On The Record

Why The Centre Is Wrong On Fuel Prices & GST

Fri, 13 May 2022 13:59:51 -0000

Tamil Nadu's finance minister and one of the fiercest critiques of the Modi govt, Palanivel Thiagarajan, has criticized the union government over the issue of coal shortage, power crisis, and fuel price hike. In this episode of the On the Record, PTR spoke to Hindustan Times over the ongoing energy crisis, the political situation in the country, and the winning streak of the BJP.

What Shehbaz Sharif's Appointment As Pakistan PM Means For India?

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 04:32:03 -0000

Shehbaz Sharif is the new Prime Minister of Pakistan and he assumed office after Imran Khan was ousted through a no-confidence motion amid an unprecedented week-long drama. Sharif is the younger brother of former PM Nawaz Sharif and used to be chief minister of the Punjab province. So, what does having a new regime in the neighborhood mean for India. To talk about that, we have the former Indian High Commissioner and author of the excellent book on Pakistan TCA Raghavan in this episode of On The Record. Tune in now!

What's wrong with the new Criminal Procedure Identification amendment?

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 14:26:07 -0000

In this episode of 'On The Record', Hindustan Time's Sunetra Choudhury speaks to VN Rai, IPS officer and former head of the Indian Police Academy, about this week's most debatable issue in the parliament, the new Criminal Procedure Identification amendment. During this interview, he discusses and understands what's wrong with the new amendment, whether the new criminal identity law is really draconian?

After 4 decades, Nagaland gets a woman MP

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 13:17:46 -0000

On this week's episode of On The Record, host Sunetra talks to BJP's MP from Nagaland - Phangnon Konyak who has been victorious in the Assembly Elections 2022 and she also happens to be the first women MP from Nagaland in the Rajya Sabha and the last time that happened was 4 decades ago. Tune in to the conversation where she talks about her education from the DU & why she decided to join BJP!

Escape from a war zone

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 12:25:42 -0000

It's been more than a week since Russia invaded Ukraine and war broke out on February 24. More than 20,000 Indians who were stranded there are young students pursuing their higher education as Ukraine promised them affordable education. When news reports started emerging of a possible strike, they were torn-should they immediately leave and jeopardise their career or could they stay and try to survive? There were mixed signals that they received- from their college authorities and the Indian embassy. HT's Sunetra speaks to two students 21 years old Clifford Ben Samuel from Chennai and 24-year-old Devesha Choudhuary to understand what it means to escape from a war zone.

The Hijab Row Controversy

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 06:55:41 -0000

As the Karnataka high court hears petitions against the hijab ban, Farrah Ahmed, a professor at Melbourne Law School who specialises in Constitutional law and religious freedom, spoke to HT's Sunetra Choudhury about the right to practice faith, privacy, and education.

Harak Singh Rawat interview: Joining Congress wasn’t my plan... BJP overreacted

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 09:15:06 -0000

The Bhartiya Janata Party expelled a sitting minister from its government in Uttarakhand amid reports that he was unhappy and negotiating with Congress. Harak Singh Rawat may be joining the opposition party soon, but he told Sunetra Choudhury that the BJP forced his hand, and his unhappiness was after years of being ignored, and not being allowed to deliver crucial promises to voters in the state.

Why are UP ministers quitting? BJP Former ally OP Rajbhar explains

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 07:11:05 -0000

In an interview with HT's Sunetra Choudhury, Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) leader OP Rajbhar said BJP was an enemy of OBCs and more party leaders are expected to quit ahead of the elections.

Gita Gopinath: Changing a Man’s World

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 06:29:40 -0000

In this episode, Hindustan Times' Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Gita Gopinath, Chief Economist, IMF about being the first woman to lead the IMF and what she make of all the headlines that are doing the rounds. She also spoke about the state of the world now and the state of women in it.

Smriti Irani: Minister and novelist?

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 06:57:18 -0000

Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smriti Zubin Irani has turned author with her debut novel “Lal Salaam”, announced publishing house Westland. “Lal Salaam” is the story of a young officer, Vikram Pratap Singh, and of the challenges he faces against a system that is steeped in backroom politics and corruption. Listen to her in conversation with HT's National Political Editor Sunetra Choudhury who speaks to her about her new journey as an author, where she got the idea from, how did she manage the time amidst her political responsibilities, and a lot more.

What’s in store for women in NDA: Air Marshal Padma Bandhopadyay

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 13:25:03 -0000

This week the President of India conferred one of the highest civilian awards to one of the first women in the armed forces Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay who joined the force in 1968. We speak to her as the armed prepares for the first time to receive women NDA cadets. What advice does she have for the new entrants?

The Fractured Himalaya: India & China The way forward

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 04:39:19 -0000

It has now been more than a year and a half since Indian and Chinese troops have been locked in a standoff at the border. There have been thirteen rounds of talks between the two sides but increasingly, it has become evident, that the two sides may be locked in an impasse. HT interviews the former foreign secretary Nirupama Rao who has just authored a book called The Fractured Himalaya: India Tibet China 1949-62 Listen to her in conversation with HT's National Political Editor Sunetra Choudhury on the way forward between the two countries.

Aryan Khan Case: Why is he in jail without drug possession? Top defence lawyer explains

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 14:35:28 -0000

In the latest episode of On the Record, Top defence lawyer Rebecca John speaks to Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury on the Aryan Khan drugs case. John explains why Shah Rukh Khan’s son is still in jail without possession of drugs. Aryan was arrested by NCB earlier this month for his alleged connection to a drugs case. A special court in Mumbai on Wednesday refused to grant bail to Aryan & two others. Listen to the full episode for more.

Lakhimpur Kheri: Violent Political Clashes | In conversation with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 08:32:38 -0000

The situation prevails to tense in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri where the violent clashes claimed eight lives on Sunday. Section 144 has been imposed on several political party workers, even on the big names. In this episode, Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury speaks to a Congress' Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as she shares what all she has faced in the last 2 days as she tried to visit the Lakhimpur Kheri district. Tune in to know more.

How to be a CEO and raise a family : Indra Nooyi

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 14:34:59 -0000

Indra Nooyi, the former CEO OF PepsiCo is a popular name in the world of business. She is a rule breaker in her conservative family and in an era in India where it was considered unseemly for young women to exert themselves, she touched new heights and did wonders and became an inspiration for many. In this episode, our host speaks with Indira Nooyi as she shares what it took for her to handle her work, family and raise kids. She reveals about her life and work and some of the key issues faced by women such as pay parity and getting the respect as a woman in her workplace. Tune in now!!

Women's Reservation Bill: 25 years later

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:27:23 -0000

On September 12, 2021, it will be 25 years since the first time the Women's Reservation Bill was introduced in Parliament. Years have passed, however, the Bill continues to languish and is yet to become a reality. In the recent edition of On The Record, CPIM leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Brinda Karat speaks to Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury and talks about the 25 years of the Women's Reservation Bill. Why is it still pending? Why is it not on top of the agenda of every political party? Listen to the full episode for more.

Taliban Takeover: What it means for India

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 11:28:08 -0000

In the latest episode of On the Record, former ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha speaks to Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury and talks about the recent developments in the war-torn country. The former Afghan envoy explains what the Taliban takeover of the neighboring nation means for India. Watch the full interview for more.

68: What's it like being in Kabul as Taliban fighters roam the street?

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 09:47:11 -0000

On this episode of On the record listen to a young aid worker from Bengal hiding in Kabul. Wanting to remain hidden out of fear 'AH' tells us how he missed the last flight as he didnt have his covid test printout. He speaks to us as gunshots ring in the background

Assam-Mizoram Peace Treaty

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 08:23:37 -0000

In this fresh episode of ‘On The Record’, National Political Editor Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Assam CM Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma about the border dispute with Mizoram and the efforts that were made to ease tensions. They talk about the current relation between Assam and Mizoram and explain the whole issue to the listeners. Tune in, now!

The Parliament protester

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 06:31:00 -0000

In the latest edition of On The Record, Hindustan Times' National Political Editor Sunetra Choudhury catches up with Trinamool Congress MP Dola Sen. Dola was among the six MPs who were suspended from the House for a day. On Wednesday, Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu had suspended the TMC MPs for the day for carrying placards into the well of the House while protesting along with other opposition MPs over the Pegasus issue. The other TMC MPs who were suspended included Md. Nadimul Haque, Abir Ranjan Biswas, Shanta Chhetri, Arpita Ghosh, and Mausam Noor. Listen to the full podcast for more.

Pegasus: Why there needs to be a probe

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 08:11:54 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times' Sunetra Choudhury speaks to CPM Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas on Pegasus issue. John Brittas have approached Supreme Court in this regard and opposes the idea of being under constant watch even after living in a democratic country.

'God won't be pleased if lives are lost because of our laxity': Uttarakhand CM

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 12:51:24 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times' Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Dhami on why he stopped the religious gathering of Kanwars. The Uttarakhand Government on Tuesday decided to cancel the annual Kanwar Yatra, in view of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic situation.

‘BJP will get less than 100 seats in Uttar Pradesh’: Sanjay Singh

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 08:46:24 -0000

Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh spoke about his meeting with Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav. Singh said the meeting with Yadav was to discuss how “BJP used money power during the Zila Panchayat Chairperson polls”. The AAP MP demanded suspension of the recent Zila Panchayat Chairperson polls in Uttar Pradesh. Singh also said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will not get more than 100 seats in the upcoming 2022 Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh. Listen to the full podcast for more details.

Shyam Benegal: Why he approves of govt’s changes for cinema

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 10:58:33 -0000

Many filmmakers have raised concerns at the proposed “Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2021” and believe it could endanger the freedom of expression of cinema. However, the famous film director Shayam Benegal seems to support the government's move. Catch Sunerta Choudhury in conversation with Shayam Benegal to find out why supports the government’s move.

Could Covid deaths be 10 times the declared number?

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 04:28:38 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks with Professor Chinmay Tumbe on the number of Covid-19 deaths in India. Tumbe, the author of a highly regarded book called 'The Age of Pandemics', has also studied the death toll of the present Covid pandemic. He throws light on the number of excess deaths in some of the large states of the country.

Jitin Prasada on why he joined BJP

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 07:20:05 -0000

With Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections approaching quickly, the Indian National Congress party suffered a serious blow on June 9. Jitin Prasada, considered a close confidant of Rahul Gandhi, quit the grand old party and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. Tune in as Hindustan Times' Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Jitin Parsada about what led him to shift to BJP and much more.

When to get vaccinated post covid and Black Fungus- Dr Faheem Younus Answers our questions

Thu, 20 May 2021 12:38:15 -0000

In this episode of On The Record HT's Sunetra talks to infectious diseases expert from the University of Maryland, Dr. Faheem Younus who explains when one can take vaccine after recovering from Covid-19 and much more. Tune in to know more

MB Rajesh on why Shailaja was dropped, new Kerala team, & more

Wed, 19 May 2021 06:48:19 -0000

Kerala has just announced its new team of ministers. It has a brand new team and new faces but what many are keen on knowing is why was the health minister KK Shailaja dropped? For this and much more, the new speaker MB Rajesh speaks to Sunetra Choudhury

'Strategic vaccination can help stop the spread of the virus': Dr. Tom Frieden

Tue, 11 May 2021 14:06:56 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury speaks with Dr. Tom Frieden President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives about the current situation of Covid-19 and vaccination in India. Dr. Frieden said 'Providing clinical care and strategic vaccination can help stop the spread of the virus.' Tune in for more!

India’s deadly second wave: What needs to be done

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 11:12:23 -0000

The world now watches in horror as India struggles to cope with the second wave of the corona virus in India. The country is seeing a record number of new cases and people dying, many times due to oxygen scarcity. The US has promised help with stocks of vaccines or its raw materials but what more can be done. We speak to Dr Ashish Jha, dean at Brown University

Everything you want to know about masks, explained by Dr Gagandeep Kang

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 11:01:53 -0000

Dr Gagandeep Kang, professor of microbiology at CMC, Vellore, and former chair of an ICMR panel on Covid drugs and vaccines spoke to Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury on the ongoing second wave of the Covid pandemic. Dr Kang said that if there is someone who has been infected with the virus at home, all others in the house should wear masks, even when they are inside. She added that masking up at home is a good advice to follow at this time when cases have seen a steep rise in the capital.

Amartya Sen on why BJP's attracting Dalit and backward voters.

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 08:58:16 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times' Sunetra Choudhury speaks with Nobel Prize-winning economist and author Amartya Sen about the ongoing West Bengal elections. Polling for the first four phases has been concluded while the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth phases will take place on April 17, 22, 26, and 29 respectively. The counting of votes will take place on May 2.Listen to the full podcast for more details.

Sachin Vaze: Secrets of Encounter Cops

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 09:36:53 -0000

Over the last few days, the country has watched shocked as the National Investigation Agency arrested encounter specialist police officer Sachin Vaze. Vaze is known to be close to the Shiv Sena but how do police officers like him operate. India’s first woman chief of the Mumbai Crime Branch talks to HT's Sunetra about what she calls daredevil policemen she met and dealt with.

'Haryana Job quota law to be tweaked': Deputy CM Dushyant Chautala

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 08:12:26 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks with the deputy chief minister of Haryana, Dushyant Chautala about the 75% job quota for locals in the state and how industry says it will destroy ease of business.

RS Sharma: Vaccinating India

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 08:11:34 -0000

On the day that India began inoculating members of the general population against Covid-19, RS Sharma, CEO of National Health Authority, spoke on the programme. He called the vaccination of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a 'major boost' for the drive. He also projected a daily vaccination target of 27 lakh in the near future. Sharma also explained the process of registration for vaccination for those aged 60 and above, and those aged 45+ with comorbidities. Listen to the full episode for more.

49: Dinesh Trivedi on Trinamool Congress and corruption

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 08:10:40 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks with Ex-leader of Trinamool Congress Dinesh Trivedi about the party, corruption and BJP’s offer. Trivedi said, “Why should I have to go by BJP? The people of the state are saying it." He added, “When asked I said it would be a privilege to join the BJP as it is the number 1 party in the world. Sitaram Yechury is also a good friend, so is Uddhav Thackeray. I met Sharad Pawar the other day. Everybody is a friend. I have seen it all.” Trivedi joined a long list of TMC leaders who have left the ruling party ahead of the West Bengal assembly elections. Listen to the full episode for more.

48: 'Will join BJP when there's black snow in Kashmir': Congress' Ghulam Nabi Azad

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 10:22:55 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, who will be ending his Rajya Sabha stint on Monday after a four-decade-long career in Parliament, spoke to Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury and Saubhadra Chatterji about his farewell by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speculation that he may join the BJP, about being a ‘Hindustani Muslim’, and the thinking behind the letter written by the ‘Group of 23’, among other issues. Listen to the full episode for more.

47: Busting population myths with Dr SY Quraishi

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 09:55:50 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record with Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to former chief election commissioner Dr. SY Quraishi. The former CEC busts population myths. Dr. Quraishi talks about polygamy behind the population explosion and how Muslims are not the most polygamous. Listen to the full episode for more.

46: Why one NDA ally is sticking with BJP on farm laws | On The Record

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 12:43:58 -0000

In the latest Podcast of 'On The Record' , Sunetra Choudhury and Janata Dal (United) president and Rajya Sabha member Ram Chandra Prasad (RCP) Singh spoke on the ongoing farmer’s agitation against the Centre’s three new farm laws. "Everyone agrees that farmers need to do well, their incomes need to increase. A farmers' organisation is different from a political party. So if you bring in a political agenda, then that has a different platform," he said. Singh also talked about the violence on Republic Day in Delhi, SC judgement on farm laws and why the Americans are wrong on the same.

45: CEA Subramanian responds to Manmohan Singh's inequality charge

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 11:53:20 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record with Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury, Chief Economic Advisor, Krishnamurthy Subramanian responded to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s inequality charge. Subramanian said, “I think we have to look at the strength of the economic argument other than the person making the argument. The chapter that we have written in the Economic Survey on inequality and growth, I think has a resounding answer to arguments like these. I think these commentaries are based on conversations in advanced economies where there is a conflict between inequality and growth.” He added, “In India, this kind of tension doesn't manifest itself, whether you look at education, health outcomes, crime, mental health, all kinds of indicators.”

44: Ex-vice president Hamid Ansari on Parliament impasse: 'It's getting ugly'

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 07:54:50 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to former vice president Hamid Ansari on Parliament impasse. Ansari said that the boycott of the President’s address by Opposition parties may be a symbolic move but the hostility between the ruling party and the opposition is becoming ‘ugly’. This comes after leaders of 17 political parties said they will boycott President Ram Nath Kovind’s address to Parliament to express protest over the new agriculture laws. Listen to the full episode for more details.

43: In Bengal, if you are with BJP, you lose: Saugata Roy

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 09:58:42 -0000

Is there an arithmetical challenge to the BJP's chances of winning in Bengal? @SaugataRoyMP tells HT’s Sunetra Choudhary that you can't exclude muslims from your politics in the state and still expect to win.

42: 'Mamata, Abhishek behind attack on Nadda: Vijayvargiya'

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 17:13:12 -0000

In this interview with host Sunetra Choudhury, Kailash Vijayvargiya spells out BJP’s strategy ahead of Bengal Polls. Vijayvargiya says TMC leaders are unhappy with CM’s support of her nephew and his style of working which is why they are joining them.

41: The story of BJP before Modi

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 14:32:23 -0000

On this episode, we speak to Vinay Sitapati about his new book Jugalbandi that takes us back to the beginning of the BJP and the Atal Bihari Vajpayee and LK Advani leadership. Did they hate each other and who was the woman Vajpayee defied the RSS for?

40: We need to introspect: Top Congress leader after Bihar results

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 12:40:54 -0000

One of the biggest failures in Bihar election 2020 was of the Congress party. While Congress says they were given tough seats, CWC member Tariq Anwar has admitted that the problem was entirely their own. He speaks to Hindustan Times' political editor Sunetra Choudhury about where the problem lies for the party.

39: US Presidential elections over-viewed by Dr. Shashi Tharoor

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 05:37:00 -0000

In this episode, an Indian politician, writer and former international diplomat, Dr. Shashi Tharoor dialogues with Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury. A heart to heart discussion is held on ongoing US Presidential elections. In this conversation, Dr. Shashi Tharoor gives a brief regarding US voters and the politics in the state. Tune in to know more.

38: Harvard Prof Martin Kulldorff explains why schools should open

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 05:59:42 -0000

Harvard Professor Martin Kulldorff, in an exclusive conversation with Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury, explains why schools should open now. Schools have been shut in India since March in view of Covid-19 pandemic. Professor Kulldorff also explains about the Great Barrington Declaration.

37: Hathras Case: Dalit Perspective with Suraj Yengde

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 13:58:35 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to author Suraj Yengde about what the Hathras case tells one about the status of Dalits in India. A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly gang-raped in UP's Hathras by four men in her village on Sep 14 when she went to a farm. She was taken to a hospital in Aligarh and later moved to Safdarjung hospital in Delhi where she breathed her last on September 29.

36: Babri Verdict- Why top lawyer says verdict shows ‘CBI collusion'

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 13:40:33 -0000

The demolition of Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992, changed the course of India’s history. As the CBI special court acquitted LK Advani, MM Joshi, Uma Bharti among others, top lawyer Yug Mohit Chaudhry looks at the larger implication of the verdict. Why is it that CBI failed to get any evidence after 28 years?

35: On The Record with Sukhbir Singh Badal, Shiromani Akali Dal chief.

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:10:49 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Shiromani Akali Dal chief, Sukhbir Singh Badal. They talk about the recent Farm Bills that were passed by the Rajya Sabha, and his appeal to the president not to sign it.

34: On The Record with Neeraj Kumar, former chief of Delhi Police.

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 13:02:02 -0000

In this episode of 'On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to the former chief of Delhi Police, Neeraj Kumar as he comes out in support of the force’s investigation into the February 2020 riots. Kumar spoke on the antagonistic relationship between Delhi Police, the student community, and the civil society. Tune in for more..

33: On The Record with Sushil Modi | Bihar Polls: Why Sushil Modi wants Lalu Yadav out of jail.

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 11:06:31 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi over assembly elections in the state and the Covid-19 pandemic. Tune in for more.

32: On The Record with Sachin Pilot

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 09:55:05 -0000

Congress leader Sachin Pilot responded to him being called ‘nikamma’ by Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. Speaking to Hindustan Times’ National Political Editor Sunetra Choudhury, Pilot said he was deeply hurt by the comments and chose not to respond to them. “I have to admit when I heard some of the language used against me, it did deeply hurt me. I felt I was wronged and aggrieved and then to hear the things that I heard. To say the least, it wasn't charitable and unparliamentary, of course. But two wrongs don't make a right, I'm not going to retort in the same tone and tenor. It's unbecoming of people in public life to take the level of discourse to a point where people think it's unbecoming. I chose not to respond,” he said. Listen to the full episode for more!

31: Matchmaking in India: Regressive or reality ?

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:26:03 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Sunetra speaks to filmmaker Smriti Mundhra on her latest Netflix release Indian Matchmaking. The documentary series showcases Sima Taparia, a matchmaker from Mumbai, helping her NRI clients find a partner for themselves. Smriti reveals that she was ‘prepared for strong reactions and a lot of conversations to happen around the show’

30: On dissent by MLAs and the recent ruling by the Rajasthan High court

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 06:32:31 -0000

Sunetra Choudhury talks to Former Attorney Mukul Rohatgi & Mr. Kapil Sibal about the Rajasthan High court battle between Sachin Pilot & the Congress Party & Ashok Gehlot ( CM of Rajasthan).

29: 'Congress needs clarity at the top': Dinesh Gundu Rao

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 15:48:16 -0000

Congress party’s internal struggles have really come to the forefront as Sachin Pilot claimed his right to become Chief Minister of Rajasthan. His removal afterwards shocked all his colleagues. Sunetra Choudhury speaks to one of them, Dinesh Gundu Rao who also headed a state wing and is also a ‘dynast’ like Pilot. Here’s what he said about what went wrong.

28: 10 million tests till now is a joke': Adar Poonawalla

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 04:11:11 -0000

On this episode of On the Record, Adar Poonawalla of the Vaccine Manufacturers Association of India speaks to Hindustan Times’ National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury. Poonawalla informs them that they will begin the production of Oxford vaccine next month and it will take 1.5 years to make enough vaccine for all in India. Listen to the full interview for more details.

27: On low death rate & lockdowns: Oxford Prof Sunetra Gupta's argument

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 05:59:19 -0000

In this conversation with Hindustan Times' national political editor, Sunetra Choudhury, Professor Gupta explains why she considers lockdowns 'drastic' and not a long term solution. She also explains why comparisons about COVID spread shouldn't be done on a nation-wide basis.

26: 20 soldiers killed: What India could have done different, says Gen Panag

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 16:00:28 -0000

On this episode of On the Record, Lt Gen (Retd) HS Panag speaks to Hindustan Times’ National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury. In the wake of 20 Indian soldiers' killing in LAC stand-off with China, Gen Panag talks on what India could have done differently.

25: Why the government is fighting a hospital during pandemic

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 07:44:23 -0000

A major face-off is brewing in the national capital amid the Covid-19 pandemic. An FIR has been filed against a private hospital in Delhi, Sir Ganga Ram hospital, for allegedly not updating COVID test information on a dedicated app. Dr Ambarish Satwik, a surgeon at the hospital, discusses the implications of the criminal investigation, and the government's refusal to allow the hospital to conduct COVID tests, with Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury.

24: Shortage of beds, bodies piling up at KEM? What Aaditya Thackeray has to say

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 04:27:24 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Maharashtra’s Tourism and Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray on the opening up of the state. During the interview, Thackeray explained why bodies are piling up at KEM hospital. He also talks about shortage of hospital beds and equipment in Maharashtra.

23: How safe is flying? Vistara CCO answers

Tue, 26 May 2020 09:20:01 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Vistara Chief Commercial Officer Vinod Kannan. As domestic flights resume in the country after two months, Kannan talks about the safety measures they have adopted amid covid-19 crisis. Kannan also answers queries about compressed cabin air and how much extra time one should add to his/her journey.

22: Only 18% Indian homes have tap water, is washing hands a luxury?

Thu, 21 May 2020 10:06:04 -0000

In an interview with Hindustan Times' National Political Editor Sunetra Choudhury, Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat admitted that washing hands is a challenge in some areas. The Union Minister also spoke on the three visible causes of water pollution - sewage, industrial effluents, and human interactions.

21: Justice Abhay Thipsay's (retd.) on advising Nirav Modi's lawyers

Fri, 15 May 2020 13:08:34 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury talks to Justice Abhay Thipsay (retd.). The BJP has called the involvement of Justice Abhay Thipsay (retd.), an INC member, in the Nirav Modi extradition case, an example of the grand old party trying to shield the fugitive. Amid the war of words, Justice Thipsay presents his side of the story.

20: ‘Waiting list of 3 lakhs to get trains’: Former migrant worker

Thu, 14 May 2020 10:59:33 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to a former migrant labourer Sanjay Sahni who is receiving more than 200 calls daily from migrants across country. Sahni describes how and why labourers are moving and how difficult it is for them to take trains after the government announced special services.

19: ‘Was the government blindsided on migrants’: CEA answers

Mon, 04 May 2020 09:33:54 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy V Subramanian. During the interview, Subramanian said that the second economic stimulus package can be expected ‘very soon’ however he declined to put a time-frame or a magnitude to it. When asked if the lockdown was ill-planned, Subramanian said the govt is responding to their needs in the best possible manner.

18: Decided on curfew within 1 hr': IAS Tina Dabi on stemming Covid in Bhilwara

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 08:11:55 -0000

With count of Covid-19 cases rising across the country, all eyes have turned to Rajasthan's Bhilwara where the administration was able to control the spread of the Sars-Cov-2 virus with some quick, effective steps. With the 'Bhilwara model' being the talk of the town, Hindustan Times' National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury, spoke to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Tina Dabi to understand what the administration did right.

17: How Sonia Gandhi stopped Dr Singh from resigning

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 08:53:54 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury speaks to ex-deputy chairman of the now-defunct Planning Commission, Montek Singh Ahluwalia. In his new book “Backstage: The Story behind India’s High Growth Years”, Ahluwalia reveals that after the Rahul Gandhi ordinance-trashing episode of 2013, the then prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh asked him whether he should resign.

16: Why Governor Dhankhar believes in 1000-year-old flying machines

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 04:49:46 -0000

West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankar speaks to Sunetra Choudhury about his comments on nuclear power existing during the Mahabharat. He says that despite what his critics and scientists may think, he and many others believe that everything in the Ramayana and Mahabharat is true, and not mythological. The texts are based not facts and so everything in it including the 'udan khatolas' actually existed.

15: Haryana Deputy CM- Why he chose BJP over Congress

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 06:31:03 -0000

In the latest episode of On The Record, Haryana’s deputy chief minister, Dushyant Chautala, spoke to Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury about why he chose the BJP over Congress.

14: Davinder Singh’s arrest and how it changes how Afzal is viewed

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 14:11:33 -0000

When J and K police officer Davinder Singh was arrested, it opened up a whole can of worms because he was also the police officer who Afzal Guru alleged ordered him to help the Parliament attacker Mohammed. Was Guru wronged and should there be a judicial relook? We speak to an advocate who fought against Afzal Guru’s death penalty, ND Pancholi

13: Everything you wanted to know about new Chief of Defence Staff

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 14:44:01 -0000

The post of the new Chief of Defence Staff has been created at a time when border issues are of utmost concern. In the latest episode of On The Record, Hindustan Times speaks to Lieutenant General (Retd) Satish Dua to get answers to all the questions you may have.

12: What Hemant Soren said when asked about NRC

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 09:48:26 -0000

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha's Hemant Soren spoke on his stand on the implementation of NRC in Jharkhand. "We have not even received the notification of this," Soren said. Soren had pulled down the Arjun Munda government in 2013 to become the chief minister, then the state’s and the country’s youngest. It was practically under his leadership that the JMM delivered its highest ever tally of 19 seats in 2014. This time, he has beaten his record and is set to corner 29 seats to emerge as the state’s largest party.

11: Congress' Jairam Ramesh on why he is confident of bringing down CAA

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 10:39:27 -0000

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh is one of the 59 petitioners, who have approached the Supreme Court against the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Act. In an interview with Hindustan Times’ Sunetra Choudhury, he spoke about why he went to court and the challenge that the opposition faces.

10: 'Police handling unforgivable': Former Delhi commissioner on Jamia protests

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 06:26:28 -0000

In this episode of On the Record, we speak to former Delhi Police commissioner Neeraj Kumar on the way protestors were handled in the Capital. Kumar who was in charge when the Dec 16, 2012 gangrape and murder took place recalls the time when he was handling Jamia protests during the anti-Salman Rushdie campaign on campus in the 80's.

9: Ex-CJI RM Lodha on Citizenship Bill, Telangana encounter

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 07:13:15 -0000

Former Chief Justice of India RM Lodha spoke to HT's Sunetra Choudhury about the recent encounter of alleged rapists in Hyderabad. He said there couldn't be two ways of looking at it, mob mentality had prevailed because people wanted instant justice. He said the only way to bring back faith in processes was by investing in reform. He also commented on the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

8: Rajeev Dhawan speaks on Ayodhya Verdict: Of sackings & threats

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 04:14:00 -0000

In this interview, the senior advocate spoke to HT's Sunetra Choudhury for the first time after the Ayodhya Verdict. After fighting for Muslim groups for years, he says that he was sacked because there is a rift among them which he doesn't want to drive. However, he feels that there should be a review petition because justice still eluded the community.

7: Chirag Paswan: Mandate for BJP-Sena, not BJP-Ajit Pawar

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 14:57:55 -0000

The mandate in Maharashtra was for an alliance government by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiv Sena, and not for any other combination, said Chirag Paswan, the president of BJP ally Lok Janshakti Party and the son of Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan. In an interview to HT on Monday, Chirag stressed that the efforts to form a government by the coming together of “ideologically different” were “not correct”. Watch the full video to know more.

6: On The Record with Modi’s 'Swachh Man' Parameswaran Iyer

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:08:12 -0000

On world toilet day, Hindustan Times speaks to Parameswaran Iyer who left a world bank job to lead the Swachh Bharat campaign. He talks to us about the challenges and getting Bollywood to talk about toilets.

5: Ram Temple: Rift in the Congress

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 16:31:43 -0000

The Congress Party has recently welcomed the Ayodhya Verdict and the building of the Ram temple at the disputed site. However, this hasn’t gone down well with all sections within the party. HT spoke to Salman Khurshid who disagreed with Randeep Surjewala’s comments.

4: The man in charge of Ayodhya

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 09:05:11 -0000

Ahead of the SC verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, District Magistrate of Ayodhya, Anuj Kumar Jha speaks to Hindustan Times. Section 144 has been imposed in the temple town till December 2019 to avoid any law and order situation. The District Magistrate has also issued dos and don'ts for social media activity. Listen the full podcast where ‘the man in charge’ talks about the preventive measures that are in place in Ayodhya.

3: BJP must give Sena more portfolios in Maha,Centre: Athawale

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 10:12:38 -0000

On this edition of On The Record, Union Minister and president of the Republican Party of India spoke to Hindustan Times about the ongoing negotiations for government formation in Maharashtra. Speaking to HT's national political editor Sunetra Choudhury, Athawale said that he had met chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday and asked for the Sena and BJP to hammer out an agreement. While the Sena should agree to the Deputy Chief Minister's post instead of demanding the CM's post on a rotational basis, Athawale said that the BJP should accomodate by giving the Sena more seats in the cabinet instead of the single portfolio that they currently hold.

2: When Nitin Gadkari got fined for speeding

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 12:06:00 -0000

If you are one of the many who have had to pay a hefty fine for a traffic violation, you are in fine company. Speaking to Hindustan Times on our interview show On the Record, Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari said that even he had to pay a fine for speeding. ``I was in Delhi but my car was on the Worli-Bandra sealink. I think the car was speeding and so the cameras caught them. We had to pay,'' he said. While the minister didn't reveal the amount that he had to pay, the fine for a Light Motor Vehicle is between 1,000 and 2,000 rupees.

1: Bhupinder Singh Hooda: Is Haryana Congress' mission impossible?

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 11:50:04 -0000

Ahead of the polls next month, we speak to Congress' leader in Haryana Bhupinder Singh Hooda and ask whether the decision to change the leadership in the state came too late. Hooda also responds to questions about his cases and dynasty and how he plans to challenge Manohar Lal Khattar.