3 Things Taliban minister in India, Bengal MBBS rape case, and AI image stirs tensions
Oct 13, 2025
Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Indian Express, shares insights on the Taliban Foreign Minister's historic visit to India, discussing its implications for foreign policy and the delicate balance of recognition. Tanushree Bose, an investigative reporter, delves into a troubling sexual assault case involving an MBBS student in West Bengal, revealing the harrowing details and community's demands for justice. The conversation also touches on a controversial AI-generated image that sparked caste tensions, highlighting the impact of technology on societal issues.
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Pragmatic Engagement Over Recognition
- India is engaging the Taliban pragmatically to protect strategic and security interests despite not recognizing them.
- Delhi seeks to prevent Afghanistan from becoming hostile or a safe haven for anti-India groups.
Kandahar Hijack Shapes Memory
- Shubhajit Roy recounts the 1999 Kandahar hijack that forced India to release Maulana Masood Azhar.
- That release later contributed to the formation of Jaish-e-Mohammed and a lasting distrust of the Taliban.
Incremental Diplomacy Opened Doors
- India shifted from humanitarian aid to higher-level contacts over four years after the Taliban takeover.
- Incremental diplomacy (technical mission, meetings, aid) paved the way for this ministerial visit.