3 Things

Prime Minister Modi envisions transformative policies shaping India for the next millennium, emphasizing inclusivity for all citizens. In a somber moment, the Vatican confirms the passing of Pope Francis, who dedicated his life to service. The podcast also covers a violent incident in West Bengal, with arrests made in connection to a tragic father-son duo killing. Additionally, it highlights ISRO's impressive satellite docking achievement and China's stern trade warning to the U.S., reflecting the intricate dynamics of global relations.

First, The Indian Express Deeptiman Tiwary discusses Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the Punjab National Bank loan fraud, was arrested in Belgium.Second, we talk to The Indian Express' Vidheesha Kuntamalla about the frequent US visa revocations of the Indian students and its implications. (10:59)Lastly, we speak about why BJP MP Nishikant Dubey is again at the center of a controversy. (18:55)Hosted by Ichha SharmaProduced and written by Shashank Bhargava, Niharika Nanda and Ichha SharmaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.Today is the 18th of April and here are this week’s headlines.Fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Belgium following an extradition request by India, according to sources. Choksi is wanted by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate in the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank fraud case. He had been residing in Antwerp on a residency card after previously living in Antigua and Barbuda. Earlier this year, India, via the Ministry of External Affairs, formally requested Belgium to extradite him. Choksi’s wife, Preeti, holds Belgian citizenship, and the legal process for extradition is now underway.The Enforcement Directorate filed a chargesheet against Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald money laundering case. Special Judge Vishal Gogne reviewed the chargesheet on April 9 to consider cognisance and scheduled further proceedings for April 25. Other individuals named include senior Congress leaders Sam Pitroda and Suman Dubey. The case, which has long been politically contentious, involves allegations of financial irregularities linked to the now-defunct National Herald newspaper, formerly owned by Congress-linked entities. The ED’s action intensifies legal scrutiny on the Gandhi family and Congress leadership.The Supreme Court strongly criticized the recent violence linked to amendments in the Waqf Act. During a hearing on related petitions, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna remarked that the unrest was "very disturbing" and stressed the matter is now under judicial review. Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta agreed, warning of a growing trend to pressure legal institutions. The three-judge bench’s focus was both on assessing the legality of the amendments and addressing the troubling nationwide unrest, which has sparked political and public concern amid ongoing legal deliberations.Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna has formally recommended Justice B R Gavai as his successor in a letter to the Union Law Ministry. Once approved, Justice Gavai, currently the second-most senior judge in the Supreme Court, will become India’s 52nd Chief Justice. Elevated to the top court in May 2019, Justice Gavai, now 64, will assume office following Justice Khanna’s retirement on May 13, 2025. His tenure is expected to last until November 23, the mandatory retirement age for Supreme Court judges being 65 years.In a dramatic escalation of the U.S.–China trade war, the Trump administration has imposed 245% tariffs on all Chinese imports. The announcement, made via a late-night White House fact sheet, came after Beijing retaliated against earlier U.S. tariffs, sparking global market jitters. Citing unfair taxation by foreign nations, Trump had previously levied 10% tariffs on all such countries, which were later paused to encourage trade talks. The revived tariff blitz, unveiled on Liberation Day, underscores rising tensions and signals a hardened U.S. trade stance under Trump’s leadership.This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

Varinder Bhatia, a journalist from The Indian Express, dives into the intricate details of the Robert Vadra and DLF land case, discussing recent summons from the Enforcement Directorate and the political tensions surrounding it. He reveals allegations of political vendetta and examines the role of key figures like IAS officer Ashok Khemka. The conversation then shifts to Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi's controversial remarks encouraging religious chanting in schools, prompting discussions on secularism. Lastly, it touches on the political dynamics affecting Assam's panchayat elections.

The Supreme Court tackled pivotal legal issues, including the Waqf law and inheritance rights for Muslims, marking a significant moment in personal law debates. India's strong response to Pakistan Army Chief Munir's remarks on Kashmir emphasized its territorial integrity, rejecting claims of illegal occupation. Additionally, the podcast delved into Xi Jinping's calls for Cambodia to resist protectionism, illustrating the complexities of global trade dynamics. These discussions weave together law, diplomacy, and international relations, making for an engaging listen.

Udit Misra, an expert from The Indian Express, delves into the repercussions of the Trump administration on the U.S.'s global standing and economic trust. He highlights how declining confidence affects U.S. assets and the global market, especially for nations like India. The conversation also touches upon the National Herald case, where allegations against Congress leaders stir political debates. Lastly, the Supreme Court's insights on the Waqf Amendment Bill are explored, revealing the intricate legal politics at play in India.

The Supreme Court sharply criticized recent violence tied to the Waqf Act amendments, stressing the urgent need for judicial review. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna's successor was recommended, paving the way for new leadership in the court. Meanwhile, NCERT defended its controversial English textbooks named after Indian classical ragas, highlighting the nation's rich musical heritage. With significant national and global news, this week showcased pressing legal and educational discussions.

Sweety Kumari, a reporter for The Indian Express, provides a gripping account of the violent protests in Murshidabad, sparked by the Waqf Amendment Act, resulting in tragic casualties. She discusses the harrowing stories of affected families and the challenges facing law enforcement. Additionally, advancements in cervical cancer treatment monitoring are introduced with a groundbreaking blood test from AIIMS, highlighting the healthcare hurdles in India. Finally, hear about Omar Abdullah's optimism for restoring statehood in Jammu and Kashmir amidst ongoing political discussions.

In a timely catch-up, India’s retail inflation has dipped to 3.34%, the lowest in years, sparking discussions on potential interest rate cuts. Legal troubles intensify for Congress leaders with the Enforcement Directorate now involved in a high-profile money laundering case. The Supreme Court scrutinizes the Allahabad High Court’s remarks on a recent rape case, highlighting critical issues surrounding victim-blaming. Insights from former President Obama shed light on U.S.-China trade relations, intertwining local issues with global dynamics.

In this engaging discussion, Prateep Acharya from The Indian Express uncovers the controversial issues surrounding the Dharavi redevelopment project, particularly the environmental risks of relocating residents to a landfill. Alind Chahuan dives into the exciting world of de-extinction, revealing how a U.S. company has resurrected the dire wolf, raising ethical questions about prioritizing extinct species over endangered ones. The conversation rounds off with insights into the recent arrest of diamond trader Mehul Choksi in Belgium amidst a high-profile fraud case.