Mukesh Chandrakar's murder, IITs after women’s quota, and Sheesh Mahal row
Jan 9, 2025
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Journalist Jayprakash Naidu sheds light on the tragic murder of Mukesh Chandrakar, revealing the dangers journalists face in conflict zones and the local disputes behind it. Education reporter Vidheesha Kuntamalla discusses the effects of a 20% women’s quota at IITs, highlighting rising female enrollment and the cultural shifts on campuses, yet noting ongoing challenges like discrimination. The conversation also touches on the escalating political tensions between the Aam Aadmi Party and the BJP, spotlighting the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections.
The murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar highlights the dangers faced by journalists in sensitive regions, igniting concerns over press freedom in India.
The 20% women’s quota in IITs has significantly increased female enrollment and transformed campus culture, promoting gender sensitivity initiatives.
Deep dives
The Murder of Mukesh Chandrakar
The murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar has raised significant concerns about the safety of journalists operating in sensitive regions of India. Chandrakar, known for his impactful reporting on Naxalite activities in the Maoist-affected Bastar region, was found dead under suspicious circumstances shortly after he went missing. His death allegedly involved his cousin and childhood friend, who, after a heated argument, brutally killed him and attempted to conceal the crime by hiding his body in a septic tank. This incident has not only drawn attention to the personal dangers faced by journalists but has also ignited discussions regarding the broader implications for press freedom and safety in the country.
Impact of the 20% Female Quota in IITs
The implementation of a 20% supernumerary quota for women in Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) has led to a significant increase in female enrollment over six years. Data shows that in some of the first-generation IITs, such as IIT Kanpur, female student numbers have more than doubled, showcasing a 133% increase since the quota was enacted. The initiative aims to address the longstanding gender imbalance in these predominantly male-dominated institutions and has prompted changes in campus infrastructure, including the expansion of female accessibility to facilities. In addition, the presence of more women has encouraged a shift in campus culture, leading to initiatives on gender sensitivity and adjustments in the interactions between male faculty and female students.
Political Tensions and the Shish Mahal Controversy
The Shish Mahal controversy has become a focal point of political tension between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leading up to the Delhi Assembly elections. Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly extravagant renovations of the Chief Minister's residence, which they claim diverted attention away from the needs of residents in unauthorized colonies. In response, Kejriwal accused the BJP of hypocrisy, pointing out their own lavish expenditures and pledging to represent the interests of the impoverished communities in Delhi. The escalating feud has intensified efforts from both parties to sway public opinion, particularly as they prepare for electoral campaigns in all constituencies.
First, The Indian Express' Jayprakash Naidu tells us about Mukesh Chandrakar, a journalist from Chhattisgarh who was allegedly murdered last week by two men, including his cousin and childhood best friend, Suresh Chandrakar.
Next, The Indian Express' Vidheesha Kuntamalla explains how IIT campuses across the country have changed six years after implementing the 20% quota for women (10:00).
Finally, we discuss the ongoing "Sheesh Mahal" controversy between the Aam Aadmi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party (20:40).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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