3 Things

Political tensions rise as Congress President Kharge accuses Modi of misleading the public about Nehru’s letter on reservation, calling for a return to democratic values. The Sri Lankan President reaffirms commitment to India's security amidst discussions of defense and economic cooperation after a significant aid package. In a historical twist, a plea is made for the return of Nehru’s papers taken in 2008. Cultural moments are also highlighted, celebrating tabla maestro Zakir Hussain while examining global human rights issues.

An 18-year-old made history by becoming the youngest world chess champion, defeating a seasoned grandmaster in a thrilling match. The podcast dives into the intense pressures of championship play, revealing the psychological battles faced by both players. It highlights Gukesh's inspiring journey from a young prodigy to a champion and discusses the rivalries that shape chess. The episode also addresses critiques from chess elites while emphasizing Gukesh's victory's significance for India's burgeoning chess scene.

Recent communal violence in Bangladesh has sparked international concern, with 88 incidents reported against minorities. In Mumbai, a tragic bus crash resulted in seven deaths and 49 injuries, prompting a discussion on traffic safety. Meanwhile, Syria experiences a significant governance change as a rebel group takes control, marking a potential new chapter after years of civil war. The podcast also highlights an inspiring 18-year-old chess prodigy and India's proposal for simultaneous elections, weaving together intriguing social and political narratives.

Asad Rehman, a reporter at The Indian Express, discusses the Congress party's dynamic protests over Gautam Adani's bribery case, shedding light on their diverse protest tactics. Parul Kulshreshtha, also from The Indian Express, highlights farmers' protests in Punjab and Rajasthan, raising alarms over pollution in the Sutlej River affecting their health and crops. The conversation wraps with a celebration of D. Gukesh, the youngest World Chess Champion, showcasing his incredible rise in the chess world.

The Supreme Court's ruling bars civil courts from hearing cases on the ownership of places of worship, impacting high-profile disputes like the Gyanvapi mosque. Meanwhile, the Union Cabinet has greenlit bills for simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, stirring political discussions. A dramatic day in Parliament saw fierce protests and disruptions, highlighting the tense climate in Indian politics. Additionally, women's financial initiatives and security issues in Chhattisgarh were also key talking points.

First, in light of the recent tussle between the RBI and the government over the repo rate, The Indian Express’s Udit Misra explains the functions and limits of monetary policy.Next, The Indian Express’s Shivani Naik discusses a Delhi High Court case in which a petitioner claims that horses, in equestrian sports, should be considered equipment (11:32).Finally, The Indian Express’s Apurva Vishwanath explains why the opposition’s attempt to move a no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar is largely a symbolic move (21:26).Hosted, written and produced by Shashank BhargavaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 11th of December and here are the headlines.In Parliament, the Opposition is in full swing as tensions rise. Rahul Gandhi met Speaker Om Birla, pushing for a discussion on key issues, including the Adani row. He also requested that derogatory remarks made against him in the Lower House be expunged. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned after the Opposition demanded the removal of Vice President Dhankhar. On Tuesday, Opposition MPs filed a no-confidence motion, accusing him of partisan behavior. The situation continues to heat up with both sides standing firm.In a creative protest, Opposition MPs greeted their BJP counterparts with the national flag and red roses, urging the House to continue its proceedings and discuss important issues, including the Adani row. This gesture included Congress, DMK, JMM, and Left party MPs. The protest took place at Parliament steps, with leaders like Priyanka Gandhi Vadra showing their support for the cause. The move is a direct response to the political gridlock over ongoing matters in the House.Bangladesh confirmed on Tuesday that 88 incidents of communal violence targeting minorities, mostly Hindus, occurred after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Interim government spokesman Shafiqul Alam said 70 people were arrested in connection with the attacks. This announcement came after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri raised concerns about the safety of minorities during talks with Bangladeshi officials, calling the incidents regrettable. The violence has drawn significant international attention and criticism.Actor Mushtaq Khan has shared his ordeal after claiming he was kidnapped in Meerut. Invited to an event, Khan was allegedly abducted, tortured for 12 hours, and demanded to pay a crore in ransom. His business partner stated that the kidnappers withdrew Rs 2 lakh from Khan’s and his son’s accounts. Khan managed to escape after hearing the morning azaan, thinking a mosque was nearby. This unsettling incident follows comedian Sunil Pal’s similar claims of abduction.MIT’s suspension of Indian-origin research scholar Prahlad Iyengar has sparked controversy. Iyengar, a PhD student in Electrical Engineering, was suspended after writing a pro-Palestine essay for a student journal. His suspension has led to an open letter from university faculty demanding his reinstatement. Iyengar was barred from campus until January 2026, and the student magazine that published his essay has been banned. The suspension has raised questions about academic freedom and expression at prestigious universities.This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express

Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Indian Express, discusses the turmoil in Syria, analyzing Bashar al-Assad's diminishing power and the role of Islamist rebel groups. He delves into the historical context of the conflict and potential geopolitical shifts. Anjali Marar, also from The Indian Express, shares insights on Cyclone Fengal, emphasizing its surprising devastation despite being low-intensity. The conversation also touches on the controversial demolition of a historic mosque in Uttar Pradesh, linking local issues to broader national dynamics.

In a historic move, the Opposition introduced a no-confidence motion against Vice-President Dhankhar, marking a first in Indian parliamentary history. Tensions escalated in the Rajya Sabha during debates over allegations linking Congress to George Soros and the BJP to Gautam Adani. Amidst this political upheaval, the passing of former Karnataka Chief Minister S.M. Krishna was also noted, highlighting his significant impact on Bengaluru's global prominence. These events illustrate a growing discontent in Indian politics.

Anonna Dutt, an investigative journalist at The Indian Express specializing in healthcare, discusses a critical shortage of tuberculosis medications in India, spotlighting how this affects efforts to combat the disease. Raakhi Jagga, also from The Indian Express, provides an update on the farmers' protests, which have now lasted over 300 days, emphasizing their calls for Minimum Support Price reforms. The conversation also touches on the recent appointment of a new RBI Governor, highlighting the challenges that lie ahead in balancing growth and inflation.