News Updates Pk

Iran has voiced strong criticism against a recent resolution passed by the United States Congress, which called for an investigation into alleged "interference or irregularities" in Pakistan's February 8 elections. Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Reza Amiri Moghadam, condemned the resolution as controversial, stating, "We condemn the US resolution regarding Pakistan's elections." The resolution was overwhelmingly approved by the US House of Representatives earlier this week, with 368 votes in favor and seven against, reflecting broad bipartisan support. In response to the US Congress's move, Pakistan's National Assembly passed its own resolution on Friday, denouncing the US resolution as "contrary to facts" and interference in Pakistan's internal affairs.  The resolution, tabled by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmaker Shaista Pervaiz Malik, was passed amid objections from opposition members. Ambassador Moghadam criticised...

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that Karachi will experience hot and humid weather over the next three days. The city continues to endure heat with the temperature reaching 39.2 degrees Celsius and humidity at 54 percent. Most parts of Sindh are expected to remain hot and humid as well, with thunderstorms and rain likely in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Thatta, Jamshoro, Hyderabad, Tando Allahyar, Matiari, Dadu, and Kashmore districts over the next 48 hours. However, Karachi is predicted to remain rain-free today. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/YdjS6EN

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said that the government has decided to abolish the concept of 'non-filers'. Addressing mediapersons in capital Islamabad, the finance minister said he understood that the salaried class was particularly experiencing financial strain from new taxes. He pledged to offer relief to salaried individuals once any financial respite becomes feasible. He also argued against the category of "non-filers," expressing confidence that government initiatives will eventually make the cetegorisation obsolete. Highlighting key economic improvements, he stated that the country's foreign exchange reserves stand at $9 billion, and inflation has reduced from 38% to 12%. The repatriation of dividends to international companies, which is crucial for attracting foreign direct investment, is complete. The FM revealed that the World Bank approved $1 billion for the Dasu project, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) sanctioned $400 million ...

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced a substantial reduction in airfares for travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah pilgrims. According to a PIA spokesperson, pilgrims travelling from Pakistan to Madina will benefit from discounted fares. The round-trip fare for Umrah from Karachi to Medina will be Rs76,000 excluding taxes. For travellers from Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, and Sialkot to Medina, the round-trip fare will be Rs86,000. PIA has reduced the fare for Umrah pilgrims by Rs34,000. Previously, the fare was Rs120,000, which has now been reduced to Rs86,000.   The PIA spokesperson stated that this discount is effective immediately and will remain in effect until July 15. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced a substantial reduction in airfares for travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah pilgrims. According to a PIA spokesperson, the round-trip fare for Umrah from Karachi to Madina has been lowered to Rs76,000, excluding taxes. For travellers from Is...

The federal government has failed to allocate funds in the current fiscal year for 16 ongoing projects in Sindh, leading to significant delays in their progress. According to the Sindh Treasury Department, despite expectations of billions of rupees from the PSDP for the fiscal year 2023-24, no funds have been released due to federal non-allocation. Details reveal that the federal government has not allocated funds for various projects, including the Karachi Industrial Estate revival, which allocated 2.5 billion rupees, the Rohri Gudu Beraaj M-5 Interchange project with a budget of 4 billion rupees, and the Tando Allahyar-Tando Adam Road project budgeted at 2 billion rupees. Allocations of 4 billion rupees for the M-5 National Highway to Rani Pur and 3 billion rupees for a water filtration and sewage treatment plant were also expected but have not been disbursed. Similarly, the federal government has not allocated 2 billion rupees for schools affected by floods, further delaying reconst...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) incarcerated founder Imran Khan has taken notice of reports regarding internal strife and a forward bloc within the party, demanding the names of the involved members. The speculations about the forward bloc stem from reports that attribute to sources saying that almost two dozen of these lawmakers hinted at forming a forward bloc due to the leadership’s failure to secure the release of Imran Khan from jail. According to Express News, persistent reports of groupings within PTI have prompted the PTI supremo to request the names of members involved in factionalism and forward blocs. Sources indicate that Imran has directed party leadership to present the names of those involved in the Senate and National Assembly (NA) forward blocs in the upcoming meeting. The former premier has also emphasised strict adherence to party discipline, instructing that action be taken against those repeatedly violating party rules. Resignations rolling in PTI has seen a wave of...

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted chances of drizzle and light rain in various parts of Karachi today and tomorrow. The intensity of heat in Karachi might decrease starting tomorrow, with predictions of light rain. According to the Met Department, the low-pressure system has moved away from Karachi, and sea breezes are expected to resume tonight. Following the movement, there is a chance of drizzle and light rain in various parts of the port city. The weather department forecasted hot and humid weather in Karachi for the next three days, with temperatures possibly reaching 38 degrees Celsius today. It further predicted a temperature drop in Karachi starting tomorrow, with temperatures expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius on Sunday and Monday. Additionally, Jamshoro, Thatta, Badin, Tharparkar, and Umarkot may also experience thunderstorms today. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/0WNLCoH

The National Assembly has approved an amendment proposed by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to increase the salaries and allowances of its members. Presented by PPP's Abdul Qadir Patel, the amendment aims to enhance the perks and privileges for parliament members. This modification to the Salary and Allowances Act is being implemented through the Finance Bill. Despite opposition from various quarters, the amendment was passed by a majority vote. Read Government employees demand 25% salary raise As a result, the travel allowance for assembly members has been raised from Rs. 10 per kilometer to Rs. 25 per kilometer. Additionally, unused annual airline tickets for parliament members will now carry over to the following year instead of being canceled. The number of annual travel vouchers has also been increased from 25 to 30. Moreover, the responsibility for determining the salaries and allowances of parliament members has been shifted from the federal government to the finance commit...

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has challenged the decision to grant bail to former prime minister Imran Khan in the £190 million reference case. The appeal was filed in the Supreme Court by the NAB chairman, arguing that the Islamabad High Court's decision to grant bail ignored key facts. The Islamabad High Court had approved bail for Imran Khan on May 15, setting a bond of RS 1 million. NAB contends that the High Court's decision was legally flawed and has requested the Supreme Court to nullify it. In its appeal, NAB stated that the decision to grant bail overlooked crucial facts. The anti-corruption watchdog originally dismissed Khan's bail plea, prompting him to seek relief from the High Court. Now, NAB is urging the Supreme Court to overturn this decision. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/pVqWEr4

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan's dedication to United Nations peacekeeping efforts during his address at the UNCOPS Summit 2024 at the UN General Assembly. He emphasised Pakistan's long standing contributions to UN peacekeeping missions and highlighted its commitment to partnerships, particularly with the African Union and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Naqvi further stressed the need for a collaborative approach to developing the concept of peace enforcement around the world. He underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts through preventive diplomacy. Naqvi pointed out the increasing challenges faced by UN peacekeeping missions, including threats from terrorist groups, tribal rivalries, and safety risks. Naqvi also highlighted the importance of improving the command and control structure to ensure timely responses to attacks against civilians and peacekeepers.   from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan H...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday instructed the formulation of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen cooperation and trade partnerships with Azerbaijan in the fields of economy and investment. Chairing a high-level meeting on enhancing relations with Central Asian states, particularly Azerbaijan, the prime minister stated, “Pakistan geographically offers a natural economic corridor to the sea for Central Asian states.” He highlighted the enduring fraternal relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, which have spanned decades. He believed that there were significant opportunities for trade and investment between Azerbaijan and Pakistan. “Foreign investment in the country is on the rise due to the government’s business and investment-friendly policies,” the prime minister mentioned. Also read: Pakistan, Azerbaijan vow to boost bilateral trade, connectivity The prime minister directed the development of a comprehensive action plan to boost trade efficiency and expand current...

Cammie, the camel from Sanghar who had her leg amputated earlier this month, is set to stand for the first time after receiving an artificial leg. The camel, named Cammie, was brought to Karachi for treatment after the incident, allegedly carried out by a landlord and his people. The camel is under the care of CDRS Benji, a local non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Karachi. Sarah Jahangir, Director of the CDRS Benji Project for Animal Welfare, had earlier stated that Cammie would receive an artificial leg once her injury healed. Significant progress has already been made in her treatment. Bioniks Pakistan, a prosthetics manufacturing company, built a support structure with a harness to help the camel stand. "We will try to get Cammie to stand up with the help of the structure by this evening," the team announced on Thursday. The NGO thanked the Department of Livestock and Bioniks Pakistan for their support in treating the camel. Six suspects, accused of amputating the came...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced plans to challenge a district and sessions court's decision to reject the pleas seeking suspension of the sentences handed to party founder Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, in the iddat case. PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan termed the verdict "absolutely ridiculous" and lamented the politicisation of private matters. Speaking outside the court in Islamabad, Ayub stated, "We will challenge this verdict in the high court at once." He expressed frustration over the use of personal issues for political purposes and reiterated that no talks with the government would take place unless Khan and other incarcerated leaders were freed. The party's reaction follows Additional Sessions Judge Afzal Majoka's decision, which was reserved on Tuesday. The central plea related to the annulment of Khan and Bushra's conviction is set for hearing on July 2. In February, Khan and Bushra were each sentenced to seven ye...

Former Karachi mayor and MQM-P leader Waseem Akhtar was acquitted by the Special Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday in two sedition cases involving accusations of inciting against state institutions on a TV program. Karachi's ATC heard two cases concerning accusations of incitement against the MQM-P leader. The complainant’s lawyer argued that Waseem Akhtar made statements in a TV show that showed hatred and incitement against state institutions, attempting to provoke the public. Waseem’s counsel Shaukat Hayat Advocate stated that Waseem Akhtar's statements during the program did not provoke anyone. He added Waseem simply responded to questions asked stating that complainants in both cases were not directly the affected parties. Following the arguments the court acquitted former Karachi mayor Waseem Akhtar in both cases. According to the prosecution, these cases were filed against Akhtar in 2015 by Sohrab Goth and Site Superhighway Police. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakis...

Senator Faisal Vawda has submitted an apology to the Supreme Court of Pakistan in a contempt of court case. Vawda, in his second written response to the court, expressed his utmost respect for the judiciary. Vawda stated, "Following the court proceedings on June 5, I met with religious scholars to understand the role of a senator. I was advised to stand by justice, even if it is against my own kin." In his written apology, Vawda included references from the Qur'an and Hadith, demonstrating his sincerity. He requested the Supreme Court to withdraw the show-cause notice issued to him, stating, "In the light of Islamic teachings, I seek forgiveness with a sincere heart. If my press conference has harmed the dignity of the judiciary, I unconditionally apologise. I leave myself at the mercy of the court and request the withdrawal of the show-cause notice in the contempt case." The contempt case against Vawda is set to be heard by a three-judge bench led by Chief Just...

Supreme Court's Justice Ayesha Malik on Tuesday emphasized that seats should only be allocated based on proportional representation. During the hearing regarding the reserved seats for the Sunni Unity Council (SIC), she reiterated that seats cannot be granted except according to the principle of proportional representation. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa presided over a 13-member full court for the proceedings. The full court comprises 13 judges, and also includes Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Aminuddin Khan, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Ayesha Malik, Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Shahid Waheed, Justice Irfan Saadat Khan, and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan presided over the case. Today's hearing At the beginning of the hearing, Faisal Siddiqui, representing the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), stated that Sahibzada Hamid Raza had contested the election independently but had...

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) in the audio leaks case ruled on Monday that any action of phone tapping without a legal mechanism was 'illegal'. The court denied the additional attorney general's request for an in-chamber hearing in the case involving audio leaks. Justice Babar Sattar of the IHC presided over hearings concerning petitions filed by former first lady Bushra Bibi and ex-CJP’s son Najam Saqib regarding the audio leaks. During the proceedings, Additional Attorney General Manoor Iqbal Dogal informed the court that the Ministry of Interior had established a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) allowing ISI and IB to directly retrieve data from service providers. Justice Babar expressed concern that an SOP issued by a section officer, rather than the appropriate authority, raises questions about its legality. He questioned the Ministry of Interior's basis for issuing such an SOP, asking under which law it was authorized to share live location without a warrant an...

The Awami National Party (ANP) voiced on Monday its opposition to the Azm-e-Istehkam, declaring the operation unacceptable under any circumstances. Yesterday, Pakistan Tehreek Insaf (PTI) and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) also declared their refusal to support any military operation, demanding that military leadership take Parliament into confidence first. Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Faisal Karim Kundi visited the ANP's Bacha Khan Center in Peshawar, where he met with the party's top leadership to discuss security and political matters. During a media briefing, ANP leader Mian Iftikhar stated that the roots of terrorism lie in Punjab, expressing serious reservations about the decision to launch Operation Istehkam Pakistan. Read Parliament to debate Operation Azm-e-Istehkam Mian emphasized that the ANP has conveyed its concerns to the governor. He criticized the operation as a unilateral decision, noting a lack of trust in both negotiations and military actions among the peop...

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated on Monday that decisions regarding economic matters would be made after consulting both the public and the business community to achieve positive results. A delegation from the Pakistan Business Council held discussions with FM Aurangzeb concerning the upcoming fiscal year's budget. During the meeting, the delegation presented specific tax proposals and commended the government's ongoing efforts. Aurangzeb assured the delegation that their recommendations were being carefully considered and would be taken into account as much as possible in the finalization of the budget. Additionally, the finance czar informed the delegation about the ongoing initiatives of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). He emphasized that these efforts aim to expand the tax base and include more retailers in the tax system. Earlier, Aurangzeb had underscored the country's need to 'privatise' critical sectors of the country. He emphasised the urgent n...

Incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan has filed a petition in the Supreme Court on Monday to expedite the hearing of an appeal regarding his disqualification by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in the Toshakhana case. Barrister Ali Zafar, the lawyer representing the PTI founder, has submitted a request for an early hearing of the appeal against the former premier’s disqualification. The application argues that the petitioner, a former prime minister and leader of the largest political party (PTI), faces ongoing challenges to his role as party chief following a disqualification by the electoral watchdog. The petition added that cases challenging the ECP's decisions are currently pending in Islamabad and Lahore High Courts, with proceedings stalled due to a related case in the Supreme Court. The petitioner contended that these legal challenges prevent him from assuming the role of PTI chairman, member of the assembly, and also hinder his participation in by-elections due to th...

A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court (SC) seeking an early hearing of the case related to the trial of civilians in military courts accused of involvement in the May 9 attacks. The petition, submitted by Advocate Latif Khosa, requests that the case be scheduled for the week starting July 1. Earlier, the apex court suspended its prior decision to invalidate military trials for 103 civilians till a final judgment on the matter until the third week of January 2024. The petition argues that, despite a court order, the case has not yet been scheduled for a hearing. It points out that the verdicts in cases involving detainees in military courts are on hold due to pending SC proceedings, and the case has remained unheard since December 13. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/yfwLQFj

Karachi city has been experiencing extreme heat in recent months, with temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels. What is the 'wet-bulb' temperature? Wet-bulb temperature is a measure of how hot it feels outside, combining both air temperature and humidity. It is calculated by covering a thermometer with a water-soaked cloth. The process of the water evaporating from the cloth mirrors how the human body cools down through sweating. At 100% relative humidity, the wet-bulb temperature is the same as the dry air temperature, but with less humidity, it is lower. How does a high 'wet-bulb' affect the human body? High wet-bulb temperatures are dangerous because humans lose around 80% of heat through sweating. When both humidity and air temperature are high, it becomes harder for the body to shed excess heat. Sweat evaporates very slowly, if at all, in very humid conditions. If the body cannot cool down, it will eventually overheat, triggering respiratory and cardiovascul...

Karachi continues to experience hot and humid weather, with temperatures potentially expected to climb up to 39 degrees Celsius, according to Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).  Northwest winds from Balochistan are influencing the city's weather, while intense heat is expected to persist through Saturday and Sunday nights. Today, Karachi's minimum temperature is 31 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels recorded at 71%. Monday could see temperatures rise further to 40 degrees Celsius, adding another degree of heat. Areas surrounding the city and its suburbs may experience light showers.  Read Sindh endured prolonged heatwaves, record-breaking temperatures in May Previously, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted thunderstorms and rain in the Karachi suburbs on June 22, with temperatures expected to exceed 38°C over the next three days. According to details, cities including Larkana, Shikarpur, Shahdadkot, and Jacobabad in Sindh province have already ...

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) demands action against rising electricity costs and load-shedding with party chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announcing the launch of a national resistance movement to fight for public rights, protesting against high electricity bills and extended load-shedding, and "anti-public" budget. Rehman highlighted that inflated electricity bills have made life miserable for the public and condemned Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for making false promises about ending load-shedding. He urged the nation not to lose hope and to join the party in liberating themselves from the oppressive elite. He criticised the imposition of Section 144 in Punjab, stating it cannot suppress the voice for justice. Additionally, Rehman criticised the political theatrics of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) regarding the budget, claiming the public sees through their pretence. Meanwhile, a protest was held by Ja...

Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan, has urged Army Chief General Asim Munir to call an immediate Corps Commanders Conference to discuss security failures concerning Chinese citizens. The call was made during a National Assembly session chaired by Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Saturday. The session saw the return of PPP members, who ended their boycott, increasing their presence in the assembly. Among those present were Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, Sharmila Farooqi, Syed Naveed Qamar, Ejaz Jakhrani, Abdul Qadir Patel, and Jamal Rehmani. https://ift.tt/9Xd5SeN Mirza Ikhtiar Baig praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's initiative to provide cheaper electricity to the industry. He questioned whether the government would bear the Rs240 billion subsidy or if the burden would be shifted to consumers. Omar Ayub Khan raised a point of order, expressing concerns over the Chinese leadership's remarks on security threats to Chinese experts in Pakistan, stating it jeopardised ...

The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has issued an order preventing the forcible return of Afghan musicians to Afghanistan. The decision follows a petition filed by Afghan musicians seeking asylum in Pakistan, which was heard in court yesterday. In a written order issued today, the PHC stated that the petitioners should not be forcibly deported to Afghanistan until the next hearing. Recognising the importance of the matter, the court appointed Advocate Aamir Javed as a judicial assistant. The court's office was instructed to provide the judicial assistant with all relevant case documents. In the previous hearing on June 20, the PHC issued an order to prevent the harassment of Afghan musicians who have applied for political asylum. A two-member bench of the PHC comprising Justice Ijaz Anwar and Justice Waqar Ahmad, heard the political asylum application of the Afghan musicians. Justice Anwar inquired about their case and asked what the petitioner was seeking. The petitioner's lawyer st...

The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has announced a suspension of gas supply from 8 am to 8 pm in several areas of Karachi on Sunday to facilitate the installation of a new gas distribution pipeline. The distribution from Azeempura to Jam Sadiq Bridge will be carried out at two key points that will impact all sectors of Korangi, including both industrial and domestic areas, as well as DHA and its adjoining areas. Among the areas for suspension include Defence View, Manzoor Colony, Akhtar Colony, Kashmir Colony, Mehmoodabad, Azam Basti, Qayyumabad, DHA Phase 2 Extension, Phase 4, Phase 5 and Extension, Phase 7 and Extension, and Phase 8, including Creek Vista and Emaar. Residents and businesses in these areas are advised to make necessary arrangements to mitigate the impact of the 12-hour suspension. Earlier this week, SSGC turned active in curbing gas theft and conducting raids in Sindh and Balochistan. They removed 770 illegal connections and lodged FIRs against offenders. In Karachi,...

All the mainstream political parties of Pakistan on Friday displayed exemplary consensus to back the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with the leaders reiterating their unwavering commitment to further strengthen the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and China by thwarting all nefarious designs. The political consensus was shown at the CPEC Pakistan-China Political Parties Forum and 3rd Meeting of CPEC Political Parties Joint Consultative Mechanism co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) and member of the Communist Party’s Central Committee Liu Jianchao who is on a three-day visit here. Besides Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, the senior leadership of all major political parties attended the event including Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, MQM’s Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Maulana Fazlur Rehman of JUI-F, Hina Rab...

The United States support “direct discussions” between India and Pakistan, saying the two neighbouring countries should work out the mode for the talks themselves, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller has said. “We value our important relationships with both India and Pakistan,” he said in response to a question from a Pakistani TV channel reporter at his daily news briefing on Thursday. “As we have said, we support direct discussions between India and Pakistan, but the pace, scope and character should be determined by those two countries, not by us,” Miller added. Relations between India and Pakistan have deteriorated since August 5, 2019, when New Delhi unilaterally annexed the disputed Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to heightened tensions between them. Official talks between the two countries have remained suspended since then. Answering another question, he stated, “US and Pakistan both have a common goal of addressing regional security threats.” “We partner...

Two TikTokers and their companion have been abducted from Sukkur, triggering a search operation by a joint police team from Sukkur and Shikarpur after a ransom of Rs5 million was demanded, Express News reported. According to police reports, efforts to locate and recover the abductees have begun.  According to details, two brothers from Khanpur have gone missing from Sukkur, taken away by the abductors. SSP Sameer Noor stated that the last location of the victims was in Shikarpur . Those missing include Javed and Khalid, the brothers of Khanpur's mayor, and their friend Farman, who were abducted five days ago. Family members have reported that the two brothers were filming TikTok videos in Sukkur when they were abducted. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of Rs5 million over the phone. Read FIA arrests suspect for harassing woman on TikTok According to data from the Central Police Office, 81 abduction cases have been reported in the Sukkur and Larkana regions, with 59 abduct...

A cleric was arrested on Thursday for raping his young student in Punjab’s Qila Sondha Singh, Express News reported. According to the police, Qari Ikram, who teaches Qur’an memorisation to children at a mosque in Qila Sondha Singh, lured his young student to his living quarters within the mosque and assaulted him. The young victim reported the abuse that led to an immediate arrest of Qari by the Hujra Shah Muqeem police. The police took the accused into custody and registered a case against him. District Police Officer (DPO) Okara stated that incidents of child abuse and sexual violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/t9MlScT

As Pakistan braces for the 2024 monsoon season, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has unofficially announced its likely commencement on June 19 with 'above-normal' rains predicted. This year’s monsoon is crucial for replenishing water sources and boosting agricultural productivity, essential for sustaining Pakistan’s economy through increased exports. Weather experts predict an early monsoon arrival in Karachi, starting in early July, driven by a medium-level pressure system forming over the Arabian Sea around June 30. This forecast suggests "more than usual" rains in southern Sindh, including Karachi. However, the PMD advises caution, acknowledging the long-term variability of such predictions. Looking ahead, the PMD's daily forecast indicates predominantly hot and dry conditions across the country during the daytime, with possibilities of gusty winds, windstorms, and isolated rain-thunderstorms in the evening hours, particularly in northeast Punjab, I...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan over the phone to extend Eid ul Adha greetings on Wednesday. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, both leaders expressed their wishes for the continuous development and prosperity of the people of Pakistan and the UAE. The prime minister thanked the UAE president for his ongoing support for Pakistan and reaffirmed Pakistan's full support for the UAE. Reflecting on his highly productive visit to the UAE in May 2024, Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan's strong commitment to transforming the brotherly relations between the two countries into a sustainable and mutually beneficial strategic partnership focused on trade and investment. Also read: UAE commits $10b investment in Pakistan Highlighting the importance of regular high-level exchanges between the two nations, the prime minister invited the UAE president to visit Pakistan soon. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zay...

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister  Sardar Ali Amin Gandapur led a crowd to a grid station in Dera Ismail Khan where he personally restored electricty, announcing an end to any loadshedding that exceeded 12 hours in the province. The chief minister was ccompanied by Dera DPO Nasir Mahmood and DSP Adnan, as he visted DI Khan to resolve the ongoing issue of prolonged load shedding, according to Express News. The visit came amid a dispute between the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments over electricity load shedding,  The Press Secretary for the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa later confirmed that CM Gandapur has fixed the schedule for load shedding, stating that load shedding will not exceed 12 hours in any area from now on. The PTI leader called on all parliamentarians in the province to visit their respective grid stations to implement the 12-hour load shedding schedule. Residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are currently 18-hour load sheddi...

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Khan, has strongly condemned the incident involving fast bowler Haris Rauf in the USA. In a statement released on the social relations website 'X',Chairman PCB Mohsin Khan stated, "Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Those who are involved should immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual responsible." Chairman PCB further added that the individual involved in the incident must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, otherwise legal action will be taken against him. The incident involving Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf went viral when a video surfaced of him in an altercation with a fan in Florida. According to reports, the fan had requested a selfie with Haris Rauf, who was accomanied by his wife at that time, and also criticized the fast bowler, ...

Brigadier (retd) Amir Hamza, former director general of the Emergency Services Academy, was shot and killed in a gun attack near Lillah interchange in Jhelum district of Punjab. His wife and daughgter were also wounded in the attack on Tuesday. A case was registered against four unknown assailants in the jurisdiction of police station Lillah, Jhelum, for the murder of former Brigadier (Retd) Amir Hamza, on a complaint filed by the deceased's brother. The complaint lists charges of murder and attempted murder against four unidentified individuals, according to Express News. Principal Muhammad Ayub of Commerce College, brother of the deceased, stated in the complaint that his brother Brigadier (Retd) Amir Hamza along with his wife Safia and daughter Muskan were travelling in a car on their way to meet another of his daughter in Chakwal on the occasion of Eid.  Ayub said that he was riding on a motorcycle with his cousin, trailing a short distance behind his brother. He added that as ...

A video of Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf’getting involved in a heated verbal altercation with a fan in the USA has gone viral on social media. While strolling, Rauf was apparently confronted by a fan whose comments enraged the cricketer. Despite efforts from his wife and friends to restrain him, Rauf charged towards the fan.         View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Cricket Pakistan (@officialcricketpakistan) The confrontation, recorded on video, shows Rauf referring to the fan as "Indian hoga" (he must be Indian), to which the fan retorted, "Pakistani hoon" (I am from Pakistan). The exchange escalated, with both parties trading expletives before others intervened to prevent any physical altercation.  The team's exit without reaching the Super Eight round in the T20 World Cup has subjected the players to harsh criticism from fans and media alike. Several key players, i...

On Monday, the Saudi Government announced the suspension of Rami rituals until 4 pm during the final phase of Hajj 2024, advising pilgrims to stay in their tents in Mina due to extremely hot weather.  A government spokesperson emphasized that this decision prioritized the safety of pilgrims. Meanwhile, a representative from Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed concern over certain media reports that exaggerated complaints about arrangements, causing anxiety among Pakistani pilgrims and their families.  The spokesperson assured pilgrims that the ministry was in constant communication with Saudi authorities to ensure their well-being. This year, over 2.5 million Muslims, including 160,000 Pakistanis, gathered in Makkah for Hajj. Despite some complaints about arrangements for such a large number, the spokesperson viewed them as indicators of the operation's overall success.  The Saudi authorities manage all aspects of the Mashair rituals over five days, promptl...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended Eid ul Adha greetings and expressed good wishes to political leaders via telephone. According to a press release from the Prime Minister's Office on Monday, PM Shehbaz made a telephonic call to President Asif Ali Zardari. Both leaders exchanged Eid ul Adha greetings and best wishes. They also discussed the overall political and national situation. On this occasion, both leaders reiterated their commitment to work together for the betterment of Pakistan. Shehbaz Sharif also contacted Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Pakistan Muslim League-Q (PML-Q) President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, extending his Eid ul Adha wishes. Also read: Leaders urge nation to embrace Eid spirit The prime minister also spoke with Abdul Aleem Khan, Sardar Khalid Magsi, Sardar Akhtar Mengal, Aftab Sherpa...

Former federal minister and Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rashid has criticised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government, claiming it has left 240 million people "hanging on bare electric wires," as they struggle to pay their electricity bills. Speaking to the media after Eid prayers at Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi on Monday, Sheikh Rashid stated, “People cannot afford to pay their electricity bills or school fees. Inflation is so high that even sacrificial offerings have significantly decreased.” Rashid also mentioned that PTI founder Imran Khan is correct in saying that negotiations with the current government are futile, as the real power lies elsewhere. “The state of the country is visible to everyone. Trillions of rupees in taxes have been imposed while people cannot afford basic utilities,” he said. He accused PM Shehbaz of favouring industrialists, which, according to him, has driven the country into a ditch. Also read: Current govt lacks legitimacy and their ...

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Monday visited the Line of Control (LoC) in the Haji Pir sector to celebrate Eid ul Adha with the troops, the military said in a statement. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief offered Eid prayers with officers and soldiers at the front line, praying for Pakistan’s peace and prosperity. He also paid respects to the sacrifices of the martyrs of Pakistan, acknowledging their contributions to the nation's security. Addressing the assembled troops, COAS commended their dedication, high morale, and unwavering commitment to defending the motherland. "As soldiers, we take pride in celebrating such festivities away from our homes and loved ones while on duty, ensuring the security of our country and fellow citizens," he remarked. During his speech, General Munir discussed the ongoing indigenous freedom struggle of the Kashmiri people in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He reit...

The Met Office has predicted sweltering temperatures for the first day of Eid, followed by rain in the upper regions of Punjab, Kashmir, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on the second day. According to the Meteorological Department, rain is expected in Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Sialkot on the second day of Eid. By the third day, the rain is likely to extend to southern Punjab. The Director General of the Meteorological Department has indicated that monsoon rains are expected to commence in the last week of June, with heavy downpours anticipated in the final three days of the month. There is a risk of flooding in streams and rivers across the country because of the rains. Read also: What will the weather be like in Karachi throughout Eid ul Adha? Meanwhile, PMD’s Early Warning Center has forecasted hot and humid weather in Karachi throughout the three days of Eid ul Adha. Maximum temperatures are expected to range between 35 to 37 degrees Celsius, accompanied...

Apart from their religious significance, sacrificial animals contribute a great deal to the festive ambience of Eid-ul-Azha, especially for households with children, who excitedly look forward to welcoming their pure, albeit fleeting, friends to the arrival of the holiday season. This year however, sky-rocketing sacrificial costs naturally mean that many households will neither be able to fulfil their yearly obligation nor put a smile on their little ones' faces. One such dispirited family was that of Shahid Aslam, who had been searching for an affordable animal for hours at the Shahpur Kanjran Mandi. “I have roamed around the whole market and every other trader is asking for a price much higher than last year. When we object to the high price, their only response is that everything has become expensive,” lamented Aslam. “Last year, we were able to buy a decent sized goat, with up to 30 kilograms of meat for Rs55,000. This time around, it has cost us Rs58,000 for a small goat, whic...

In another blow to professional integrity, suspected police officers in Karachi have allegedly looted yet another paan shop, according to a complaint filed at Preedy Police Station by a local resident. Yaqoob reported that his brother Akram was in the shop when plainclothes officers arrived on a police mobile. One officer stood guard outside while another entered the shop, he said. The plainclothes officers allegedly seized cash from the counter as well as foreign cigarettes, amounting to approximately Rs115,000 in cash and goods, Yaqoob alleged. The complainant further claimed that the officers covered his brother Akram with a cloth and took him away in the police mobile, later releasing him a short distance away. They also reportedly issued severe threats. WATCH: Suspected cops loot paan shop in Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal Police officials have confirmed that a case has been registered and an investigation is underway. On June 13, police arrested a grade 17 gazetted officer, Deputy Sup...