Pahalgam terror attack, India's Cheetah project, and TN minister's probe
Apr 24, 2025
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This episode features Naveed Iqbal, a journalist from The Indian Express, who delves into the Pahalgam terror attack, highlighting its dire security implications for the region. He emphasizes the impact on tourism and local safety. Joining him is Nikhil Ghanekar, also from The Indian Express, who unpacks the logistical challenges of India's Cheetah project, discussing how relocating these majestic animals could shape the ecosystem. The discussion wraps up with insights on a Tamil Nadu minister facing legal scrutiny.
The Pahalgam terror attack underscores rising security concerns in Kashmir, jeopardizing tourism and questioning the effectiveness of counter-terrorism measures.
India's Cheetah project faces ecological challenges and health issues, as efforts continue to ensure the successful relocation and stabilization of this endangered species.
Deep dives
Pehelgaam Terror Attack: A Security Crisis
A recent terror attack in Pehelgaam resulted in the deaths of 26 people, including several tourists and a local resident, marking one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in India in recent years. The attackers targeted visitors in a popular meadow, suggesting an alarming shift in tactics since tourism had been considered a sign of normalization in the region. The incident raised serious security concerns, questioning the efficacy of intelligence and counter-terrorism efforts, as officials swiftly reviewed security protocols in the aftermath. Additionally, this attack came at a time when tourism was recovering, adding to fears about the potential impacts on future tourist seasons and security operations surrounding significant events like the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.
Challenges in India's Cheetah Relocation Project
India's cheetah relocation project is facing significant challenges, particularly following the decision to transfer five cheetahs from Kuno National Park to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary due to ecological issues. The introduction of African cheetahs, a different species from the extinct Asiatic cheetah, has led to complications such as health problems linked to the local climate, contributing to fatalities among the cheetahs. The new site at Gandhi Sagar aims to provide a better habitat, with efforts made to ensure adequate prey and manage competition with leopards, which previously posed a threat to the cheetah population at Kuno. As the project progresses, ongoing monitoring and habitat suitability assessments remain critical to the long-term success of cheetah population stabilization in India.
Supreme Court's Ultimatum to Tamil Nadu Minister
The Supreme Court has issued a stringent ultimatum to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji, compelling him to choose between retaining his public office or keeping his conditional bail amidst allegations linked to a cash-for-scam investigation. The court expressed dissatisfaction with Balaji's reinstatement to ministerial duties just days after being granted bail, indicating concerns about his potential to influence ongoing legal proceedings. As the Enforcement Directorate sought the cancellation of his bail, arguments arose regarding the risk Balaji posed to witnesses and the fairness of the trial process. The court's insistence on the matter signals a critical stance on accountability in political office, with a decision from Balaji expected by the next hearing date.
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Naveed Iqbal who breaks down the events leading up to terror attack in Pahalgam, and the larger security implications for the Valley.
Next, we speak to The Indian Express’ Nikhil Ghanekar about the status of India’s cheetah relocation project, what are the logistical hurdles involved, and what this shift means for Project Cheetah. (09:01)
And in the end, we talk about the Supreme Court’s ultimatum to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji in a high-profile money laundering case, and what it could mean for his future in public office. (19:05)
Hosted by Ichha Sharma Produced and written by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma Edited and Mixed by Suresh Pawar
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