<p>Two years after Taliban extremists took over Kabul after democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani fled Afghanistan following a disastrous US&nbsp;withdrawal, the South Asian nation's new rulers&nbsp;continue to violate many human rights including implementing a system of total discrimination, exclusion and subjugation of women and girls, UN experts said on August 15.<em> </em></p>

<p>In recent months, WION has reported exclusively on Taliban's systemic subjugation of women's rights. Afghan women have called upon international community to not abandon their cause and ensure revival of their rights to study and work.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>The gap between promises and practices by Afghanistan’s de facto authorities has widened and the idea of a "reformed" Taliban has been exposed as mistaken, the UN experts said.<em> </em></p>

<p>"Consistent credible reports of summary executions and acts tantamount to enforced disappearances, widespread arbitrary detention, torture, and ill treatment, as well as arbitrary displacement have caused increased concern," an official UN readout said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Women, ethnic minorities worst-hit: UN experts</strong></h2>

<p>The report added that after Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, the repressive policies have&nbsp;hit women and girls, ethnic, religious and other minorities, people with disabilities, displaced persons, LGBTQ+ persons, human rights defenders and other civil society actors, journalists, artists, educators, and former government and security officials.</p>

<p>"Despite reassurances by the Taliban de facto authorities that any restrictions, particularly in terms of access to education would be temporary, the facts on the ground have demonstrated an accelerated, systematic, and all engulfing system of segregation, marginalisation and persecution," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Taliban's policies akin to gender apartheid</strong></h2>

<p>The report asserted that the systemic mode of Taliban's repression has become more rigorous since last year.</p>

<p>"The collective practices constitute gender persecution, a crime against humanity,&nbsp; and has necessitated a discussion about the codification of gender apartheid," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION confirmed last week when Taliban expanded its ban on women's education and said that girls beyond third grade cannot attend schools in Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-now-bans-girl-students-from-attending-school-beyond-third-grade-622562">Taliban now ban girl students from attending school beyond third grade</a></strong></p>

<p>The UN report further added that the&nbsp;de facto authorities in several provinces have instructed schools recently that girls over 10 years old are not allowed to study, while previously the ban started at Grade 6.</p>

<p>"Women have even been denied the ability to seek comfort in some of their own spaces such as beauty salons that were frequented and run by women, as these have been recently ordered to close," the report said.</p>

<p>"Both Afghan women and men, including many community leaders and teachers have voiced their profound disappointment at the inability of girls and women to continue with their education," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UN urged Taliban to 'immediately reverse course on the treatment of women and girls', and "allow women to work and run businesses, including the employment of women to deliver essential services to women and girls, and allow all women and girls to enjoy all human rights, including freedom of movement and participation in political and public life, as well as to ensure equal and meaningful representation of women in decision-making processes."</p>

<p>It further asked the de-facto authorities of Afghanistan to "immediately reopen schools at all levels and universities for girls and women and fulfill the right to education, which includes access to quality and comprehensive education."</p>

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Two years after Taliban extremists took over Kabul after democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani fled Afghanistan following a disastrous US withdrawal, the South Asian nation's new rulers continue to violate many human rights including implementing a system of total discrimination, exclusion and subjugation of women and girls, UN experts said on August 15.

Two years after Taliban extremists took over Kabul after democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani fled Afghanistan following a disastrous US withdrawal, the South Asian nation's new rulers continue to violate many human rights including implementing a system of total discrimination, exclusion and subjugation of women and girls, UN experts said on August 15. In recent months, WION has reported exclusively on Taliban's systemic subjugation of women's rights. Afghan women have called upon international community to not abandon their cause and ensure revival of their rights to study and work. Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × The gap between promises and practices by Afghanistan’s de facto authorities has widened and the idea of a "reformed" Taliban has been exposed as mistaken, the UN experts said. "Consistent credible reports of summary executions and acts tantamount to enforced disappearances, widespread arbitrary detention, torture, and ill treatment, as well as arbitrary displacement have caused increased concern," an official UN readout said. Women, ethnic minorities worst-hit: UN experts The report added that after Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, the repressive policies have hit women and girls, ethnic, religious and other minorities, people with disabilities, displaced persons, LGBTQ+ persons, human rights defenders and other civil society actors, journalists, artists, educators, and former government and security officials. "Despite reassurances by the Taliban de facto authorities that any restrictions, particularly in terms of access to education would be temporary, the facts on the ground have demonstrated an accelerated, systematic, and all engulfing system of segregation, marginalisation and persecution," it added. Taliban's policies akin to gender apartheid The report asserted that the systemic mode of Taliban's repression has become more rigorous since last year. "The collective practices constitute gender persecution, a crime against humanity, and has necessitated a discussion about the codification of gender apartheid," it added. WION confirmed last week when Taliban expanded its ban on women's education and said that girls beyond third grade cannot attend schools in Afghanistan. Also read | Taliban now ban girl students from attending school beyond third grade The UN report further added that the de facto authorities in several provinces have instructed schools recently that girls over 10 years old are not allowed to study, while previously the ban started at Grade 6. "Women have even been denied the ability to seek comfort in some of their own spaces such as beauty salons that were frequented and run by women, as these have been recently ordered to close," the report said. "Both Afghan women and men, including many community leaders and teachers have voiced their profound disappointment at the inability of girls and women to continue with their education," it added. The UN urged Taliban to 'immediately reverse course on the treatment of women and girls', and "allow women to work and run businesses, including the employment of women to deliver essential services to women and girls, and allow all women and girls to enjoy all human rights, including freedom of movement and participation in political and public life, as well as to ensure equal and meaningful representation of women in decision-making processes." It further asked the de-facto authorities of Afghanistan to "immediately reopen schools at all levels and universities for girls and women and fulfill the right to education, which includes access to quality and comprehensive education." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN asks Taliban to reverse its course on treatment of Afghan women

Medical experts say you should not drink more than 1500ml water within an hour. That is, about three 500 ml bottles or six glasses in an hour.

What happens when you drink too much water?

Water intoxication. It mild cases, it leads to lethargy and nausea; but in severe cases, symptoms are seizures, coma and in rare cases: death


Water intoxication: What's the bottom line?

A person can die from drinking too much water. But the chances of this happening are rare.

Drinking enough water has health benefits, of course

If you stay hydrated, your skin appears fresh. Efficient oxygen supply in body cells make you feel energetic.

Water intoxication is pretty much a health concern that has garnered spotlight in recent days.

 Dangers Of Drinking Too Much Water 


<p>Russia dispatched a MiG-29 fighter jet on Monday (Aug 14) after what Moscow claimed was a bid to breach its borders by a Norwegian military patrol aircraft over the Barents Sea.</p>

<p>Russian defence ministry said that as the Russian fighter jet approached the site, the purported Norwegian&nbsp;military plane did a U-turn and veered&nbsp;away from Russia's borders.</p>

<p>The statement clarified that no border violation occurred.</p>

<p>Russia specifically identified the Norwegian aircraft as a P-8A Poseidon patrol plane.</p>

<h2><br />
<strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Russia said that its response to the potential border breach was conducted in adherence to international regulations.</p>

<p>Moscow reportedly refrained from crossing established air routes or engaging in hazardous maneuvers.</p>

<p>"As the Russian fighter approached, the foreign military plane made a U-turn away from the borders of the Russian Federation," the Russian defence ministry said.</p>

<p>"There was no violation of the border," the statement added.</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/threat-from-wagner-poland-a-nato-ally-deploys-more-troops-on-belarus-border-623873">Threat from Wagner? Poland, a NATO ally, deploys more troops on Belarus border</a></b></p>

<p>Norway, a NATO member, shares both a land and maritime border with Russia in the Barents Sea.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Any military confrontation between Russia and a NATO member country could emerge as a major flashpoint since a perceived armed attack on a NATO member is deemed an attack on all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the middle of Russia's ongoing offensive in&nbsp;Ukraine, there has been a surge in incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft in recent months.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NATO conducts military exercises with an eye on Russia | WION Pulse</strong></p>

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<p>After Monday's incident, the Russian defence ministry said that a number of its strategic bombers did scheduled flights over neutral waters in the Baltic and northern seas, including the Barents Sea.</p>

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Russia dispatched a MiG-29 fighter jet on Monday (Aug 14) after what Moscow claimed was a bid to breach its borders by a Norwegian military patrol aircraft over the Barents Sea.

Russia dispatched a MiG-29 fighter jet on Monday (Aug 14) after what Moscow claimed was a bid to breach its borders by a Norwegian military patrol aircraft over the Barents Sea. Russian defence ministry said that as the Russian fighter jet approached the site, the purported Norwegian military plane did a U-turn and veered away from Russia's borders. The statement clarified that no border violation occurred. Russia specifically identified the Norwegian aircraft as a P-8A Poseidon patrol plane. What happened? Russia said that its response to the potential border breach was conducted in adherence to international regulations. Moscow reportedly refrained from crossing established air routes or engaging in hazardous maneuvers. "As the Russian fighter approached, the foreign military plane made a U-turn away from the borders of the Russian Federation," the Russian defence ministry said. "There was no violation of the border," the statement added. Also read | Threat from Wagner? Poland, a NATO ally, deploys more troops on Belarus border Norway, a NATO member, shares both a land and maritime border with Russia in the Barents Sea. What does it mean? Any military confrontation between Russia and a NATO member country could emerge as a major flashpoint since a perceived armed attack on a NATO member is deemed an attack on all. In the middle of Russia's ongoing offensive in Ukraine, there has been a surge in incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft in recent months. Also watch | NATO conducts military exercises with an eye on Russia | WION Pulse × After Monday's incident, the Russian defence ministry said that a number of its strategic bombers did scheduled flights over neutral waters in the Baltic and northern seas, including the Barents Sea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach

<p>A dramatic scene unfolded in Pennsylvania after a house burst into flames, resulting in the loss of lives of four adults and a teenager.</p>

<p>The house is located in Plum Borough, 20 miles east of Pittsburgh.&nbsp;Three individuals were successfully rescued and taken to hospitals by emergency responders.</p>

<p>While two injured persons were released after initial&nbsp;medical care, one person remained in critical condition. Additionally, 57 firefighters received treatment for minor issues stemming from the scene.</p>

<p>The explosion took place just before 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 12.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-25-people-charred-to-death-eight-injured-after-bus-catches-fire-on-maharashtra-expressway-610728">India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured as bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway</a></strong></p>

<p>Plum Borough Police Chief Lanny Conley conveyed the shared grief felt not only within the local community but also throughout the broader region.</p>

<p>Plum Borough comes within Allegheny County.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Three years since Beirut blast: Fire department honours killed firefighters with portrait | WION</strong></p>

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<p>"This is a truly somber day, not just for those in Plum, but for everyone in our community and this region,"&nbsp;County Executive Rich Fitzgerald was quoted as saying by the New York Post.</p>

<p>The emergency responders faced a challenging situation, with some individuals trapped under debris due to the powerful blast.</p>

<p>The explosion leveled one house and triggered fires in two adjacent structures.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A house blew up in a quiet neighborhood in Plum, Pennsylvania. <a href="https://t.co/66pj8bsGws">pic.twitter.com/66pj8bsGws</a></p>
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) <a href="https://twitter.com/stillgray/status/1690809003138596864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A coordinated effort involving 18 fire departments, supported by water tankers from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, was crucial in combating the fires and containing the situation.</p>

<h2><strong>What caused the explosion?</strong></h2>

<p>Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the explosion.</p>

<p>The county fire marshal's office, in collaboration with local law enforcement, is leading the inquiry.</p>

<p>Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro extended his sympathy and support to the affected families.</p>

<p>He assured them that the community and government would stand by their side throughout the rebuilding process, offering assistance and solace.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A dramatic scene unfolded in Pennsylvania after a house burst into flames, resulting in the loss of lives of four adults and a teenager. The house is located in Plum Borough, 20 miles east of Pittsburgh.

A dramatic scene unfolded in Pennsylvania after a house burst into flames, resulting in the loss of lives of four adults and a teenager. The house is located in Plum Borough, 20 miles east of Pittsburgh. Three individuals were successfully rescued and taken to hospitals by emergency responders. While two injured persons were released after initial medical care, one person remained in critical condition. Additionally, 57 firefighters received treatment for minor issues stemming from the scene. The explosion took place just before 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 12. Also read | India: 25 people charred to death, eight injured as bus catches fire on Maharashtra Expressway Plum Borough Police Chief Lanny Conley conveyed the shared grief felt not only within the local community but also throughout the broader region. Plum Borough comes within Allegheny County. Also watch | Three years since Beirut blast: Fire department honours killed firefighters with portrait | WION × "This is a truly somber day, not just for those in Plum, but for everyone in our community and this region," County Executive Rich Fitzgerald was quoted as saying by the New York Post. The emergency responders faced a challenging situation, with some individuals trapped under debris due to the powerful blast. The explosion leveled one house and triggered fires in two adjacent structures. A house blew up in a quiet neighborhood in Plum, Pennsylvania. pic.twitter.com/66pj8bsGws — Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) August 13, 2023 × A coordinated effort involving 18 fire departments, supported by water tankers from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, was crucial in combating the fires and containing the situation. What caused the explosion? Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the explosion. The county fire marshal's office, in collaboration with local law enforcement, is leading the inquiry. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro extended his sympathy and support to the affected families. He assured them that the community and government would stand by their side throughout the rebuilding process, offering assistance and solace. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video: CCTV captures Pennsylvania house bursting into flames, killing four

<p>India's President Droupadi Murmu addressed citizens on the eve of the country's Independence Day celebrations. President Murmu hailed Mahatma Gandhi's role in India's freedom from British colonial rule and said that Gandhi-led freedom movement reawakened&nbsp;India's soul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While addressing the rising inflation across the world, President Murmu said that given India's success in controlling inflation, the world is looking up to New Delhi for global economic growth.</p>

<p>"Inflation at the global level remains a cause for worry. But in India the Government and the Reserve Bank have managed to contain it. The Government has succeeded in protecting the common people from high inflation while also providing a more extensive security cover to the poor. The world looks up to India for global economic growth," she said.</p>

<p>President Murmu, while addressing India's women,&nbsp;said she wants the daughters of India "to move forward" and be able to "face every challenge".</p>

<p>India, despite its advantageous young demographics, has one of the lowest female participation in national workforce among all major economies. The estimated Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for women of age 15 years and above in India was 32.8 per cent in 2021-22. In contrast,&nbsp;the female labour force participation rate in China remained at around 61 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Murmu said women are now participating in every sphere for India's development, taking on responsibilities that were not thought of a few decades ago.</p>

<p>"Today, women are contributing extensively in every field of development and service to the country and are enhancing the nation's pride. Today our women have made their special place in many such fields in which their participation was unimaginable a few decades ago," she said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India to celebrate its 77th Independence day</strong></p>

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<p>"I am happy to note that the economic empowerment of women is being given special focus in our country. Economic empowerment strengthens the position of women in the family and society," the president added.</p>

<p>"I want the daughters of the country to move forward," she said, while citing examples of leaders like female freedom fighters Sarojini Naidu, Ammu Swaminathan, Rama Devi, Aruna Asaf Ali and Sucheta Kriplani.</p>

<h2><strong>Each Indian is an equal citizen: President Droupadi Murmu</strong></h2>

<p>President Murmu also underscored the right to equality granted by India's Constitution, saying, "Each Indian is an equal citizen, each one has equal opportunity, rights and duties in this land".</p>

<p>"Maa Kasturba matched the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi every step of the way on the difficult path of Satyagraha," she said while referring to the role played by Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Indian freedom movement icon Mahatma Gandhi, in the overall freedom movement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-nurses-to-be-among-distinguished-guests-at-indias-official-independence-day-celebrations-in-delhi-624948">Farmers, nurses among distinguished guests at India’s Independence Day celebrations in Delhi</a></strong></p>

<p>President Murmu said India has not only regained its "rightful place" on the world stage but it has also enhanced its standing in the world order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India is playing a crucial role in promoting developmental and humanitarian goals around the world. It has also assumed leadership of international forums, especially the presidency of G-20," the president said.</p>

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India's President Droupadi Murmu addressed citizens on the eve of the country's Independence Day celebrations. President Murmu hailed Mahatma Gandhi's role in India's freedom from British colonial rule and said that Gandhi-led freedom movement reawakened India's soul.

India's President Droupadi Murmu addressed citizens on the eve of the country's Independence Day celebrations. President Murmu hailed Mahatma Gandhi's role in India's freedom from British colonial rule and said that Gandhi-led freedom movement reawakened India's soul. While addressing the rising inflation across the world, President Murmu said that given India's success in controlling inflation, the world is looking up to New Delhi for global economic growth. "Inflation at the global level remains a cause for worry. But in India the Government and the Reserve Bank have managed to contain it. The Government has succeeded in protecting the common people from high inflation while also providing a more extensive security cover to the poor. The world looks up to India for global economic growth," she said. President Murmu, while addressing India's women, said she wants the daughters of India "to move forward" and be able to "face every challenge". India, despite its advantageous young demographics, has one of the lowest female participation in national workforce among all major economies. The estimated Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for women of age 15 years and above in India was 32.8 per cent in 2021-22. In contrast, the female labour force participation rate in China remained at around 61 per cent. President Murmu said women are now participating in every sphere for India's development, taking on responsibilities that were not thought of a few decades ago. "Today, women are contributing extensively in every field of development and service to the country and are enhancing the nation's pride. Today our women have made their special place in many such fields in which their participation was unimaginable a few decades ago," she said. Also watch | India to celebrate its 77th Independence day × "I am happy to note that the economic empowerment of women is being given special focus in our country. Economic empowerment strengthens the position of women in the family and society," the president added. "I want the daughters of the country to move forward," she said, while citing examples of leaders like female freedom fighters Sarojini Naidu, Ammu Swaminathan, Rama Devi, Aruna Asaf Ali and Sucheta Kriplani. Each Indian is an equal citizen: President Droupadi Murmu President Murmu also underscored the right to equality granted by India's Constitution, saying, "Each Indian is an equal citizen, each one has equal opportunity, rights and duties in this land". "Maa Kasturba matched the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi every step of the way on the difficult path of Satyagraha," she said while referring to the role played by Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Indian freedom movement icon Mahatma Gandhi, in the overall freedom movement. Also read | Farmers, nurses among distinguished guests at India’s Independence Day celebrations in Delhi President Murmu said India has not only regained its "rightful place" on the world stage but it has also enhanced its standing in the world order. "India is playing a crucial role in promoting developmental and humanitarian goals around the world. It has also assumed leadership of international forums, especially the presidency of G-20," the president said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'World looks up to India for economic growth': President Murmu in her Independence Day address

<p>Two contrasting optics of Independence Day celebrations in the Indian subcontinent have hooked people of India and Pakistan. In India's Greater Noida near capital New Delhi, Pakistani runaway national Seema Haider joined her lover Sachin Meena in a flag hoisting moment at their house, while across the border in Pakistan, Indian national Anju was seen celebrating Pakistan's Independence Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India will mark its Independence Day on August 15, its neighbour Pakistan that came into existence after a bitter partition from India in 1947&nbsp;marks August 14 as its day of independence from the British.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-how-did-pakistans-seema-haider-enter-india-620844">Another Seema Haider story? Pakistan woman virtually marries Indian man after failing to get visa</a></strong></p>

<p>While Seema Haider illegally sneaked into India via United Arab Emirates and Nepal along with her children to stay with her purported lover-turned-husband Sachin Meena, Indian woman Anju went to Pakistan with legal approvals to meet her Facebook friend Nasrullah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both the stories, particularly that of Seema Haider and Sachin Meena, have stoked remarkable public interest in India and Pakistan where a woman taking authority over her choice of partner do not see much public assertion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/seema-haider-case-reversal-indian-woman-travels-to-pakistan-to-meet-lover-618720">Seema Haider case reversal: Indian woman travels to Pakistan to meet lover</a></strong></p>

<p>Sachin and Seema are now indispensable part of India's meme culture, with reactions of Sachin's neighbours over their acutely bizarre Indo-Pak romance becoming a template of sarcastic overthrows on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: How did Pakistan's Seema Haider enter India?</strong></p>

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<p>On the Indian side, Seema Haider's illegal passage to India stoked a state-level investigation whose findings are yet to be published. Haider as well as her purported husband Sachin Meena remain on the radar of India's investigative authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's Seema Haider's I-Day celebrations in India</strong></h2>

<p>Seema and Sachin reportedly joined 'Har Ghar Tiranga' (Tricolour at every house) celebrations at her residence in Uttar Pradesh state's Great Noida along with her lawyer AP Singh on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 11 called upon India's citizens to hoist India's national flag, colloquially called 'Tiranga' or Tricolour, to mark 76 years of India's freedom from the British.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India's Anju's I-Day celebrations in Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>Indian woman Anju was seen celebrating Pakistan's Independence Day in the visuals which went viral on social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">*अपने फेसबुक फ्रेंड नसरुल्लाह से शादी करने के लिए पाकिस्तान के खैबर पख्तूनख्वा प्रांत पहुंची अंजू शनिवार को वहां आजादी के जश्न में शामिल हुई. अंजू ने यहां नसरुल्लाह के साथ मिलकर पाकिस्तान की यौम-ए-आजादी (स्वतंत्रता दिवस) का केक भी काटा<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Anju?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Anju</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/HC7w8vHvOL">pic.twitter.com/HC7w8vHvOL</a></p>
— Shakti Ojha🇮🇳 (@imShaktiojha) <a href="https://twitter.com/imShaktiojha/status/1690459310558699520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a video shared on social media, Anju can be seen cutting a cake along with Nasrullah at an event.</p>

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Two contrasting optics of Independence Day celebrations in the Indian subcontinent have hooked people of India and Pakistan. In India's Greater Noida near capital New Delhi, Pakistani runaway national Seema Haider joined her lover Sachin Meena in a flag hoisting moment at their house, while across the border in Pakistan, Indian national Anju was seen celebrating Pakistan's Independence Day.

Two contrasting optics of Independence Day celebrations in the Indian subcontinent have hooked people of India and Pakistan. In India's Greater Noida near capital New Delhi, Pakistani runaway national Seema Haider joined her lover Sachin Meena in a flag hoisting moment at their house, while across the border in Pakistan, Indian national Anju was seen celebrating Pakistan's Independence Day. While India will mark its Independence Day on August 15, its neighbour Pakistan that came into existence after a bitter partition from India in 1947 marks August 14 as its day of independence from the British. Also read | Another Seema Haider story? Pakistan woman virtually marries Indian man after failing to get visa While Seema Haider illegally sneaked into India via United Arab Emirates and Nepal along with her children to stay with her purported lover-turned-husband Sachin Meena, Indian woman Anju went to Pakistan with legal approvals to meet her Facebook friend Nasrullah. Both the stories, particularly that of Seema Haider and Sachin Meena, have stoked remarkable public interest in India and Pakistan where a woman taking authority over her choice of partner do not see much public assertion. Also read | Seema Haider case reversal: Indian woman travels to Pakistan to meet lover Sachin and Seema are now indispensable part of India's meme culture, with reactions of Sachin's neighbours over their acutely bizarre Indo-Pak romance becoming a template of sarcastic overthrows on social media. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: How did Pakistan's Seema Haider enter India? × On the Indian side, Seema Haider's illegal passage to India stoked a state-level investigation whose findings are yet to be published. Haider as well as her purported husband Sachin Meena remain on the radar of India's investigative authorities. Pakistan's Seema Haider's I-Day celebrations in India Seema and Sachin reportedly joined 'Har Ghar Tiranga' (Tricolour at every house) celebrations at her residence in Uttar Pradesh state's Great Noida along with her lawyer AP Singh on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 11 called upon India's citizens to hoist India's national flag, colloquially called 'Tiranga' or Tricolour, to mark 76 years of India's freedom from the British. India's Anju's I-Day celebrations in Pakistan Indian woman Anju was seen celebrating Pakistan's Independence Day in the visuals which went viral on social media. *अपने फेसबुक फ्रेंड नसरुल्लाह से शादी करने के लिए पाकिस्तान के खैबर पख्तूनख्वा प्रांत पहुंची अंजू शनिवार को वहां आजादी के जश्न में शामिल हुई. अंजू ने यहां नसरुल्लाह के साथ मिलकर पाकिस्तान की यौम-ए-आजादी (स्वतंत्रता दिवस) का केक भी काटा#Anju #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/HC7w8vHvOL — Shakti Ojha🇮🇳 (@imShaktiojha) August 12, 2023 × In a video shared on social media, Anju can be seen cutting a cake along with Nasrullah at an event. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan's Seema Haider hails 'Bharat Mata' as India's Anju celebrates Pakistan's Independence Day

<p>Russia's crude oil sales to India are enabling it to earn far more money than what was previously believed, according to a report in Financial Times. The inflated shipping costs are enabling Russian companies earn much more money than recognised earlier, it said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that the charges may have raised more than $1 billion for Russia&nbsp;in a single quarter.</p>

<p>Even before Russian President Vladimir Putin announced war on Ukraine in February 2022, the European Union had already banned purchase and import of sea-borne Russian crude oil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the same time, the G-7 countries had set a $60 per barrel price cap on Russia-borne crude oil. With that, the G-7 banned the use of Western-supplied maritime insurance, finance and other services unless they are sold below $60 per barrel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All of these were part of what West believes, have&nbsp;been bolstering Moscow's ability to 'fund its war in Ukraine'.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's crude oil imports to India: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>According to official figures cited by Financial Times, Russia's crude oil exports to India have gone above 60 million barrels per month. India now accounts for nearly a quarter of Russia’s crude and refined oil exports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, the Russian custom records cited by the paper from December 2022 to the end of June 2023 put out average price of crude oil shipped to India at around $50 per barrel.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India guzzles Russian crude: India's imports of Russian oil hits new high</strong></p>

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<p>But the Indian custom data showed India paying about $68 per barrel after adding "cost, insurance and freight (CIF)" prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The average crude oil price in the international market was nearly $79 per barrel. Additionally, the CIF prices would further elevate the cost beyond $80 per barrel; implying that India still saved at least more than $12 per barrel of oil purchase from Russia.</p>

<p>An official at an Indian state-owned oil company cited by Financial Times said that Indian buyers were buying Russian crude oil inclusive of shipping costs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official further reportedly said that no negotiation was allowed over freight arrangements or costs.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia is earning more from crude oil sales than estimated earlier</strong></h2>

<p>In the three months to July, around 40 per cent of the oil shipped from the Baltic was carried by Russia-connected fleet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Financial Times cited freight cost estimates&nbsp;calculated by pricing company Argus, which implied that this fleet may have earned more than $350 million in revenue on the route over the quarter.</p>

<p>The report claimed that $800mn of this fees was inflated.</p>

<p>The bottom line is that the Russian side may have covertly made a billion dollars more in revenue from crude oil sales Between May to July 2023 than previously recognised.</p>

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Russia's crude oil sales to India are enabling it to earn far more money than what was previously believed, according to a report in Financial Times. The inflated shipping costs are enabling Russian companies earn much more money than recognised earlier, it said.

Russia's crude oil sales to India are enabling it to earn far more money than what was previously believed, according to a report in Financial Times. The inflated shipping costs are enabling Russian companies earn much more money than recognised earlier, it said. The report added that the charges may have raised more than $1 billion for Russia in a single quarter. Even before Russian President Vladimir Putin announced war on Ukraine in February 2022, the European Union had already banned purchase and import of sea-borne Russian crude oil. At the same time, the G-7 countries had set a $60 per barrel price cap on Russia-borne crude oil. With that, the G-7 banned the use of Western-supplied maritime insurance, finance and other services unless they are sold below $60 per barrel. All of these were part of what West believes, have been bolstering Moscow's ability to 'fund its war in Ukraine'. Russia's crude oil imports to India: What happened? According to official figures cited by Financial Times, Russia's crude oil exports to India have gone above 60 million barrels per month. India now accounts for nearly a quarter of Russia’s crude and refined oil exports. Further, the Russian custom records cited by the paper from December 2022 to the end of June 2023 put out average price of crude oil shipped to India at around $50 per barrel. Also watch | India guzzles Russian crude: India's imports of Russian oil hits new high × But the Indian custom data showed India paying about $68 per barrel after adding "cost, insurance and freight (CIF)" prices. The average crude oil price in the international market was nearly $79 per barrel. Additionally, the CIF prices would further elevate the cost beyond $80 per barrel; implying that India still saved at least more than $12 per barrel of oil purchase from Russia. An official at an Indian state-owned oil company cited by Financial Times said that Indian buyers were buying Russian crude oil inclusive of shipping costs. The official further reportedly said that no negotiation was allowed over freight arrangements or costs. Russia is earning more from crude oil sales than estimated earlier In the three months to July, around 40 per cent of the oil shipped from the Baltic was carried by Russia-connected fleet. The Financial Times cited freight cost estimates calculated by pricing company Argus, which implied that this fleet may have earned more than $350 million in revenue on the route over the quarter. The report claimed that $800mn of this fees was inflated. The bottom line is that the Russian side may have covertly made a billion dollars more in revenue from crude oil sales Between May to July 2023 than previously recognised. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from capitals all over the world.</p>

<p>Within and beyond the corridors of power in New Delhi, the capital of the world's largest democracy, often, the dishonest characterisation of an individual has a number: 420.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The number 420 is a Section that specifies criminal penalties for acts of cheating in the Indian Penal Code, the official criminal code of the world's largest democracy, created by the British imperialists in 1860.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code could become Section 316 of proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the new lawbook that could come to define the criminal code in the world's largest democracy.</p>

<p>Section 420; 355 other provisions as well as the Criminal Procedure Code and Indian Evidence Act are set to be a matter of past.</p>

<p>The objective of what could soon be India's erstwhile justice system codes, was to "punish, not deliver justice", Amit Shah, the Minister for Home Affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet said while introducing the three bills in parliament that will replace the IPC, CrPC and the Evidence Act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>My colleague C. Krishnasai details in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-indian-govt-proposes-revamp-of-colonial-era-laws-heres-what-will-change-624710">this explainer</a> what all will change once these proposed changes are enacted as laws by the Indian parliament.</p>

<p>Read more, in The Capitals this week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Quito, Ecuador</strong></h2>

<p>In Ecuador, sandwiched between Colombia and Peru on South American continent, presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was slayed by an assailant in broad daylight ahead of elections on August 20.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The killing of Villavicencio, a vocal critic of corruption and drug crime that have beset Ecuador, reflected a crisis-ridden&nbsp;security situation in much of South America.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Villavicencio had claimed to have received multiple death threats from Mexico-based&nbsp;Sinaloa Cartel, an organised crime group that operates in Ecuador.</p>

<h2><strong>Washington DC, United States of America</strong></h2>

<p>From Washington this week came a remarkable assertion of security guarantee to Philippines, if the islands located more than 4,000 miles away across the Pacific is faced by an armed aggression from Beijing.</p>

<p>While all eyes have been on Taipei for its central role in the US-China confrontation for&nbsp;semiconductor dominance, Manila, albeit unthinkably, could very well emerge as Beijing-Washington flashpoint in the Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p>The US State Department condemned China's aggression against the Philippines in what Beijing calls&nbsp;South China Sea but Manila asserts as West Philippine Sea.</p>

<p>"The United States reaffirms an armed attack on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces—including those of its Coast Guard in the South China Sea—would invoke US mutual defence commitments under Article IV of the 1951 US Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," the US statement warned China.</p>

<h2><strong>Wellington, New Zealand</strong></h2>

<p>For decades, Wellington was known for its "independent foreign policy", a foreign policy preposition popularised by New Delhi during the decades after cessation of Cold War. This week, a significant shift was marked in Wellington's defence posturing.</p>

<p>The country&nbsp;released a roadmap for the future of defence and national security this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new doctrines mark a major shift in New Zealand's foreign policy and suggest the government's intent to join AUKUS, an Anglophone tripartite alliance between Australia, the US and the UK.</p>

<p>New Zealand is going to embrace "Pillar Two" of the AUKUS pact: "AUKUS Pillar Two may present an opportunity for New Zealand to cooperate with close security partners on emerging technologies," the government document reads.<br />
<br />
That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.</p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from capitals all over the world. Within and beyond the corridors of power in New Delhi, the capital of the world's largest democracy, often, the dishonest characterisation of an individual has a number: 420.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. Your weekly recap of some of the biggest stories from capitals all over the world. Within and beyond the corridors of power in New Delhi, the capital of the world's largest democracy, often, the dishonest characterisation of an individual has a number: 420. The number 420 is a Section that specifies criminal penalties for acts of cheating in the Indian Penal Code, the official criminal code of the world's largest democracy, created by the British imperialists in 1860. Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code could become Section 316 of proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the new lawbook that could come to define the criminal code in the world's largest democracy. Section 420; 355 other provisions as well as the Criminal Procedure Code and Indian Evidence Act are set to be a matter of past. The objective of what could soon be India's erstwhile justice system codes, was to "punish, not deliver justice", Amit Shah, the Minister for Home Affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet said while introducing the three bills in parliament that will replace the IPC, CrPC and the Evidence Act. My colleague C. Krishnasai details in this explainer what all will change once these proposed changes are enacted as laws by the Indian parliament. Read more, in The Capitals this week. Quito, Ecuador In Ecuador, sandwiched between Colombia and Peru on South American continent, presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was slayed by an assailant in broad daylight ahead of elections on August 20. The killing of Villavicencio, a vocal critic of corruption and drug crime that have beset Ecuador, reflected a crisis-ridden security situation in much of South America. Villavicencio had claimed to have received multiple death threats from Mexico-based Sinaloa Cartel, an organised crime group that operates in Ecuador. Washington DC, United States of America From Washington this week came a remarkable assertion of security guarantee to Philippines, if the islands located more than 4,000 miles away across the Pacific is faced by an armed aggression from Beijing. While all eyes have been on Taipei for its central role in the US-China confrontation for semiconductor dominance, Manila, albeit unthinkably, could very well emerge as Beijing-Washington flashpoint in the Indo-Pacific. The US State Department condemned China's aggression against the Philippines in what Beijing calls South China Sea but Manila asserts as West Philippine Sea. "The United States reaffirms an armed attack on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces—including those of its Coast Guard in the South China Sea—would invoke US mutual defence commitments under Article IV of the 1951 US Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," the US statement warned China. Wellington, New Zealand For decades, Wellington was known for its "independent foreign policy", a foreign policy preposition popularised by New Delhi during the decades after cessation of Cold War. This week, a significant shift was marked in Wellington's defence posturing. The country released a roadmap for the future of defence and national security this week. The new doctrines mark a major shift in New Zealand's foreign policy and suggest the government's intent to join AUKUS, an Anglophone tripartite alliance between Australia, the US and the UK. New Zealand is going to embrace "Pillar Two" of the AUKUS pact: "AUKUS Pillar Two may present an opportunity for New Zealand to cooperate with close security partners on emerging technologies," the government document reads. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The Capitals: New Delhi's bid to truly own its books of law

<p>Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, is now Pakistan's prime minister with a much-discussed 'caretaker' prefix.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kakar, Pakistan's 24th&nbsp;prime minister since country's existence in 1947, heads the Balochistan Awami Party formed in 2018 by a group of dissidents from former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and a second short-tenured Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain's Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid e Azam group) parties.</p>

<p>The second group of dissidents led by Shujaat Hussain has been a vocal supporter of military-intelligence nexus of Pakistani power centre dubbed as the 'establishment'. Hussain was one of the top proponents of the 1999 coup by the then army chief Pervez Musharraf, and has been described as army's man in Pakistani electoral politics since.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elected to the National Assembly in 2018, The senator has done a Master’s in political science and sociology from University of Balochistan and started his career by teaching in a school in his native town, it reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kakar has served as the chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. He was also a member of the Business Advisory Committee, Finance and Revenue, Foreign Affairs and Science and Technology.</p>

<h2><strong>Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar as Pakistani PM: Why it matters?</strong></h2>

<p>Because the elections in Pakistan will not be held for another four-five months.</p>

<p>Pakistan's election body had said it is ready to hold national elections in October but&nbsp;an official schedule has not been released. However, according to Pakistani law, elections must be held within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assmebly, an event that occurred earlier this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan People's Party leader Raja Riaz, who served as Leader of Opposition in the now-dissolved Pakistan's National Assembly told the Dawn newspaper that it was decided that the "caretaker PM should be someone from a smaller province and a non-controversial personality".</p>

<p>"Our aim was to remove the sense of deprivation in small provinces," Riaz added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar ticks many boxes to be established as caretaker prime minister of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-supporters-want-to-push-pakistan-into-civil-war-army-591079">Imran Khan's supporters 'want to push Pakistan into civil war': Army</a></strong></p>

<p>He hails from Balochistan, a province where armed separatism continues to show the signs of belligerence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He belongs to the Kakar tribe, a Pashtun tribe based in northern Balochistan, parts of Iran and southern Afghanistan. Thereby he is being seen as representative of both the Pashtuns and Balochs.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why Pakistan needs a caretaker Prime Minister?</strong></h2>

<p>A caretaker government is a temporary administration in charge of overseeing day-to-day affairs and ensuring smooth transition of power through free and fair elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such interim prime ministers are often appointed in countries with history of coup d'etats and fragile democratic structures dominated by the military.</p>

<p>In the case of Pakistan, India's western neighbour, a caretaker interim government's term is limited from 60 to 90 days. This administration is responsible for maintaining law and order and continuing governance in the country while ensuring free and fair elections and subsequent smooth transition of power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Pakistan, caretaker governments were introduced to the 1973 Constitution by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1985 under the Revival of Constitution of 1973 Order (RCO).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-arrest-how-isi-angels-rule-pakistan-590710">Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, the Constitution stated that while the National Assembly is dissolved, heads of the government such as the prime minister, and the cabinet, would continue to hold office until the new government is elected. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereby, once the President or governor dissolves the National Assembly, a caretaker cabinet has to be appointed until a new prime minister is elected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such structure has evolved in Pakistan to prevent election rigging.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This amendment was further strengthened in 2010 through the 18th Amendment of the Constitution, which stated that the interim prime minister shall be selected by the president or governor in consultation with the outgoing PM and the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The family members of the caretaker Prime Minister cannot contest in the upcoming elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-is-being-run-by-the-establishment-imran-khan-tells-wion-598796">Exclusive | Pakistan is being run by the 'establishment': Imran Khan</a></strong></p>

<p>A 2012 amendment removed the authority of the president or governor in the selection process and said that, in case the prime minister and opposition leader cannot reach a consensus, the speaker of the assembly and then the Election Commission of Pakistan will choose the interim prime minister out of two given nominees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan is in the middle of a&nbsp;political turmoil since former Prime Minister Imran Khan lost a&nbsp;vote of no confidence in Pakistan's parliament in April last year. The cricketer-turned-politician&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-C1Ff5x5MU">blames the military and the United States for plotting to remove him</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a></strong></p>

<p>In January this year, Khan, who heads the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, got the assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces his party dominated, dissolved in a bid to force snap elections.</p>

<p>Khan remains under arrest with a prison sentence of three years after being convicted by a court of selling state gifts when he was prime minister.</p>

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Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, is now Pakistan's prime minister with a much-discussed 'caretaker' prefix.

Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, is now Pakistan's prime minister with a much-discussed 'caretaker' prefix. Kakar, Pakistan's 24th prime minister since country's existence in 1947, heads the Balochistan Awami Party formed in 2018 by a group of dissidents from former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and a second short-tenured Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain's Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid e Azam group) parties. The second group of dissidents led by Shujaat Hussain has been a vocal supporter of military-intelligence nexus of Pakistani power centre dubbed as the 'establishment'. Hussain was one of the top proponents of the 1999 coup by the then army chief Pervez Musharraf, and has been described as army's man in Pakistani electoral politics since. Elected to the National Assembly in 2018, The senator has done a Master’s in political science and sociology from University of Balochistan and started his career by teaching in a school in his native town, it reported. Kakar has served as the chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. He was also a member of the Business Advisory Committee, Finance and Revenue, Foreign Affairs and Science and Technology. Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar as Pakistani PM: Why it matters? Because the elections in Pakistan will not be held for another four-five months. Pakistan's election body had said it is ready to hold national elections in October but an official schedule has not been released. However, according to Pakistani law, elections must be held within 90 days of the dissolution of the National Assmebly, an event that occurred earlier this week. Pakistan People's Party leader Raja Riaz, who served as Leader of Opposition in the now-dissolved Pakistan's National Assembly told the Dawn newspaper that it was decided that the "caretaker PM should be someone from a smaller province and a non-controversial personality". "Our aim was to remove the sense of deprivation in small provinces," Riaz added. Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar ticks many boxes to be established as caretaker prime minister of Pakistan. Also read | Imran Khan's supporters 'want to push Pakistan into civil war': Army He hails from Balochistan, a province where armed separatism continues to show the signs of belligerence. He belongs to the Kakar tribe, a Pashtun tribe based in northern Balochistan, parts of Iran and southern Afghanistan. Thereby he is being seen as representative of both the Pashtuns and Balochs. Why Pakistan needs a caretaker Prime Minister? A caretaker government is a temporary administration in charge of overseeing day-to-day affairs and ensuring smooth transition of power through free and fair elections. Such interim prime ministers are often appointed in countries with history of coup d'etats and fragile democratic structures dominated by the military. In the case of Pakistan, India's western neighbour, a caretaker interim government's term is limited from 60 to 90 days. This administration is responsible for maintaining law and order and continuing governance in the country while ensuring free and fair elections and subsequent smooth transition of power. In Pakistan, caretaker governments were introduced to the 1973 Constitution by General Zia-ul-Haq in 1985 under the Revival of Constitution of 1973 Order (RCO). Also read | Imran Khan arrest: How ISI 'angels' rule Pakistan Earlier, the Constitution stated that while the National Assembly is dissolved, heads of the government such as the prime minister, and the cabinet, would continue to hold office until the new government is elected. Thereby, once the President or governor dissolves the National Assembly, a caretaker cabinet has to be appointed until a new prime minister is elected. Such structure has evolved in Pakistan to prevent election rigging. This amendment was further strengthened in 2010 through the 18th Amendment of the Constitution, which stated that the interim prime minister shall be selected by the president or governor in consultation with the outgoing PM and the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly. The family members of the caretaker Prime Minister cannot contest in the upcoming elections. Also read | Exclusive | Pakistan is being run by the 'establishment': Imran Khan A 2012 amendment removed the authority of the president or governor in the selection process and said that, in case the prime minister and opposition leader cannot reach a consensus, the speaker of the assembly and then the Election Commission of Pakistan will choose the interim prime minister out of two given nominees. Pakistan is in the middle of a political turmoil since former Prime Minister Imran Khan lost a vote of no confidence in Pakistan's parliament in April last year. The cricketer-turned-politician blames the military and the United States for plotting to remove him. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' In January this year, Khan, who heads the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, got the assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces his party dominated, dissolved in a bid to force snap elections. Khan remains under arrest with a prison sentence of three years after being convicted by a court of selling state gifts when he was prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar established as Pakistan's caretaker PM. Why it matters

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Top Five PS-5 Games You Must Play Right Now  

If you want to spend time waiting to play 'Spiderman 2' upon its release in October 2023, here are the top five games you can play till then 


Difficulty that will make you break your controller. Boss battles that push you to your limit and a story written by George RR Martin. 

Epic story, huge boss battles, amazing music. This is Final Fantasy at its peak. 

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If you were waiting for the best Harry Potter game, this is probably it.


Here are the top five games you can play till you wait for the release of Spiderman 2.

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