected to such atrocities. “The nation is bound to be outraged, and so am I,” she wrote.

From the Army leading rescue operations in Vadodara, nine more people dying, taking the toll in rain-related incidents to 16 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi dialling CM Bhupendra Patel to assure all help— heavy rains have wreaked havoc in Gujarat. Over 8,500 people have been relocated and rescued from flood-affected areas as rain continued to lash some parts of the state for the fourth consecutive day today. The IMD has issued a ‘red alert’ for several districts, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next five days. 

The Enforcement Directorate today said a penalty of Rs 908 crore has been slapped in a case related to the violation of foreign exchange rules against DMK MP S Jagathratchakan and his family members. The federal agency issued a statement which said that properties worth Rs 89.19 crore, seized in September 2020, have been confiscated following an adjudication order issued on August 26 under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Jagathratchakan, 76, represents the Arakkonam Lok Sabha seat. The agency said a FEMA probe was initiated against the MP, a businessman from Tamil Nadu, his family members and related Indian entity.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today approved setting up of 12 industrial smart cities under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) with an estimated investment of Rs. 28,602 crore. The project spans across 10 states and is strategically planned along six major corridors. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project will create an investment potential of about Rs 1.52 lakh crore.

The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that India's position on a peaceful resolution for the Ukraine conflict aligns with Russia’s worldview. According to a Reuters report, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that while Russia supports India's advocacy for a peaceful settlement, it is "more than obvious" that there is no basis for negotiations at the moment. Peskov also dismissed Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s proposed plan to end the conflict, asserting that Russia would continue its "special military operation" in Ukraine. 

This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express’ Dheeraj Mishra tells us why the BJP lost the Faizabad seat (of which Ayodhya is a part) to the Samajwadi Party, and the lessons it holds for the party.

Next, Indian Express’ Udit Misra reviews the biggest economic reforms under the previous two BJP-led governments and discusses the challenges and advantages of passing reforms under a coalition government (12:45).

And finally, Indian Express’ Avaneesh Mishra informs us about the nine people from Karnataka who passed away during a trek to Sahastratal in Uttarkashi (26:48).

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Produced by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 6th of June and here are today's headlines.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony is likely to take place on the evening of 9th of June, according to sources. Earlier, the ceremony was slated to take place on the 8th of June, but now it may be held at 6 pm on Sunday. The swearing-in of Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu as the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh is likely to be postponed to 12th of June from 9th of June, as he has to attend PM Modi’s swearing-in first.

Meanwhile, there were more than 150 politicians who shifted from one political party to another in the fray in the elections. Of these, 13 candidates or their family members are facing probes either by the Central Bureau of Investigation, the Income Tax Department, or the Enforcement Directorate. Of the 13, eight had switched sides to the BJP — seven from Congress and one from Trinamool Congress; two had switched sides to the Shiv Sena Shinde faction from the Shiv Sena, one switched to TDP from YSRCP; and two to Congress from the Jharkhand Vikas Party and Punjab Ekta Party, respectively.

The India Meteorological Department issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad districts starting today. Similarly, the Pune Fire Brigade had received 50 calls related to water logging and tree falls as rainwater logged major portions of roads due flash floods that hit several parts of the city. The rainfall, which meteorologists said, was very close to a cloud burst that was localized in nature.

Nine trekkers from Bengaluru died in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi after their 22-member team which was on a trekking expedition to Sahastra Tal was hit by bad weather on Tuesday afternoon. Officials confirmed today after four more bodies were recovered. The deceased were part of a 19-member group of trekkers from The Karnataka Mountaineering Association.

In global news today, Israel targeted a Gaza school that it alleged contained an Hamas compound, killing fighters involved in the Oct. 7 attack. On theother hand, the Gaza media said the strike killed at least 27 people seeking shelter. The Hamas-run government media office, rejected Israel's claims that the UN school in Nuseirat, in central Gaza, had hidden a Hamas command post. Israel's military said that before the strike by Israeli fighter jets, the military took steps to reduce the risk of harm to civilians. Israel has said there will be no halt to fighting during ceasefire talks.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Flora Swain is joined by Indian Express' Sujit Bisoyi and veteran journalist Sandeep Sahu to discuss BJP's very first victory in Odisha which broke the 24 year long streak of Naveen Patnaik and the BJD. They discuss at length why it happened and where VK Pandian stands in this whole situation. 

Next, Indian Express’ Premankur Biswas speaks to political analyst Jayanta Ghoshal about Trinamool Congress' win in West Bengal despite the talks about it facing anti- incumbency. And the BJP losing ground in the state with its tally decreasing from 18 to 12 seats. Jayanta has been writing about the state for the last 40 years. (15:12)

And in the end, we talk about China congratulating PM Modi on NDA's win in the Lok Sabha elections. China has said it wants to work on the bilateral relations between the two countries. (30:05)

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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 5th of June and here are today's headlines.


The National Democratic Alliance is likely to stake a claim to form government for the third consecutive time today, after the meeting at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence. Earlier today, Modi tendered his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu along with his Council of Ministers. He is likely to take oath for a third consecutive term on the 8th of June. This is the first time since Jawaharlal Nehru that a prime minister will be returning to power for a third consecutive term. With the BJP failing to go past the majority mark on their own, their allies Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar are in Delhi today for a meeting.

As the INDIA bloc leaders prepare to meet at Congress President Malllikarjun Kharge’s residence today, NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar said that there had been no discussion within the bloc on reaching out to the TDP or JD(U) to shore up the numbers of the alliance for government formation. Congress leader KC Venugopal said that the INDIA bloc’s tally in the Lok Sabha Elections was “excellent” and that the alliance leaders would discuss their strategy at the meeting.

While taking responsibility for the setback to the Bharatiya Janata Party Maharashtra in Maharashtra in the Lok Sabha elections, Devendra Fadnavis today offered to step down as the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and work for the party. Fadnavisa said the Lok Sabha election results were way below the party’s expectations.This is the second time that Fadnavis has expressed his wish to remain outside the government and lead the BJP unit.

A city court has rejected Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal’s interim bail plea in a money laundering case related to the excise policy, even as it extended his judicial custody till 19th of June. Special judge Kaveri Baweja of Rouse Avenue Courts dismissed Kejriwal’s plea seeking interim bail for seven days on medical grounds. The blow comes just a day after the Kejriwal’s party AAP failed to make a mark in the Lok Sabha elections, with the BJP dominating the national capital for the third time in a row, winning all seven Lok Sabha seats.

Wishes poured in from across the world for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP-led National Democratic Alliance for a third term in a row as they won 293 Lok Sabha seats. The American daily The Washington Post called India's Lok Sabha election results 2024 as determined by Indian voters to be an "unexpected repudiation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership." British daily The Guardian said "it was clear that the landslide for the BJP predicted in polls had not materialised and instead there had been a pushback against the strongman prime minister and his Hindu nationalist politics in swathes of the country."

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

From the BJP managing to win only 240 seats (despite a '400 paar' campaign), to the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Uttar Pradesh emerging as the party with the third-highest number of seats in the country, to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) pushing back strongly in West Bengal, and the Congress party significantly increasing its tally, today on the podcast, we decode the rather surprising results of the 2024 Lok Sabha Polls.

Guests: Indian Express’ Vandita Mishra, Neerja Chowdhury, Asad Rehman, Shubhajit Roy, Liz Mathew, Deeptiman Tiwary, and Hamza Khan.

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Produced by Shashank Bhargava and Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
Additional support from Mahiyar Rohinton Patel

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 4th of June and here are today's headlines.


With the NDA poised to form the government for a third consecutive time, bagging at least 290 seats, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a “historic feat”. As the INDIA bloc managed to halt the BJP’s march towards majority, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi came out to hit out at the BJP, saying that the mandate today was a clear indication that the people of the country do not want to PM Modi and Amit Shah to run the country. The Opposition INDIA bloc has reversed all exit poll predictions, leading in at least 228 seats, according to the latest numbers. However, despite a stiff contest, the BJP-led NDA is inching closer towards the 300-mark, standing at 297 at the moment.

In what is probably the biggest upset state-wise, the tug-of-war for Odisha between BJP and BJD ended today with the Bharatiya Janata Party set to form the next government. Though the ruling BJD party hels various rallies and election campaigns, the saffron party has crossed the majority mark of 74. Odisha CHief Minister Naveen Patnaik served for five consecutive terms, but now the lotus party will form its first cabinet in the coastal state.

In a major setback for the BJP, Union minister Smriti Irani lost to the Congress’s K L Sharma in Amethi, as Congress wrest back power. The Amethi win comes as a big boost to the Congress, with Rahul Gandhi losing the seat to Irani in 2019. In neighbouring Rae Bareli, a Congress party bastion for decades, Rahul defeated BJP candidate Dinesh Pratap Singh, who apologised to the people of Rae Bareli.

Behind the remarkable turnaround for the Opposition Samajwadi Party and Congress in Uttar Pradesh where the INDIA bloc was leading, some fascinating factors may have given them an upper hand over the BJP. One of the factors that may have worked in favour of the SP, is its ticket-distribution strategy. Unlike previous elections, the SP ticket distribution focused on non-Yadav OBCs. Also, the SP changed candidates in several constituencies, depending on feedback from local cadre and local caste equation.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and its allies, the JanaSena Party (JSP) of Pawan Kalyan and BJP, are headed for a landslide in Andhra Pradesh, in what is a complete reversal of the 2019 results. This is quite a turnaround for the TDP-led alliance, which was almost written off months before the elections after its chief N Chandrababu Naidu’s arrest. Jagan seemed to have lost focus on governance issues in trying to implement his nine welfare schemes, which he had promised during his padyatra ahead of the 2019 polls.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Sukrita Baruah joins us to talk about Arunachal Pradesh's assembly elections. She shares the results of the assembly elections and the seat distribution that it has led to.

Next, Indian Express’ Damini Nath speaks to us about the BJP and the opposition INDIA Bloc approaching the Election Commission with concerns, days before the announcement of the Lok Sabha election results. She shares the issues that were expressed and the election authority's response. (8:26)

And in the end, we talk about BRS leader K Kavitha who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate due to her involvement in the Delhi excise policy scam. Her judicial custody has been extended till June 3. (14:53)

Hosted by Niharika Nanda
Produced and written by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 3rd of June and here are today's headlines.

With less than 24 hours to go for the counting of votes to start, all eyes are on whether the exit poll predictions will hold ground — the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government coming back to power with thumping majority. While the Opposition’s INDIA bloc has rubbished the exit polls, the BJP is confident of easily crossing the majority-mark, even planning out how they want to celebrate the landmark victory. All major exit polls have projected a resounding victory for the NDA with the BJP expected to better its own 2019 tally of 303 seats.

A day before the vote counting of 18th Lok Sabha Elections 2024, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar Monday said the EC had failed to counter “mischievous” narratives – starting with allegations that the electoral roll was faulty, then questions raised on EVMs and voter turnout, and now the counting processes. Asked whether there were any learnings from the election process, he said that in hindsight, given the heatwave, the polls should have been finished within a month. Additionally, he said that the EC has to be better prepared to counter “false narratives”.

The Delhi government has approached the Supreme Court, seeking increased water allocation from neighboring states due to an acute water crisis caused by extreme heat waves. While Himachal Pradesh has agreed to share surplus water, the Haryana government is not providing necessary support. The Supreme Court has called for an urgent meeting of the Upper Yamuna River Board to address the critical situation.

Bengaluru experienced a heavy downpour on Sunday, during the Southwest Monsoon, breaking a 133-year-old record for the highest daily rainfall in June. According to the India Meteorological Department, the city received 111.1 mm of rainfall on that day, surpassing previous 101.6mm in 1891. The current forecast suggests that rainfall will continue for the next two days, accompanied by overcast conditions and light to moderate thunderstorms. This recent heavy rainfall has put Bengaluru on track to potentially break its highest monthly rainfall record for June, which currently stands at 228.2 mm recorded in 1996.

Two Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militants, including one who has long evaded security forces, were trapped in a gunfight with a joint team of security forces in Kashmir's Pulwama. The militants, identified as Riyaz Ahmad Dar (a militant since September 2015) and Rayees (who joined in 2021). A joint team comprising personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army, and paramilitary forces cordoned off Pulwama’s Nehama village after specific inputs about the presence of militants in the village.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

Large parts of the country are currently experiencing an intensely hot summer, with temperatures soaring to record levels. The extreme heat has already claimed lives in states like Bihar, Odisha, Gujarat and Delhi. 

So today, we dedicate this episode to discussing heat waves, how they affect our bodies, and the precautions you should take to stay safe. Joining us for this discussion is Dr. Dileep Mavalankar, honorary professor and former director of the Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar.

Hosted and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

Timestamps:

What counts as a heatwave (01:21)

What happens during a heat stroke (04:40)

Prickly heat, heat cramps, and heat syncope (06:36)

The difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion (07:26)

Precautions to take when stepping out (10:46)

When your job requires you to be outside (12:53)

Is electrolyte better than water? (14:23)

Does the temperature of drinking water matter? (15:25)

When you don't have access to air conditioning (18:42)

Should you avoid showering when the water is not cool? (21:35)

A note for kids and pregnant women (22:53)

Why cities are getting hotter (23:41)

The best time to exercise/workout (26:26)

Changes that can be implemented to cities (27:06)

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 31st of May and here are the top stories of the week.

After a three-month-long hectic campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kanyakumari on Thursday, to begin a 45-hour meditation retreat. For his visit, the PM chose the historically significant Dhyana Mandapam inside the Swami Vivekananda Memorial, situated on a rocky islet. Modi started his meditation with prayers at the renowned Sri Bhagavathi Amman Temple before boarding a special boat to the mid-sea Vivekananda Memorial. 

The National Capital on Wednesday witnessed light rains and thunderstorms amidst record breaking temperatures and a severe heatwave. On the same day, Mungeshpur in Northwest Delhi had recorded the highest-ever temperature in the city at 52.3 degrees Celsius. Delhi water minister Atishi announced that a Rs 2000 fine would be imposed on anyone found to be wasting water. This included washing cars with a hose, letting their water tanks overflow or using private connections for commercial activity.

With the BJP turning up the heat on the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD over the growing influence of his aide and former bureaucrat V K Pandian, Patnaik on Thursday sought to make it clear that Pandian is not his “successor”, and speculation suggesting this is “an exaggeration”. On whether his party has a succession plan, Patnaik reiterated that the successor “will be decided by the people of the state. That is the natural result in these things”.

Days after former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif admitted that Islamabad had violated the Lahore pact, India on Thursday said an objective view is emerging on the issue in the neighbouring country. Sharif on Tuesday said Islamabad had “violated” an agreement with India signed by him and former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1999, in an apparent reference to the Kargil misadventure by General Pervez Musharraf. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said quote, “You are aware of our position on the issue. I need not have to reiterate that. We note that there is an objective view emerging in Pakistan as well on this matter,” Unquote.

On Sunday night, an Israeli air strike on an area designated for displaced Palestinians in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip, resulted in the deaths of 45 people and injured 249 others. A social media campaign titled 'All eyes on Rafah' emerged after the loss of at least 37 lives on May 28, gaining significant attention. In response, Israel launched the campaign “Where were eyes on October 7th?” referencing the October 7 Hamas-led attacks that killed at least 1,200 people.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor, Shubhajit Roy, discusses the significance of PM Modi's visit to Ukraine and what it signals to India's Western allies and Russia.

Next, Indian Express' Anonna Dutt talks about the case of a two-year-old child from Meghalaya testing positive for vaccine-derived polio and the concerns it raises (13:08).

Finally, Indian Express' Amitabh Sinha explains how the IMD is set to receive a major upgrade, with the government planning to allocate thousands of crores to its budget (21:05).

Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

First, Indian Express' Sweety Kumari joins us to talk about Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar, who went missing after his arrival in Kolkata and now has allegedly been brutally murdered. She shares about the investigations done by the CID and the Dhaka Police and the speculations being made.

Next, Indian Express’ Amitabh Sinha speaks to us about Cyclone Remal and the destruction that it has caused. He also shares about the early warning systems in place and how the cyclone became a multi-hazard disaster. (9:32)

And in the end, we talk about an Israeli air strike that happened on an area that was designated for displaced Palestinians in Rafah that killed 45 people and has sparked a global outrage. (19:02)

Hosted by Niharika Nanda
Produced and written by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Vijay Doiphode

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things for the Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
It’s the 30th of May and here are today's headlines.

Addressing his final Lok Sabha election rally in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi compared the works of his government with the ideology of Guru Ravidas. He also attacked the INDIA bloc, particularly the Congress, for violating the Constitution during the Emergency and the 1984 riots against Sikhs. He also accused the Opposition of trying to divide the country based on religion through reservation. Punjab goes to polls on 1st of June in the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

A Delhi court today issued notice to the ED on Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea seeking regular bail in a case related to the alleged excise scam. The court directed the central agency to file its response by Saturday. The judge also sought ED’s response on another plea of Kejriwal seeking seven-day extension of his interim bail on medical grounds, in case the regular bail petition is not allowed. Meanwhile, The Delhi government is set to hold an emergency meeting regarding the water crisis in the city amid a prevailing heatwave.

Speaking of heat, he India Meteorological Department announced that southwest monsoon set in over Kerala today, two days ahead of its normal onset date of 1st of June. With this, the country’s four-month-long chief monsoon season has commenced. The monsoon has also simultaneously commenced early in some parts of Northeastern India, where it usually arrives between June 2 and 5.

Security has been stepped up in New York after terror group ISIS-K made a “global” threat year against the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup match featuring India and Pakistan. According to a report by CNN, Nassau County Police Commissioner said the event first received an ISIS-K-linked threat in April which was followed by more specific threats on the India versus Pakistan game, scheduled for 9th of June. He added that the threats also had references to a viral video circulating online, which calls for “that lone wolf to act out.”

Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos today successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle. It was powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine, after calling off its launch at least four times previously. Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator) lifted off this morning in a mission of many firsts. While it is the second launch by a private startup in India, it is the first to use a private launchpad that the company has set up at the country’s only operational spaceport at Sriharikota.

This was the Catch-Up on the 3 Things by The Indian Express.

As we draw closer to the end of the Lok Sabha polls, today on the podcast, we are taking a break from our usual programming to share a conversation that we recently had with Vandita Mishra, Indian Express' National Opinion Editor.

Throughout these elections, Vandita traveled across five crucial states - Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and West Bengal. In this discussion, we talk about the concerns of voters in these states, the reasons behind many choosing to vote for the ruling party, the current state of opposition, and the biggest factors that will determine the outcome of these polls.

Hosted and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Vijay Doiphode
Additional support from Ichha Sharma and Mahiyar Rohinton Patel