In Focus by The Hindu

Pradip Kalbar, an Associate Professor in Environmental Science at IIT Bombay, dives into the tragic water contamination case in Indore that caused multiple fatalities. He explains the complex workings of urban water systems in India, highlighting issues like leaking sewage and intermittent supply. Kalbar emphasizes the impact of poor governance and maintenance on clean water delivery. He advocates for decentralized solutions, improved regulation, and practical strategies for achieving safe drinking water for all, particularly for vulnerable communities.

Shilpa Arora, Co-founder and COO of Insurance Samadhan, sheds light on the recently passed Insurance Bill 2025, a potential game changer for policyholders. She discusses how 100% FDI could enhance affordability and distribution, while also emphasizing the strengthening of the Insurance Regulatory Authority of India. The conversation reveals persistent issues like claim rejections and mis-selling, and highlights the need for better oversight and transparency in the claims process. Arora argues that real consumer benefits hinge on effective implementation of the new regulations.

Prashant Kamal, National General Secretary of Yuva Hallabol and advocate for gig workers, teams up with Kamal Karanth, cofounder of staffing firm XPheno. They discuss the recent strike by over a lakh gig workers demanding safety over rapid delivery models. Prashant criticizes the 10-minute delivery as a luxury, not a necessity, highlighting workers' demands for safety and fair pay. Kamal warns that excessive regulations might stifle job creation, while emphasizing that broader job opportunities are key to improving conditions for gig workers.

Madhavi Ravikumar, an Assistant Professor at the University of Hyderabad, dives into the pressing issue of personality rights in the age of AI. She discusses the surge in Indian celebrity cases, including how Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai are navigating the legal landscape. Madhavi contrasts global approaches to personality rights, highlights the risks of deepfakes, and stresses the importance of a comprehensive legal framework. She calls for accountability in AI development and the need for protective legislation to safeguard identities in an increasingly digital world.

S. Vanchi Nathan, a seasoned advocate at the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court, dives deep into the ongoing turmoil surrounding the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple's Karthigai Deepam lighting. He unravels the historical dispute over the traditional site, sharing insights on key legal rulings and their implications. Vanchi discusses the risks of political polarization, highlighting potential motives behind the controversy. With references to archaeological evidence and past judgments, he critiques recent court orders and emphasizes the need for civil trials over writ proceedings.

In this engaging discussion, Rahul Singh, an Associate Professor of Law specializing in competition law, sheds light on market concentration in India. He examines the monopolistic trends in aviation and other sectors, such as telecom and e-commerce. Singh highlights the risks to consumer choice and labor protections and underscores the importance of robust regulatory frameworks. He urges stronger collaboration among regulators to address these issues effectively and cautions against frequent legislative changes that could complicate enforcement.

N. Sudarshan, a sports bureau journalist at The Hindu, delves into the state of Indian tennis. He discusses the significance of the Bengaluru Open as India's sole ATP 125 Challenger and the steep competition from foreign players exploiting weaker fields. Sudarshan analyzes the potential of rising stars like Sumit Nagal and Dakshineshwar Suresh, focusing on their fitness and gameplay. He also highlights the challenges of sustaining tournaments in India amidst global calendar pressures and sponsors' struggles.

Kanchi Kohli, an esteemed environment and forest policy expert, dives into the fragility of the Aravalli ecosystem, emphasizing its critical role in protecting northern India's plains from desertification. She discusses the recent Supreme Court ruling limiting environmental protections, sparking public uproar as most Aravallis are excluded. Kohli challenges the viability of 'sustainable mining,' critiques judicial activism in environmental regulation, and highlights the impacts of mining on local communities, urging for a broader, more inclusive approach to ecological integrity.

Tikender Singh Panwar, an urban studies expert and former deputy mayor of Shimla, joins seasoned architect Ashok B. Lall to tackle the pressing issue of housing affordability in Indian cities. They explore how land policies and financialization drive costs sky-high, making homes unattainable for many. Tikender discusses the sociological impact of this crisis, including increased insecurity and fractured urban communities. Meanwhile, Ashok advocates for prioritizing affordable rental housing and rethinking planning to achieve spatial justice. Their insights present a roadmap for a more inclusive future.

Zohran Mamdani, an avowed socialist, will be sworn in as New York City’s new mayor on January 1. His rise has revived old debates about the future of the U.S. Democratic Party. For most of the last century, the Democratic Party offered a clear promise. If you worked hard, if you were new to the country, if the economy knocked you down, this was your political home. But today, that bond feels weaker. Registrations for the Democratic Party are slipping. Younger voters are drifting away. Many longtime supporters say that the party sounds less like a movement and more like a kind of a corporate meeting room, technical, a little distant. Their political rivals, the Republicans, champion smaller government and conservative values, and in recent years have been reshaped by Donald Trump’s brand MAGA politics. Into this moment came New York City’s surprise, Zohran Mamdani, promising affordability and everyday dignity to a metropolis exhausted by rent and inequality. His ascent to public office comes at a time when the Democrats are nationally seeking momentum. So what’s happening with the Democratic Party, and where is its future actually being written? Guest: Hadas Thier, a journalist, activist, and author of A People's Guide to Capitalism.  Hosts: Anupama Chandrasekaran and G Sampath  Edited and produced by Sharmada Venkatasubramanian    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices