ThePrint

Bismee Taskin, a principal correspondent at ThePrint with a focus on organized crime, joins to dissect the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which Canada recently designated a 'terrorist entity.' They explore Bishnoi's rise from a small-town upbringing to orchestrating operations from prison. Taskin explains the gang's intricate alliances and rivalries across India and its notorious connections to high-profile assassinations, including Sidhu Moosewala. The discussion also highlights the cultural influence of gang-related music and social media, illustrating the far-reaching impact of Bishnoi's network.

Dive into the intriguing insights from the Daksh report on India's commercial tribunal system. Discover the staggering backlog of 3.56 lakh pending cases, equating to 7.48% of GDP. Justice Singh emphasizes the need for specialized judges and reforms to improve accountability. Learn about the structural barriers and procedural deficiencies hindering progress, as well as the unsettling trend of tribunals becoming parking spots for retired bureaucrats. Concrete steps toward enhancing tribunal independence and addressing judge workload also take center stage.

The discussion delves into the significance of a pivotal Oval Office photo featuring Trump with Pakistani leaders, revealing deeper geopolitical implications for India. Insights highlight a powerful military influence in Pakistan and the delicate balance of US-Pakistan relations. The conversation revisits the complexities of civilian versus military control in Pakistan, offering lessons on the persistent challenges of peace-making efforts. Additionally, the host reveals how Munir's strategies may align with Pakistan's broader anti-India agenda.

The podcast delves into the recent arrest of activist Sonam Wangchuk, exploring accusations of inciting violence against him. It highlights the authorities' response, including an FIR linked to protest-related chaos. The discussion also touches on the subsequent cancellation of his NGO’s FCRA license, raising questions about the implications for activism in Ladakh. Listeners gain insight into the complexities surrounding governance, rights, and public dissent in the region.

A fascinating analysis reveals that while global cancer death rates have declined since 1990, India faces a troubling rise of over 21%. Factors like late diagnosis and limited access to care are driving this increase. The discussion dives into a comprehensive study that assessed cancer statistics from 204 countries, highlighting the stark contrast between global improvements and India's challenges. Future projections suggest that population growth and aging could further impact cancer rates worldwide.

The podcast dives into the controversy surrounding the cancellation of an NGO's FCRA license linked to Sonam Wangchuk. It highlights allegations of foreign funding violations and discrepancies in financial records. The host explores a substantial cash deposit's origin and its connection to unrest in Leh. Wangchuk's defense includes claims about bus sale proceeds and misplaced local funds. The discussion illuminates the complexities of NGO funding and the Ministry's scrutiny of potential financial misconduct.

Celebrate the 62-year legacy of the iconic MiG-21 as it bids farewell. Discover its journey from deliveries in 1963 to its role in conflict and controversies. Explore the Indian Air Force's struggles with fighter jet acquisitions and how geopolitical factors shaped their choices. Shekhar Gupta reveals the IAF's preference for delta-wing designs while highlighting critical gaps and modernization efforts amid a turbulent history. Join in the nostalgia and technical insights surrounding this remarkable aircraft and its impact on India's defense.

Explore the controversial saga surrounding Delhi's notorious godman, Chaitanyananda Saraswati, accused of molesting students. Hear shocking complaints from female students and the ensuing police investigation. Dive into the details of 17 specific allegations and the recorded statements that have emerged. Discover the implications of false academic claims and the institute's disavowal. It also unravels mysterious findings, including a Volvo with fake UN plates, raising more questions about the case.

The podcast dives into the shocking rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa, once tied to al-Qaeda and ISIS, now taking the UN stage as a Syrian leader after nearly six decades. It explores the transformative shift in US and Israeli attitudes toward him. The discussion covers al-Sharaa's escape from Russian attacks and his tactical evolution into a nationalist figure. Insights into his engagement with US officials and potential normalization with Israel reveal the changing geopolitical landscape in Syria. Key US expectations and al-Sharaa's newfound legitimacy are also examined.

The discussion explores the PM internship scheme's disappointing initial turnout, with only a fraction of the 82,000 offers leading to actual joiners. Plans for reform include flexible internship durations and increased stipends to attract more youth. Feedback from the second round highlights issues with role quality and intern retention. ONGC's insights reveal how extra benefits can improve intern retention, while the government aims to create a more meaningful experience linking academia with industry.