Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote to the leaders of Muslim countries calling on them to act together against Islamophobia, as anger grows over France’s defence of the right to mock religion.

Muslims across the world have reacted furiously to French President Emmanuel Macron's defence of free speech after a French school teacher who had shown his pupils cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed was killed.

Khan accused European countries of ridiculing the prophet, allowing discrimination against Muslims and refusing to let Muslim women wear conservative clothing.&nbsp;

"The recent statements at the leadership level and incidents of desecration of the Holy Koran are a reflection of the increase in Islamophobia that is spreading in European countries," the letter said, days after Khan accused Macron of attacking Islam.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-issues-new-travel-advisory-339222">Pakistan issues new travel advisory</a> 
 
In a speech in Lahore on Wednesday, Khan added that the lives of Muslims have been made difficult in France, and Western countries should consider the sensitivities of devotees.

Caricatures of Mohammed are forbidden by Islam and blasphemy is an explosive issue in ultra-conservative Pakistan, where anyone deemed to have insulted Islam or Islamic figures can face the death penalty.

Macron's comments have triggered protests and a call to boycott French goods in some Muslim-majority countries.&nbsp;

Small and scattered protests have taken place across Pakistan this week, including in the port city of Karachi on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Khan's office earlier wrote a letter to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg asking the social media giant to take down Islamophobic content.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote to the leaders of Muslim countries calling on them to act together against Islamophobia, as anger grows over France’s defence of the right to mock religion.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote to the leaders of Muslim countries calling on them to act together against Islamophobia, as anger grows over France’s defence of the right to mock religion. Muslims across the world have reacted furiously to French President Emmanuel Macron's defence of free speech after a French school teacher who had shown his pupils cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed was killed. Khan accused European countries of ridiculing the prophet, allowing discrimination against Muslims and refusing to let Muslim women wear conservative clothing. "The recent statements at the leadership level and incidents of desecration of the Holy Koran are a reflection of the increase in Islamophobia that is spreading in European countries," the letter said, days after Khan accused Macron of attacking Islam. Also Read | Pakistan issues new travel advisory In a speech in Lahore on Wednesday, Khan added that the lives of Muslims have been made difficult in France, and Western countries should consider the sensitivities of devotees. Caricatures of Mohammed are forbidden by Islam and blasphemy is an explosive issue in ultra-conservative Pakistan, where anyone deemed to have insulted Islam or Islamic figures can face the death penalty. Macron's comments have triggered protests and a call to boycott French goods in some Muslim-majority countries. Small and scattered protests have taken place across Pakistan this week, including in the port city of Karachi on Wednesday. Khan's office earlier wrote a letter to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg asking the social media giant to take down Islamophobic content.

Imran Khan calls for collective Muslim action against Islamophobia

2 major confessions have been made in Pakistan's parliament. 1 - Pakistan orchestrated the 2019 Pulwama attack 2 - Pakistan released Wg. Cdr. Abhinandan under Indian pressure WION's Palki Sharma deconstructs the confessions & their impact on Imran Khan's political future.

Gravitas: Pakistan admits to Pulwama attack

In a major embarrassment, Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a resolution to recall its ambassador to France over the caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. However, the Islamic nation forgot that it doesn't have any envoy to France.&nbsp;

Pakistan's last ambassador to France, Moin-ul-Haq was transferred three months ago to China, according to The News and there has not been a replacement announced yet.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-tensions-with-india-china-to-release-first-pakistani-film-in-almost-40-years-338260">Amid tensions with India, China to release first Pakistani film in almost 40 years</a>

Muslim nations across the world have reacted strongly over French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks on free speech post the beheading of a school teacher who had shown in class cartoons of Prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-pens-letter-to-muslim-leaders-to-counter-islamophobia-after-france-beheading-338577">Pak PM Imran Khan pens letter to Muslim leaders to counter 'Islamophobia' after France beheading</a>

Caricatures of Mohammed are considered blasphemous in Islam and could lead to a death penalty in ultra-conservative Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote a letter to leaders of Muslim countries, asking for a collective response to Islamophobia.

"The recent statements at the leadership level and incidents of desecration of the Holy Koran are a reflection of the increase in Islamophobia that is spreading in European countries," read the letter.&nbsp;

Khan, in a speech on Wednesday, said Muslim lives have been made difficult in France and asked Western countries to respect the sensitivities of devotees.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In a major embarrassment, Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a resolution to recall its ambassador to France over the caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. However, the Islamic nation forgot that it doesn't have any envoy to France.

In a major embarrassment, Pakistan's National Assembly has passed a resolution to recall its ambassador to France over the caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. However, the Islamic nation forgot that it doesn't have any envoy to France. Pakistan's last ambassador to France, Moin-ul-Haq was transferred three months ago to China, according to The News and there has not been a replacement announced yet. Also read | Amid tensions with India, China to release first Pakistani film in almost 40 years Muslim nations across the world have reacted strongly over French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks on free speech post the beheading of a school teacher who had shown in class cartoons of Prophet Muhammad. Also read | Pak PM Imran Khan pens letter to Muslim leaders to counter 'Islamophobia' after France beheading Caricatures of Mohammed are considered blasphemous in Islam and could lead to a death penalty in ultra-conservative Pakistan. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday wrote a letter to leaders of Muslim countries, asking for a collective response to Islamophobia. "The recent statements at the leadership level and incidents of desecration of the Holy Koran are a reflection of the increase in Islamophobia that is spreading in European countries," read the letter. Khan, in a speech on Wednesday, said Muslim lives have been made difficult in France and asked Western countries to respect the sensitivities of devotees.

Pakistan's National Assembly passes resolution to recall envoy from France, one that is non-existent

A Pakistan politician claimed that fearing an attack by India, the Imran Khan Government had abruptly released Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman. In a speech in the National Assembly, Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader Ayaz Sadiq said that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had in an important meeting pointed out that if Pakistan did not release Abhinandan Varthaman, India would attack Pakistan "that night by 9 pm."

Pakistan: Ayaz Sadiq reveals truth behind Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman's release

As Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan resists global action against extremism, his own country has fallen prey to it. An IED blast ripped through a mosque in Peshawar, killing 8 students and injuring more than 100. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Pakistan: Several dead in blast at a Madrasa in Peshawar

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan has penned a letter to the leaders of Muslim states. Khan is attempting to collectivise leaders against “Islamophobia” in non-Muslim countries, especially in the West in the aftermath of France beheading.&nbsp;

On Twitter, Khan said that the “Islamophobia” had caused concern among Muslims all over the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-condemns-attack-on-madrassa-vows-to-bring-perpetrators-to-justice-338226" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan condemns attack on Madrassa, vows to bring perpetrators to justice</a>

Addressing the letter to “Leaders of the Muslim States”, Imran Khan wrote “Today, we are confronting a growing concern and restlessness amongst our Ummah as they see the rising tide of Islamophobia and attacks, through ridicule and mockery on our beloved Prophet PBUH in the Western world, especially Europe”.

Khan referred to the closure of mosques in Europe, and claimed that “Muslim women are being denied their right to wear clothing of their choice in the public domain”.

The Pakistan PM also claimed that Muslims living in these countries face continuous discrimination. Attempting to label European countries as ignorant, Khan added that such discrimination arises from “lack of understanding of the intrinsic deep passion, love and devotion Muslims all over the world have for their Prophet”.

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My letter to leaders of Muslim states to act collectively to counter the growing Islamophobia in non-Muslim states esp Western states causing increasing concern amongst Muslims the world over. <a href="https://t.co/OFuaKGu2c1">pic.twitter.com/OFuaKGu2c1</a>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1321401079947558915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Even though he did not directly mention the beheading of the French teacher, who had shown caricatures of Prophet Mohammad in his class, and had even urged Muslims to leave the class while he did the same in a bid to avoid hurting sentiments, Khan referred to recent events as a series of “actions and reactions”.

He urged the Muslim leaders to “take the lead in breaking this cycle of hate and extremism, which nurtures violence and even death”. He also requested them to reach out to Western countries, referring to them as “the other”, in a bid to end cycles of “violence bred of ignorance and hate”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/after-imran-khan-recep-erdogan-doubles-down-in-backlash-against-macrons-islam-comments-337912" hreflang="en">After Imran Khan, Recep Erdogan doubles down in backlash against Macron's Islam comments</a>

Saying that value systems differ for various social, religious, and ethnic groups, Khan referred to the Holocaust, while adding that he “understands” why European countries criminalise criticism of the mass persecution of Jews under Hitler.

Referring to the Indian territory of Jammu and Kashmir as the “illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir”, Khan claimed how Muslims had been persecuted across the globe, while also giving examples of Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

President Macron's&nbsp;decision to defend&nbsp;cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad&nbsp;has led to protests across the world even as Turkey President Erdogan said Macron needed "mental checks."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan accused Macron of "attacking Islam". He tweeted that the French leader "could have put healing touch &amp; denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation &amp; marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation."

Macron had described Islam as a religion "in crisis" worldwide and said the government would present a bill in December to strengthen a 1905 law that officially separated church and state in France.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan has penned a letter to the leaders of Muslim states. Khan is attempting to collectivise leaders against “Islamophobia” in non-Muslim countries, especially in the West in the aftermath of France beheading.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan has penned a letter to the leaders of Muslim states. Khan is attempting to collectivise leaders against “Islamophobia” in non-Muslim countries, especially in the West in the aftermath of France beheading. On Twitter, Khan said that the “Islamophobia” had caused concern among Muslims all over the world. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan condemns attack on Madrassa, vows to bring perpetrators to justice Addressing the letter to “Leaders of the Muslim States”, Imran Khan wrote “Today, we are confronting a growing concern and restlessness amongst our Ummah as they see the rising tide of Islamophobia and attacks, through ridicule and mockery on our beloved Prophet PBUH in the Western world, especially Europe”. Khan referred to the closure of mosques in Europe, and claimed that “Muslim women are being denied their right to wear clothing of their choice in the public domain”. The Pakistan PM also claimed that Muslims living in these countries face continuous discrimination. Attempting to label European countries as ignorant, Khan added that such discrimination arises from “lack of understanding of the intrinsic deep passion, love and devotion Muslims all over the world have for their Prophet”. My letter to leaders of Muslim states to act collectively to counter the growing Islamophobia in non-Muslim states esp Western states causing increasing concern amongst Muslims the world over. pic.twitter.com/OFuaKGu2c1 — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 28, 2020 × Even though he did not directly mention the beheading of the French teacher, who had shown caricatures of Prophet Mohammad in his class, and had even urged Muslims to leave the class while he did the same in a bid to avoid hurting sentiments, Khan referred to recent events as a series of “actions and reactions”. He urged the Muslim leaders to “take the lead in breaking this cycle of hate and extremism, which nurtures violence and even death”. He also requested them to reach out to Western countries, referring to them as “the other”, in a bid to end cycles of “violence bred of ignorance and hate”. Also read: After Imran Khan, Recep Erdogan doubles down in backlash against Macron's Islam comments Saying that value systems differ for various social, religious, and ethnic groups, Khan referred to the Holocaust, while adding that he “understands” why European countries criminalise criticism of the mass persecution of Jews under Hitler. Referring to the Indian territory of Jammu and Kashmir as the “illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir”, Khan claimed how Muslims had been persecuted across the globe, while also giving examples of Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. President Macron's decision to defend cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad has led to protests across the world even as Turkey President Erdogan said Macron needed "mental checks." Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan accused Macron of "attacking Islam". He tweeted that the French leader "could have put healing touch & denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation & marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation." Macron had described Islam as a religion "in crisis" worldwide and said the government would present a bill in December to strengthen a 1905 law that officially separated church and state in France.

Pak PM Imran Khan pens letter to Muslim leaders to counter 'Islamophobia' after France beheading

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has strongly condemned the blast at Madrassa in Peshawar that has killed at least seven and injured more than 80 on Tuesday.

Imran Khan in his tweet expressed grief over the loss of lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

“Deeply saddened by the terrorist attack on a madrassah in Peshawar. My condolences go to the victims’ families &amp; prayers for early recovery of the injured. I want to assure my nation we will ensure the terrorists responsible for this cowardly barbaric attack are brought to justice ASAP,” Khan posted on Twitter.

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Deeply saddened by terrorist attack on madrassah in Peshawar. My condolences go to the victims families &amp; prayers for early recovery of the injured. I want to assure my nation we will ensure the terrorists responsible for this cowardly barbaric attack are brought to justice asap
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1320978489655394304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has strongly condemned the blast at Madrassa in Peshawar that has killed at least seven and injured more than 80 on Tuesday. Imran Khan in his tweet expressed grief over the loss of lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has strongly condemned the blast at Madrassa in Peshawar that has killed at least seven and injured more than 80 on Tuesday. Imran Khan in his tweet expressed grief over the loss of lives and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. “Deeply saddened by the terrorist attack on a madrassah in Peshawar. My condolences go to the victims’ families & prayers for early recovery of the injured. I want to assure my nation we will ensure the terrorists responsible for this cowardly barbaric attack are brought to justice ASAP,” Khan posted on Twitter. Deeply saddened by terrorist attack on madrassah in Peshawar. My condolences go to the victims families & prayers for early recovery of the injured. I want to assure my nation we will ensure the terrorists responsible for this cowardly barbaric attack are brought to justice asap — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 27, 2020 ×

Pakistan PM Imran Khan condemns attack on Madrassa, vows to bring perpetrators to justice

The Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan & Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan are making personal attacks & publicly humiliating French President Emmanuel Macron. WION's Palki Sharma asks: What moral authority do they have to preach France in dealing with Islamic extremists?

Gravitas: Erdogan-Imran Khan unite against Macron

The backlash against President Emmanuel Macron's comments on Islam intensified Sunday, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan again urging him to have "mental checks" and protests in Muslim-majority nations.

Erdogan said that the French president had&nbsp;"lost his way",&nbsp;in his second sharp criticism of the French leader in two days over the treatment of Muslims.

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As a result of the&nbsp;rebuke, France&nbsp;recalled its&nbsp;ambassador from Ankara and&nbsp;said the move was aimed at fanning hate at home and abroad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-imran-khan-accuses-french-president-emmanuel-macron-of-attacking-islam-337836" hreflang="en">Pakistan's Imran Khan accuses French President Macron of 'attacking Islam'</a>

Earlier,&nbsp;Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused Macron&nbsp;of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial&nbsp;cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.

The French foreign ministry meanwhile called on authorities in affected countries to ensure the security of French citizens.

French authorities denounced Turkish&nbsp;propaganda and&nbsp;described some social media calls for protests as "heinous", lamenting manipulations "by a radical minority" and dubbing nascent boycotts of French goods "groundless".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-raid-islamist-groups-after-teachers-beheading-336438">French police raid Islamist groups after teacher's beheading</a>

Speaking after teacher Samuel Paty was beheaded for showing caricatures of the Prophet Mohammed to pupils in a lesson on free speech earlier this month, Macron vowed France would "not give up cartoons" and said Paty "was killed because Islamists want our future".

But Erdogan on Saturday urged Macron to have "mental checks" for treating "millions of members from different faith groups this way",&nbsp;comments which prompted Paris to recall its envoy to Ankara.

The Turkish leader doubled down on Sunday, again contending that Macron "really needs to have checks" and this time also accusing him of being "obsessed with Erdogan day and night".&nbsp;

Macron later took to Twitter to say, "We will not give in, ever," insisting that his country respects "all differences in a spirit of peace."

"We do not accept hate speech and... will always be on the side of human dignity and universal values," he added.

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We will not give in, ever. 
We respect all differences in a spirit of peace. We do not accept hate speech and defend reasonable debate. We will always be on the side of human dignity and universal values.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1320419059016617985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Relations between Macron and Erdogan have become increasingly strained over geopolitical issues ranging from a Greek-Turkish maritime dispute to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.&nbsp;

The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, called the comments Erdogan made on Saturday "unacceptable" and urged Turkey "to cease this dangerous spiral of confrontation."&nbsp;

Anger at Macron has spilled over into the streets in several Muslim-majority countries.&nbsp;

Boycotts of French goods were underway in some nations, including by supermarkets in Qatar and Kuwait, with calls to spurn French products in several other states.

The backlash against President Emmanuel Macron's comments on Islam intensified Sunday, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan again urging him to have "mental checks" and protests in Muslim-majority nations.

The backlash against President Emmanuel Macron's comments on Islam intensified Sunday, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan again urging him to have "mental checks" and protests in Muslim-majority nations. Erdogan said that the French president had "lost his way", in his second sharp criticism of the French leader in two days over the treatment of Muslims. As a result of the rebuke, France recalled its ambassador from Ankara and said the move was aimed at fanning hate at home and abroad. Also read: Pakistan's Imran Khan accuses French President Macron of 'attacking Islam' Earlier, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused Macron of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed. The French foreign ministry meanwhile called on authorities in affected countries to ensure the security of French citizens. French authorities denounced Turkish propaganda and described some social media calls for protests as "heinous", lamenting manipulations "by a radical minority" and dubbing nascent boycotts of French goods "groundless". Also read: French police raid Islamist groups after teacher's beheading Speaking after teacher Samuel Paty was beheaded for showing caricatures of the Prophet Mohammed to pupils in a lesson on free speech earlier this month, Macron vowed France would "not give up cartoons" and said Paty "was killed because Islamists want our future". But Erdogan on Saturday urged Macron to have "mental checks" for treating "millions of members from different faith groups this way", comments which prompted Paris to recall its envoy to Ankara. The Turkish leader doubled down on Sunday, again contending that Macron "really needs to have checks" and this time also accusing him of being "obsessed with Erdogan day and night". Macron later took to Twitter to say, "We will not give in, ever," insisting that his country respects "all differences in a spirit of peace." "We do not accept hate speech and... will always be on the side of human dignity and universal values," he added. We will not give in, ever. We respect all differences in a spirit of peace. We do not accept hate speech and defend reasonable debate. We will always be on the side of human dignity and universal values. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) October 25, 2020 × Relations between Macron and Erdogan have become increasingly strained over geopolitical issues ranging from a Greek-Turkish maritime dispute to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, called the comments Erdogan made on Saturday "unacceptable" and urged Turkey "to cease this dangerous spiral of confrontation." Anger at Macron has spilled over into the streets in several Muslim-majority countries. Boycotts of French goods were underway in some nations, including by supermarkets in Qatar and Kuwait, with calls to spurn French products in several other states.

After Imran Khan, Recep Erdogan doubles down in backlash against Macron's Islam comments

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has now written to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and appealed for ban on Islamophobic content.

Your Story: Imran Khan to Facebook: Take down Islamophobic content

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan called on Facebook to ban Islamophobic content on its platform, warning of a spike in radicalisation amongst Muslims, hours after he hit out at the French president for "attacking Islam".

Khan, in an open letter posted on Twitter on Sunday, said: "growing Islamophobia" was encouraging extremism and violence worldwide, especially through social media platforms such as Facebook.

"I would ask you to place a similar ban on Islamophobia and hate against Islam for Facebook that you have put in place for the Holocaust," Khan said.

This month, Facebook said it was updating its hate speech policy to ban content that denied or distorted the Holocaust.

"One cannot send a message that while hate messages against some are unacceptable, these are acceptable against others," Khan said, adding such a stance was "reflective of prejudice and bias that will encourage further radicalisation".

In response, a Facebook spokeswoman told Reuters the company opposed all forms of hate and did not allow attacks based on race, ethnicity, national origin or religion.

"We'll remove this hate speech as soon as we become aware of it," the spokeswoman said in a statement, adding that Facebook had "more work to do".

Facebook's last transparency report for the six months to December 2019, showed that Pakistan was the source of the second-highest number of requests to curb content after Russia.

A source with direct knowledge of the issue at Facebook told Reuters that the most requests for the removal of content relating to Islam came from Pakistan, exceeding other Muslim-majority countries.

Facebook traditionally complies, as not doing so would be to break Pakistan's laws, the source said, adding that authorities would often send dozens of links at a time and demand they be taken down.

'ATTACKING ISLAM'

In his letter, Khan also referred to the situation in France, where, he said, Islam was being associated with terrorism.

Earlier on Sunday, Khan said French President Emmanuel Macron had "attacked Islam" by encouraging the display of cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad.

Khan's comments came after Macron paid tribute to a French history teacher beheaded by an Islamist radical who wanted to avenge the use of cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad in a class on freedom of expression.

Khan's comments follow a similar broadside against Macron by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, after which France recalled its ambassador to Turkey.

Pakistan and Turkey share strong ties, while Khan and Erdogan have developed a close relationship - particularly on the topic of Islamophobia.

Khan's letter to Facebook and comments on Macron come as he faces pressure from a newly formed coalition of opposition parties seeking to oust him.

The cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad, first published in 2005 by Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten, have long been a sensitive topic among Muslims, stirring protests in Pakistan and elsewhere.

Tens of thousands of people protested in Pakistan last month when the cartoons were republished by the French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo.

Khan's government has subjected a number of social media apps to intense scrutiny and banned some for content authorities deemed obscene or immoral.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan called on Facebook to ban Islamophobic content on its platform, warning of a spike in radicalisation amongst Muslims, hours after he hit out at the French president for "attacking Islam".

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan called on Facebook to ban Islamophobic content on its platform, warning of a spike in radicalisation amongst Muslims, hours after he hit out at the French president for "attacking Islam". Khan, in an open letter posted on Twitter on Sunday, said: "growing Islamophobia" was encouraging extremism and violence worldwide, especially through social media platforms such as Facebook. "I would ask you to place a similar ban on Islamophobia and hate against Islam for Facebook that you have put in place for the Holocaust," Khan said. This month, Facebook said it was updating its hate speech policy to ban content that denied or distorted the Holocaust. "One cannot send a message that while hate messages against some are unacceptable, these are acceptable against others," Khan said, adding such a stance was "reflective of prejudice and bias that will encourage further radicalisation". In response, a Facebook spokeswoman told Reuters the company opposed all forms of hate and did not allow attacks based on race, ethnicity, national origin or religion. "We'll remove this hate speech as soon as we become aware of it," the spokeswoman said in a statement, adding that Facebook had "more work to do". Facebook's last transparency report for the six months to December 2019, showed that Pakistan was the source of the second-highest number of requests to curb content after Russia. A source with direct knowledge of the issue at Facebook told Reuters that the most requests for the removal of content relating to Islam came from Pakistan, exceeding other Muslim-majority countries. Facebook traditionally complies, as not doing so would be to break Pakistan's laws, the source said, adding that authorities would often send dozens of links at a time and demand they be taken down. 'ATTACKING ISLAM' In his letter, Khan also referred to the situation in France, where, he said, Islam was being associated with terrorism. Earlier on Sunday, Khan said French President Emmanuel Macron had "attacked Islam" by encouraging the display of cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad. Khan's comments came after Macron paid tribute to a French history teacher beheaded by an Islamist radical who wanted to avenge the use of cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad in a class on freedom of expression. Khan's comments follow a similar broadside against Macron by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, after which France recalled its ambassador to Turkey. Pakistan and Turkey share strong ties, while Khan and Erdogan have developed a close relationship - particularly on the topic of Islamophobia. Khan's letter to Facebook and comments on Macron come as he faces pressure from a newly formed coalition of opposition parties seeking to oust him. The cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad, first published in 2005 by Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten, have long been a sensitive topic among Muslims, stirring protests in Pakistan and elsewhere. Tens of thousands of people protested in Pakistan last month when the cartoons were republished by the French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo. Khan's government has subjected a number of social media apps to intense scrutiny and banned some for content authorities deemed obscene or immoral.

Imran Khan writes to Facebook CEO seeking ban on islamophobic content 

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the French&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial&nbsp;cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.

The statement came after Macron, last week, said the teacher&nbsp;"was killed because Islamists want our future." His statement was for the French school teacher who was beheaded near the capital city Paris for showing&nbsp;cartoons of the Prophet during a class he was leading on free speech.

Commenting on his leadership skills, Imran slammed Macron saying, "Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them."

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Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them. This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch &amp; denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation &amp; marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1320286659477442565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch &amp; denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation &amp; marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation," his tweet continued.

Khan accused Macron of encouraging 'Islamophobia' and of "attacking Islam".

Khan has spoken against Macron after he claimed, this month, that&nbsp;"Islam is a religion that is in crisis all over the world".

"It is unfortunate that he has chosen to encourage Islamophobia by attacking Islam rather than the terrorists who carry out violence, be it Muslims, White Supremacists or Nazi ideologists. Sadly, President Macron has chosen to deliberately provoke Muslims, incl his own citizens,&nbsp;through encouraging the display of blasphemous cartoons targeting Islam &amp; our Prophet PBUH. By attacking Islam, &nbsp; clearly without having any understanding of it, President Macron has attacked &amp; hurt the sentiments of millions of Muslims in Europe &amp; across the world," his tweet read.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the French President Emmanuel Macron of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the French President Emmanuel Macron of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed. The statement came after Macron, last week, said the teacher "was killed because Islamists want our future." His statement was for the French school teacher who was beheaded near the capital city Paris for showing cartoons of the Prophet during a class he was leading on free speech. Commenting on his leadership skills, Imran slammed Macron saying, "Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them." Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them. This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch & denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation & marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 25, 2020 × "This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch & denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation & marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation," his tweet continued. Khan accused Macron of encouraging 'Islamophobia' and of "attacking Islam". Khan has spoken against Macron after he claimed, this month, that "Islam is a religion that is in crisis all over the world". "It is unfortunate that he has chosen to encourage Islamophobia by attacking Islam rather than the terrorists who carry out violence, be it Muslims, White Supremacists or Nazi ideologists. Sadly, President Macron has chosen to deliberately provoke Muslims, incl his own citizens, through encouraging the display of blasphemous cartoons targeting Islam & our Prophet PBUH. By attacking Islam, clearly without having any understanding of it, President Macron has attacked & hurt the sentiments of millions of Muslims in Europe & across the world," his tweet read.

Pakistan's Imran Khan accuses French President Emmanuel Macron of 'attacking Islam'

A united opposition, nation-wide protests, a rebellion by police officers & an entire province up in arms. A civil war seems to be brewing in Pakistan. Will it spell the end of Imran Khan PTI's rule? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Is a civil war brewing in Pakistan?

For a third time, Pakistan has requested the United Kingdom to deport former convicted PM Nawaz Sharif from London to serve his prison term, a media report claimed on Thursday.

A letter to deport Sharif was handed over personally to the British High Commissioner about three weeks ago, Pakistan-based Dawn newspaper reported.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-warns-of-new-lockdown-as-covid-mortality-rate-increases-by-140-336954">Pakistan warns of new lockdown as Covid mortality rate increases by 140%&nbsp;</a>

Islamabad has asked the British authorities to consider cancelling the former PM's visit visa, which has issued to him to on medical grounds to live in London since November.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-parliamentary-panel-approves-governments-bill-to-seek-review-of-jadhavs-conviction-337073">Pak parliamentary panel approves government's bill to seek review of Jadhav's conviction</a>

The letter has also mentioned the UK's immigration laws of 1974 under which any person who had been sentenced for over four years was supposed to be deported to his/her country of origin.&nbsp;

Shahzad Akbar, Adviser to Prime Minister Imran Khan on Accountability and Interior said the previous letter was sent after the Islamabad High Court cancelled his bail last month.&nbsp;

Sharif had been granted bail and was allowed to travel to London in November last year after his health declined.&nbsp;

He was convicted in Al-Azizia Steel Mills case and sentenced to seven years in prison in December 2018. He has just served for eight weeks when he was granted bail on medical grounds.&nbsp;

For a third time, Pakistan has requested the United Kingdom to deport former convicted PM Nawaz Sharif from London to serve his prison term, a media report claimed on Thursday.

For a third time, Pakistan has requested the United Kingdom to deport former convicted PM Nawaz Sharif from London to serve his prison term, a media report claimed on Thursday. A letter to deport Sharif was handed over personally to the British High Commissioner about three weeks ago, Pakistan-based Dawn newspaper reported. Also read | Pakistan warns of new lockdown as Covid mortality rate increases by 140% Islamabad has asked the British authorities to consider cancelling the former PM's visit visa, which has issued to him to on medical grounds to live in London since November. Also read | Pak parliamentary panel approves government's bill to seek review of Jadhav's conviction The letter has also mentioned the UK's immigration laws of 1974 under which any person who had been sentenced for over four years was supposed to be deported to his/her country of origin. Shahzad Akbar, Adviser to Prime Minister Imran Khan on Accountability and Interior said the previous letter was sent after the Islamabad High Court cancelled his bail last month. Sharif had been granted bail and was allowed to travel to London in November last year after his health declined. He was convicted in Al-Azizia Steel Mills case and sentenced to seven years in prison in December 2018. He has just served for eight weeks when he was granted bail on medical grounds.

Deport Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan: Islamabad requests London for third time

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday alleged that there was a 'state above state' in Pakistan. Though he did not name Pakistani military openly, his dismay against it and Imran Khan government came to the fore once again in light of the developments surrounding his son-in-law Muhammad Safdar's brief arrest on Monday.

"This country (Pakistan) there are two governments running parallelly. There is a state above state. This is clear from what happened yesterday and today. I speak this out of experience and I do not speak without facts. My contentions have been proven from what has been happening," said Sharif.&nbsp;

A video of Nawaz Sharif speaking with reporters was retweeted by his daughter Maryam Nawaz.

It is not unknown that Pakistani military wields enormous power and hold influence over the civilian government is Pakistan but Nawaz Sharif has particularly been susceptible to this. Nawaz Sharif's government was toppled by General Pervez Musharraf in 1999 and Sharif was forced to go in exile.&nbsp;

Nawaz Sharif's son-in-law Muhammad Safdar was briefly arrested from hotel room in Karachi on Monday. He was released on Monday itself. But there are allegations that Inspector General of Sindh was under pressure to file FIR against Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz and her husband, and that he was kidnapped when he attempted to resist the political pressure. There are allegations that Pakistani Army was involved in some way.Also Read | Pak 

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-army-chief-orders-inquiry-into-incident-involving-arrest-of-sharifs-son-in-law-336755">Army chief orders inquiry into 'incident' involving arrest of Sharif's son-in-law</a>

Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa meanwhile has ordered inquiry into the arrest.

The Army chief directed the Karachi Corps Commander to "immediately inquire into the circumstances" to determine the facts and file a report as soon as possible, according to a statement issued by the military's media wing.

However, The statement did not specify which incident it was referring to.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday alleged that there was a 'state above state' in Pakistan. Though he did not name Pakistani military openly, his dismay against it and Imran Khan government came to the fore once again in light of the developments surrounding his son-in-law Muhammad Safdar's brief arrest on Monday.

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday alleged that there was a 'state above state' in Pakistan. Though he did not name Pakistani military openly, his dismay against it and Imran Khan government came to the fore once again in light of the developments surrounding his son-in-law Muhammad Safdar's brief arrest on Monday. "This country (Pakistan) there are two governments running parallelly. There is a state above state. This is clear from what happened yesterday and today. I speak this out of experience and I do not speak without facts. My contentions have been proven from what has been happening," said Sharif. A video of Nawaz Sharif speaking with reporters was retweeted by his daughter Maryam Nawaz. It is not unknown that Pakistani military wields enormous power and hold influence over the civilian government is Pakistan but Nawaz Sharif has particularly been susceptible to this. Nawaz Sharif's government was toppled by General Pervez Musharraf in 1999 and Sharif was forced to go in exile. Nawaz Sharif's son-in-law Muhammad Safdar was briefly arrested from hotel room in Karachi on Monday. He was released on Monday itself. But there are allegations that Inspector General of Sindh was under pressure to file FIR against Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz and her husband, and that he was kidnapped when he attempted to resist the political pressure. There are allegations that Pakistani Army was involved in some way.Also Read | Pak Also Read | Army chief orders inquiry into 'incident' involving arrest of Sharif's son-in-law Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa meanwhile has ordered inquiry into the arrest. The Army chief directed the Karachi Corps Commander to "immediately inquire into the circumstances" to determine the facts and file a report as soon as possible, according to a statement issued by the military's media wing. However, The statement did not specify which incident it was referring to.

There is a 'state above state' in Pakistan: Nawaz Sharif

Barely 2 years of Imran Khan rule and his 'Naya Pakistan' wants a new leader. After Gujranwala, anti-govt protests have now reached Karachi. The show of strength is unlike anything the Pak PM could have ever imagined. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story.

Gravitas: 'Naya Pakistan' wants a new leader

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government and the Army are responsible for the ongoing atrocities on people of Balochistan, said Balochistan National Party (BNP) president Akhtar Mengal and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam chief Fazlur Rehman at the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) rally in Karachi.

During the Sunday's rally, both leaders also hit out at Khan and the Army for their plans of annexing islands of Sindh and Balochistan.

Rehman slammed Imran Khan for antagonising its friends like Saudi Arabia. He further said that Khan has created distrust in China towards Pakistan.

Taking a dig at the Army, he said, "If the Army remains within its constitutional domain then I support it."To Chief of the Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, he said: "Bajwa Sahib, I respect you so much. But please try to avoid these foolish [PM Imran Khan] friends."

Speaking on the 11-party opposition alliance PDM`s aims, Rehman said that the PDM wants to restore a "free, democratic atmosphere" and to ensure the survival of the state, Geo News reported."No amendment will be accepted which would reduce the rights of the people...If the people of Sindh do not want, no one can dare to divide Sindh," he said.He further said it is "not conscionable to recognise this government".

The ordinance, which has emanated without a discussion in the Parliament; in its 25 pages, clearly stated that can not be challenged into Pakistani Courts.

Meaning, nobody, starting from the Parliament democratically elected, can challenge the law.During the rally, BNP president Akhtar Mengal also hit out at the Imran Khan government for inflicting atrocities on the people of Balochistan saying that if Pakistan is not to be blamed for the atrocities, who should be blamed.

"When mothers and sisters come to know about a body at the hospital, they can identify their son/brother`s body not by looking at their face but by seeing the footwear. They identify their ward by looking at the clothes that they were wearing while they were subjected to torture," he said.

He added, "Is this the Pakistan, which has been declared an Islamic state? Are such atrocities are inflicted upon people? Was this country made for us, or for DHA? Is it made for those who live in this country or for cantonments, for the public or for the pizza guys?"

The BNP president further said that the blood of the Baloch people is being shed across the country adding that the people of Balochistan can`t even grieve the atrocities they are facing."If we don`t blame them (Pakistan government), then who do we blame? Ourselves? I am ready to salute you if you are ready to give me an account of the bloodshed of my fellow Baloch and only then I shall salute you," he said further.

Balochistan is a resource-rich but least developed province of Pakistan where a movement for freedom is ongoing for the past several decades.

Many Baloch believe that the region was independent before 1947 and was forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Pakistan Army has launched several operations in Balochistan and has supported criminals, whom locals call "death squads".

The list of leaders who showed up at the `jalsa` were -- JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Pakistan People`s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Ahsan Iqbal, Maulana Shah Owais Noorani, Allama Sajid Mir, Dr Abdul Malik, Iftikhar Hussain, Ameer Haider Khan Hoti and Dr Jehanzeb Jamaldini.

This was the second power show of the 11-party opposition alliance PDM. The first was held in Gujranwala in Lahore.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government and the Army are responsible for the ongoing atrocities on people of Balochistan, said Balochistan National Party (BNP) president Akhtar Mengal and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam chief Fazlur Rehman at the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) rally in Karachi.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government and the Army are responsible for the ongoing atrocities on people of Balochistan, said Balochistan National Party (BNP) president Akhtar Mengal and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam chief Fazlur Rehman at the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) rally in Karachi. During the Sunday's rally, both leaders also hit out at Khan and the Army for their plans of annexing islands of Sindh and Balochistan. Rehman slammed Imran Khan for antagonising its friends like Saudi Arabia. He further said that Khan has created distrust in China towards Pakistan. Taking a dig at the Army, he said, "If the Army remains within its constitutional domain then I support it."To Chief of the Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, he said: "Bajwa Sahib, I respect you so much. But please try to avoid these foolish [PM Imran Khan] friends." Speaking on the 11-party opposition alliance PDM`s aims, Rehman said that the PDM wants to restore a "free, democratic atmosphere" and to ensure the survival of the state, Geo News reported."No amendment will be accepted which would reduce the rights of the people...If the people of Sindh do not want, no one can dare to divide Sindh," he said.He further said it is "not conscionable to recognise this government". The ordinance, which has emanated without a discussion in the Parliament; in its 25 pages, clearly stated that can not be challenged into Pakistani Courts. Meaning, nobody, starting from the Parliament democratically elected, can challenge the law.During the rally, BNP president Akhtar Mengal also hit out at the Imran Khan government for inflicting atrocities on the people of Balochistan saying that if Pakistan is not to be blamed for the atrocities, who should be blamed. "When mothers and sisters come to know about a body at the hospital, they can identify their son/brother`s body not by looking at their face but by seeing the footwear. They identify their ward by looking at the clothes that they were wearing while they were subjected to torture," he said. He added, "Is this the Pakistan, which has been declared an Islamic state? Are such atrocities are inflicted upon people? Was this country made for us, or for DHA? Is it made for those who live in this country or for cantonments, for the public or for the pizza guys?" The BNP president further said that the blood of the Baloch people is being shed across the country adding that the people of Balochistan can`t even grieve the atrocities they are facing."If we don`t blame them (Pakistan government), then who do we blame? Ourselves? I am ready to salute you if you are ready to give me an account of the bloodshed of my fellow Baloch and only then I shall salute you," he said further. Balochistan is a resource-rich but least developed province of Pakistan where a movement for freedom is ongoing for the past several decades. Many Baloch believe that the region was independent before 1947 and was forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Pakistan Army has launched several operations in Balochistan and has supported criminals, whom locals call "death squads". The list of leaders who showed up at the `jalsa` were -- JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Pakistan People`s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Ahsan Iqbal, Maulana Shah Owais Noorani, Allama Sajid Mir, Dr Abdul Malik, Iftikhar Hussain, Ameer Haider Khan Hoti and Dr Jehanzeb Jamaldini. This was the second power show of the 11-party opposition alliance PDM. The first was held in Gujranwala in Lahore.

Imran Khan, Army responsible for ongoing atrocities on people of Balochistan: PDM

Maryam Nawaz has dared the Imran Khan government to arrest her in a Press Conference attended by all opposition parties in Pakistan. Maryam Nawaz accused the Imran Khan govt on being behind the detention of her husband.

Your Story: Maryam Nawaz dares Imran Khan govt

Hours after Maryam Nawaz's husband Mohammad Safdar was arrested, PML-N's vice-president addressed a press conference in Karachi.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maryam-nawazs-husband-arrested-amid-opposition-protests-in-pakistan-336323">Also read | Maryam Nawaz’s husband arrested amid opposition protests in Pakistan</a> 
 
According to the Dawn news of Pakistan, Maryam Nawaz said in the press conference that "Safdar opened the door and police were standing outside who said we are here to arrest you. Safdar told them he'll change and take his medicine, since he is diabetic, but they broke down the door and came inside. Safdar asked them to not enter since I [his wife] was inside but they did and arrested him,".

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I was in the room, sleeping, when they barged in. <a href="https://t.co/1gMEHHUnPx">https://t.co/1gMEHHUnPx</a>
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryamNSharif/status/1318050820269756416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Sindh chief minister also called me and said that he never expected that something like this would happen with me," said Maryam.

Earlier on Social media platform Twitter she said police broke their hotel room door and arrested her husband.

"Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar," Maryam tweeted.

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Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar.
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryamNSharif/status/1318010542771109888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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PML-N's Vice-president Maryam Nawaz and JUI-F chief chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman were among the other leaders who attended the press conference.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hours after Maryam Nawaz's husband Mohammad Safdar was arrested, PML-N's vice-president addressed a press conference in Karachi. Also read | Maryam Nawaz’s husband arrested amid opposition protests in Pakistan According to the Dawn news of Pakistan, Maryam Nawaz said in the press conference that "Safdar opened the door and police were standing outside who said we are here to arrest you.

Hours after Maryam Nawaz's husband Mohammad Safdar was arrested, PML-N's vice-president addressed a press conference in Karachi. Also read | Maryam Nawaz’s husband arrested amid opposition protests in Pakistan According to the Dawn news of Pakistan, Maryam Nawaz said in the press conference that "Safdar opened the door and police were standing outside who said we are here to arrest you. Safdar told them he'll change and take his medicine, since he is diabetic, but they broke down the door and came inside. Safdar asked them to not enter since I [his wife] was inside but they did and arrested him,". I was in the room, sleeping, when they barged in. https://t.co/1gMEHHUnPx — Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) October 19, 2020 × "Sindh chief minister also called me and said that he never expected that something like this would happen with me," said Maryam. Earlier on Social media platform Twitter she said police broke their hotel room door and arrested her husband. "Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar," Maryam tweeted. Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar. — Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) October 19, 2020 × PML-N's Vice-president Maryam Nawaz and JUI-F chief chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman were among the other leaders who attended the press conference. (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t enter! my wife is inside, pleaded Maryam Nawaz's husband as police barged into hotel room

Calling Prime Minister Imran Khan as "incapable", "clueless" and a "puppet", the opposition alliance in Pakistan sharpened its attack on the incumbent government as they held massive rally on Sunday in Karachi.&nbsp;

"This incapable and clueless prime minister will have to go home," said Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at the Bagh-e-Jinnah, as quoted by news agency PTI.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-slams-nawaz-sharif-for-accusing-army-chief-of-rigging-elections-336072">Imran Khan slams Nawaz Sharif for accusing army chief of rigging elections</a>

The remarks came as 11 opposition parties have formed an alliance: Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) to oust PM Khan and is conducting public rallies to gain support.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-fails-to-fulfil-six-key-mandates-of-fatf-no-action-against-hafiz-saeed-336211">Pak fails to fulfil six key mandates of FATF; no action against Hafiz Saeed</a>

Hours after the rally, Maryam Nawaz, whose party is also a part of this alliance, said police broke their hotel room door and arrested her husband.

<img alt="Maryam Nawaz participating in Opposition rally" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="003a71c4-1722-4b91-a99c-0387cd5e81ea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/DitsL98e.jpg" />

(Courtesy: Reuters)

"Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar," Maryam tweeted.&nbsp;

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Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar.
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryamNSharif/status/1318010542771109888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Zardari also said history has proved the biggest dictators could not survive so "what standing does this puppet have".&nbsp;

"This is not a new fight but this will be a decisive fight," he added.&nbsp;

The rally was attended in great numbers by not only the supporters of PPP, but of other opposition alliance parties too.&nbsp;

It was also held on a day when former prime minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated 13 years ago in 2007.&nbsp;

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice presidents Maryam Nawaz and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman were among the other leaders who attended the gathering.&nbsp;

Maryam also slammed Khan saying when answers were demanded from him he described them as "traitors".

"When you (Khan) are pressed for answers, you hide behind the armed forces," she added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Calling Prime Minister Imran Khan as "incapable", "clueless" and a "puppet", the opposition alliance in Pakistan sharpened its attack on the incumbent government as they held massive rally on Sunday in Karachi.

Calling Prime Minister Imran Khan as "incapable", "clueless" and a "puppet", the opposition alliance in Pakistan sharpened its attack on the incumbent government as they held massive rally on Sunday in Karachi. "This incapable and clueless prime minister will have to go home," said Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at the Bagh-e-Jinnah, as quoted by news agency PTI. Also read | Imran Khan slams Nawaz Sharif for accusing army chief of rigging elections The remarks came as 11 opposition parties have formed an alliance: Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) to oust PM Khan and is conducting public rallies to gain support. Also read | Pak fails to fulfil six key mandates of FATF; no action against Hafiz Saeed Hours after the rally, Maryam Nawaz, whose party is also a part of this alliance, said police broke their hotel room door and arrested her husband. (Courtesy: Reuters) "Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar," Maryam tweeted. Police broke my room door at the hotel I was staying at in Karachi and arrested Capt. Safdar. — Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) October 19, 2020 × Zardari also said history has proved the biggest dictators could not survive so "what standing does this puppet have". "This is not a new fight but this will be a decisive fight," he added. The rally was attended in great numbers by not only the supporters of PPP, but of other opposition alliance parties too. It was also held on a day when former prime minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated 13 years ago in 2007. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice presidents Maryam Nawaz and Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman were among the other leaders who attended the gathering. Maryam also slammed Khan saying when answers were demanded from him he described them as "traitors". "When you (Khan) are pressed for answers, you hide behind the armed forces," she added.

Maryam Nawaz’s husband arrested amid opposition protests in Pakistan

Maryam Nawaz, daughter of former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif, on Monday (October 19) tweeted that her husband Captain Safdar Awan has been arrested by Karachi police.

After Maryam Nawaz's fiery speech against Pakistan PM, her husband Safdar arrested

Thousands of political workers and supporters from across Pakistan attended this rally which was perhaps one of the biggest shows of strength by the mostly fragmented Pakistani opposition in the recent years.

Pakistan: Will the opposition protests take down Imran Khan?

In Pakistan, the opposition has declared that Covid-18 is more dangerous than COVID-19. What are they talking about? Watch this report by Palki Sharma Upadhyay to find out.

Gravitas: Protests against 'COVID-18' in Pakistan

Rana Sanaullah, the President of Pakistan's main opposition party PMLN has called the Imran Khan government which came to power in 2018&nbsp;says that COVID-18 has damaged Pakistan more than the virus from Wuhan.

Sanaullah's party, along with several other opposition parties, is on a nation-wide sanitisation drive to wipe out COVID-18 —&nbsp;the anti-government movement launched by the opposition in Pakistan.

After days of uncertainty and speculation, the Pakistan Democratic Movement — a coalition of 11 political parties —- held its first protest rally in the city of Gujranwala.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nation-wide-protests-in-pakistan-tell-the-story-of-fall-of-imran-khan-335583">Also read|&nbsp;Nation-wide protests in Pakistan tell the story of fall of Imran Khan</a>

Thousands of political workers and supporters from across Pakistan attended this rally which&nbsp;was perhaps one of the biggest shows of strength by the mostly fragmented Pakistani opposition in&nbsp;the recent years.

The main attendee of the protest&nbsp;was Maryam Nawaz Sharif who is the&nbsp;daughter of Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and&nbsp;the Vice President of his party.

She was greeted by&nbsp;thousands as she stepped out of her residence. This was followed by a tumultous welcome at the protest site. Her supporters welcomed her with a shower of rose petals.

Being portrayed as&nbsp;the heir to her father's political legacy, she has established herself as a leading opposition voice in the physical absence of Nawaz Sharif. She has been promising that the Imran Khan government would go home before January next year and she reiterated this promise during the protest. "It's the beginning of the end of the Imran Khan government."

On thursday we reported about how Imran Khan is going the extra mile to muzzle opposition voices and prevent these protests from happening.&nbsp;His party cadre tried their best.

PTI workers are being accused of placing large containers on routes leading to Gujranwala. The containers are said to have been placed in more than 31 locations.

Reports say, the police stopped truck and trolley drivers and forced them to park the containers in the middle of the road.

The Pakistani media says that Imran Khan has managed to arrange 10 thousand euros to stage a counter-protest all the way in London. He has reportedly asked &nbsp;his advisor and PTI leader in the UK, Sahibzada Jahangir, to hold demonstrations outside Nawaz Sharif's london residence.

Imran Khan can't afford to a give a pay hike to health workers protesting in Islamabad for days now but he has enough money to organize a protest in London and even wage a proxy war in Afghanistan.

The Afghan media is carrying reports on how Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists are supporting a Taliban offensive. This is in Afghanistan's helmand province.

Pakistan's strategy of a proxy war is quite evident in the Taliban offensive. The governor of the province has revealed the presence of JeM and LeT terrorists. They are training Taliban fighters in bomb-making and military warfare.

The violence unleashed in helmand has forced tens of thousands of Afghan civilians to leave their homes and Pakistan, the so called land of the pure, is playing a huge role in this exodus.

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""You need a democratic government with a public mandate to then deal with this militancy. That's the only way we can get out of this. Otherwise if we don't have elections we're doomed," Imran Khan said.

Rana Sanaullah, the President of Pakistan's main opposition party PMLN has called the Imran Khan government which came to power in 2018 says that COVID-18 has damaged Pakistan more than the virus from Wuhan.

Rana Sanaullah, the President of Pakistan's main opposition party PMLN has called the Imran Khan government which came to power in 2018 says that COVID-18 has damaged Pakistan more than the virus from Wuhan. Sanaullah's party, along with several other opposition parties, is on a nation-wide sanitisation drive to wipe out COVID-18 — the anti-government movement launched by the opposition in Pakistan. After days of uncertainty and speculation, the Pakistan Democratic Movement — a coalition of 11 political parties —- held its first protest rally in the city of Gujranwala. Also read| Nation-wide protests in Pakistan tell the story of fall of Imran Khan Thousands of political workers and supporters from across Pakistan attended this rally which was perhaps one of the biggest shows of strength by the mostly fragmented Pakistani opposition in the recent years. The main attendee of the protest was Maryam Nawaz Sharif who is the daughter of Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the Vice President of his party. She was greeted by thousands as she stepped out of her residence. This was followed by a tumultous welcome at the protest site. Her supporters welcomed her with a shower of rose petals. Being portrayed as the heir to her father's political legacy, she has established herself as a leading opposition voice in the physical absence of Nawaz Sharif. She has been promising that the Imran Khan government would go home before January next year and she reiterated this promise during the protest. "It's the beginning of the end of the Imran Khan government." On thursday we reported about how Imran Khan is going the extra mile to muzzle opposition voices and prevent these protests from happening. His party cadre tried their best. PTI workers are being accused of placing large containers on routes leading to Gujranwala. The containers are said to have been placed in more than 31 locations. Reports say, the police stopped truck and trolley drivers and forced them to park the containers in the middle of the road. The Pakistani media says that Imran Khan has managed to arrange 10 thousand euros to stage a counter-protest all the way in London. He has reportedly asked his advisor and PTI leader in the UK, Sahibzada Jahangir, to hold demonstrations outside Nawaz Sharif's london residence. Imran Khan can't afford to a give a pay hike to health workers protesting in Islamabad for days now but he has enough money to organize a protest in London and even wage a proxy war in Afghanistan. The Afghan media is carrying reports on how Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists are supporting a Taliban offensive. This is in Afghanistan's helmand province. Pakistan's strategy of a proxy war is quite evident in the Taliban offensive. The governor of the province has revealed the presence of JeM and LeT terrorists. They are training Taliban fighters in bomb-making and military warfare. The violence unleashed in helmand has forced tens of thousands of Afghan civilians to leave their homes and Pakistan, the so called land of the pure, is playing a huge role in this exodus. × ""You need a democratic government with a public mandate to then deal with this militancy. That's the only way we can get out of this. Otherwise if we don't have elections we're doomed," Imran Khan said.

Pakistan: Thousands protest against PM Imran Khan in Gujranwala

The anti-government rally is organised to protest against army atrocities and demand for PM Imran Khan's resignation in the backdrop of corruption, economic slowdown, and poor governance.

Pakistan's opposition holds mega power rally in Gujranwala

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday lashed out at three-time former premier Nawaz Sharif for accusing the army chief of rigging elections and installing a "puppet government" in Islamabad.

Sharif, the 70-year-old leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) who was ousted from power in 2017 by the apex court on graft charges, on Friday for the first time directly named Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI head Lt Gen Faiz Hameed for interfering in the elections of 2018 to ensure victory of Imran Khan.

Hitting back at Sharif, Khan said on Saturday that the PML-N supremo came to politics by "polishing General Zia's shoes" — a reference to Sharif joining politics in 1980s during the martial law of then military dictator General Zia-ul Haq.

Khan said Sharif opted to use negative language against the army leadership at a time when soldiers were sacrificing their lives for the nation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sharifs-security-ramped-up-in-london-335975">Also read:&nbsp;Sharif's security ramped up in London</a>

"Why are they sacrificing their lives? For us; for the country. And this jackal who ran with his tail between his legs used such language for the army chief and DG ISI," Khan said.

The powerful army, which has ruled Pakistan for more than half of its 70 plus years of existence, has hitherto wielded considerable power in the matters of security and foreign policy.

Khan said that Sharif took "crores" of rupees from Meeran Bank in late 1980s to fight elections against Benazir Bhutto of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

"This is the man who put (PPP co-chairperson Asif Ali) Zardari in jail twice. It was Zardari who instituted the Hudaibiya Paper Mills case against him (Sharif), not General Bajwa,"said Khan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foils-attempt-to-smuggle-endangered-falcons-336041">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan foils attempt to smuggle endangered falcons</a>

Commenting on the joint rally of the opposition parties, Khan termed it as a "circus".

He also targeted PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz, saying the two "children" who have never worked for an hour in their life and lived by using the "ill-gotten gains of their fathers" were making speeches.

Khan said these leaders would even sell the country to protect their wealth that they amassed through illegal means. 
On September 20, nearly a dozen opposition parties launched the PDM and announced a three-phased anti-government movement to oust the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) government.

Addressing the PDM rally in Gujranwala on Friday, Sharif said: "(Army chief) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa ended my government. He rigged 2018 elections and imposed incapable Imran Khan on the nation. Gen. Bajwa is a direct culprit and he will have to give an answer to this."

"You can label me a traitor if you want, seize my properties, file false cases against me but I will continue to speak for my people," said Sharif, who is facing multiple corruption charges and is currently on bail.

This is not the first time that Sharif has gone after the military leadership. During the opposition's multi-party conference last month, he had bitterly criticised the army, saying there was "a state above the state in the country". However, he had refrained from naming anyone.

The PML-N leader, however, made it clear that he was not against the army but some individuals who violated the Constitution.

Since his anti-army rant, the federal government has banned the media to broadcast Sharif's speeches.

The Opposition parties are openly protesting against the military's interference in politics and elections for the first time in the recent history of the country.

Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was allowed by the courts and the government to go there for a period of eight weeks for medical treatment. But he did not come back, while his lawyers told the court that he was still recovering.

The Islamabad High Court through newspaper advertisements has asked Sharif to appear before it by November 24 to avoid being declared a "proclaimed offender".

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday lashed out at three-time former premier Nawaz Sharif for accusing the army chief of rigging elections and installing a "puppet government" in Islamabad.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday lashed out at three-time former premier Nawaz Sharif for accusing the army chief of rigging elections and installing a "puppet government" in Islamabad. Sharif, the 70-year-old leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) who was ousted from power in 2017 by the apex court on graft charges, on Friday for the first time directly named Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI head Lt Gen Faiz Hameed for interfering in the elections of 2018 to ensure victory of Imran Khan. Hitting back at Sharif, Khan said on Saturday that the PML-N supremo came to politics by "polishing General Zia's shoes" — a reference to Sharif joining politics in 1980s during the martial law of then military dictator General Zia-ul Haq. Khan said Sharif opted to use negative language against the army leadership at a time when soldiers were sacrificing their lives for the nation. Also read: Sharif's security ramped up in London "Why are they sacrificing their lives? For us; for the country. And this jackal who ran with his tail between his legs used such language for the army chief and DG ISI," Khan said. The powerful army, which has ruled Pakistan for more than half of its 70 plus years of existence, has hitherto wielded considerable power in the matters of security and foreign policy. Khan said that Sharif took "crores" of rupees from Meeran Bank in late 1980s to fight elections against Benazir Bhutto of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). "This is the man who put (PPP co-chairperson Asif Ali) Zardari in jail twice. It was Zardari who instituted the Hudaibiya Paper Mills case against him (Sharif), not General Bajwa,"said Khan. Also read: Pakistan foils attempt to smuggle endangered falcons Commenting on the joint rally of the opposition parties, Khan termed it as a "circus". He also targeted PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz, saying the two "children" who have never worked for an hour in their life and lived by using the "ill-gotten gains of their fathers" were making speeches. Khan said these leaders would even sell the country to protect their wealth that they amassed through illegal means. On September 20, nearly a dozen opposition parties launched the PDM and announced a three-phased anti-government movement to oust the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) government. Addressing the PDM rally in Gujranwala on Friday, Sharif said: "(Army chief) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa ended my government. He rigged 2018 elections and imposed incapable Imran Khan on the nation. Gen. Bajwa is a direct culprit and he will have to give an answer to this." "You can label me a traitor if you want, seize my properties, file false cases against me but I will continue to speak for my people," said Sharif, who is facing multiple corruption charges and is currently on bail. This is not the first time that Sharif has gone after the military leadership. During the opposition's multi-party conference last month, he had bitterly criticised the army, saying there was "a state above the state in the country". However, he had refrained from naming anyone. The PML-N leader, however, made it clear that he was not against the army but some individuals who violated the Constitution. Since his anti-army rant, the federal government has banned the media to broadcast Sharif's speeches. The Opposition parties are openly protesting against the military's interference in politics and elections for the first time in the recent history of the country. Sharif has been living in London since November last year after he was allowed by the courts and the government to go there for a period of eight weeks for medical treatment. But he did not come back, while his lawyers told the court that he was still recovering. The Islamabad High Court through newspaper advertisements has asked Sharif to appear before it by November 24 to avoid being declared a "proclaimed offender".

Imran Khan slams Nawaz Sharif for accusing army chief of rigging elections

Ahead of nation-wide opposition protests, hundreds of Pak citizens have hit the streets of Islamabad. Women Health workers have staged a sit-in outside the Pak parliament. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how this is a double whammy for Imran Khan.

Gravitas: A double whammy for Imran Khan

It's a double whammy for the Imran Khan government&nbsp;in Pakistan. The opposition is set to go on a nation-wide offensive on October 16.

However, demonstrations of a different colour have erupted in the national capital as hundreds of Pakistan&nbsp;citizens have hit the streets of Islamabad.

Islamabad has been taken by a storm of union-led protests from various sectors. Yesterday thousands converged outside the Pakistani parliament and staged a sit-in. This included government employees, farmers, teachers, doctors, health workers and pensioners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-450-opposition-workers-booked-ahead-of-anti-government-rally-in-pakistan-335448">Also read|&nbsp;Over 450 Opposition workers booked ahead of anti-government rally in Pakistan</a>

They were protesting against price hike and what they call 'anti-employee policies' of the local government. Most of them called-off their sit-ins after "successful negotiations" with the government.

However, women health workers are refusing to cede ground. They are on what you call a dharna at Islamabad's famous D-chowk.

They are demanding a unified pay structure, job insurance and physical security. These are not big demands, especially for the Pakistan Prime Minister who has always made tall claims about supporting daily wage earners.

He is now using the socio-economic crises and IMF loans as a pretext to reject these demands. At the same time he is cracking down on opposition voices.

Asif Ali Zardari, the former President of Pakistan and the leader of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has been issued an arrest warrant by the national accountability bureau of Pakistan — the country's anti-corruption watchdog.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-opposition-rally-on-parties-alliance-to-hold-first-rally-on-october-18-334905">Also read|&nbsp;Pak opposition rally on parties alliance to hold first rally on October 18</a>

Mr. Zardari is being accused of corruption worth 8 billion Pakistani rupees. The ant-graft body is investigating his alleged suspicious financial transactions.

His son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari says this is yet another attempt by Imran Khan to vilify the opposition's anti-corruption movement.

In a tweet,&nbsp;he said these tactics are not new and they will do nothing to deter his party.

The Zardaris are not the only ones being targeted by the Pakistan government. Maryam Nawaz of the Pakistan muslim league is also on the radar.

Reports say the Pakistan government may block all routes to Maryam Nawaz's residence to stop her from attending the first opposition demonstration scheduled for Friday.

Additionally, according to Dawn, more than 400 opposition workers have been detained for flouting COVID-19 guidelines. This is yet another exucse to sabotage the planned demonstrations. Those held include district presidents and lawmakers of both the Pakistan People's Party and the Pakistan Muslim League.

Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan has requested the Pakistan police "to not comply with Imran Niazi's unlawful orders to arrest PMLN workers, raid their homes or hinder their travel to Gujranwala."

So Pakistani citizens are out on the streets, the opposition is gearing for nationwide demonstrations and the Prime Minister&nbsp;is responding with force. It is quite a fall from grace for Imran Khan — once a champion of free speech and civil rights movements, and now a Pakistan&nbsp;army puppet trying all he can to crush dissent.

"No matter how many problems pakistan is faced with and how difficult they might be, they all can be resolved. Everything is possible; all that is required is intent and desire. Nothing is impossible once the nation unites," said Imran Khan, Chairman of PTI.

It's a double whammy for the Imran Khan government in Pakistan. The opposition is set to go on a nation-wide offensive on October 16. However, demonstrations of a different colour have erupted in the national capital as hundreds of Pakistan citizens have hit the streets of Islamabad.

It's a double whammy for the Imran Khan government in Pakistan. The opposition is set to go on a nation-wide offensive on October 16. However, demonstrations of a different colour have erupted in the national capital as hundreds of Pakistan citizens have hit the streets of Islamabad. Islamabad has been taken by a storm of union-led protests from various sectors. Yesterday thousands converged outside the Pakistani parliament and staged a sit-in. This included government employees, farmers, teachers, doctors, health workers and pensioners. Also read| Over 450 Opposition workers booked ahead of anti-government rally in Pakistan They were protesting against price hike and what they call 'anti-employee policies' of the local government. Most of them called-off their sit-ins after "successful negotiations" with the government. However, women health workers are refusing to cede ground. They are on what you call a dharna at Islamabad's famous D-chowk. They are demanding a unified pay structure, job insurance and physical security. These are not big demands, especially for the Pakistan Prime Minister who has always made tall claims about supporting daily wage earners. He is now using the socio-economic crises and IMF loans as a pretext to reject these demands. At the same time he is cracking down on opposition voices. Asif Ali Zardari, the former President of Pakistan and the leader of Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has been issued an arrest warrant by the national accountability bureau of Pakistan — the country's anti-corruption watchdog. Also read| Pak opposition rally on parties alliance to hold first rally on October 18 Mr. Zardari is being accused of corruption worth 8 billion Pakistani rupees. The ant-graft body is investigating his alleged suspicious financial transactions. His son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari says this is yet another attempt by Imran Khan to vilify the opposition's anti-corruption movement. In a tweet, he said these tactics are not new and they will do nothing to deter his party. The Zardaris are not the only ones being targeted by the Pakistan government. Maryam Nawaz of the Pakistan muslim league is also on the radar. Reports say the Pakistan government may block all routes to Maryam Nawaz's residence to stop her from attending the first opposition demonstration scheduled for Friday. Additionally, according to Dawn, more than 400 opposition workers have been detained for flouting COVID-19 guidelines. This is yet another exucse to sabotage the planned demonstrations. Those held include district presidents and lawmakers of both the Pakistan People's Party and the Pakistan Muslim League. Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan has requested the Pakistan police "to not comply with Imran Niazi's unlawful orders to arrest PMLN workers, raid their homes or hinder their travel to Gujranwala." So Pakistani citizens are out on the streets, the opposition is gearing for nationwide demonstrations and the Prime Minister is responding with force. It is quite a fall from grace for Imran Khan — once a champion of free speech and civil rights movements, and now a Pakistan army puppet trying all he can to crush dissent. "No matter how many problems pakistan is faced with and how difficult they might be, they all can be resolved. Everything is possible; all that is required is intent and desire. Nothing is impossible once the nation unites," said Imran Khan, Chairman of PTI.

Nation-wide protests in Pakistan tell the story of fall of Imran Khan

Over 450 workers from Pakistan's Opposition parties have been booked in Lahore and other areas of Punjab province ahead of the first grand anti-government rally on Friday by an alliance formed to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan.

On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced the formation of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an action plan&nbsp;starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a 'decisive long march'&nbsp;towards Islamabad in January 2021.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-opposition-rally-on-parties-alliance-to-hold-first-rally-on-october-18-334905">Pak opposition rally on parties alliance to hold first rally on October 18</a>

The first anti-government rally is scheduled on Friday in Gujranwala city, some 80 kms from Lahore, followed by another rally on October 18 in Karachi, in Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13.

The Opposition leaders announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and mass resignations from Parliament to seek "the selected" prime minister's resignation.

The Opposition parties have accused the powerful army of rigging the 2018 elections that brought Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf party to power.

The Opposition parties are openly opposing the military's interference in politics and elections for the first time in the recent history of the country.

The PDM comprises mainly three mainstream Opposition parties:&nbsp;PML-N of Nawaz Sharif, PPP of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) of Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

Launching a crackdown ahead of PDM's first major anti-government show, Punjab police got into action and booked over 450 workers, mostly of PML-N, in different parts of Punjab province under COVID-19 violations and also arrested scores of PDM workers.

Police stations in Gujranwala, Mandi Bahuddin and Lahore registered cases against over 450 Opposition workers under sections 269 and 188 of Pakistan Penal Code for holding a public gathering without observing COVID-19 SOPs.

The former prime minister and PML-N supreme leader Nawaz Sharif, who is London since November last year, in a tweet, said that police should refrain from arresting the PDM leaders.

"Police must NOT comply with Imran Niazi's workers, raid their homes or hinder their travel to Gujranwala,"&nbsp;he said. 
Former premier and PDM leader Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said the government's panic over the first public meeting of Opposition has exposed its reality.

"Blocking roads with containers, raiding corner meetings, arresting PDM workers across Punjab, won't deter the spirits of the masses who have decided to rid the country of this selected and inept government."

He said, "People are starving and struggling to feed their families because of the unprecedented inflation and unemployment created by this government which is the most corrupt government in the history of Pakistan."

Abbasi said no amount of threats, harassment or containers can stop the massive flood of Pakistanis participating in the October 16 public meeting.

PML-N secretary general Ahsan Iqbal said the PTI government is "shaking in its boots over the first Opposition's rally which goes to show how confident it is about itself."

He said the PTI government is doing all it can to "harass and sabotage" the upcoming congregation.

Meanwhile, the government has allowed the Opposition to hold the rally in Gujranwala Stadium with a direction that no speeches would be made against the military and judiciary.

In his back-to-back speeches from London last month, Sharif, who is facing a number of corruption cases, said there was 'a state above the state in the country'&nbsp;and declared that the Opposition's struggle was not against Prime Minister Khan but against those (military establishment) who had imposed such an incapable person&nbsp;upon the nation through a manipulated electoral process.

Since his anti-army rant, the PTI government has banned the media to broadcast his speeches.

Sharif, 70, has been living in London since November last year after he was allowed by the courts and the government to go there for a period of eight weeks for medical treatment. But he did not come back, while his lawyers told the court that he was still recovering.

The Islamabad High Court through newspaper advertisements has asked Sharif to appear before it by November 24 to avoid being declared a "proclaimed offender". 
&nbsp;

Over 450 workers from Pakistan's Opposition parties have been booked in Lahore and other areas of Punjab province ahead of the first grand anti-government rally on Friday by an alliance formed to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Over 450 workers from Pakistan's Opposition parties have been booked in Lahore and other areas of Punjab province ahead of the first grand anti-government rally on Friday by an alliance formed to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan. On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced the formation of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an action plan starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a 'decisive long march' towards Islamabad in January 2021. Also read | Pak opposition rally on parties alliance to hold first rally on October 18 The first anti-government rally is scheduled on Friday in Gujranwala city, some 80 kms from Lahore, followed by another rally on October 18 in Karachi, in Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13. The Opposition leaders announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and mass resignations from Parliament to seek "the selected" prime minister's resignation. The Opposition parties have accused the powerful army of rigging the 2018 elections that brought Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf party to power. The Opposition parties are openly opposing the military's interference in politics and elections for the first time in the recent history of the country. The PDM comprises mainly three mainstream Opposition parties: PML-N of Nawaz Sharif, PPP of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) of Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Launching a crackdown ahead of PDM's first major anti-government show, Punjab police got into action and booked over 450 workers, mostly of PML-N, in different parts of Punjab province under COVID-19 violations and also arrested scores of PDM workers. Police stations in Gujranwala, Mandi Bahuddin and Lahore registered cases against over 450 Opposition workers under sections 269 and 188 of Pakistan Penal Code for holding a public gathering without observing COVID-19 SOPs. The former prime minister and PML-N supreme leader Nawaz Sharif, who is London since November last year, in a tweet, said that police should refrain from arresting the PDM leaders. "Police must NOT comply with Imran Niazi's workers, raid their homes or hinder their travel to Gujranwala," he said. Former premier and PDM leader Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said the government's panic over the first public meeting of Opposition has exposed its reality. "Blocking roads with containers, raiding corner meetings, arresting PDM workers across Punjab, won't deter the spirits of the masses who have decided to rid the country of this selected and inept government." He said, "People are starving and struggling to feed their families because of the unprecedented inflation and unemployment created by this government which is the most corrupt government in the history of Pakistan." Abbasi said no amount of threats, harassment or containers can stop the massive flood of Pakistanis participating in the October 16 public meeting. PML-N secretary general Ahsan Iqbal said the PTI government is "shaking in its boots over the first Opposition's rally which goes to show how confident it is about itself." He said the PTI government is doing all it can to "harass and sabotage" the upcoming congregation. Meanwhile, the government has allowed the Opposition to hold the rally in Gujranwala Stadium with a direction that no speeches would be made against the military and judiciary. In his back-to-back speeches from London last month, Sharif, who is facing a number of corruption cases, said there was 'a state above the state in the country' and declared that the Opposition's struggle was not against Prime Minister Khan but against those (military establishment) who had imposed such an incapable person upon the nation through a manipulated electoral process. Since his anti-army rant, the PTI government has banned the media to broadcast his speeches. Sharif, 70, has been living in London since November last year after he was allowed by the courts and the government to go there for a period of eight weeks for medical treatment. But he did not come back, while his lawyers told the court that he was still recovering. The Islamabad High Court through newspaper advertisements has asked Sharif to appear before it by November 24 to avoid being declared a "proclaimed offender".

Over 450 Opposition workers booked ahead of anti-government rally in Pakistan

Pakistan`s anti-corruption watchdog, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against the former president and Pakistan Peoples` Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari in a graft case worth 8 billion in Pakistan Rupees.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-nepal-re-elected-as-unhrc-members-china-also-elected-335110">Pakistan, Nepal re-elected as UNHRC members; China also elected</a>

According to The Express Tribune, a two-member bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) would hear Zardari`s interim-bail plea today over suspicious transactions in the fake accounts case.

This arrest warrant comes amid the Imran Khan government`s crackdown on opposition parties after an alliance was formed by all major opposition parties named Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) amid growing pubic agitation against the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government.

Earlier in September, a court in Islamabad indicted the former president and other accused in money laundering pertaining to the fake accounts case.

Zardari, who is named in multiple corruption cases filed by the NAB, was granted bail by the Islamabad High Court on medical grounds last year.

Last week, Zardari was shifted to a hospital, after he felt unwell on Sunday, according to a statement by the party.

"Doctors are conducting his medical check-up and necessary medical tests," PPP said in its statement that was tweeted.The Dawn newspaper reported that Zardari has been admitted to a hospital in Karachi.&nbsp;

Pakistan`s anti-corruption watchdog, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against the former president and Pakistan Peoples` Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari in a graft case worth 8 billion in Pakistan Rupees.

Pakistan`s anti-corruption watchdog, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against the former president and Pakistan Peoples` Party (PPP) leader Asif Ali Zardari in a graft case worth 8 billion in Pakistan Rupees. Also read | Pakistan, Nepal re-elected as UNHRC members; China also elected According to The Express Tribune, a two-member bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) would hear Zardari`s interim-bail plea today over suspicious transactions in the fake accounts case. This arrest warrant comes amid the Imran Khan government`s crackdown on opposition parties after an alliance was formed by all major opposition parties named Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) amid growing pubic agitation against the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. Earlier in September, a court in Islamabad indicted the former president and other accused in money laundering pertaining to the fake accounts case. Zardari, who is named in multiple corruption cases filed by the NAB, was granted bail by the Islamabad High Court on medical grounds last year. Last week, Zardari was shifted to a hospital, after he felt unwell on Sunday, according to a statement by the party. "Doctors are conducting his medical check-up and necessary medical tests," PPP said in its statement that was tweeted.The Dawn newspaper reported that Zardari has been admitted to a hospital in Karachi.

Pakistan: Arrest warrant issued against former Pak President Asif Ali Zardari

Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 18&nbsp;four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government.

On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced formation of the PDM and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an 'action plan'&nbsp;starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a ''decisive long march''&nbsp;towards Islamabad in January 2021.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hires-top-lobbying-firm-for-a-us-bailout-from-fatf-grey-list-regional-group-highlights-meagre-progress-334628" hreflang="en">Pakistan hires top lobbying firm for a US bailout from FATF grey list</a>

''Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16,''&nbsp;PDM leader Ahsan Iqbal said.

The Opposition leaders had announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and en mass resignations from the parliament to seek "the selected prime minister's resignation and an end to the role of the establishment in politics."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-dissidents-blame-military-for-countrys-multiple-crises-334856" hreflang="en">Pakistani dissidents blame military for country's multiple crises</a>

They also issued a 26-point declaration in the form a resolution containing various demands, including "end of establishment's interference in politics, new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies, release of political prisoners, withdrawal of cases against journalists, implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism, speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and across-the-board accountability under a new accountability law.''

As per the new schedule unveiled by Iqbal showed that the Gujranwala rally would be followed by a rally in Karachi on October 18, Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13, said Iqbal.

The schedule announced earlier showed that the first rally would be held on Oct 18 in Quetta.

The change was made at the request of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which commemorates the day October 18 to pay homage to victims of Karsaz bombing in 2007 that killed scores of people attending a rally in Karachi to welcome Benazir Bhutto.

The PDM leaders also condemned the registration of an FIR against Nawaz Sharif for allegedly defaming the state institutions.

Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 18 four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government.

Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 18 four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government. On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced formation of the PDM and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an 'action plan' starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a ''decisive long march'' towards Islamabad in January 2021. Also read: Pakistan hires top lobbying firm for a US bailout from FATF grey list ''Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16,'' PDM leader Ahsan Iqbal said. The Opposition leaders had announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and en mass resignations from the parliament to seek "the selected prime minister's resignation and an end to the role of the establishment in politics." Also read: Pakistani dissidents blame military for country's multiple crises They also issued a 26-point declaration in the form a resolution containing various demands, including "end of establishment's interference in politics, new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies, release of political prisoners, withdrawal of cases against journalists, implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism, speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and across-the-board accountability under a new accountability law.'' As per the new schedule unveiled by Iqbal showed that the Gujranwala rally would be followed by a rally in Karachi on October 18, Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13, said Iqbal. The schedule announced earlier showed that the first rally would be held on Oct 18 in Quetta. The change was made at the request of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which commemorates the day October 18 to pay homage to victims of Karsaz bombing in 2007 that killed scores of people attending a rally in Karachi to welcome Benazir Bhutto. The PDM leaders also condemned the registration of an FIR against Nawaz Sharif for allegedly defaming the state institutions.

Pak opposition rally on parties alliance to hold first rally on October 18

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