News Updates Pk

The parliamentary committee has approved the Election Act Amendment Bill by a majority vote, despite opposition from PTI and abstention from JUI-F. PPP members were also not present at the meeting. During the session chaired by Rana Iradat Sharif, the committee reviewed amendments to the Election Act 2017. Bilal Azhar Kayani provided a briefing on the bill. The meeting saw heated exchanges between opposition member Ali Muhammad Khan and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Azam Nazir Tarar. Azam Nazir Tarar supported the bill, citing that the proposed amendments are in line with the constitution and law. However, PTI members opposed the amendments. JUI-F member Shahida Akhtar Ali expressed concerns about the election commission's role and called for a detailed review of the amendments. Ali Muhammad Khan criticized the election commission, accusing it of creating political crises and bias. The election commission's secretary stated that they could not comment on the retrospective ...

Monsoon rains are expected in most districts of Punjab over the next 24 hours, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The ongoing monsoon spell is causing a rise in water levels in rivers, dams, and streams, raising concerns about potential flooding. The PDMA spokesperson reported that the Indus River is experiencing a low-level flood at Tarbela and Kalabagh. From August 1 to 4, the Jhelum River at Mangla could see medium to high-level flooding. Additionally, there is a risk of flooding in the Chenab River at Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad. The monsoon rains are expected to continue until August 4. In light of the potential flood threats, PDMA has completed all necessary preparations in vulnerable districts. The Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the administration and relevant departments to stay vigilant and ensure public safety measures are in place. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift...

In a recent interview with The Express Tribune, Shahrukh Sohail, consultant to the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), shared his insights on the progress and future plans for football in Pakistan. His reflections and vision provide a comprehensive overview of the efforts to uplift the sport in the country. "PFF is the rightful holder of organising leagues in Pakistan. Recently, we saw the national team play in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers for the first time, attracting significant crowds. Our last match against Saudi Arabia saw a 20,000-strong crowd, and the matches against Jordan and Tajikistan had the highest average attendance of over 16,000. People often question who watches football here, but these matches are proof of its popularity. Despite all the challenges, football is very much alive," stated Mr Sohail, emphasising the growing interest in football. Highlighting the development of a comprehensive league system, he remarked, "PFF has devised a p...

A court in Islamabad has remanded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Raoof Hasan and other suspects to a 14-day judicial custody in an anti-state propaganda case. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) presented Hasan before District and Sessions Judge Shafiq Bhatti, who denied the FIA's request for an additional five-day physical remand. Read Islamabad Police arrest PTI's Raoof Hasan On Monday, Islamabad Police arrested Hasan during a raid on the PTI Secretariat, seizing a computer and other items. According to sources, authorities allege that the digital media cell at PTI's office had become a hub for international disinformation, where anti-Pakistan propaganda was being carried out in collaboration with enemy agencies. However, PTI condemned the raid, accusing law enforcers of seizing affidavits from MNAs and MPAs that stand crucial for verifying party affiliations and could significantly impact the National Assembly's composition. Hasan, along with other PTI memb...

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar announced on Monday that the state will actively counter the malicious campaign against the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa, emphasizing that no one would be allowed to issue religious decrees against individuals. Condemning the threats and instigations against the CJP, Tarar stated that the state is committed to curbing the spread of hatred within the country. He asserted that it is the state's responsibility to enforce laws and maintain peace. Speaking at a press conference after a meeting with Ulema at the Commissioner's Office, Tarar reiterated that belief in the finality of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is a fundamental aspect of Islam. He highlighted the significant sacrifices made by Ulema in Pakistan. Read Asif says govt will not tolerate death threats against CJP, vows strict action The information minister also pointed out the historical contributions of the CJP's father, Qazi Esa, who ...

The tribal clashes in Kurram District upon land dispute have intensified, resulting in the deaths of 43 individuals, with 177 reported injured. According to police sources, the conflict between the tribes has entered its sixth day. Despite a ceasefire agreement, intense gunfire continues in various parts of Lower Kurram. Meanwhile, no firing has been reported between the villages of Upper Kurram, Bushehra, and Malikhil following the ceasefire. Read Ceasefire in Kurram as death toll hits 30 Initial skirmishes were reported between the Boshera and Mali Khel tribes. However, these altercations turned violent and deadly when both sides resorted to using their heavy weaponry, said official sources. Authorities feared that the number of casualties could increase even further if the fighting continued. Recent reports indicate that overnight, heavy exchanges of fire occurred at four additional locations in Kurram District, including Balishkhel, Kharkali Sangina Pewar, Teri Mangal Zeran, Khumsa...

An FIR has been registered against the Deputy Amir of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), Pir Zaheerul Hasan Shah, for issuing death threats to Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa. The case was filed at the Qila Gujjar Singh police station by SHO Hammad Hussain. The charges against Shah include sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), inciting religious hatred, causing public disorder, intimidating the judiciary, threatening the judiciary, interfering in official duties, and obstructing legal functions. Read SC alarmed over smear drive against CJ According to the FIR, during a protest outside the Press Club, Pir Zaheer Hassan Shah incited hatred against the judiciary and announced a reward of PKR 10 million for anyone who brings the head of Justice Faez Isa. The FIR also includes charges against 1,500 TLP workers. In response, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that strict action would be taken against those issuing death threats to the Chief Justice, emphasizing that the state wi...

An anti-terrorism court in Islamabad on Monday granted bail to Pakistan Tereek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders Ali Nawaz Awan, Shibli Faraz, Omar Ayub, Omar Sultan, and Colonel (Retd) Asim in the Judicial Complex vandalism case. The case pertains to an incident when PTI leaders and workers were accused of attacking, vandalizing, and damaging the judicial complex. The incident led to the registration of a case by the Islamabad police, citing sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and other relevant laws​. The charges included provoking a mob, leading to significant property damage and attempts to attack the complex under an organized plan. Read Stalemate on May 9 unlikely to end soon Judge Tahir Abbas Supra presided over the hearings, with PTI lawyer Babar Awan and other legal representatives presenting their arguments. PTI leaders Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, Amjad Niazi, Ali Nawaz Awan, and several party workers were also present in court. Awan requested the court to decide on the bail applic...

Former ruling party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) top leadership on Sunday announced to hold a nationwide protest against the government on August 5. During a press conference, Omar Ayub stated that the behaviour towards their parliamentarians has been unacceptable, pointing out that their MNAs are being picked up by agencies and presented before anti-corruption bodies. He mentioned five intelligence agencies, explaining the uncertainty over which agency is responsible for these actions. Ayub emphasized that all their associates have been subjected to legal cases, which he attributes to the affidavits they submitted when joining PTI. Recalling Imran Khan's warning, Ayub noted that the current regime aims to create conflict between the army and PTI. He accused PML-N of attempting to pit the largest party against the army and stressed that immediate elections are the only solution to the political turmoil. Read PTI denied protest permit in Islamabad Ayub further announced a meeting ...

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced that China will support Pakistan in securing approval for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement. The statement was made during a press conference in Islamabad, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve the country's economic situation. FM Aurangzeb emphasised the need to provide facilities to the public if taxes are to be increased, pointing out that both the United States and China are vital partners for Pakistan. Discussions on local tax matters are currently underway. He stated that efforts are being made to ease the tax burden on the lower-income population while simplifying the taxation process for traders. FM Aurangzeb criticised tax defaulters for not being loyal to the nation, urging that tax payments are crucial for economic stability. The finance minister noted that reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) are discussed weekly, and provincial governments are encouraged to legislate taxes in the agricultural sector...

A seven-member committee has been formed to investigate the deadly clash between two groups of the Bugti clan in Karachi's DHA area. The committee was established following the violent incident on Thursday night, where a conflict between the groups resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including a tribal leader. The committee, led by SSP Investigation South Abdul Rahim Shirazi, includes SSP South Sajid Amir Sadozai, SP Clifton Uzair Ahmed, DSP Investigation, SHO, SIO, and an investigative officer. The formation of this committee was confirmed by DIG South Syed Asad Raza, who also issued the notification. The incident occurred in the Khayaban-e-Nishat area of Defence Phase 6, where armed groups from the Bugti clan engaged in a fierce battle. In the aftermath, police arrested Sardar Ali Haider Bugti and his employee, Qaim Ali, from a hospital. Meanwhile, authorities are searching for 8 to 9 suspects who fled the scene. The committee is tasked with providing regular updates to t...

Islamabad's district and session court on Sunday handed over Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf spokesperson Raoof Hassan and others to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for a two-day physical remand and PTI's Facebook head Syeda Arooba to judicial remand before Duty Judge Mureed Abbas under the PECA Act. The FIA prosecutor stated that transcripts of anti-state videos were attached to the record and required forensic analysis, requesting an additional eight days of physical remand. Judge Mureed Abbas inquired whether Raoof had received a visa or ticket from India and if he admitted to chatting with someone named Rahul. The FIA prosecutor confirmed that Raoof had a travel ticket from India. However, Raoof explained that he runs a regional think tank and that Rahul, who lives in the UK, invited him to Bahrain as a guest speaker. He mentioned being a senior fellow at King’s College London and clarified that his responsibilities involve dealing with electronic media, not social media. T...

The Privatization Commission Board (PCB) has approved the privatisation of electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and decided to appoint financial advisors. The board meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for Investment, Communications, and Privatization Abdul Aleem Khan, approved the privatisation, and the legal processes related to privatization are expected to be completed by 2025. In the first phase, three DISCOs will be privatized. Read Roosevelt Hotel listed for privatization Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan emphasised the importance of ensuring the transparent and swift privatization of institutions. He stated that the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would demonstrate the private sector's seriousness towards privatisation, stressing that the process is crucial for strengthening and reviving the national economy, with strong prospects for profitability once the institutions are transferred to the private sector. All privatisation targets are to be ...

The government has established a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to investigate malicious campaigns against state institutions on social media. A notification issued by the government stated that the JIT, formed under Section 30 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), will be led by the Inspector General of Islamabad. The team includes the Director of Cyber Crime at the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the Director of the FIA’s Counter-Terrorism Wing (CTW), the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Investigation Islamabad, and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Islamabad’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). The JIT is tasked with investigating the motives behind malicious campaigns against the state and identifying the culprits and their facilitators who attempt to create chaos in Pakistan through social media. According to the legal framework, the JIT will not only identify these individuals but also pursue legal action against t...

US Republican Senator Marco Rubio introduced a bill on Friday aimed at bolstering Washington's  strategic, diplomatic, economic, and military ties with India, primarily to counter the influence of China. The bill also calls for requiring a Congressional report on Pakistan’s use of force, including terrorism and proxy groups, against India. It proposes barring security assistance to Pakistan if it is found to sponsor terrorism against India. The legislation proposes to treat India with the same status as US allies such as Japan, Israel, South Korea, and NATO allies regarding technology transfers. Pakistan was declared a major non-NATO ally under Republican President George W Bush's administration in 2004. Rubio's bill also proposes allowing India to purchase military equipment from Russia for use by New Delhi's armed forces without facing US sanctions. Furthermore, the bill seeks to expedite excess defence articles to India for two years and to expand International Milit...

Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal announced on Friday that the final draft of Pakistan’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy will be presented to the Federal Cabinet for approval in August. Addressing a meeting of the Special Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, Iqbal urged relevant parties to expedite consultations with stakeholders. He emphasised AI's current role in global advancement, stating, “Artificial intelligence is not the future but the present reality in the world.” Iqbal highlighted the PML-N government's achievements in AI, noting the establishment of the National Center for Artificial Intelligence in 2017 and the National Task Force on Artificial Intelligence in 2023. He stressed that these initiatives were crucial for Pakistan’s progress in this field. Reflecting on past challenges, Iqbal criticised previous inconsistencies in policy that hindered economic development. He also highlighted ongoing obstacles to eco...

Capital police have arrested numerous participants of the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) sit-in at Islamabad's D-Chowk, with ongoing efforts to detain more, Express News reported. The arrested individuals have been transported in prisoner vans, and the routes leading to D-Chowk have been blocked with containers by the police and administration. Containers have also been placed at the city’s entry points, and major roads and intersections are only allowing one lane of traffic. This has resulted in long queues of vehicles and significant inconvenience for residents. Read Govt talks TLP out of Faizabad sit-in Additional containers have been placed under the Zero Point Bridge too, leaving only two lanes open for traffic. A heavy police presence is deployed at Faizabad, equipped with water cannons and tear gas. Operational police units have been issued 10,000 tear gas shells from police lines to manage the protesters. Heads of three government hospitals have been instructed to keep their emergenc...

A fire broke out on the ninth floor of a building near Metropole Hotel on Shahrah-e-Faisal in Karachi, causing smoke to fill the structure and resulting in five people losing consciousness. According to police officials, two of the affected individuals have been transported to Jinnah Hospital for treatment. Due to the dense smoke, the rescue operation was initially halted but resumed shortly afterwards. All 50 individuals inside the building were successfully evacuated, including those on the roof, who were brought down using a snorkel. Authorities reported that ten fire brigade vehicles and two snorkels are currently at the scene to extinguish the fire. Additionally, the road from Jinnah Hospital to Metropole has been closed to traffic. Traffic police are redirecting vehicles from FTC to Kala Pul to manage the situation. Fire brigade officials confirmed that there are no further reports of individuals trapped inside the building and expressed confidence that the fire would be brought ...

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) reserved its decision on Friday regarding the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) petition for permission to hold a protest in the federal capital. On Monday, PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan called on everyone to "fully participate" in the peaceful protest across the country. He stated the party's three demands would be the immediate release of incarcerated PTI leaders and supporters, maintaining peace in the country, and protesting against growing inflation. Justice Saman Rifat presided over the hearing of the petition submitted by PTI leader Amir Mughal. The party's request for a protest on 26 July had been denied by the Islamabad administration. The state counsel informed the court that the federal capital's administration had refused all political parties' requests for rallies, highlighting the tense security situation. Read IHC orders Islamabad administration to engage with PTI amid protest call Justice Saman inquired about ...

Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Nazriati (PTI-N), Akhtar Iqbal Dar, announced in a press conference that a petition has been filed in the Supreme Court (SC) challenging the purchase of expensive electricity from Independent Power Producers (IPPs). Akhtar called on prominent figures like Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, Mustafa Kamal, and Gohar Ejaz to support the petition, condemning the IPP agreements as harmful actions that are depleting Pakistan's resources. Dar appealed to the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa to expedite the hearing of this petition, emphasizing that it is a matter of public interest and fundamental human rights. Read Court moved against inflated billing by power utility He also demanded an immediate injunction on the capacity payments being made to the IPPs. Criticizing the government, Dar accused officials of guaranteeing and benefiting from these deals while enjoying free utilities. He called for the end of free electricity, gas...

The Lahore High Court on Thursday nullified the physical remand orders of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 12 cases related to the May 9 incidents, ruling in favour of his petitions against the remands. During the hearing, prosecutors argued for the necessity of a polygraph test for Imran Khan, which the former premier had refused earlier. Justice Tariq Saleem Sheikh questioned why such tests were not conducted during interim bail periods, highlighting the timing of the remand requests coinciding with Khan's anticipated release. Imran Khan’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, argued that the defence was unaware of many of the cases, and bail was neither sought nor granted in those instances. Justice Anwarul Haq Pannu remarked on the recurrent practice of re-arresting Khan upon receiving bail in other cases and questioned the prosecutors' delay in seeking actions on older cases. The court criticised the timing and necessity of the physical remand, noting that Khan was already in judicial...

In an exclusive interview with The Express Tribune, Pakistan's national team goalkeeper Yousuf Butt has shared his football experiences and aspirations. His journey from debuting in 2012 to becoming a mainstay in the national team is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. Reflecting on his early days, the goalkeeper said, "I've been with the national team for 12 years, and I made my debut against Singapore in 2012. It's a funny story—I was initially called up in 2011 when George Kottan was the coach, but my mother was worried and said no. However, the PFF called me again, insisting that I should come. I went and never looked back." He also spoke about the challenges and the development of football facilities in Pakistan. "I've seen a lot over the years. When I first joined, we used to train at Lahore's Fame Stadium. I remember the facilities being quite basic—just dirt fields. I even have pictures of those days. Back then, we had PFF...

The Henley Passport Index has unveiled its 2024 rankings, naming Singapore as the holder of the world’s most powerful passport. According to the index, Singaporeans can travel visa-free to 195 destinations, reaffirming its top spot. In second place, the passports of France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain allow visa-free access to 192 destinations. Close behind are Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden, whose citizens enjoy seamless travel to 191 destinations. The United Kingdom shares fourth place with Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland, offering visa-free travel to 190 destinations. Meanwhile, Australia and Portugal hold the fifth position, each granting access to 189 destinations. The United States, however, has slipped to eighth place, allowing visa-free entry to 186 destinations. This marks a significant drop for the US passport in recent years. At the bottom of the list, Afghanistan's passport ranks the weakest, w...

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday denounced the propaganda against the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir and his family on the PTI website, calling it intolerable and heartwrenching. He expressed these remarks during a federal cabinet meeting today. The premier condemned the actions of the group responsible for the events of May 9, accusing them of using new tactics to disrupt the country. "The May 9 group left no stone unturned in shaking the foundations of the country. Today, they are committing new offences with new tactics," he added. PM Shehbaz also expressed his concerns about the ongoing atrocities in Palestine, stating that Israel has killed 40,000 Palestinians and that UN resolutions have had no impact on Israel. He emphasised that the situation must be condemned as much as possible. Read Ruling alliance wants PTI founder punished after 'confession' Regarding recent attacks on the Pakistani consulate in Germany and London, Shehbaz de...

In a brazen act of theft, burglars broke into the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s (PMD) automatic water level gauging station in Rawalpindi, stealing essential equipment used for monitoring floods. According to media reports, the incident occurred near the Katarian bridge after midnight on July 18, with the last automatic SMS received at 12:47am. According to the FIR lodged by Usman Shahzad, an electronic engineer at the PMD, the stolen items included batteries, a full assembly for float sensors, Arduino boards, GSM boards with mobile SIMS, a 12-volt solar plate, copper cable, and a steel box. The automatic water level gauging system plays a crucial role in providing real-time water level updates of Leh Nullah to officials, enabling them to take prompt action to mitigate flood damages. The PMD relies on this system to provide critical data for flood forecasting and warning. Following the theft, the relevant authorities have started installing new equipment, with the system expecte...

Pakistani students have secured silver and bronze medals at the 65th International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) 2024. The event was held from July 11 to 22 in Bath, United Kingdom, according to the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). https://ift.tt/f8xIJlY Razi Hasan Mansoor, a student from Karachi, claimed the silver medal, while Muhammad Ahmad Bhatti of Karachi School won the bronze. Additionally, Muhammad Mehd Arif of Lahore's Sundus School received an "Honorable Mention." This achievement follows closely on the heels of another success, with two Pakistani students earning bronze medals at the International Biology Olympiad in Astana, Kazakhstan. The Pakistani team participated in the STEM Career Program, a joint initiative of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan and the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS). The mathematics team was trained at COMSATS University, Lahore Campus, and mentored by Prof Dr Sarfaraz Ahmed and Dr Han...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo Imran Khan on Monday expressed concerns that he and his wife, Bushra Bibi, might be sent to a military jail in connection with the 9 May cases. Speaking to the media during a hearing of the £190 million reference, Khan stated, “They plan to send me to a military jail for the 9 May incidents.” He clarified that he had called for peaceful protests outside General Headquarters (GHQ) if arrested but never authorised any violent actions. Khan accused Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of stealing CCTV footage related to the May 9 events and condemned the arrest of party spokesperson Raoof Hasan. Addressing Attaullah Tarar’s claims about his VIP jail conditions, Khan invited the media to visit his cell, stating, “If Tarar is telling the truth, he should meet me. Let the media see my cell for two minutes.” He lamented the biased treatment of PTI workers detained in military jails, suggesting a plan to also incarcerate him under similar charges. He als...

An accountability court on Monday extended the physical remand of PTI founder Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi by seven days in newly filed Toshakhana reference by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), Express News reported. The decision follows a request by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) for a 14-day extension to continue their investigations into allegations of receiving illicit gifts and selling them for profit. Imran and Bushra will be presented in court again on July 29 for further proceedings. Read Jail trial notification issued in new Toshakhana reference Earlier on July 13, Imran and Bushra were acquitted in the Iddat case, however, PTI's relief was short-lived as the accountability watchdog arrested the PTI supremo in a new Toshakhana reference. In the new NAB reference, the couple is accused of purchasing a jewelry set from the Toshakhana and selling it. The set is valued at Rs75 million. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express ...

The law enforcement agencies conducted a raid on the Digital Media Cell established at the central office of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Islamabad. According to sources, authorities allege that the Digital Media Cell at PTI's central office had become a hub for international disinformation, where anti-Pakistan propaganda was being carried out in collaboration with enemy agencies. It was reported that propaganda against Pakistan's sovereignty and national integrity was also being orchestrated from this location. Sources further revealed that suspects directly involved in the activities were arrested along with all their equipment by the law enforcement agencies, and evidence was taken into custody. The action was reportedly carried out on the basis of the information provided by PTI's international social media activists who are currently in the custody of law enforcement agencies. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune http...

The port city is treated to much-needed rainfall, bringing relief to its residents after enduring restless heat and humidity. The rain, which began in the afternoon, spread across various parts of the city, including Gulistan-e-Johar, Malir, Scheme 33, Quaidabad, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulshan-e-Jamal, and Surjani Town. In the next 24 hours, light winds from different directions are expected to blow across the city. The maximum temperature is likely to range between 38 to 40 degrees Celsius and the weather is expected to remain hot until Monday, with a decrease in heat intensity anticipated from Tuesday onward. The PMD earlier forecasted that there are chances of light rain to heavy downpours in the financial hub as there is a likelihood of thundercell formation in the city's north, west, and east. The PMDA too has issued warnings to Sindh and Punjab of potential flash floods in various cities across both provinces, as heavy monsoon rains are expected from Monday to Thursday.     ...

In a rare interview from prison, former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan denounced his harsh confinement conditions, likening them to those of a terrorist. Khan described it as solitary confinement with minimal space and constant surveillance, highlighting the denial of basic rights, including visitation. “I am confined in a 7ft by 8ft death cell, typically reserved for terrorists to ensure they have no contact with anyone,” he told The Sunday Times. “It is solitary confinement with barely any space to move. I am under constant surveillance by the agencies, being recorded 24/7, and I am denied basic prisoner and human rights such as visitation,” he said. Khan, 71, has been imprisoned for nearly a year on various charges, including corruption, treason, and an illegal marriage. His third wife, Bushra, is also incarcerated. The interview was conducted through his lawyers due to restrictions on his access to writing materials. Recently, a UN working grou...

Bushra Bibi, the wife of former prime minister Imran Khan, expressed grave concerns about her husband’s safety in Adiala Jail.  Speaking informally to journalists at the prison on Saturday, she revealed fears for her own life as well. Bushra Bibi stated that Imran Khan’s life is in danger, mentioning past incidents where he was allegedly poisoned and shot at.  She added that their legal request to investigate the poisoning has not been addressed by the court yet. Describing conditions in the jail, Bushra Bibi alleged that Imran Khan was kept in unsanitary conditions and given contaminated food to eat.  She mentioned that during their meeting in Attock Jail, Khan appeared emaciated and had to pick insects from his hair throughout the night. Bushra Bibi also criticised the treatment of political prisoners compared to convicted criminals.  She highlighted that other prisoners received VIP treatment, while Khan struggled without basic amenities. During the conversation, ...

The Oil Marketing Association of Pakistan (OMAP) has penned a letter to the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stating that the petroleum industry in the country is "on the brink of collapse." In the letter written to the PM on Saturday, Chairman of the Association Tariq Wazir Ali appealed to the premier to intervene in the matter of foreign exchange losses amounting to Rs26 billion, which he stated, are severely impacting the petroleum industry. Wazir Ali highlighted that the petroleum industry is already grappling with numerous challenges. The oil companies are bearing substantial losses due to flaws in the foreign exchange system, he said adding that despite acknowledging these flaws, the Ministry of Petroleum has failed to address the issue effectively. In April, the Director General of Oil convened a meeting to formulate recommendations, which were subsequently sent to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). However, the matter is currently stalled at the Prime Minister’...

A petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) challenging the 20 to 25 per cent salary increase for federal government employees. The petition, filed on Saturday, argues that the federal government has ignored employees of other corporations and semi-autonomous bodies in its salary increase. It calls the court to nullify the notification of the pay raise for federal and armed forces employees. Justice Abid Aziz Sheikh of the LHC issued a written order regarding the last hearing. The written order states that a copy of the petition has been provided to the government lawyer, who has been instructed to present directives at the next hearing. The court has issued notices to the parties involved, requesting their responses. The Ministry of Finance had earlier this month announced an increase in salaries and pensions for federal government employees, as outlined in the annual budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, according to which the basic pay for employees in BPS-1 to 16 was rep...

Prominent Pakistani actress and host, Juggan Kazim recenrty shared her experiences with domestic violence at the hands of her former husband during a podcast. Juggan disclosed that her first marriage, which she entered in secrecy against her parents' wishes, was initially based on her own choice and love. However, she added that just three weeks into the marriage, her husband began to subject her to physical abuse. She noted that abuse often starts with verbal insults, which can escalate to physical violence, emphasising that once physical abuse begins, it tends to persist throughout the relationship. Reflecting on her ordeal, Juggan advised that a woman should make a decisive choice when abuse first occurs, as it rarely stops once it starts. She revealed that she endured the abuse for a year and a half before finally deciding to separate. Regretting her delay in leaving the abusive relationship, she described an incident where, while seven months pregnant, her ex-husband alle...

The third former Supreme Court Judge Mazhar Alam declined the offer to serve as an ad-hoc judge, after two esteemed former judges Justice (R) Maqbool Baqar and Justice (R) Mazhar Alam Mian Khail excused themselves from taking up the position, citing personal reasons and dissatisfaction with the subsequent social media campaign. The appointments of ad-hoc judges began earlier this month when Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa proposed four retired judges, including Alam, Baqar, and Mian Khail, to address a backlog of over 54,000 pending cases in the SC. Read Justice Mushir Alam declines SC ad-hoc judge role The appointment faced criticism from various quarters, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which plans to challenge the decision in the Supreme Judicial Council. Barrister Gohar said that the appointment of ad hoc judges was mala fide. “Four judges are being appointed at the same time during the vacations with a view to bringing in like-minded judges,” Gohar said. “We are sending ...

The Federal Government announced on Friday that its negotiations with Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) had been successful, bringing an end to the Faizabad sit-in. Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, announced this during a press conference held alongside TLP leaders On Saturday, TLP staged a sit-in at Faizabad Interchange, calling on the government to provide food and medical aid to Palestinians and to label Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a terrorist. The protest began with a rally led by Hafiz Saad Rizvi at Liaquat Bagh. Following the rally, which was marked by participants waving TLP and Palestinian flags, the group marched to Faizabad. Upon arrival, TLP leaders declared their intention to continue the sit-in indefinitely. The rally attracted participants from various areas of Rawalpindi Division. During the conference today, Sanaullah said, “Tehreek-e-Labbaik is protesting against the oppression of Palestinian Muslims." He added th...

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has announced its decision to implement the Supreme Court's July 12 ruling which facilitates the PTI-backed MNAs to take part in the assembly’s proceedings under the umbrella of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rather than the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC). In a press release, the electoral watchdog confirmed its commitment to comply with the court's directive but instructed its legal team to identify any implementation obstacles promptly. The apex court's majority verdict overturned the Peshawar High Court judgment dated March 25 and also declared the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) order dated March 1 unconstitutional, lacking lawful authority and having no legal effect. The apex court declared that the denial of an election symbol does not affect the constitutional and legal rights of a political party in any manner to participate in an election and to field candidates whereas the ECP is under a constitutional duty to act, cons...

Prominent anchor Ayesha Jehanzeb and her husband Haris Ali have reached a reconciliation agreement. Ayesha Jehanzeb appeared in a session court in Lahore with her lawyer Asim Mumtaz to record her statement. During the hearing, the couple reached an agreement. The court inquired Ayesha Jehanzeb if she was present voluntarily, noting the visible signs of violence on her face. Jehanzeb responded, "What happened was very cruel and should not happen to any woman. However, I accept the decision made by the respected elders." Anchor Ayesha Jehanzeb stated that she does not wish to pursue the case further, emphasizing that the decision was made in the presence of witnesses. After hearing her statement, the court granted bail to the extent of the reconciliation, with the final decision on acquittal to be made based on the case challan. Previously, the court had sent the accused Haris Ali to jail on judicial remand. On July 10, Ayesha Jehanzeb filed a case against her husband at Sarwar...

An anti-terrorism court in Karachi ordered the arrest of former PTI member of the Sindh Assembly, Adil Khan, on charges related to the May 9 incidents. According to Express News, the court revoked Khan's bail due to his non-appearance in an earlier hearing and was taken into custody immediately following the court's directive. The hearing, held at the Anti-Terrorism Complex within Karachi Central Jail, was part of an ongoing legal process concerning three cases linked to the events of May 9. While Adil Khan faced arrest, other accused individuals including Haleem Adil Sheikh and Raja Azhar attended the session. The proceedings have been adjourned until August 5. Earlier this month, Amir Mughal, the President of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Islamabad, was arrested by the police. The arrest took place outside the Deputy Commissioner's office, confirmed PTI lawyer Asim Baig. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/JU...

Members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) staged a protest rally demanding the release of their party founder, Imran Khan. The PTI assembly members marched from Parliament House to the Supreme Court, chanting slogans for his release. After reaching the Supreme Court, the members returned to Parliament House, where they were joined by recently released PTI leader Sanam Javed. The protesters demanded Imran Khan’s immediate release. Speaking to the media, PTI leader Omar Ayub accused agencies of falsely implicating their assembly members in bogus cases. He condemned the charges against Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi, and other detainees, stating that Bushra Bibi's release orders had been issued but the NAB team rearrested her on false charges. Ayub appealed to Qazi Faez Isa to ensure that ad hoc judges do not hear their cases, asserting that their patriotism could not be questioned. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar criticized the appointment of ad-hoc judges, claiming it was detrimental to a...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) remind humanity to stand against falsehood and oppression. In his Youm-e-Ashur message, the prime minister emphasised the profound significance of the grandson of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions' martyrdom at Karbala. Shehbaz highlighted Imam Hussain’s (RA) courageous resistance against Yazid’s oppressive rule, illustrating his unwavering commitment to truth. He cited the Holy Qur’an, “Do not think of those who have been killed in the way of Allah as dead. They are alive with their Lord, receiving provision” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:169), to underscore the essence of the sacrifices made at Karbala. Drawing parallels to contemporary struggles, the prime minister noted the hardships endured by Palestinians and the residents of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that their sacrifices for a just cause echo the lessons of Karbala. Addressing Pakistan’s current eco...

Pakistan's High Commission in Dhaka on Wednesday issued an advisory to Pakistani students in Bangladesh to take all necessary precautions for their safety due to the ongoing protests in the country. The students have been specifically advised to stay away from any protest activities to avoid potential harm. In response to the situation, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a conversation with the Pakistani High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Ambassador Syed Maroof, this morning to inquire about the well-being of Pakistani nationals residing in Bangladesh. During the discussion, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all Pakistanis, particularly the students living in Dhaka. Dar instructed the High Commissioner to remain in close contact with local authorities to guarantee the security of Pakistani students. Ambassador Maroof provided an update on the measures already taken to protect Pakistanis, including the e...

Punjab is set to experience widespread monsoon rains from today until July 20, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) spokesperson. Severe rainstorms accompanied by strong winds are anticipated across most districts in the province, with heavy rains and thunderstorms expected in southern Punjab between July 17 and 19, he added. The rains are expected to bring relief from the heat and humidity. However, there is a risk of flooding in Punjab’s rivers and streams, cautioned Irfan Kathia, Director General of PDMA. He urged city administrations to remain vigilant and complete all necessary preparations in advance. Kathia warned that the storms could damage electricity poles and solar panels. He emphasized that relevant authorities have been alerted in light of the weather forecast, per the directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz. Efforts are being made to ensure the prompt drainage of water from low-lying areas, stated PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia, who ...

In a tragic incident in Tehsil Noorpur administrative subdivision of Khushab District in Punjab, seven children drowned and one was rescued after the boat overturned in a canal. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia communicated with the Khushab Deputy Commissioner, urging the district administration to expedite the rescue operations. Rescue teams promptly arrived at the scene and managed to save one child, while the search for the remaining children is still underway, according to a spokesperson for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). DG PDMA emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against those responsible for allowing the children to board the boat without life jackets. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/Sns1mIH

A tragic incident unfolded in Oman's capital, Muscat, where a shooting occurred at the Majlis-e-Aza ( mourning assembly) held at Imam Ali Mosque in Wadi Kabir area that was attended by over 700 people including members of the Pakistani community, leaving four people dead and several others injured. Local media reports indicate that the shooting caused a stampede, resulting in additional injuries as people were trampled that resulted in the death of two Pakistani nationals. According to Ministry of Foreign Office (MoF), Pakistan has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on the mosque which resulted in multiple casualties, including the deaths of two Pakistani nationals. The statement said that the Pakistani Embassy in Oman is working closely with Omani authorities to identify and repatriate the remains of the deceased. Read Four killed in shooting near mosque in Oman Following the attack, Omani security forces quickly cordoned off the mosque, but no arrests have been made so far. ...

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government on Tuesday announced a decision to provide free solar systems to 100,000 families struggling with load-shedding. KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has directed that solar systems be distributed to impoverished families across the province. Under this initiative, the provincial government will provide a 2 KW solar system to each eligible family, aiming to alleviate the impact of electricity shortages. Three days earlier, The Punjab government also announced that it would be distributing free solar panels across the province starting on Independence Day, August 14. Read: Punjab government’s solar panel scheme: Find out if you qualify? Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced on Saturday that households consuming up to 200 units of electricity per month will receive free solar panels. Consumers using between 200 and 500 units of electricity per month will get solar panels at only 10% of the cost, with the remaining 90% subsidized by the ...

Former Supreme Court Judge, Justice (Retired) Mushir Alam has declined the appointment as an ad-hoc judge through a letter penned to the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) on Tuesday. Expressing gratitude, Justice Alam wrote, "God has honoured me beyond my position...I am thankful to the Judicial Commission for the honour of being reappointed as an ad-hoc judge." Justice Alam cited disappointment with the social media campaign that emerged following his nomination as a significant reason for his decision. "The campaign on social media after the nomination of ad-hoc judges has been deeply discouraging," the letter read. "In the current circumstances, I regret that I am unable to serve as an ad-hoc judge," he conveyed. Yesterday, the Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa proposed four retired judges for the appointment as four ad hoc judges for three years in the apex court. It included Mushir Alam, Mazhar Alam Miankhel, Maqbool Baqar and Sardar Tariq M...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi was indicted on Monday in the case related to the arson of Shadman police station on May 9, 2023. Today, the Anti-Terrorism Court in Kot Lakhpat Jail of Lahore held a hearing for the Shadman arson case, where Judge Khalid Arshad formally charged PTI's Qureshi and summoned witnesses for the next hearing. The court indicted Shah Mahmood Qureshi and adjourned the case until July 22. Previously, Qureshi was brought to Kot Lakhpat Jail under heavy security for the proceedings related to the May 9 incidents. The anti-terrorism court had summoned him for the indictment process. On July 3, a district and sessions court acquitted PTI Vice Chairman Qureshi in a case pertaining to last year’s May 9 violence. Judicial Magistrate Sohaib Bilal Ranjha announced the verdict after reserving it following the completion of arguments from both the prosecution and defence. The case was registered at the federal capit...

The federal government and its coalition partners have decided to file a review petition against the Supreme Court’s ruling, which declared the PTI eligible for reserved seats, a decision that dashed its hopes of gaining a two-thirds majority in Parliament. Addressing a press conference on Monday, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar stated, "In the recent decision, undue relief was granted to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), prompting us to seek a review." He claimed that the manifesto of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), the party that PTI-backed independent candidates joined, declares that no non-Muslim can be a member of their party. In a presser last week, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that any appeal against the decision on reserved seats would be filed after consultations with allied parties. Tarar questioned the legitimacy of the top court's verdict, asking, "Did those who were granted relief ev...

In a tragic incident in Rawalpindi, a father killed his two daughters, Anusha and Laraib, aged 10 and 4, and severely injured his wife. The suspect, identified as Usman, attacked his wife with a knife, cutting her jugular vein. Rescue workers provided immediate first aid and transferred the injured woman to the hospital. The Rescue 1122 spokesperson stated that the bodies of the children will be moved to the hospital after legal formalities are completed. According to police, doctors are currently battling to save her life. During the incident, a passerby was also injured, sustaining a neck wound. Rescue personnel provided first aid and transferred him to the hospital as well. Usman, the suspect, is a government employee working as a technician. Initial investigations indicate that the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute between Usman and his wife. The murderer also attempted to harm himself by cutting his veins. The Rawalpindi police spokesperson confirmed that Usman has been arr...

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar announced at a press conference in Islamabad that the government will file treason charges against former prime minister Imran Khan, former president Arif Alvi, and former deputy speaker Qasim Suri. Tarar also announced the government's decision to impose restrictions on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), citing party’s alleged efforts to create unrest in the country. https://ift.tt/CrtGA2Z He criticised Imran Khan, labelling him as the “worst leader” who has set a precedent of imprisoning women and daughters. The minister also mentioned Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's proposal of a Charter of Economy in Parliament, which, he said, was perceived by the opposition as a sign of weakness. Tarar revealed that stringent actions would be taken against several prominent figures, including Alvi, Khan, and Suri. He indicated that a treason case under Article 6 of the Constitution would be lodged against them, with their ...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Member of National Assembly (MNA) Ameer Sultan, who secured his parliamentary seat from NA-110 in Jhang, was reportedly abducted from his residence by unknown individuals in Lahore, according to a senior party leader on Sunday. PTI Secretary Lahore General Hafiz Zeeshan stated that "unknown men arrived in two vehicles and abducted him last night," following the Supreme Court's ruling on the reserved seats, which has left party members feeling "unsafe." The Supreme Court's decision affirmed that PTI is eligible for reserved seats, potentially making it the largest party in the National Assembly once these seats are allocated. In response, SSP Cantt Awais Shafiq said that the police had neither arrested Sultan nor received any complaints regarding his alleged abduction. When asked why no complaint had been filed, Zeeshan explained that the party was in the process of drafting one and planned to submit it to the police on Monday. ...

A district and sessions court has reserved its decision on the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) request for the physical remand of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) member and social activist Sanam Javed. The PTI member was acquitted in a May 9 case by the Lahore High Court (LHC) last week and was rearrested by the Islamabad Police as soon as she stepped out of the Central Jail of Gujranwala on Saturday. Sanam Javed was presented before Magistrate Malik Imran by FIA prosecutors, who sought her physical remand on Sunday (today). Sanam Javed’s lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, argued that the Lahore High Court(LHC) had already acquitted her, stating, “The Lahore High Court wrote that there is no legal evidence or proof against Sanam." "This endless cycle of being acquitted and then arrested continues. She was moved from Lahore cases to Sargodha’s May 9 cases, and after being acquitted there, she was implicated in Gujranwala," Sanam's counsel stated. On July 10, a division benc...

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Sunday issued a weather advisory, warning of heavy monsoon rains across Punjab on the 8th and 9th of Muharram, highlighting that various districts are expected to experience severe rainfall tonight as well. Given the forecasted weather conditions, the PDMA has urged the administration of Muharram processions to implement safety measures. The Director-General of PDMA emphasized the need for precautionary actions, advising procession organizers to avoid holding gatherings on dilapidated roofs and to maintain a safe distance from electric poles and wires. Residents living near riverbanks, especially in the hilly areas of Dera Ghazi Khan, have been warned of potential flooding. Additionally, crossing rivers and streams should be avoided to mitigate the risk of accidents. Rescue agencies across the province have been instructed to remain on high alert on the 8th and 9th of Muharram to respond promptly to any emergencies. Citizens are ad...

President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to ensure sustainable development and common prosperity through China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI). Virtually addressing the 2nd High-level Meeting of the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development, organised by the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) in Beijing, President Zardari highlighted the initiative's potential in shaping the future of global development. During his address, the president underscored the importance of viewing global challenges such as progress, development, and health from an Eastern perspective. He pointed out that a significant portion of the world’s population resides in the Eastern hemisphere, particularly in countries like China, Pakistan, and their neighboring nations. President Zardari also lauded the GDI for its potential to foster shared development and urged developing countries to take a leading role in the global development process. H...

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chirman Imran Khan has faced a barrage of cases since his April 2022 ouster from the position of Prime Minister. His party has said that the more than 200 cases are politically motivated. With his latest acquittal in the Iddat Nikkah cases, Khan technically is a free man. Apart from acquittals he has also been granted bails in the cases filed against him. Here is a look at the major cases he faced and their current status May 9 riots: Khan was booked in multiple cases related to the unrest that took place across the country on May 9, 2023 in the aftermath of his arrest from a courtroom in Islamabad. During the chaos the mobs had attacked civilian and military installations. Khan has denied responsibility and has been acquitted or granted bail in many of those cases. Toshakhana (State gifts case) Imran Khan was handed a three-year prison sentence in the ToshaKhana or state gifts case in August 2023. He was previously arrested on May 9 in connectio...