3 Things

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 15th of April and here are this week’s headlines.

India’s retail inflation in March dropped to 3.34%, the lowest since August 2019, as food prices continued to ease, according to government data. This figure was below economists’ expectations of 3.60%, and down from February’s 3.61%. The sharp decline may provide room for the Reserve Bank of India to consider deeper interest rate cuts amid global concerns triggered by the U.S.-China trade war. Lower inflation could boost economic stability and consumer demand, especially at a time when global growth remains uncertain due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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 criticised the Allahabad High Court for its March 11 remarks suggesting a rape complainant “invited trouble” and was “responsible” for the incident. The apex court said judges must be cautious and sensitive in such cases. A bench led by Justices B R Gavai and A G Masih was hearing another matter when it addressed the High Court’s observations, also citing a March 17 order that downplayed acts like breast grabbing and pulling pyjama drawstrings as insufficient for rape charges. The SC’s response highlights concern over judicial insensitivity in sexual assault cases.

Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised Harvard University for defying the Trump administration after it froze $2.3 billion in federal funding. The White House demanded changes to admissions policies, including "merit-based" hiring, limited student activism, and a government-led audit of campus diversity. Harvard President Alan Garber rejected these requirements, and Obama called the university's stance a model for other institutions. The funding freeze follows tensions over campus freedoms and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies. Obama’s support emphasizes academic independence in the face of political pressure from government bodies.

In response to new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, China has reportedly instructed its airlines to stop buying Boeing jets, escalating trade tensions. Bloomberg sources say the ban also applies to U.S. aircraft parts, likely increasing operational costs for existing Boeing fleets in China. The move adds further strain to Boeing, whose shares fell 3% in premarket trading. China is one of Boeing’s largest markets, where European rival Airbus already has a stronger presence. The development reflects worsening ties as the U.S.-China trade war spreads into high-stakes sectors like aviation.

This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, we speak to The Indian Express' Pratip Acharya who sheds light on the exclusive investigation into the Dharavi redevelopment project. 

Next, The Indian Express' Alind Chahuan discusses how a US based company has brought back a species of wolves back to life. (12:27)

Lastly, we talk about a wanted Indian fugitive diamond trader, Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium. (24:30)

Hosted by Ichha Sharma
Produced and written by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 14th of April and here are today's headlines.


Mehul Choksi Arrested in Belgium After India’s Extradition Request
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.

Accused Child Murderer Shot Dead in Karnataka Encounter
Ritesh Kumar, a 35-year-old migrant labourer from Patna, was killed in a police encounter in Hubballi, Karnataka, after being accused of murdering a five-year-old girl. Police suspect the child was also raped, though a post-mortem report is awaited. The incident occurred when Kumar allegedly tried to attack police while attempting to escape. He was shot in the leg and back, then declared dead at a local medical college. Kumar had been working in the city for 2–3 months. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the child’s death.

Fresh Death Threat Sent to Salman Khan via WhatsApp
Bollywood actor Salman Khan received another death threat early Sunday through a message sent to the Mumbai police traffic department’s WhatsApp number. Sent around 6:30 a.m., the message threatened to enter Khan’s home and kill him, as well as plant a bomb in his vehicle. A senior officer confirmed that a case has been registered, and efforts are underway to trace the sender. This incident adds to a series of previous threats aimed at the actor, prompting heightened security around Khan and his residence.

China Races Exports Ahead of Harsh New US Tariffs
China’s exports surged in March, jumping 12.4% year-on-year, as factories rushed shipments before tough new U.S. tariffs kicked in on April 2. The growth marks a five-month high, up from 2.3% in January-February. However, imports fell by 4.3%. The US has raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 145% after Beijing retaliated, with no exemptions for electronics, including semiconductor chips. President Donald Trump’s administration has warned of a national security investigation targeting Chinese technology imports, increasing tension between the world’s two largest economies.

Teen Kills Parents in Plot to Assassinate Trump, Says FBI
A 17-year-old Wisconsin student, Nikita Casap, has been arrested for allegedly killing his parents to fund a plan to assassinate US President Donald Trump, according to FBI documents. Casap faces nine felony charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and hiding a corpse. His mother, Tatiana Casap, 35, and stepfather, Donald Mayer, 51, were found dead on February 28. Investigators found writings and messages in which Casap called for Trump's assassination and overthrowing the US government. He is currently in custody as federal investigations continue.

That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Deeptiman Tiwary about the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. He arrived in Delhi last week after being extradited from the United States.

Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Brendan Dabhi about the Gujarat Police's GP-DRASTI program. He talks about the program and how the Gujarat Police will be actively using drones at the police station level and in situations like street violence. (10:24)

Lastly, we speak about an explosion in a fireworks factory in Andhra Pradesh that killed eight people and injured many. (17:54)

Hosted by Niharika Nanda and Ichha Sharma
Produced by Niharika Nanda, Ichha Sharma and Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 11th of April and here are this week’s headlines.

The US officially enforced a sweeping 104% tariff on all Chinese imports starting Wednesday, escalating its trade confrontation with Beijing. This move follows President Trump’s ultimatum to China to withdraw its retaliatory 34% tariffs. China hit back sharply at Washington's escalating trade war rhetoric, saying it does not seek conflict but won’t tolerate bullying either. US further escalated the situation with its decision to raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 125% while pausing tariffs for other nations. Responding to this, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a press briefing, “This cause will not win popular support and will end in failure.” Lin emphasized that Beijing will defend its people's rights, signaling that retaliatory action may still be on the table. Meanwhile, Asian markets surged on news of the 90-day tariff pause for other countries, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 soaring 8%, South Korea’s Kospi rising over 5%, and Australia’s ASX 200 up 5% in early trading.

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court declared Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi’s decision to reserve 10 re-passed Bills for Presidential consideration as illegal. The court held that the Governor showed scant respect for judicial precedent and unduly delayed action. Using Article 142, the bench declared that the 10 Bills are deemed to have received assent, overriding the governor’s withholding. This rare step sends a strong message about constitutional propriety and reinforces legislative autonomy amid growing tensions between elected governments and appointed constitutional heads.

The Reserve Bank of India has slashed the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6% in its latest monetary policy review. This signals lower interest rates on home, personal, and auto loans soon. The Monetary Policy Committee also shifted its stance from "neutral" to "accommodative," hinting at more rate cuts ahead. GDP growth for 2025–26 has been revised down to 6.5% from 6.7%, while retail inflation is projected at 4%. Lower rates aim to boost borrowing and spending amid slowing economic momentum.

Russia has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend its Victory Day Parade on May 9, commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko confirmed that the invitation has been sent, and the visit is under discussion. The gesture comes after Moscow confirmed President Putin’s scheduled visit to India later this year. Russia has extended invitations to several “friendly nations,” reinforcing diplomatic ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Modi’s participation would signify India’s balancing act in global power dynamics.

A deadly Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in northern Gaza’s Shijaiyah neighborhood on Wednesday, killing at least 23 people, including eight women and eight children, according to officials at Al-Ahly Hospital. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the toll and said rescue teams were still searching through rubble for survivors. Nearby buildings were also damaged, according to Gaza’s civil defense, which operates under the Hamas-run government. The strike is the latest in a wave of intensifying attacks, as the humanitarian crisis worsens in the besieged Palestinian enclave with no signs of a ceasefire in sight.

This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Legal Affairs Editor Apurva Vishwanath about the Supreme Court's ruling on Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi withholding assent to 10 bills of the state assembly and the limits to the role of a Governor.

Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt about a study conducted by the Institute of Cardiology at Madras Medical College which has proposed a model by way of which necessary medical care can be provided to a heart attack patient even in remote rural areas. (13:02)

Lastly, we speak about the Indians who were targeted by the Israeli spyware Pegasus in a 2019 WhatsApp hacking campaign. (22:36)

Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda and Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 10th of April and here are today's headlines.

China Pushes Back Against U.S. Tariffs, Warns of Consequences
China hit back sharply at Washington's escalating trade war rhetoric, saying it does not seek conflict but won’t tolerate bullying either. Responding to the U.S. decision to raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 125% while pausing tariffs for other nations, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a press briefing, “This cause will not win popular support and will end in failure.” Lin emphasized that Beijing will defend its people's rights, signaling that retaliatory action may still be on the table. Meanwhile, Asian markets surged on news of the 90-day tariff pause for other countries, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 soaring 8%, South Korea’s Kospi rising over 5%, and Australia’s ASX 200 up 5% in early trading.

India Steers Clear of U.S. Tariff Clash, Eyes Fall Trade Pact
India responded cautiously as U.S. President Donald Trump announced a temporary suspension of his sweeping reciprocal tariffs, which went into effect Wednesday. Just hours before the announcement, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that India is actively engaging with Washington to finalize a bilateral trade agreement by the fall. Speaking at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit, Jaishankar avoided directly commenting on Trump’s controversial statements about trade partners, saying only, “We’ve been constructive in our engagement, and so have they.” India appears to be walking a fine line—avoiding confrontation while quietly working to secure a stable trade relationship.

Tahawwur Rana Extradited from U.S., Special Prosecutor Appointed
India has taken a key step toward justice in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case. The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday night appointed a special public prosecutor for a three-year term to lead the prosecution of Tahawwur Rana, who is being extradited from the United States. Sources confirmed that a senior team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and intelligence services has taken custody of Rana, who is expected to arrive in Delhi by Thursday. Rana is accused of aiding the planning of the deadly 2008 attacks in Mumbai, which left more than 160 people dead.

Kashmir Cleric Says Police Blocked Religious Meet Over Waqf Act
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the prominent religious leader and head of the Muttahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), accused Jammu and Kashmir police of halting a planned meeting of clerics at his Srinagar residence. The gathering was meant to discuss concerns over the Waqf Act, which governs religious endowments in the region. Calling the police action unjust, Mirwaiz said religious leaders must be allowed to deliberate peacefully. He added that a joint resolution would be read in mosques across the Valley on Friday. The MMU also pledged support to the All India Muslim Personal Law Board’s legal challenge to the Act.

Israeli Airstrike Kills 23 in Gaza as Conflict Deepens
A deadly Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in northern Gaza’s Shijaiyah neighborhood on Wednesday, killing at least 23 people, including eight women and eight children, according to officials at Al-Ahly Hospital. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the toll and said rescue teams were still searching through rubble for survivors. Nearby buildings were also damaged, according to Gaza’s civil defense, which operates under the Hamas-run government. The strike is the latest in a wave of intensifying attacks, as the humanitarian crisis worsens in the besieged Palestinian enclave with no signs of a ceasefire in sight.

That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Ravi Dutt Misra about the growing uncertainty over the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States and how they will impact the Indian exporters.

Next, The Indian Express' Ajoy Karpuram discusses how courts assess competing claims when senior citizens seek protection of their rights. (09:45)

Lastly, we speak to The Indian Express' Sukhbir Siwach about the Haryana government’s crackdown on local folk songs “promoting violence". (20:03)

Hosted by Ichha Sharma
Produced and written by Shashank BHargava and Ichha Sharma
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 9th of April and here are today's headlines.


The Reserve Bank of India has slashed the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6% in its latest monetary policy review. This signals lower interest rates on home, personal, and auto loans soon. The Monetary Policy Committee also shifted its stance from "neutral" to "accommodative," hinting at more rate cuts ahead. GDP growth for 2025–26 has been revised down to 6.5% from 6.7%, while retail inflation is projected at 4%. Lower rates aim to boost borrowing and spending amid slowing economic momentum.



India has revoked a key transshipment facility that allowed Bangladesh to move export cargo through Indian territory to Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar. The decision, announced by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, follows Bangladesh's growing economic ties with China in Northeast India. A June 2020 order enabling transshipment via Indian ports and land customs stations has been officially rescinded. The move is expected to strain Dhaka’s regional trade logistics and could reflect India’s strategic pushback against China's expanding influence in South Asia.


India has cleared a high-value defense deal with France to purchase 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy. Estimated at over ₹63,000 crore, the deal includes 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat variants, along with maintenance support, logistics, and training packages. This agreement strengthens naval aviation capabilities aboard aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. It also supports Make in India goals with offset obligations requiring domestic manufacturing components. The deal is expected to be formalized shortly, marking a major milestone in Indo-French strategic cooperation.


Russia has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend its Victory Day Parade on May 9, commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko confirmed that the invitation has been sent, and the visit is under discussion. The gesture comes after Moscow confirmed President Putin’s scheduled visit to India later this year. Russia has extended invitations to several “friendly nations,” reinforcing diplomatic ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Modi’s participation would signify India’s balancing act in global power dynamics.


The US has officially enforced a sweeping 104% tariff on all Chinese imports starting April 9, escalating its trade confrontation with Beijing. The tariff includes existing levies and new duties under Section 301 of the Trade Act. This move follows President Trump’s ultimatum to China to withdraw its retaliatory 34% tariffs. With Beijing refusing to back down, the White House has proceeded with the measure. The new tariff is expected to impact global trade flows, raise prices in the US, and further strain US-China economic relations.

That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

Beginning in June, the Delhi Police intends to expand its use of AI powered facial recognition across the city, integrating the technology with municipal bodies and Resident Welfare Associations in an effort to enhance crime prevention.

However, this initiative has raised significant concerns among privacy advocates and digital rights organisations, who fear the potential for misuse and the disproportionate targeting of minority communities.In this episode, we first speak with Upasika Singhal of The Indian Express to understand the scope of the police plans and the details of the implementation.

We are then joined by Apar Gupta, co founder of the Internet Freedom Foundation, to examine the broader implications of this move and why facial recognition poses unique risks.

Hosted, produced and written by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar