Mukhtar Ansari's death, 21000 trees cut in 6 years, and Kejriwal in Tihar
Apr 2, 2024
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Indian Express journalists discuss the death of Mukhtar Ansari, 21000 trees cut in Mumbai, and Arvind Kejriwal in Tihar. Topics include alleged poisoning, tree transplantation challenges, and custody proceedings with special requests.
Mukhtar Ansari's death reveals the government's crackdown on criminal influence in UP.
Over 21,000 trees cut in Mumbai highlight the challenges of preserving urban greenery during development projects.
Deep dives
Demise of Muktaar Ansari and His Influence in Eastern UP
Muktaar Ansari, a gangster-turned-politician, passed away after facing eight convictions, including murder charges. Despite his criminal background, Ansari was elected five times as an MLA from eastern Uttar Pradesh, even winning three terms while in prison. Considered both powerful and controversial, he had significant influence across Eastern UP, particularly among the Muslim community. Despite criminal allegations, he was viewed as a savior for the poor and garnered support across different communities.
Impact of Muktaar Ansari's Death on Law Enforcement in Uttar Pradesh
The death of Muktaar Ansari resonated in Uttar Pradesh's political landscape, highlighting the government's efforts to combat mafia influence in the state. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's administration's focus on law and order included targeting prominent criminals like Ansari. By securing multiple convictions against Ansari, the government aimed to improve the state's law enforcement reputation, reflecting a larger crackdown on gangsters and criminal elements across UP.
Challenges of Deforestation and Tree Transplantation in Mumbai
Mumbai's deteriorating air quality and reducing tree cover have emerged as critical environmental issues, compounded by extensive tree felling for development projects. Over 21,000 trees were cut for various infrastructure schemes, such as the Mumbai Metro and road widening. Despite attempts to transplant nearly 22,000 trees, the survival rate was only 22%, attributed to inadequate processes and the challenging transplantation of hardwood trees. Experts highlight the significant environmental concerns arising from deforestation, affecting pollution levels and ecosystem balance in Mumbai.
First, Indian Express’ Asad Rehman discusses the death of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari and his family's allegations that he was being poisoned in prison.
Next, Indian Express’ Pratip Acharya reveals that over 21,000 trees were felled in Mumbai between 2018 and 2023, and explains why efforts to transplant them have not been successful (13:20).
Finally, Indian Express’ Nirbhay Thakur discusses what transpired in a Delhi court yesterday when Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was sent to judicial custody until the 15th of April and was subsequently moved to Tihar jail (21:22).
Hosted, written, and produced by Shashank Bhargava Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
Further Listening: Death by Breath: How bad air is choking Mumbai