South Central
South Central is a podcast from The News Minute that focuses on bringing the stories, challenges, and perspectives of southern India to the forefront. Hosted by Editor-in-Chief Dhanya Rajendran and Reporting Head Pooja Prasanna, each episode provides sharp insights and on-the-ground expertise on issues that often go unheard in national conversations.
Episodes
INDIA bloc’s drift towards BJP and how India perceives child abuse | South Central 84
In this week’s South Central hosts, Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna explore the churning in the country’s political Opposition. From TMC's dwindling numbers to DMK's tricky balancing act on the delimitation Bill. The hosts break down the realignment with senior journalist and Author Neerja Chowdhury and journalist Arvind Gunasekar. Is this about principles, or just who's placing the better bet
Raavan arrests and policing dissent in Andhra Pradesh | South Central 83
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first dives into the repeated targeting of YouTuber Raavan, who has been arrested five times over speeches critical of the Andhra Pradesh government, including one containing a controversial remark about Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan. The hosts are joined by senior journalist C Vanaja and Prof Murali Karnam of NALSAR Univ
Losing your vote and passport | PE in Kerala hospitals | South Central 82
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss senior journalist R Rajagopal’s letter regarding the removal of his name from the electoral rolls, denying him renewal of his passport. They are joined by R Rajagopal himself and Shivasundar, a senior activist and researcher who has been studying the election process.In the second part of the episode, the hosts a
Ayodhya Ram temple trust allegations and the politics of defections | South Central
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna are joined by The Wire's Editor Seema Chishti and TNM's Karnataka Bureau Chief Anisha Sheth. They first discuss the controversy surrounding the Ayodhya Ram Temple, questioning the formation of the SIT and why agencies such as the CBI or the CAG have not stepped in.In the second half of the episode, the panel discusses MPs
Why the RSS does not want to register| Rise of Hindutva Pop| South Central
In this week's South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the RSS's longstanding reluctance to register itself as an organisation. They are joined by Shardool K of Newslaundry, who was part of the RSS for several years, and senior journalist Nikita Saxena. The panel unpacks how remaining unregistered has historically afforded the organisation plausible deniability, shield
Being a Dalit feminist on social media and illegal mining in TN
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss politics, gender, and self-expression with Aleena, a prominent writer and poet. She is a Dalit feminist thinker from Kerala who won the Sahithya Academy Kanakashree Award for her poetry collection titled Silk Route. In the second part of the episode, the hosts discuss illegal mining and quarrying, which pers
Annamalai says bye to BJP: Reasons and what’s in store
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the recent political developments in Tamil Nadu and the resignation of the BJP’s former state head, Annamalai. They are joined by senior journalist RK Radhakrishnan.In the second part of the episode, hosts discuss the Kerala government’s proposal to allow three days of period leave every month for school girls. T
Karnataka after Siddaramaiah and rise of Cockroach Janta Party | South Central 77
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the cabinet change in Karnataka and what Siddaramaiah’s resignation will mean for the state’s politics. They are joined by professor and commentator Prithvi Datta Chandra Shobhi.In the second half of the episode, the hosts discuss the Cockroach Janta Party and what this new political movement could mean. They
TVK’s social media game in Tamil Nadu and anti-SIR debate | South Central 76
In this episode of South Central, hosts Pooja Prasanna and Anisha Sheth first discuss the unprecedented use of social media in Tamil Nadu by Vijay’s TVK and whether it has reshaped politics in the state. They are joined by journalist and translator Kavitha Muralidharan and TNM’s Associate Editor Nandini Chandrasekhar.In the second part of the episode, the hosts discuss the SIR process in Karnataka
Is it time to do away with NEET?
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the NEET exam paper leak and the subsequent developments. They are joined by educationist and the founder of Career 360, Maheshwer Peri and TNM Associate Editor Nandini Chandrashekar. In the second part of the discussions, the hosts discuss the austerity measures announced by PM Modi, including a ban on
Vijay, the Governor and future of INDIA alliance
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the political developments in Tamil Nadu and the national implications of the fallout between DMK and Congress. They are joined by TNM’s Tamil Nadu bureau chief, Shabbir Ahmed, journalist and political analyst Rasheed Kidwai, and K Venkataramanan, a senior journalist who was previously with The Hindu.Support South
TN and Kerala exit polls: Believable or not?
In the first part of this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the Kerala and Tamil Nadu exit polls and the recent political developments in both states.They are joined by TNM’s Tamil Nadu bureau chief Shabbir Ahmed, Kerala bureau chief Haritha John, and senior reporter Azeefa Fathima.In the second part of the episode, the hosts discuss the World Press Freedom In
The delimitation question & Telangana caste survey | South Central Podcast
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss delimitation and what states should now be discussing with the Union government. They are joined by former IAS officer Rangarajan Ramakrishnan.In the second part of the episode, the hosts discuss the Telangana government’s Socio-Economic, Educational, Employment, Political and Caste (SEEEPC) Survey 2024, its
Tamil Nadu elections: Delimitation row, alliances & what will decide the vote | South Central 71
In this episode of South Central, Pooja Prasanna and Azeefa Fathima discuss the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, focusing on the delimitation row, alliances, welfare politics, and what may ultimately decide the vote. They are joined by Frontline’s Senior Associate Editor R K Radhakrishnan, The Hindu’s Chief of Bureau Ramya Kannan, and academic and activist Dr C Lakshmanan. The panel examine
Can Vijay break DMK–AIADMK hold? | Bennix–Jayaraj case: Why verdict stands out | South Central
In this episode on South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. They are joined by The Deccan Herald’s Assistant Editor Sivapriyan and journalist and translator Kavitha Muralidharan. In the second segment of the episode, the hosts discuss the verdict in the Sathankulam police station case in which Bennix and Jayaraj were torture
New IT rules and how it will impact what you post| Kerala Election | South Central 69
In this week’s South Central, Dhanya Rajendran, Anisha Sheth, and cartoonist Rachita Taneja discuss the Union government’s proposed amendments to the IT law and what they mean for online speech. Why is the government bringing in these changes, and how will they impact people sharing news and opinions online?In the second part, guests from Kerala discuss the upcoming Assembly elections. Environment
Does LDF or UDF have an edge in Kerala? | Transbill Horror | South Central 68
This week South Central looks at Kerala’s elections and the transgender amendment law. Hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna are joined by MG Radhakrishnan, Sreejan Balakrishnan, and TNM’s Haritha John to unpack why the UDF may have a slight edge but no clear wave against Pinarayi Vijayan. In the second segment, Azeefa Fatima and Lakshmi Priya discuss the trans bill’s fallout, with reports of
Bill 2026: BJP’s war on self-identification & KD The Devil song: Why does misogyny still get a free pass? | South Central 67
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the Transgender Persons Amendment Bill 2026, which has triggered protests across the country. They are joined by advocate Arvind Narrain of the Alternative Law Forum, who was part of the panel of lawyers who fought for IPC 377 to be struck down. Joining in is also Rumi Harish, a musician and a queer, trans, mascu
LPG Crisis Fears & Why Opposition Wants Impeachment of CEC Gyanesh Kumar | South Central 66
In the first segment of this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the LPG crisis and what that could mean for India going forward. They are joined by energy journalist and policy expert Shreya Jai, and climate journalist and researcher Aruna Chandrasekhar. In the second segment, the hosts discuss the recent no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
The doctor who went to court to donate kidney and Iran-Israel war | South Central 65
In the first segment of this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna speak to senior gynaecologist Dr Thankam Subramonian, who recently approached the Karnataka HC to altruistically donate a kidney after being denied permission by a medical committee.In the second segment, the hosts delve into the ongoing military conflict between Iran, Israel and the USA. They are joined b
Karnataka’s ban on teenage mobile use and Kerala Story 2’s divisive agenda | South Central Episode 64
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the Karnataka government’s plan to ban teenagers from using mobile phones. They are joined by policy researcher Tara Krishnaswamy, child psychologist Sama Adil, and Adhira S Magesh, a teenager who is a Karate black belt holder and enthusiastic baker. In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into
TNM turns 12 and here is how we got this far | South Central Episode 63
The News Minute turns 12 on February 21, and to commemorate, in this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna bring together the old and new team of TNM. The group goes over how TNM started– a one-room venture with an intern and one reporter, and traces how it grew into a steadfast newsroom with several journalists, focusing on caste, gender, power, and culture.Once a month,
Naravane Memoir, LAC China Claims & Questions for the Govt | South Central Episode 62
This week, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the controversy over former Army Chief General MM Naravane's unpublished memoir, Four Stars of Destiny, and the political storm it has stirred in the Parliament. They are joined by senior journalist and founding editor of The Wire, MK Venu, and Caravan magazine’s Consulting Editor, Sushant Singh, who wrote about the book.Once a month, we
India-US trade deal and Karnataka’s plan to bring back student elections | South Central Podcast
In the first session, hosts Pooja Prasanna and Anisha Sheth discuss the India-US trade deal and the recently announced reduction in tariffs. They are joined by senior journalists Smita Sharma and TK Arun. In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into the ban on student elections in Karnataka and the Congress government’s proposal to bring it back. They are joined by Professor Muralidh
UGC rules protests and the myth of “misuse”, Kerala SNDP-NSS breakup | South Central Episode 60
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the new UGC equity regulations and the protests around them. They are joined by TNM’s Executive Editor Sudipto Mondal and rights lawyer Mridula Vanangamudi. Then they look at the fast-paced political negotiations and developments in Kerala, headed for Assembly polls soon. The hosts are joined by Damodar Prasa
Cinema, Politics and the War on Film Critics | South Central Podcast ft. Sucharita Tyagi, Anna MM Vetticad
In this episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the organised hate campaigns against film reviewers in the country. The discussion spans themes including the communal profiling of actors and reviewers and delves into whether fan culture catalyses the polarisation of films based on nationalism, religion, and gender politics. Joining the hosts are acclaimed film critics Anna MM Ve
Franco to Rahul Mamkootathil, power rewrites consent | Karnataka's Stuck Govt | South Central Episode 58
In the first session of the episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss the intersection of consent, agency and institutional power in sexual assault cases, like in the cases of Kerala MLA Rahul Mamkootathi, acquitted Bishop Franco Mulakkal, ex-BJP MLA Kuldeep Sengar and more. The hosts are joined by senior journalist Nidhi Suresh, TNM Associate Editor and gender journalist Sukanya
Chandrababu Naidu’s RSS shift and the Kochi Biennale controversy | South Central Episode 57
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the recent political developments in Andhra Pradesh, including CM Chandrababu Naidu’s growing affiliation with the BJP. They are joined by professor, politician, and political analyst K Nageshwar.In the second part of the discussion, the hosts delve into the controversy at the Kochi Biennale, where a painting
10-minute delivery at what cost? South Central on gig worker rights | Episode 56
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the strike by gig workers on December 25th and 31st, what their demands are and whether the existing framework of payouts and stipulated minimum delivery time violates their rights.The hosts are joined by Shaikh Salahuddin, founder and president of Telangana Gig And Platform Workers Union, and Maitreyi Krishn
Hafta X South Central: Highs & lows of media in 2025, influencers in news, Arnab’s ‘turnaround’
For this special year-ender episode, Newslaundry’s Abhinandan Sekhri and Manisha Pande and The News Minute’s Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna are joined by columnist and media critic Santosh Desai.The conversation begins with a wrap of the Indian media ecosystem this year. Santosh says, “Institutions are struggling to retain credibility and resist pressure.” Dhanya argues that mainstream media
Census, Delimitation & MNREGA Pushback | South Central Episode 55
In this year-ender episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss federalism and how it has fared in India. They are joined by economist and author Rathin Roy, and TNM’s Associate Editor Nandini Chandrasekhar.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak about to southcentral@thenewsminute.com Send your th
The State of Investigative Journalism in 2025 India | South Central Episode 54
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss whether investigative journalism is becoming one of the most endangered professions in India or is that a misplaced fear. Looking back at 2025, the conversation focuses on how much space investigative reporting still has, the risks journalists face, and whether strong reporting is able to create real impact. T
Secularism, Religion and the Indian State in 2025 | South Central 53
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss India’s Constitutional value of secularism and the contradictions in its practice. The panel delves into how India has fared, or not, in prioritising Constitutional values vis-à-vis political agenda. They are joined by journalist and activist Aakar Patel and Seema Chishti, the editorial head of The Wire.Reporting F
The Dileep case and how SIR is unfolding across states | South Central 52
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the Kerala actor assault case of 2017, which superstar Dileep is accused of orchestrating. As the verdict is expected in a week, the hosts take us through the details of the case and its impact on Kerala society. They are joined by TNM’s Associate Editor, Sukanya Shaji and Breaking News Head, Azeefa Fathima.
Sridhar Vembu’s Anti-Vaccine Claim and Privatisation of Govt Hospitals and Medical Colleges | South Central 51
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the anti-vaccine statements made by billionaire Sridhar Vembu. In the second session, the hosts delve into the efforts of several governments, including Karnataka and Andhra, to implement a PPP model in the health education sector. The hosts are joined by Dr PV Ramesh, IAS, and Dr Sylvia Karpagam, a public he
How Kerala says it ended extreme poverty, & inside Zohran Mamdani’s NYC mayoral win | South Central
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss Kerala’s announcement that it has eradicated extreme poverty. They are joined by T.V. Anupama, IAS officer and Special Secretary, Local Self Government Department and Devaswom, and Freddy Thomas, Assistant Professor at the School of Law, Christ University. The discussion explores how families were identified, t
Why ECI is pushing SIR, Yogendra Yadav explains | What the Bumble & Ranjith cases reveal about consent
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls across the country, and the controversies surrounding it. The hosts are joined by activist and psephologist Yogendra Yadav. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss two High Court orders–from Kerala and Karnataka– that quash FIRs in sexual harassme
Kerala school hijab row and Andhra–Karnataka fight over Google Centre
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the hijab controversy in Kerala, and whether it is a question of faith or the right to education. The hosts are joined by senior journalist Shahina KK and TNM’s Executive Editor Sudipto Mondal. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss the newly announced Google data centre in Visakhapatnam, whether
Why Dashwanth Was Acquitted | RSS Marches, Lathis and Secular Space
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Anisha Sheth first discuss the Supreme Court’s acquittal of Dashwanth, convicted and sentenced to death for the rape and murder of a minor girl in Tamil Nadu. They are joined by Azeefa Fathima, TNM’s head of Breaking News. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss the RSS’s centenary year and the outfit’s presence in the south
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Right-wing attack against CJI Gavai | The power of cults in Indian politics
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss whether the attack on the Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, is more than what just meets the eye. Justice Gavai is the second Dalit CJI of India. The hosts are joined by Ajoy Ashirwad, Political Affairs Editor, The Wire, and veteran journalist K Venkataramanan. In the second part of the session, the hosts and
Hafta x South Central feat. Josy Joseph: A crossover episode on the future of media
This week, The News Minute's Dhanya Rajendran and Sudipto Mondal, and Newslaundry’s Abhinandan Sekhri and Manisha Pande áre joined by senior journalist Josy Joseph for a special and South Central and Hafta crossover episode on the future of media.Josy begins the discussion by arguing that the decline of newspapers and television is accelerating, not only due to technology, but also because of a co
Karnataka Socio-Educational Survey Explained | Producers, Access and the Movie Ticket Cap Debate | South Central 45
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the controversy in Karnataka over the socio-educational survey, wrongly called the caste census. The hosts are joined by guests Anisha Sheth, TNM’s Karnataka Bureau Chief, and Shivasundar, writer and activist. In the second part of the session, the hosts discuss whether the price of movie tickets should be ca
Anti-Immigrant Protests: Are Indians Safe Abroad? | Press Freedom & Court Orders | South Central 44
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the safety of Indians abroad in the context of a surge in anti-immigration sentiments across Ireland, US, UK and more. Joining them are guests Joyojeet Pal and Bharathy Singaravel. The second part of the discussion is on two court orders– one, on Reliance Vantara, which says no further complaints will be
Umar Khalid’s UAPA Bail Rejection & Southern Leaders' Secularism Dilemma | South Central 43
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss the long legal process endured by Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and others who have been in prison without trial. The hosts are joined by lawyer and activist Shahrukh Alam and Poorna Ravishankar, lawyer and researcher whose focus area of study has been the Indian Constitution. In the second part of the discuss
Kavitha’s Exit from BRS: Patriarchy in Politics? States Push Back on GST | South Central 42
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss K Kavitha’s resignation from the BRS and what it reveals about power, patriarchy, and BC mobilisation in Telangana, set against the Kaleshwaram probe and the CBI-consent twist. They are joined by Tara Krishnaswamy, Political and Policy Consultant, and C Vanaja, Senior Journalist & Founder, Mahua Media, to unp
Questions over Ambani’s Vantara & the farce of Rahul Mamkootathil as MLA
In this week’s South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna first discuss Anant Ambani’s Vantara project and how, under the guise of animal rescue, it may be hiding something far more sinister. They are joined by investigative journalist M Rajshekhar, who has looked into Vantara’s formation, investigating deep into the problems in law, compliance, and more. In the second part of the di
South Central 40 | Election Commission's Credibility Crisis & The Nun Who Took Bishop Franco to Court
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath first discuss the ‘vote chori’ press conference by the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, issuing a seven-day ultimatum to Rahul Gandhi and anyone else casting doubts on the election process. Senior investigative journalist and Executive Editor of The Scroll, Supriya Sharma, joins them.In the seco
South Central 39 | How Prajwal Revanna Was Convicted, National award row
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath first discuss the conviction of former Janata Dal (Secular) leader Prajwal Revanna in the first of four cases of rape against him. The panel, joined by TNM Karnataka bureau chief Anisha Sheth, weighs in on why the judgement is a milestone for survivors of sexual assault. In the second part of the discussi
Kerala Nuns Arrest In Chhattisgarh, TCS IT Layoffs | South Central 38 |
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath first discuss the Bajrang Dal attack and consequential arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh-- Sister Preethi Mary and Sister Vandana Francis--both part of the Sister Assisi Mary Immaculate Convent. They are joined by senior advocate and founder of the Human Rights Law Network, Colin Gonsalves, who speaks ab
VS Achuthanandan’s Legacy and Gag Orders in the Dharmasthala Case
In this week's episode of South Central, Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the life and legacy of V.S. Achuthanandan with environmentalist Sridhar Radhakrishnan and senior journalist Sreejan Balakrishnan.Then, they look at the recent gag orders related to reporting on Dharmasthala, and revisit older allegations and data on deaths in the temple town, with TNM’s Karnataka
South Central 36 | Vijay in TN politics, pilots question Air India crash cockpit report
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Raghunath first discuss actor Vijay’s entry into Tamil Nadu politics. They are joined by senior journalist Kavitha Muralidharan and TNM’s Tamil Nadu bureau chief Shabbir Ahamed, who speak at length about whether Vijay will impact the state’s politics and if his party’s followers, who are predominantly fans of his films, are politic
Vijay Mallya’s Half-truths & Kingfisher’s Fall ft. Sucheta Dalal| Saffronising Bharat Matha in Kerala?
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the Vijay Mallya podcast and why political patronage for big businessmen is detrimental. Joining them is senior business journalist Sucheta Dalal. In the second discussion, the hosts delve into the Bharat Mata image controversy in Kerala and the impact of university VCs and Governors endorsing suc
South Central 34 I Karnataka’s DKS-Siddaramaiah tussle and RSS hypocrisy on Preamble
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the tussle between DK Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah over the state’s Chief Minister-ship. Professor Chandan Gowda joins them to unpack what this will mean for the state’s politics. In the second half, activist Shivasundar joins the hosts for a discussion on the hypocrisy of the RSS with respect to c
South Central 33 I The CBFC’s absurd demand of 127 cuts for Punjab 95, director Honey Trehan speaks
In this episode of South Central hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Reghunath discuss the censorship on director Honey Trehan’s film ‘Punjab95’, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra and what the UDF’s win in the Nilambur polls in Kerala means for the state’s politics. Guests Honey Trehan, Amandeep Sandhu, and MG Radhakrishnan weigh in.All this and more—tune in.Audio Timecodes 00:
Why BJP fears Keezhadi and the angle ignored in Sonam Raghuvanshi case| South Central 32
In Episode 32 of South Central, Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna speak with journalist Sivapriyan ETB about why the Keezhadi excavation challenges the Union government’s narrative and how the DMK is politicising it ahead of 2026.In the second half, lawyer Rohin Bhatt and journalist Leena Reghunath join to discuss the Sonam Raghuvanshi murder case in Meghalaya and what it reveals about caste, pa
South Central 31 | Chinmayi Sripaada’s Thug Life performance & Bengaluru’s stampede follow-up
In Episode 31 of South Central, singer Chinmayi Sripaada joins hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath to talk about her years of isolation after speaking out against sexual harassment in the Tamil film industry. From being unofficially banned despite hit songs to the emotional impact of her recent Thug Life performance, Chinmayi reflects on what it means to be remembered again
South Central 30 | RCB’s disheartening post win tragedy & Kamal Haasan’s Kannada origin row
In this episode of South Central hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the tragic stampede that occurred in Bengaluru during RCB’s post-win celebrations, and Kamal Haasan’s comment on Kannada’s origin. They are joined by journalists Venkat Ananth, Anisha Sheth and Professor Purushothama Bilemale. Audio timecodes00:00:00- Introduction00:03.43 - Headlines00.5.47 -
South Central 29 | BJP’s Muslim messaging & can you really separate art from the artist?
In Episode 29 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the dichotomy of the BJP’s Muslim-messaging within India and abroad. In the second section, they also talk about whether art can be truly separated from the artist. Joining the discussion are The Wire’s editor Seema Chishti, Musician TM Krishna, and senior journalist Anna MM Vetticad. Once a month,
South Central 28 | Will Shashi Tharoor leave Congress? And how India’s police get away with violence
In Episode 28 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Sudipto Mondal discuss if Shashi Tharoor is at a breaking point with the Congress party, and TNM-Newslaundry series on police excesses and impunity across India. Joining the discussion are lawyer and activist Vinay Srinivasa and TNM’s Chennai Bureau Chief Shabbir Ahmed. Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscr
South Central 27 | India-Pakistan tensions, and the theatre of TV news
In Episode 27 of South Central, Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the India–Pakistan ceasefire following Operation Sindoor and examine the role of the media during military escalation. They speak with defence expert Sushant Singh and senior journalist Prem Panicker.Once a month, we will invite one TNM subscriber to the show. Write to us on what you would like to speak a
South Central 26 | Operation Sindoor: Strategy, Risk, and Regional Fallout
In Episode 26 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss India’s Operation Sindoor, evolving military posture, diplomacy, and the challenges of reporting during heightened conflict. In the discussion are foreign affairs reporter Smita Sharma and Takshashila Institution co-founder Nitin pai. On India’s airstrikes, Nitin Pai says, “The three points Uri
South Central 25 | Pahalgam attack: How will India strike at Pakistan? and World Press Freedom Index
In the aftermath of the tragic killing of 26 civilians in Pahalgam, how should India respond — and what signals do recent government measures really send? Meanwhile, India has moved up in the World Press Freedom Index. But does this reflect actual change on the ground, or just a shifting global baseline?On South Central Episode 25, Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath speak with i
South Central 24 | Bengaluru's 'Us vs You' Row and BJP’s allegations of overreach by SC
In Episode 24 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss Bengaluru’s migrants vs Kannadigas issue and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar’s criticism aimed at the Supreme Court’s powers. Also part of the discussion are comedian and writer Nithin Kamath, lawyer Suhrith Parthasarathy, and TNM’s Anisha Sheth. On the Bengaluru debate, Dhanya says, “For many K
South Central 23 | Piyush Goyal Criticises Startups, SC Slams Governors | Dhanya Rajendran
In Episode 23 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Pooja Prasanna discuss Union Minister Piyush Goyal’s dig at Indian startups and the Supreme Court verdict on Tamil Nadu Governor that revived the debate on federalism. Joining them are chairman of Aarin Capital Mohandas Pai, political and policy consultant Tara Krishnaswamy, and TNM’s senior news editor Shabbir Ahmed. On the startup d
South Central 22 | US Deportations, Waqf Amendment Act
In Episode 22 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the US crackdown on Indian students through self-deportation notices and detentions and the implications of the Waqf Amendment Act 2025 with Suhasini Haidar, Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Hindu, and Senior Counsel Zafarullah Khan.On the scale of the US crackdown, Suhasini says, “What we have seen
South Central 21 | Empuraan Row, Bulldozers at Hyderabad Central University
In Episode 21 of South Central, hosts Pooja Prasanna and Leena Reghunath discuss the Empuraan controversy and the Telangana government’s use of bulldozers and police force to clear ecologically rich land near Hyderabad Central University, alongside TNM’s Nandini Chandrashekar, lawyer Nikhil Narendran, and environmental journalist Bahar Dutt.On the outrage over Empuraan, Nikhil says, “What is the p
South Central 20 | Kunal Kamra Row, Justice Varma Issue, Kiran Bedi Tapes
In Episode 20 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath discuss the absurdity of targeting Kunal Kamra, why the contempt of court law needs to go, and what the Kiran Bedi tapes reveal, alongside Alok Prasanna Kumar, Co-Founder and Lead, Vidhi Karnataka, and independent journalist Nikita Saxena.All this and more—tune in!Write to us on what you would like to speak
South Central 19 | Telangana Arrests Journalists | India’s ASHA Workers Ignored?
Are the arrests of journalists in Telangana a sign that the Revanth Reddy government is misusing power? Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, Leena Reghunath, and Sudipto Mondal speak with Amar Devulapalli, Editor of Mana Telangana, about what these arrests signal for press freedom in the state.They also speak with independent public health researcher Malu Mohan about why ASHA workers—hailed as heroes
South Central 18 | Electoral Integrity & Bengaluru's Governance Dilemma
The 18th episode of South Central, a weekly podcast hosted by TNM’s editor-in-chief Dhanya Rajendran and editorial head for reporting Pooja Prasanna, discussed concerns of electoral roll manipulation and Bengaluru’s governance challenges. Joining them were senior editor Nandini Chandrashekar, Nitin Sethi, the founding editor of Reporters' Collective, and activist Tara Krishnaswamy.Nitin Seth
South Central 17 | Indian Cricket, BCCI’s Power & Cinema’s Role in Kerala’s Crime
This week’s episode of South Central, hosted by journalist Dhanya Rajendran and co-hosted by Pooja Prasanna and Leena Reghunath, explored two pressing topics—youth violence in Kerala and the growing influence of hyper-nationalism in Indian cricket. The episode featured filmmaker Don Palathara, senior sports journalist Sharda Ugra, and social media influencer Aysha Mahmood.With Kerala witnessing vi
South Central Ep 16 | Delimitation: Will South Lose Political Power? | Karnataka’s ‘Naxal-Free’ Claim
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath are joined by activist and journalist Shivasundar and retired IAS officer PV Ramesh to discuss the looming delimitation and Karnataka’s Naxal journey.With delimitation set for 2026, will south India’s political representation shrink if more seats go to northern states? What does this mean for governance,
South Central Ep 15 | Union govt threatens TN over language policy, Vikatan and media censorship
The Union government is withholding education funds from Tamil Nadu over its refusal to implement the three-language policy. Is this really about language, or is it about control over states? Vikatan’s website was abruptly blocked days after BJP leaders attacked its cartoon on Modi. With independent media under pressure, is digital censorship the next frontier?Hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasann
South Central Ep 14 | Infosys Layoffs, IT Unions & Modi Era Film Censorship
Did Infosys rig performance tests to push employees out? As mass layoffs spark outrage, why do IT workers resist unionizing, and what deeper issues plague corporate India? India’s film industry is censoring itself—before the government even steps in. From CBFC delays to streaming platforms playing it safe, who really controls what we watch? Hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Leena Reghunath, and Sudipto Mond
South Central Ep 13 | Kumbh Mela Cover-Up, Chennai Police vs. Journalists & Telangana’s Caste Survey
In this episode of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath are joined by NewsLaundry’s Manisha Pande, along with TNM’s Sudipto Mondal and Jahnavi. On the Kumbh Mela Stampede, Manisha Pande discusses NewsLaundry’s ground report, highlighting how the official death toll is significantly lower than the actual numbers. “We accessed hospital records that show at
South Central Ep 12 | Tamil Nadu’s Iron Age Discovery & AI Copyright Battle
In this episode, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Reghunath are joined by Newslaundry’s Abhinandan Sekhri and independent journalist Sowmiya Ashok. On the AI copyright battle between Indian news organizations and OpenAI, Dhanya points, “This is not the first time. We are seeing a lot of litigation like this across the world. The New York Times and others have gone to court over this. Leena ad
South Central Ep 11 | RG Kar and Greeshma-Sharon Raj case: Reading the judgements
In episode 11 of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran and Leena Reghunath are joined by TNM’s senior journalist Nandini Chandrashekar, investigative journalist Poonam Agarwal and lawyer Anup Surendranath. The first topic they discuss is the differing judgments in two legal cases, one from West Bengal and one from Kerala. Why did a judge give Sanjay Roy life imprisonment in the RG Kar
South Central Ep 10 | Southern states getting raw deal and a shocking crime in Kerala
In episode ten of South Central, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath are joined by public policy professionals Tara Krishnaswamy and Tushar Chakrabarthy, along with advocate Sandhya Raju who practises in the Kerala High Court.In this episode, first we discuss whether the union government is messing the finances of comparatively richer southern states? Or are states re
South Central Ep 9 | Communal Violence Trend in Coastal & North Karnataka, Revanth vs KTR
In episode nine, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna, and Leena Reghunath are joined by TNM’s senior journalist Anisha Sheth and journalist Yunus Lasania. This week, we discuss why communal violence went down in coastal Karnataka in 2024. On the changing trends of communal violence in Karnataka, Pooja highlights, “These incidents don’t happen in isolation. They happen for a reason, and tha
South Central Ep 8 | Anna University Student Assault and Nimisha Priya Case
In episode eight, hosts Dhanya Rajendran, Pooja Prasanna and Leena Reghunath are joined by senior journalist Ramya Kannan and Save Nimisha Priya Action Council member Babu John. On the Anna University student sexual assault case, Ramya highlights the critical issue of safety and institutional responsibility, “No administration can hide behind the fact that this happened in a remote location w
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