At least 6 aides to Pak PM Imran Khan have revealed that they possess dual nationalities. One of them has forged the price of a car in his declaration of assets.

Gravitas: Pakistan's corrupt coterie exposed

Six advisors of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan posses dual citizenships and several of top 20 aides have admitted of owning movable and immovable assets worth millions of dollars abroad.

The list was published on the official website of Pakistan government`s cabinet division.

All the dual nationals were working as special assistants to the prime minister (SAPM). These people include SAPM on Overseas Pakistanis Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari (UK), SAPM on Power Division Shahzad Qasim (US), SAPM on Petroleum Nadeem Babar (US), SAPM on Political Affairs Shahbaz Gill (US), SAPM on Parliamentary Coordination Nadeem Afzal Gondal (Canada) and SAPM on Digital Pakistan Tania Aidrus (Canadian citizenship by birth).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-coronavirus-tally-reaches-263496-314425">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan's coronavirus tally reaches 263,496</a>

According to Gulf News report, the wealthiest SAPM is Power Division and Mineral Resources Assistant Shahzad Syed Qasim who has assets worth over Rs 4 billion followed by SAPM on Petroleum Nadeem Babar with assets worth Rs 2.75 billion. Meanwhile, Adviser for Overseas Pakistanis Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari`s net assets is estimated over Rs 2 billion.

Giving further details of the wealthiest SAPM, the official website stated that the PM`s aide on Power Division and Coordination of Marketing and Development of Mineral Resources owns assets in Pakistan, UAE and US. His three properties in UAE include two villas in Jumeirah Golf Estates and Sienna Lakes, Jumeirah Golf Estates and an apartment at Park Towers, DIFC - all worth Dh20,688,000. He has three cars in the UAE worth Dh400,000 and in the US, he has property worth US$865,000 while he has Rs 4 billion in various local and foreign bank accounts and retirement funds including $2.1 million in US.

Meanwhile, Nadeem Babbar, who is Special Assistant on Petroleum Division, owns assets worth over Rs 2.7 billion, including several properties in Pakistan and abroad and stakes in more than 30 local and foreign companies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-resumes-polio-vaccination-campaign-amid-covid-19-pandemic-314672">Also read:&nbsp;Pak resumes polio vaccination campaign amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

The Gulf News further reported that in the list Dr Moeed Yusuf`s, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Security Division and Strategic Policy Planning, the name was also included but was later withdrawn as it was clarified that he had the US residency and only holds the citizenship of Pakistan as per the affidavit submitted to the government. "I have not returned to the US since I took up my current responsibility, have no employment or income in the US nor do I have any millions worth properties abroad" Dr Yusuf was quoted as saying.

The latest list on PM Imran Khan`s advisors possessing dual nationalities has sparked strong criticisms by the Opposition leaders.

Six advisors of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan posses dual citizenships and several of top 20 aides have admitted of owning movable and immovable assets worth millions of dollars abroad.

Six advisors of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan posses dual citizenships and several of top 20 aides have admitted of owning movable and immovable assets worth millions of dollars abroad. The list was published on the official website of Pakistan government`s cabinet division. All the dual nationals were working as special assistants to the prime minister (SAPM). These people include SAPM on Overseas Pakistanis Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari (UK), SAPM on Power Division Shahzad Qasim (US), SAPM on Petroleum Nadeem Babar (US), SAPM on Political Affairs Shahbaz Gill (US), SAPM on Parliamentary Coordination Nadeem Afzal Gondal (Canada) and SAPM on Digital Pakistan Tania Aidrus (Canadian citizenship by birth). Also read: Pakistan's coronavirus tally reaches 263,496 According to Gulf News report, the wealthiest SAPM is Power Division and Mineral Resources Assistant Shahzad Syed Qasim who has assets worth over Rs 4 billion followed by SAPM on Petroleum Nadeem Babar with assets worth Rs 2.75 billion. Meanwhile, Adviser for Overseas Pakistanis Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari`s net assets is estimated over Rs 2 billion. Giving further details of the wealthiest SAPM, the official website stated that the PM`s aide on Power Division and Coordination of Marketing and Development of Mineral Resources owns assets in Pakistan, UAE and US. His three properties in UAE include two villas in Jumeirah Golf Estates and Sienna Lakes, Jumeirah Golf Estates and an apartment at Park Towers, DIFC - all worth Dh20,688,000. He has three cars in the UAE worth Dh400,000 and in the US, he has property worth US$865,000 while he has Rs 4 billion in various local and foreign bank accounts and retirement funds including $2.1 million in US. Meanwhile, Nadeem Babbar, who is Special Assistant on Petroleum Division, owns assets worth over Rs 2.7 billion, including several properties in Pakistan and abroad and stakes in more than 30 local and foreign companies. Also read: Pak resumes polio vaccination campaign amid COVID-19 pandemic The Gulf News further reported that in the list Dr Moeed Yusuf`s, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Security Division and Strategic Policy Planning, the name was also included but was later withdrawn as it was clarified that he had the US residency and only holds the citizenship of Pakistan as per the affidavit submitted to the government. "I have not returned to the US since I took up my current responsibility, have no employment or income in the US nor do I have any millions worth properties abroad" Dr Yusuf was quoted as saying. The latest list on PM Imran Khan`s advisors possessing dual nationalities has sparked strong criticisms by the Opposition leaders.

Pak PM's advisors possess assets worth millions of dollars, dual citizenship

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan urged his countrymen on Friday to celebrate upcoming Eid with "simplicity" and avoid the lapses that were made in the last Eid, which overwhelmed the hospitals.&nbsp;

"Eid ul Azha must be celebrated with simplicity so as not to repeat what happened last Eid when SOPs (standard operating procedures) were ignored &amp; our hospitals were choked", Khan tweeted.

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I urge the nation to continue observing SOPs essential to sustain our positive trend. Eid ul Azha must be celebrated with simplicity so as not to repeat what happened last Eid when SOPs were ignored &amp; our hospitals were choked. I am ordering strict implementation of govt SOPs.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1284056092797022208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also added he was ordering the "stict" implementation of the guidelines.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ministers-hit-with-virus-as-pm-imran-refuses-to-impose-strict-lockdown-311219">Pakistan ministers hit with virus as PM Imran refuses to impose strict lockdown</a>

In May, during the last Eid holiday in Pakistan, several people violated lockdown measures and social distancing guidelines, which triggered a surge in coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-coronavirus-cases-reach-259999-313979">Pakistan's coronavirus cases reach 259,999</a>

The increase made the World Health Organization (WHO) ask the Pakistan administration to impose new lockdowns.&nbsp;

The Eid festival of animal sacrifice will begin in July end and carry on for many days.&nbsp;

Officials expect markets to be flooded with customers, who will be looking for sheeps, goats and other animals for slaughter.&nbsp;

According to the official figures, nearly 260,000 people in Pakistan have tested positive for coronavirus, including over 5,470 deaths.

The rate of COVID-19 infection in the country has slowed down significantly, but medical experts fear, a decline in cases could be due to a decrease in testing.&nbsp;

Khan attributed the slow of the virus spread to "smart" lockdowns imposed to seal off hotspots.&nbsp;

The cricketer-turned-politician is critcised for not implementing a full lockdown to control the coronavirus ourbreak as he said doing such would adversely affect the country.&nbsp; 
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Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan urged his countrymen on Friday to celebrate upcoming Eid with "simplicity" and avoid the lapses that were made in the last Eid, which overwhelmed the hospitals.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan urged his countrymen on Friday to celebrate upcoming Eid with "simplicity" and avoid the lapses that were made in the last Eid, which overwhelmed the hospitals. "Eid ul Azha must be celebrated with simplicity so as not to repeat what happened last Eid when SOPs (standard operating procedures) were ignored & our hospitals were choked", Khan tweeted. I urge the nation to continue observing SOPs essential to sustain our positive trend. Eid ul Azha must be celebrated with simplicity so as not to repeat what happened last Eid when SOPs were ignored & our hospitals were choked. I am ordering strict implementation of govt SOPs. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) July 17, 2020 × He also added he was ordering the "stict" implementation of the guidelines. Also read | Pakistan ministers hit with virus as PM Imran refuses to impose strict lockdown In May, during the last Eid holiday in Pakistan, several people violated lockdown measures and social distancing guidelines, which triggered a surge in coronavirus cases. Also read | Pakistan's coronavirus cases reach 259,999 The increase made the World Health Organization (WHO) ask the Pakistan administration to impose new lockdowns. The Eid festival of animal sacrifice will begin in July end and carry on for many days. Officials expect markets to be flooded with customers, who will be looking for sheeps, goats and other animals for slaughter. According to the official figures, nearly 260,000 people in Pakistan have tested positive for coronavirus, including over 5,470 deaths. The rate of COVID-19 infection in the country has slowed down significantly, but medical experts fear, a decline in cases could be due to a decrease in testing. Khan attributed the slow of the virus spread to "smart" lockdowns imposed to seal off hotspots. The cricketer-turned-politician is critcised for not implementing a full lockdown to control the coronavirus ourbreak as he said doing such would adversely affect the country.

'Celebrate with simplicity': Imran Khan's Eid message urge caution over COVID-19 spread

A plea has been filed in the lahore high court demanding an immediate ban on&nbsp;Tiktok.&nbsp; It has been filed by a certain Nadeem Sarwar,&nbsp;an advocate who moved the application on behalf of a civilian.

The petition states&nbsp;Tiktok is disastrous for the youth and how it would prove harmful to Pakistan's social fabric.

On June 21, a 17-year-old accidentally shot and killed himself while filming a clip on Tiktok in Karachi. Meanwhile, two days ago, agirl was gang-raped by three men who she had befriended on TikTok. She had known the men for just 20 days and decided to meet them but she was kidnapped and raped on gunpoint inside a car.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-can-pakistan-afford-to-ban-tiktok-313543/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There are more such cases but Pakistan won't ban this chinese app and it&nbsp;cannot afford to as it's a matter of bread and butter for the country.&nbsp;

China is pumping money into pakistan's economy so much that Imran Khan has vowed to 'complete CPEC projects at all costs'.

According to Pakistan Prime Minister&nbsp;the CPEC is a manifestation of Pakistan-China friendship and the government will complete it at any cost and bring its fruit to every Pakistani.

According to pak media reports,&nbsp;a bill has been proposed by Islamabad to give 'sweeping administrative and financial powers' to CPEC authority.This bill clips the wings of the CPEC&nbsp;planning ministry by transferring power from parliamentarians to unelected officials.&nbsp;

.According to this bill, CPEC authority will now be under the direct supervision of the Pakistani prime minister but there are limits even to the role of the prime minister.&nbsp;

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is now set to be completely Chinese. Asking Khan to ban a Chinese app would be asking for too much.

A plea has been filed in the lahore high court demanding an immediate ban on Tiktok. It has been filed by a certain Nadeem Sarwar, an advocate who moved the application on behalf of a civilian.

A plea has been filed in the lahore high court demanding an immediate ban on Tiktok. It has been filed by a certain Nadeem Sarwar, an advocate who moved the application on behalf of a civilian. The petition states Tiktok is disastrous for the youth and how it would prove harmful to Pakistan's social fabric. On June 21, a 17-year-old accidentally shot and killed himself while filming a clip on Tiktok in Karachi. Meanwhile, two days ago, agirl was gang-raped by three men who she had befriended on TikTok. She had known the men for just 20 days and decided to meet them but she was kidnapped and raped on gunpoint inside a car. There are more such cases but Pakistan won't ban this chinese app and it cannot afford to as it's a matter of bread and butter for the country. China is pumping money into pakistan's economy so much that Imran Khan has vowed to 'complete CPEC projects at all costs'. According to Pakistan Prime Minister the CPEC is a manifestation of Pakistan-China friendship and the government will complete it at any cost and bring its fruit to every Pakistani. According to pak media reports, a bill has been proposed by Islamabad to give 'sweeping administrative and financial powers' to CPEC authority.This bill clips the wings of the CPEC planning ministry by transferring power from parliamentarians to unelected officials. .According to this bill, CPEC authority will now be under the direct supervision of the Pakistani prime minister but there are limits even to the role of the prime minister. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is now set to be completely Chinese. Asking Khan to ban a Chinese app would be asking for too much.

Why asking Pakistan government to ban Tiktok is asking for too much

China, for a decade, blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the United Nations sanctions regime. Azhar is&nbsp;the mastermind of several attacks against India.&nbsp;

China’s support to Pakistani terrorists was seen as a way for Beijing to keep its hold on its all-weather ally Pakistan.&nbsp;

And now, reports say that China is trying to revive a terror group in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to sources, Chinese officials recently met terrorists from Al Badr in PoK.

Al Badr is a defunct terror group which China could bring back to life. Al Badr was born out of the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in 1998 after the ISI encouraged terrorists to operate independently. &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rebel-groups-in-myanmar-have-chinas-backing-report-312367">Also Read: Rebel groups in Myanmar have China's backing: Report</a>

Al Badr had set two objectives for itself - to strengthen the "Kashmir freedom struggle" and "liberate" Jammu and Kashmir from India and merge it with Pakistan.

The group has a history of perpetrating violence in Afghanistan and Jammu and Kashmir and reports say that it is part of the United Jihad Organisation, an umbrella group of Pakistani terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

Al-Badr was proscribed by India in 2002 and the group went defunct after its key leaders were neutralised. The group's funding comes from the Jamaat-e-Islami and the ISI.

And now, with China's backing, the group could get a new lease of life. The Jammu and Kashmir police too have sensed a revival of Al Badr.&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
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China, for a decade, blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the United Nations sanctions regime. Azhar is the mastermind of several attacks against India.

China, for a decade, blocked the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the United Nations sanctions regime. Azhar is the mastermind of several attacks against India. China’s support to Pakistani terrorists was seen as a way for Beijing to keep its hold on its all-weather ally Pakistan. And now, reports say that China is trying to revive a terror group in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to sources, Chinese officials recently met terrorists from Al Badr in PoK. Al Badr is a defunct terror group which China could bring back to life. Al Badr was born out of the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in 1998 after the ISI encouraged terrorists to operate independently. Also Read: Rebel groups in Myanmar have China's backing: Report Al Badr had set two objectives for itself - to strengthen the "Kashmir freedom struggle" and "liberate" Jammu and Kashmir from India and merge it with Pakistan. The group has a history of perpetrating violence in Afghanistan and Jammu and Kashmir and reports say that it is part of the United Jihad Organisation, an umbrella group of Pakistani terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Al-Badr was proscribed by India in 2002 and the group went defunct after its key leaders were neutralised. The group's funding comes from the Jamaat-e-Islami and the ISI. And now, with China's backing, the group could get a new lease of life. The Jammu and Kashmir police too have sensed a revival of Al Badr.

Is China trying to revive a terrorist group in Pakistan occupied Kashmir?

Pakistan is a country where male dominance and&nbsp;entitlement are&nbsp;unquestioned because it is&nbsp;unabashedly patriarchal.

Even in Pakistani families that pride themselves on being non-discriminatory in their treatment of their male and female children, the binaries of the do’s and the don’ts of the two genders are underscored in bold letters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/combating-sexual-violence-as-a-global-concern-301152">Combating sexual violence as a global concern</a>

On June 1, an eight-year-old called Zahra Shah died after&nbsp;she was, allegedly, beaten up mercilessly for freeing two parrots. She was beaten so ruthlessly that she died a few hours later.

Zahra had escaped her hometown to make ends meet and&nbsp;found work at a couple's home in Rawalpindi who promised to educate her&nbsp;in return for her work.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/equal-roles-for-women-in-indian-armed-forces-the-road-ahead-291798">Equal roles for women in Indian Armed Forces: The road ahead</a>

The case prompted anger and made national headlines in Pakistan due to which the couple who employed zahra were soon put behind bars.

In June, the hashtag ''Justice for Zohra Shah'' trended immensely in Pakistan because the country's media confused Zahra for Zohra.

On July 8, the news of another Zahra’s death shook Pakistan’s social media.&nbsp;Sadaf Zahra Naqvi, the mother of a one-year old baby girl and the wife of a prominent Pakistani journalist,&nbsp;Ali Salman Alvi,&nbsp;known to countless Twitter users of Pakistan, ''died''&nbsp;on June 29.&nbsp;

Zahra's sister in law accused her husband of murdering her and covering it up as suicide. A thread posted on Zahra's Twitter timeline unravels her horrifying story in subtle references.

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Domestic abuse.. A thread!
— Sadaf Zahra (@SadafZNaqvi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SadafZNaqvi/status/1214275868031410177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The story of a ruined marriage, betrayal, blackmailing, threats,&nbsp;extortion and all the torture she silently dealt with for the sake of her daughter.

The personalness of this thread suggests that it was addressed to her husband who is currently facing an investigation.

There are many more Zahras living amongst us. Young girls who are being tortured by men and women alike. Married women who are killing themselves because of their partners. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan is a country where male dominance and entitlement are unquestioned because it is unabashedly patriarchal. Even in Pakistani families that pride themselves on being non-discriminatory in their treatment of their male and female children, the binaries of the do’s and the don’ts of the two genders are underscored in bold letters.

Pakistan is a country where male dominance and entitlement are unquestioned because it is unabashedly patriarchal. Even in Pakistani families that pride themselves on being non-discriminatory in their treatment of their male and female children, the binaries of the do’s and the don’ts of the two genders are underscored in bold letters. Also read: Combating sexual violence as a global concern On June 1, an eight-year-old called Zahra Shah died after she was, allegedly, beaten up mercilessly for freeing two parrots. She was beaten so ruthlessly that she died a few hours later. Zahra had escaped her hometown to make ends meet and found work at a couple's home in Rawalpindi who promised to educate her in return for her work. Also read| Equal roles for women in Indian Armed Forces: The road ahead The case prompted anger and made national headlines in Pakistan due to which the couple who employed zahra were soon put behind bars. In June, the hashtag ''Justice for Zohra Shah'' trended immensely in Pakistan because the country's media confused Zahra for Zohra. On July 8, the news of another Zahra’s death shook Pakistan’s social media. Sadaf Zahra Naqvi, the mother of a one-year old baby girl and the wife of a prominent Pakistani journalist, Ali Salman Alvi, known to countless Twitter users of Pakistan, ''died'' on June 29. Zahra's sister in law accused her husband of murdering her and covering it up as suicide. A thread posted on Zahra's Twitter timeline unravels her horrifying story in subtle references. Domestic abuse.. A thread! — Sadaf Zahra (@SadafZNaqvi) January 6, 2020 × The story of a ruined marriage, betrayal, blackmailing, threats, extortion and all the torture she silently dealt with for the sake of her daughter. The personalness of this thread suggests that it was addressed to her husband who is currently facing an investigation. There are many more Zahras living amongst us. Young girls who are being tortured by men and women alike. Married women who are killing themselves because of their partners.

Two innocent women fall prey to Pakistan's deep-rooted patriarchy

A Pakistani court has dismissed three identical petitions challenging the construction of the first Hindu temple in the country's capital.

A single bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), comprising Justice Aamer Farooq, delivered the judgement late on Tuesday, making it clear that there was no bar on the Institute of Hindu Panchayat (IHP), which was allotted the land for the construction of the temple, to build it using its own funds.

The court had on Monday reserved the judgement on the matter.

As per plans, the Krishna temple is supposed to come up in a 20,000 sq ft plot in the capital's H-9 administrative division.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-to-get-its-first-hindu-temple-and-crematorium-73-years-after-the-birth-of-pakistan-308191">Islamabad to get its first Hindu temple and crematorium 73 years after the birth of Pakistan</a>

The groundbreaking ceremony for the temple was performed recently by Parliamentary Secretary on Human Rights Lal Chand Malhi.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), a ruling ally of the Imran Khan government, has opposed the construction of the temple, asking its coalition partner to scrap the project as it is "against the spirit of Islam".

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/making-hindu-temple-in-islamabad-is-against-the-spirit-of-islam-pakistani-politician-310028"> Making 'Hindu temple' in Islamabad is against the spirit of Islam: Pakistani politician</a>

The petitioners had asked the court to annul the construction of the temple and allotment of a piece of land by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for it in Islamabad, pleading that there was no provision for the same in the master plan of the national capital.

The court rejected it saying that it was up to the CDA to decide the purpose of land.

It also rejected the petitioners' claim that Rs 100 million was paid by the government for the construction of the temple and noted that the matter has rather been referred to the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) for opinion.

The CDA last week stopped the construction of the boundary wall on the plot meant for the temple citing legal reasons.

The CDA, during arguments, clarified that the plot was allotted after consultations with all departments but its construction was stopped as the builder failed to provide a detailed design.

The court, in its five-page judgment, also noted that according to the CDA, the land was allotted to the IHP in 2017 for the construction of a temple, community centre and crematorium in Sector H-9 where graveyards of other minority communities already exist.

The sub sector H-9/2 was designated by the authority for the purpose of allocating plots to minorities.

Since the construction was put on hold, ?hence the grievance of the petitioners on the specific issue stand allayed and has become infructuous, for the time being,? the court said.

A Pakistani court has dismissed three identical petitions challenging the construction of the first Hindu temple in the country's capital. A single bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), comprising Justice Aamer Farooq, delivered the judgement late on Tuesday, making it clear that there was no bar on the Institute of Hindu Panchayat (IHP), which was allotted the land for the construction of the temple, to build it using its own funds.

A Pakistani court has dismissed three identical petitions challenging the construction of the first Hindu temple in the country's capital. A single bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), comprising Justice Aamer Farooq, delivered the judgement late on Tuesday, making it clear that there was no bar on the Institute of Hindu Panchayat (IHP), which was allotted the land for the construction of the temple, to build it using its own funds. The court had on Monday reserved the judgement on the matter. As per plans, the Krishna temple is supposed to come up in a 20,000 sq ft plot in the capital's H-9 administrative division. Also read: Islamabad to get its first Hindu temple and crematorium 73 years after the birth of Pakistan The groundbreaking ceremony for the temple was performed recently by Parliamentary Secretary on Human Rights Lal Chand Malhi. The Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), a ruling ally of the Imran Khan government, has opposed the construction of the temple, asking its coalition partner to scrap the project as it is "against the spirit of Islam". Also read| Making 'Hindu temple' in Islamabad is against the spirit of Islam: Pakistani politician The petitioners had asked the court to annul the construction of the temple and allotment of a piece of land by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for it in Islamabad, pleading that there was no provision for the same in the master plan of the national capital. The court rejected it saying that it was up to the CDA to decide the purpose of land. It also rejected the petitioners' claim that Rs 100 million was paid by the government for the construction of the temple and noted that the matter has rather been referred to the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) for opinion. The CDA last week stopped the construction of the boundary wall on the plot meant for the temple citing legal reasons. The CDA, during arguments, clarified that the plot was allotted after consultations with all departments but its construction was stopped as the builder failed to provide a detailed design. The court, in its five-page judgment, also noted that according to the CDA, the land was allotted to the IHP in 2017 for the construction of a temple, community centre and crematorium in Sector H-9 where graveyards of other minority communities already exist. The sub sector H-9/2 was designated by the authority for the purpose of allocating plots to minorities. Since the construction was put on hold, ?hence the grievance of the petitioners on the specific issue stand allayed and has become infructuous, for the time being,? the court said.

Pak court rejects petitions challenging construction of first Hindu temple in Islamabad

Several top leaders in Pakistan have been infected with the Wuhan virus - forcing them to work from home. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how Imran Khan's indecisiveness amid this pandemic could have created more troubles for his government.

Gravitas: Top Pak leaders infected with Wuhan Virus

Pakistan has become a hotspot for COVID-19 in South Asia. Its top line of ministers is at risk of being infected with Coronavirus. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Pak PM Imran Khan at risk of COVID-19

Special adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said on Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, Geo News reported.

Mirza made the announcement on Twitter, where he said that upon medical advice, he is self-isolating at home and taking all the precautions.

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&lt;327&gt; I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home &amp; taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference &amp; I am proud of you.
— Zafar Mirza (@zfrmrza) <a href="https://twitter.com/zfrmrza/status/1280016074449326083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doctors-in-pakistan-resign-over-inadequacy-of-safety-gear-to-protect-them-from-coronavirus-310945">Doctors in Pakistan resign over inadequacy of safety gear to protect them from coronavirus</a>

"I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home &amp; taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference and I am proud of you," he wrote.

Mirza, who also has been at the forefront of the government`s response to the pandemic, urged his colleagues to continue the fight against the virus.

Over the past 24 hours, the country on Monday reported 3,763 new cases and the recovery of 4,736 patients with 65 deaths, taking the national tally of cases to 231,017, recoveries to 129,830, and death toll to 4,745.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Special adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said on Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, Geo News reported. Mirza made the announcement on Twitter, where he said that upon medical advice, he is self-isolating at home and taking all the precautions.

Special adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Health Zafar Mirza said on Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus, Geo News reported. Mirza made the announcement on Twitter, where he said that upon medical advice, he is self-isolating at home and taking all the precautions. <327> I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home & taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference & I am proud of you. — Zafar Mirza (@zfrmrza) July 6, 2020 × Also read | Doctors in Pakistan resign over inadequacy of safety gear to protect them from coronavirus "I have tested positive for COVID-19. Under med advice I have isolated myself at home & taking all precautions. I have mild symptoms. Please keep me in your kind prayers. Colleagues, keep up the good work! You are making a big difference and I am proud of you," he wrote. Mirza, who also has been at the forefront of the government`s response to the pandemic, urged his colleagues to continue the fight against the virus. Over the past 24 hours, the country on Monday reported 3,763 new cases and the recovery of 4,736 patients with 65 deaths, taking the national tally of cases to 231,017, recoveries to 129,830, and death toll to 4,745.

Pakistan's Health Minister Zafar Mirza contracts coronavirus

Amid rising coronavirus cases and a crippling economy, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed that his government will complete the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project "at any cost".

The project, which is a USD 60 billion project is being seen as a manifestation of the all-weather friendship between the two Asian countries, Pakistan and China.

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Imran Khan believes this project is an important step in the socio-economic development and the "gigantic multi-faceted initiative would guarantee a bright future for the nation", he said in CPEC review meeting.

"The corridor is a manifestation of Pakistan-China friendship and the government will complete it at any cost and bring its fruit to every Pakistani," Khan said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-guilty-of-forced-labour-under-horrendous-conditions-on-bri-project-us-report-308661">Also read:&nbsp;China guilty of forced labour under 'horrendous conditions' on BRI project: US Report</a>

While praising the efforts of the ongoing developments of the project, he urged the officials and workers to increase the productivity of the project.

The comments has come a day after the Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi discussed the developments of the CPEC projects with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi during a phone conversation.

The CPEC will connect Pakistan's&nbsp;Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, and is one of the first projects under Pakistan's&nbsp;Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

China's BRI has been under the magnifying glass of criticism as experts and country leaders feel that this is a way of China expanding it;s control over foreign lands, and this way China is reeling&nbsp;smaller countries under mounting Chinese debt after Sri Lanka gave its Hambantota port in a debt swap to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease.

Amid rising coronavirus cases and a crippling economy, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed that his government will complete the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project "at any cost".

Amid rising coronavirus cases and a crippling economy, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed that his government will complete the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project "at any cost". The project, which is a USD 60 billion project is being seen as a manifestation of the all-weather friendship between the two Asian countries, Pakistan and China. Also read: Xi Jinping's enormous ambition is leading his country to ruin Imran Khan believes this project is an important step in the socio-economic development and the "gigantic multi-faceted initiative would guarantee a bright future for the nation", he said in CPEC review meeting. "The corridor is a manifestation of Pakistan-China friendship and the government will complete it at any cost and bring its fruit to every Pakistani," Khan said. Also read: China guilty of forced labour under 'horrendous conditions' on BRI project: US Report While praising the efforts of the ongoing developments of the project, he urged the officials and workers to increase the productivity of the project. The comments has come a day after the Chinese Foriegn Minister Wang Yi discussed the developments of the CPEC projects with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi during a phone conversation. The CPEC will connect Pakistan's Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China's Xinjiang province, and is one of the first projects under Pakistan's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China's BRI has been under the magnifying glass of criticism as experts and country leaders feel that this is a way of China expanding it;s control over foreign lands, and this way China is reeling smaller countries under mounting Chinese debt after Sri Lanka gave its Hambantota port in a debt swap to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease.

Imran Khan vows to finish CPEC corridor 'at any cost' amid rising domestic issues

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is extending his support to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Pakistani diplomats wrote to Nepal's government - seeking time for a phone call between two leaders. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why Imran Khan is fishing in troubled waters of Nepal's politics.

Gravitas: Why Imran Khan has extended his support to Nepal's Prime Minister

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly.

"India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-india-of-attacking-pakistan-stock-exchange-offers-no-evidence-309702">Also read:&nbsp;Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence</a>

"We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added.

The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected "absurd comments" by Pakistan accusing India of instigating attacks on Pakistan Stock Exchange building in Karachi early this week and said Islamabad cannot shift the blame on New Delhi for its domestic problems. The ministry rather urged that Pakistan should reflect on the problems in their own country as well as the government led by Prime Minister Imran Khan who had himself called global terrorist Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' while addressing the National Assembly. "India rejects these absurd comments on terrorist attacks in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," said Anurag Srivastava, MEA spokesperson, on Pakistan accusing India of instigating Karachi attacks. Also read: Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence "We would ask Pakistan that they may wish to reflect on this and on their own government's position including their Prime Minister's description of a global terrorist as a martyr," Srivastava added. The Stock Exchange building came under attack on Monday morning as four terror suspects tried to storm into the building on Karachi's II Chundrigar Road. The Baloch Liberation Army has claimed responsibility for the attack. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmod Qureshi had alleged that the clues of strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India. Two security guards and a police officer were killed in the attack, along with all four suspected terrorists. Several people, including three police officials, have been injured, as per reports by Pakistan media.

MEA says Pak can't blame India for domestic problems; counters Khan for calling Laden as 'martyr'

Pervaiz Elahi, the speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly has said that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and the construction of a temple on its soil is against the very spirit of Islam.&nbsp;

Elahi is one of Imran Khan's strongest allies and he is against the construction of a temple and a crematorium in Islamabad.

He just doesn't want new temples. His views may be archaic. But Elahi is not the only one who wants his country to live up to its values. He is speaking for many in Pakistan.

&nbsp;Lawyers are opposing the temple's construction. Just two days back, an advocate filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court.

The purpose was the same, halt the construction of the new temple. The reasons were the same. Instead of constructing a new temple --- why not renovate the old ones?

Then there are clerics against the temple's construction. Mufti Ziauddin, a top cleric in Pakistan has even issued a fatwa which is a ruling under the Islamic law. The fatwa declares the temple's construction illegal because according to the cleric, building new places of worship is not permitted in Islamic nations.

Is there any such rule? &nbsp;The United Arab Emirates, an Islamic kingdom had allotted land for building a temple. But in Pakistan, constructing new temples is 'unislamic'.

Forcefully converting minorities meanwhile is permitted.

The hypocrisy is by no means limited to matters of religion. It is on display -- every time Pakistan cries foul over terror.

First, the Pakistani prime minister called Osama bin Laden, a martyr. Then, he tried blaming India for the attack on the Karachi Stock Exchange last week. Yesterday, this hypocrisy was called out at the UNSC. Pakistan's all-weather ally, China, drafted a statement condemning the attack.

It was placed under a silent procedure --- under which if no member state raises any objections -- the draft within a specified time is considered adopted.

But the statement was stalled twice from being adopted. Germany was the first country to break the silence procedure. It delayed the issuance of the press statement saying it needed to "consult the capital".

Then it was America which broke the silence, further delaying the statement from being issued. Observers say the delay was to send a message to Pakistan.

A message that it cannot call the most dreaded face of terrorism a martyr on one hand and on the other hand expect condemnation over an attack it is blaming India for. The statement was released only after the deadline had passed. It used a standard template for condemning all terror attacks.

Islamabad's attempt to blame India failed miserably. Because India never had anything do with the attack. It was the Balochistan Liberation Army which carried out the attack.

What was the purpose? To send a warning to Pakistan and China to quit Balochistan.

Allah Nazar Baloch, a prominent pro-independence Baloch leader has said, "China has made a long-term plan to make Balochistan an undeclared colony to dominate the world."

"Pakistan has cheaply mortgaged Baloch lands to China. Baloch is the only ones fighting the modern imperialist monster. The attack on the base of Chinese moneylenders in Karachi is in continuation to retrieve our strategic assets."

Pervaiz Elahi, the speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly has said that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and the construction of a temple on its soil is against the very spirit of Islam.

Pervaiz Elahi, the speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly has said that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and the construction of a temple on its soil is against the very spirit of Islam. Elahi is one of Imran Khan's strongest allies and he is against the construction of a temple and a crematorium in Islamabad. He just doesn't want new temples. His views may be archaic. But Elahi is not the only one who wants his country to live up to its values. He is speaking for many in Pakistan. Lawyers are opposing the temple's construction. Just two days back, an advocate filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court. The purpose was the same, halt the construction of the new temple. The reasons were the same. Instead of constructing a new temple --- why not renovate the old ones? Then there are clerics against the temple's construction. Mufti Ziauddin, a top cleric in Pakistan has even issued a fatwa which is a ruling under the Islamic law. The fatwa declares the temple's construction illegal because according to the cleric, building new places of worship is not permitted in Islamic nations. Is there any such rule? The United Arab Emirates, an Islamic kingdom had allotted land for building a temple. But in Pakistan, constructing new temples is 'unislamic'. Forcefully converting minorities meanwhile is permitted. The hypocrisy is by no means limited to matters of religion. It is on display -- every time Pakistan cries foul over terror. First, the Pakistani prime minister called Osama bin Laden, a martyr. Then, he tried blaming India for the attack on the Karachi Stock Exchange last week. Yesterday, this hypocrisy was called out at the UNSC. Pakistan's all-weather ally, China, drafted a statement condemning the attack. It was placed under a silent procedure --- under which if no member state raises any objections -- the draft within a specified time is considered adopted. But the statement was stalled twice from being adopted. Germany was the first country to break the silence procedure. It delayed the issuance of the press statement saying it needed to "consult the capital". Then it was America which broke the silence, further delaying the statement from being issued. Observers say the delay was to send a message to Pakistan. A message that it cannot call the most dreaded face of terrorism a martyr on one hand and on the other hand expect condemnation over an attack it is blaming India for. The statement was released only after the deadline had passed. It used a standard template for condemning all terror attacks. Islamabad's attempt to blame India failed miserably. Because India never had anything do with the attack. It was the Balochistan Liberation Army which carried out the attack. What was the purpose? To send a warning to Pakistan and China to quit Balochistan. Allah Nazar Baloch, a prominent pro-independence Baloch leader has said, "China has made a long-term plan to make Balochistan an undeclared colony to dominate the world." "Pakistan has cheaply mortgaged Baloch lands to China. Baloch is the only ones fighting the modern imperialist monster. The attack on the base of Chinese moneylenders in Karachi is in continuation to retrieve our strategic assets."

Speaker of Pakistan's Punjab assembly speaks against building Hindu temple, calls it against spirit of Islam

If there were any doubts that China's tentacles run deep in the Oli administration

Pakistan, a&nbsp;vassal state of China, is extending help to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in these troubled times.&nbsp;Imran khan has reached out to his Nepal counterpart. Khan&nbsp;plans to speak to Oli over the phone.

Unable to tackle the coronavirus in Pakistan, Imran Khan is now fishing in the troubled waters of Nepal's politics.

Pakistan's misplaced priorities

Pakistan is going through a wave of crisis. The coronavirus has taken close to 5,000 lives in the country. In the last two months, Pakistan has witnessed a fatal plane crash and an attack on its stock exchange.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pressure-mounts-on-napalese-pm-rift-between-pm-sharma-oli-and-prachanda-310188">Also watch|&nbsp;Pressure mounts on Napalese PM: Rift between PM Sharma Oli and Prachanda</a>

Imran khan rose to power as a messiah for Pakistan but&nbsp;in the recent months, he has only added more misery to the lives of Pakistanis.

But, Imran Khan couldn't care less as his focus is on Nepal and the internal turmoil within the country's ruling party.

So when KP Sharma Oli accused India of trying to topple his government on Sunday, Imran Khan responded on cue. He ordered his diplomats to reach out to Kathmandu and set up a call with Oli.

The embassy of Pakistan in Nepal typed up a letter and even&nbsp;suggested a time -- 12 noon on July 02.

However, whether the call happened or not is unclear as Oli had&nbsp;went to see the President of Nepal around that time in an attempt to save his government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-olis-chest-pain-real-or-a-play-to-buy-time-310292">Also read|&nbsp;Nepal PM Oli's chest pain: real or a play to buy time?</a>

As china has tried to seize the Indian territory, Pakistan and Nepal have been steady pillars of support for Beijing. The Pakistani government and Imran Khan himself have relentlessly attacked India.

Oli launched a tirade of his own, first by claiming disputed territories in a new map and then, by accusing India of a ploy to unseat him.

The fact is that Oli's own party wants him to step down.

China's support to the embattled Prime Minister has been steady. Oli has held consultations with the Chinese ambassador.&nbsp;His proximity to China is no secret.&nbsp;In 2016, when Oli was unseated from power, Chinese state mouthpiece, the Global Times blamed Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Dahal, famously known as Prachand, has held the Prime Minister's post twice and he was in an coalition government with Oli but withdrew his support. Four years later, both leaders find themselves on the same crossroads, but this time, China and its allies have rushed in to strengthen Oli's hand.

If there were any doubts that China's tentacles run deep in the Oli administration Pakistan, a vassal state of China, is extending help to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in these troubled times.

If there were any doubts that China's tentacles run deep in the Oli administration Pakistan, a vassal state of China, is extending help to Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in these troubled times. Imran khan has reached out to his Nepal counterpart. Khan plans to speak to Oli over the phone. Unable to tackle the coronavirus in Pakistan, Imran Khan is now fishing in the troubled waters of Nepal's politics. Pakistan's misplaced priorities Pakistan is going through a wave of crisis. The coronavirus has taken close to 5,000 lives in the country. In the last two months, Pakistan has witnessed a fatal plane crash and an attack on its stock exchange. Also watch| Pressure mounts on Napalese PM: Rift between PM Sharma Oli and Prachanda Imran khan rose to power as a messiah for Pakistan but in the recent months, he has only added more misery to the lives of Pakistanis. But, Imran Khan couldn't care less as his focus is on Nepal and the internal turmoil within the country's ruling party. So when KP Sharma Oli accused India of trying to topple his government on Sunday, Imran Khan responded on cue. He ordered his diplomats to reach out to Kathmandu and set up a call with Oli. The embassy of Pakistan in Nepal typed up a letter and even suggested a time -- 12 noon on July 02. However, whether the call happened or not is unclear as Oli had went to see the President of Nepal around that time in an attempt to save his government. Also read| Nepal PM Oli's chest pain: real or a play to buy time? As china has tried to seize the Indian territory, Pakistan and Nepal have been steady pillars of support for Beijing. The Pakistani government and Imran Khan himself have relentlessly attacked India. Oli launched a tirade of his own, first by claiming disputed territories in a new map and then, by accusing India of a ploy to unseat him. The fact is that Oli's own party wants him to step down. China's support to the embattled Prime Minister has been steady. Oli has held consultations with the Chinese ambassador. His proximity to China is no secret. In 2016, when Oli was unseated from power, Chinese state mouthpiece, the Global Times blamed Pushpa Kamal Dahal. Dahal, famously known as Prachand, has held the Prime Minister's post twice and he was in an coalition government with Oli but withdrew his support. Four years later, both leaders find themselves on the same crossroads, but this time, China and its allies have rushed in to strengthen Oli's hand.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems

The Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), a ruling ally of the Imran Khan government, has opposed the construction of a Hindu temple in Islamabad, asking its coalition partner to scrap the project as it is "against the spirit of Islam."

Last week, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for the construction of the first Hindu temple in Islamabad. Prime Minister Khan had approved a grant of Rs 10 crore for the construction of the temple.

"Pakistan was created in the name of Islam. Construction of a new Hindu temple in its capital is not only against the spirit of Islam but also an insult to Riayasat-e-Madina (Islamic welfare state)," Punjab Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/making-hindu-temple-in-islamabad-is-against-the-spirit-of-islam-pakistani-politician-310028">Also read|&nbsp;Making 'Hindu temple' in Islamabad is against the spirit of Islam: Pakistani politician</a>

"My party, however, supports the rights of minorities. Existing temples were renovated during my tenure as Punjab chief minister. I had got Katas Raj temple repaired," he said.

Reacting to the objection of its ally, Punjab Information Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said that despite opposition from some parties the temple project will go ahead as per plan.

"The land for the Hindu temple was allocated in 2016 by the Pakistan Muslim League (N) government. Basically it was the project of the PML-N government," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-to-get-its-first-hindu-temple-and-crematorium-73-years-after-the-birth-of-pakistan-308191">Also read| Islamabad to get its first Hindu temple and crematorium 73 years after the birth of Pakistan</a>

PML-Q parliamentarian Moonis Elahi said that Pervaiz Elahi was suggesting that the temple should be built in Sindh province where there is a dense hindu population.

As per plans, the Krishna temple will come up in a 20,000 sq ft plot in the capital's H-9 area. The groundbreaking ceremony for the temple was performed by Parliamentary Secretary on Human Rights Lal Chand Malhi last week.

Malhi said there were several pre-independence era temple structures in Islamabad and its adjoining areas, including one at Saidpur village and at the hill point overlooking the Korang river near Rawal lake. However, they are all abandoned.

"While the official formalities are underway, we have decided to continue the initial ground works including the levelling of the land and erecting the boundary wall," Malhi said.

The Hindu population in Islamabad is around 3,000, which includes government and private sector employees, members of the business community and a large number of doctors.

The Hindu Panchayat Islamabad will manage the Shri Krishna Mandir. The panchayat's president Mahesh Chaudhry said a large number of people from various parts of the country, including Balochistan and Sindh, had shifted to Islamabad, mainly due to insecurity in those areas.

"Now when we have families here, there is a need for a crematorium, a place for collective prayers and marriage ceremonies," Chaudhry said.

Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan.

According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus are living in the country.

Majority of Pakistan's Hindu population is settled in Sindh province where they share culture, traditions and language with their Muslim fellows.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), a ruling ally of the Imran Khan government, has opposed the construction of a Hindu temple in Islamabad, asking its coalition partner to scrap the project as it is "against the spirit of Islam.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), a ruling ally of the Imran Khan government, has opposed the construction of a Hindu temple in Islamabad, asking its coalition partner to scrap the project as it is "against the spirit of Islam." Last week, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for the construction of the first Hindu temple in Islamabad. Prime Minister Khan had approved a grant of Rs 10 crore for the construction of the temple. "Pakistan was created in the name of Islam. Construction of a new Hindu temple in its capital is not only against the spirit of Islam but also an insult to Riayasat-e-Madina (Islamic welfare state)," Punjab Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi said. Also read| Making 'Hindu temple' in Islamabad is against the spirit of Islam: Pakistani politician "My party, however, supports the rights of minorities. Existing temples were renovated during my tenure as Punjab chief minister. I had got Katas Raj temple repaired," he said. Reacting to the objection of its ally, Punjab Information Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party said that despite opposition from some parties the temple project will go ahead as per plan. "The land for the Hindu temple was allocated in 2016 by the Pakistan Muslim League (N) government. Basically it was the project of the PML-N government," he said. Also read| Islamabad to get its first Hindu temple and crematorium 73 years after the birth of Pakistan PML-Q parliamentarian Moonis Elahi said that Pervaiz Elahi was suggesting that the temple should be built in Sindh province where there is a dense hindu population. As per plans, the Krishna temple will come up in a 20,000 sq ft plot in the capital's H-9 area. The groundbreaking ceremony for the temple was performed by Parliamentary Secretary on Human Rights Lal Chand Malhi last week. Malhi said there were several pre-independence era temple structures in Islamabad and its adjoining areas, including one at Saidpur village and at the hill point overlooking the Korang river near Rawal lake. However, they are all abandoned. "While the official formalities are underway, we have decided to continue the initial ground works including the levelling of the land and erecting the boundary wall," Malhi said. The Hindu population in Islamabad is around 3,000, which includes government and private sector employees, members of the business community and a large number of doctors. The Hindu Panchayat Islamabad will manage the Shri Krishna Mandir. The panchayat's president Mahesh Chaudhry said a large number of people from various parts of the country, including Balochistan and Sindh, had shifted to Islamabad, mainly due to insecurity in those areas. "Now when we have families here, there is a need for a crematorium, a place for collective prayers and marriage ceremonies," Chaudhry said. Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan. According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus are living in the country. Majority of Pakistan's Hindu population is settled in Sindh province where they share culture, traditions and language with their Muslim fellows.

Pakistan Muslim League-Q objects to construction of Hindu temple in Islamabad

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29.&nbsp;Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”.

On June 29, four men carrying grenades attacked the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and killed two guards along with a policeman before they were gunned down by security forces.

India had denied any involvement in the attack on the day of the attack, but Khan went on to say that he had “no doubt” about the country’s involvement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/opposition-lashes-out-at-imran-khan-for-calling-laden-a-martyr-308708" hreflang="en">Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr'</a>

Offering no evidence for his allegation, he claimed that there were intelligence reports of a potential attack in Pakistan, and that his cabinet had been alerted about such threats.

However, the responsibility of the attack was taken by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group from Balochistan.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-terrorists-attack-pak-stock-exchange-in-karachi-309343/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Khan, his country’s intelligence agencies were able to avoid four major terror attacks, out of which two were aimed at Islamabad. He, however, added that it was “not possible” to stop stop such attacks.

The security officials claimed that the gunmen were carrying a heavy supply of armoury, and were planning to take hostages after storming the building.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/pakistan-eulogizing-terrorism-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-bin-laden-a-martyr-308622" hreflang="en">Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr'</a>

Khan referred to the response of Pakistan security forces as a “big victory”, even though three people had died.

In Balochistan, separatists claim that Pakistan has been exploiting the mineral rich area to improve life in the already rich provinces.

Over the course of the last few years, Pakistan has accused India of supporting separatists multiple times, which has been fervently denied by India.

In 2018, the BLA also attacked a Chinese consulate in Karachi.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29. Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29. Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”. On June 29, four men carrying grenades attacked the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and killed two guards along with a policeman before they were gunned down by security forces. India had denied any involvement in the attack on the day of the attack, but Khan went on to say that he had “no doubt” about the country’s involvement. Also read: Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr' Offering no evidence for his allegation, he claimed that there were intelligence reports of a potential attack in Pakistan, and that his cabinet had been alerted about such threats. However, the responsibility of the attack was taken by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group from Balochistan. According to Khan, his country’s intelligence agencies were able to avoid four major terror attacks, out of which two were aimed at Islamabad. He, however, added that it was “not possible” to stop stop such attacks. The security officials claimed that the gunmen were carrying a heavy supply of armoury, and were planning to take hostages after storming the building. Also read: Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr' Khan referred to the response of Pakistan security forces as a “big victory”, even though three people had died. In Balochistan, separatists claim that Pakistan has been exploiting the mineral rich area to improve life in the already rich provinces. Over the course of the last few years, Pakistan has accused India of supporting separatists multiple times, which has been fervently denied by India. In 2018, the BLA also attacked a Chinese consulate in Karachi. (With inputs from Reuters)

Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence

First, the economic crisis, then the coronavirus pandemic and now, an attack on its Karachi Stock Exchange.&nbsp;

The attack not only targets Pakistan but, its chief creditor China too.&nbsp;

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Video from inside the Pakistan Stock Exchange building - intense firing can be heard <a href="https://t.co/7xxYW92nHo">pic.twitter.com/7xxYW92nHo</a>
— omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/omar_quraishi/status/1277480764234481671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This horrific sound of gunshots is coming from inside the Karachi Stock Exchange. Four gunmen drove up to the home of Pakistan’s financial hub on Monday morning. They were inside this black car.&nbsp;

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After driving to the gate --- two gunmen managed to enter the parking area. A gun battle ensued. All officials and traders took shelter inside during the shootout. By the end of the one-hour long firefight, all four gunmen were dead. &nbsp;A shaken director of the Karachi Stock Exchange appeared before the media to make a statement.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

He said: "Two of the terrorists were killed at the main gate, the third terrorist was killed at the centre gate and the fourth terrorist was killed at the main entrance gate of the stock exchange building."&nbsp;

Hours after the attack, the Balochistan Liberation Army took responsibility for the attack. &nbsp;A group that has been raising the demand for an independent Balochistan.&nbsp;

Recently, this group targeted Chinese investments in Pakistan. &nbsp;In 2018, the B.L.A. allegedly tried to storm the Chinese consulate in Karachi.&nbsp;

Last year, the group attacked a five-star hotel --- financed by the Chinese in Gwadar.&nbsp;

The attack on the Pakistani stock exchange targets China too.

Earlier, a Chinese consortium acquired a 40 per cent stake in the PSX - the company running the stock trading platform - at Rs 28 per share in January 2017.

A Chinese consortium had bought a 40 per cent stake in the PSX three years ago. Last year, Chinese investors were considering investing up to two billion dollars in the Pakistani stock market.&nbsp;

The B.L.A. has strongly opposed China’s belt and road initiative. Especially, the investments in Balochistan. &nbsp;Since the day the projects were announced --- Balochistan has caught the world’s attention. Tourists and journalists began visiting the province. Triggering major concerns among the locals.&nbsp;

They fear that CPEC will turn the Baloch people into a minority. The Baloch liberation army has resorted to violence to push china back.&nbsp;

As a province -- Balochistan is struggling. &nbsp;Richest in natural resources, lowest in developmental projects and govt priorities. Balochistan's wealth is being drained by Pakistan. The Pak military has been running a brutal campaign of repression.

Forced disappearances are the norm. The coronavirus pandemic has broken the back of the province. The death toll continues to rise. The locals remain cut off from the world.&nbsp;

Last week, students in Quetta were beaten up by the police. They were demanding access to the internet --- to attend their classes.&nbsp;

Now, the attack on the stock exchange --- only brings the focus back on Pakistan's oppression of Balochistan.

First, the economic crisis, then the coronavirus pandemic and now, an attack on its Karachi Stock Exchange. The attack not only targets Pakistan but, its chief creditor China too.

First, the economic crisis, then the coronavirus pandemic and now, an attack on its Karachi Stock Exchange. The attack not only targets Pakistan but, its chief creditor China too. Video from inside the Pakistan Stock Exchange building - intense firing can be heard pic.twitter.com/7xxYW92nHo — omar r quraishi (@omar_quraishi) June 29, 2020 × This horrific sound of gunshots is coming from inside the Karachi Stock Exchange. Four gunmen drove up to the home of Pakistan’s financial hub on Monday morning. They were inside this black car. After driving to the gate --- two gunmen managed to enter the parking area. A gun battle ensued. All officials and traders took shelter inside during the shootout. By the end of the one-hour long firefight, all four gunmen were dead. A shaken director of the Karachi Stock Exchange appeared before the media to make a statement. He said: "Two of the terrorists were killed at the main gate, the third terrorist was killed at the centre gate and the fourth terrorist was killed at the main entrance gate of the stock exchange building." Hours after the attack, the Balochistan Liberation Army took responsibility for the attack. A group that has been raising the demand for an independent Balochistan. Recently, this group targeted Chinese investments in Pakistan. In 2018, the B.L.A. allegedly tried to storm the Chinese consulate in Karachi. Last year, the group attacked a five-star hotel --- financed by the Chinese in Gwadar. The attack on the Pakistani stock exchange targets China too. Earlier, a Chinese consortium acquired a 40 per cent stake in the PSX - the company running the stock trading platform - at Rs 28 per share in January 2017. A Chinese consortium had bought a 40 per cent stake in the PSX three years ago. Last year, Chinese investors were considering investing up to two billion dollars in the Pakistani stock market. The B.L.A. has strongly opposed China’s belt and road initiative. Especially, the investments in Balochistan. Since the day the projects were announced --- Balochistan has caught the world’s attention. Tourists and journalists began visiting the province. Triggering major concerns among the locals. They fear that CPEC will turn the Baloch people into a minority. The Baloch liberation army has resorted to violence to push china back. As a province -- Balochistan is struggling. Richest in natural resources, lowest in developmental projects and govt priorities. Balochistan's wealth is being drained by Pakistan. The Pak military has been running a brutal campaign of repression. Forced disappearances are the norm. The coronavirus pandemic has broken the back of the province. The death toll continues to rise. The locals remain cut off from the world. Last week, students in Quetta were beaten up by the police. They were demanding access to the internet --- to attend their classes. Now, the attack on the stock exchange --- only brings the focus back on Pakistan's oppression of Balochistan.

Karachi Stock Exchange attacked in Pakistan; Balochistan Liberation Army claims responsibility

Government of India on Monday criticized Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi for peddling conspiracy theories that India was behind the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange building in Karachi.

In a scathing response to Qureshi's absurd remarks, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said unlike Pakistan, India has no hesitation in condemning terrorism anywhere in the world including in Karachi.

"India rejects the absurd comments of Foreign Minister of Pakistan on the terrorist attack in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," Srivastava said.

He was responding to media queries on false allegations made by Qureshi.

He also referred to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan calling the slain al-Qaeda chief and 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden a "martyr" and said Qureshi may wish to reflect on his own government`s position.

"Foreign Minister Qureshi may wish to reflect on this, as also his own Government`s position, including his Prime Minister`s description of the global terrorist as a `martyr`," the spokesperson said.

Hours after gunmen attacked the Pakistani stock exchange in Karachi, Qureshi alleged that the clues of the strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India.

(With inputs from agencies)

Government of India on Monday criticized Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi for peddling conspiracy theories that India was behind the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange building in Karachi.

Government of India on Monday criticized Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi for peddling conspiracy theories that India was behind the terror attack on the Pakistan stock exchange building in Karachi. In a scathing response to Qureshi's absurd remarks, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said unlike Pakistan, India has no hesitation in condemning terrorism anywhere in the world including in Karachi. "India rejects the absurd comments of Foreign Minister of Pakistan on the terrorist attack in Karachi. Pakistan cannot shift the blame on India for its domestic problems," Srivastava said. He was responding to media queries on false allegations made by Qureshi. He also referred to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan calling the slain al-Qaeda chief and 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden a "martyr" and said Qureshi may wish to reflect on his own government`s position. "Foreign Minister Qureshi may wish to reflect on this, as also his own Government`s position, including his Prime Minister`s description of the global terrorist as a `martyr`," the spokesperson said. Hours after gunmen attacked the Pakistani stock exchange in Karachi, Qureshi alleged that the clues of the strike are leading towards sleeper cells activated by India. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt slams Pakistan for linking Karachi terror attack to India, calls remarks ‘absurd’

Pakistan's Prime Minister has once again revealed his soft-corner for terrorism. Imran Khan called terrorist Osama Bin Laden a martyr during a speech in Pakistan's parliament.

Gravitas: Imran Khan calls Osama Bin Laden a martyr

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran khan's understanding of biology and geography was always pathetic.

Judging by the statments given by him in the past it appears that he probably bunked classes when he was a student because his&nbsp;understanding&nbsp;history is really poor.

To begin with the history of Islamic terrorism which can also be called the&nbsp;history of extremists and mass murderers.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-remain-in-fatfs-terror-financing-grey-list-report-308408">Pakistan to remain in FATF's terror financing 'grey list': Report</a>

Osama bin laden is probably the most dreaded terrorist this world has ever known.

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He was accused of engineering a number of terror attacks worldwide, particularly targeting the American installations including the 9/11 incident of 2001 when close to 3,000 people lost their lives when five planes were hijacked to target US cities.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-calls-osama-bin-laden-a-martyr-in-parliament-308587">Pakistan PM Imran Khan calls Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' in Parliament</a>

His violent campaign to recreate a medieval islamic empire redefined the threat of terrorism in the 21st century.

In 2011, he was traced to a safe haven in Pakistan's Abottabad and was gunned down.

While the world celebrated his death&nbsp;Pakistan mourned his loss.

And it seems the Pakistani Prime Minister was the most affected by his killing because for him&nbsp;the most wanted face of terrorism is a&nbsp;religious martyr.

In his speech at the parliament, he said, "we were very embarrassed when Americans came and killed Osama bin Laden at Abbottabad and martyred him."

If anything this is the biggest proof of how Pakistan eulogizes terrorism. However, this is not the first time that Imran Khan has acted as a terror apologist. He has shown his soft corner for Osama bin Laden several times in the past.

Coronavirus is spreading at a murderous pace in the country but Imran khan doesn't have much to say on the pandemic.

But his minister and&nbsp;PTI&nbsp;lawmaker Riaz Fatyana advised the government in the parliament to order scientific research on the consumption of locusts because apparently&nbsp;eating locusts can build immunity against the coronavirus.

The understanding of Covid-19 of Zartaj Gul Wahir, the minister of state for climate change in Pakistan&nbsp; defies all logic.

For her,&nbsp;the 19 in Covid-19 stands for 19 points. However, she did not not explain what do they exactly stand for

People need not go to far as where stupidity dwells, there is Pakistan. 
&nbsp;

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran khan's understanding of biology and geography was always pathetic. Judging by the statments given by him in the past it appears that he probably bunked classes when he was a student because his understanding history is really poor.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran khan's understanding of biology and geography was always pathetic. Judging by the statments given by him in the past it appears that he probably bunked classes when he was a student because his understanding history is really poor. To begin with the history of Islamic terrorism which can also be called the history of extremists and mass murderers. Also read| Pakistan to remain in FATF's terror financing 'grey list': Report Osama bin laden is probably the most dreaded terrorist this world has ever known. × He was accused of engineering a number of terror attacks worldwide, particularly targeting the American installations including the 9/11 incident of 2001 when close to 3,000 people lost their lives when five planes were hijacked to target US cities. Also read| Pakistan PM Imran Khan calls Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' in Parliament His violent campaign to recreate a medieval islamic empire redefined the threat of terrorism in the 21st century. In 2011, he was traced to a safe haven in Pakistan's Abottabad and was gunned down. While the world celebrated his death Pakistan mourned his loss. And it seems the Pakistani Prime Minister was the most affected by his killing because for him the most wanted face of terrorism is a religious martyr. In his speech at the parliament, he said, "we were very embarrassed when Americans came and killed Osama bin Laden at Abbottabad and martyred him." If anything this is the biggest proof of how Pakistan eulogizes terrorism. However, this is not the first time that Imran Khan has acted as a terror apologist. He has shown his soft corner for Osama bin Laden several times in the past. Coronavirus is spreading at a murderous pace in the country but Imran khan doesn't have much to say on the pandemic. But his minister and PTI lawmaker Riaz Fatyana advised the government in the parliament to order scientific research on the consumption of locusts because apparently eating locusts can build immunity against the coronavirus. The understanding of Covid-19 of Zartaj Gul Wahir, the minister of state for climate change in Pakistan defies all logic. For her, the 19 in Covid-19 stands for 19 points. However, she did not not explain what do they exactly stand for People need not go to far as where stupidity dwells, there is Pakistan.

Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr'

Pakistan's Prime Minister on Wednesday, while addressing the Parliament,&nbsp;called Osama Bin Laden a&nbsp;‘shaheed’ (martyr).

The usage of the word 'shaheed', which is usually used for soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the good of their nation, gathered a lot of criticism from the opposition leaders and the locals of Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-calls-osama-bin-laden-a-martyr-in-parliament-308587">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan calls Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' in Parliament</a>

Opposition political leader Khawaja Asif, described Laden as the “ultimate terrorist” and said,&nbsp;“He destroyed my nation, and he (Khan) is calling him a martyr."

Mohsin Dawar, Member of Parliament and&nbsp;leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, also lashed back at the Prime Minister and reminded the PM about the numerous victims and soldiers who lost their lives due to the terrorist activities in the country.

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Today in NA, I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a>, that if <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OBL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OBL</a> is a martyr then what about all the Pakistanis who became victims of his terrorism? What abt those soldiers who died fighting against his terror? Which side are our martyrs? Please stop these double games that've cost us 70K lives. <a href="https://t.co/Vv1emupP08">pic.twitter.com/Vv1emupP08</a>
— Mohsin Dawar (@mjdawar) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjdawar/status/1276231733881589761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Bilwal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of PPP, also said, "PM IK calling OBL a martyr in NA is consistent with his history of appeasement to violent extremism. It is during his govt that those involved in APS attack “escaped” &amp; those involved in Daniel Pearls murder get relief. Running with the hare &amp; hunting with the hound."

However, Khan's minister&nbsp;Dr. Shahbaz Gill tried to come to his defense by tweeting that the remarks were being misread with a "clear intent to make his remarks controversial unnecessarily."

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Referring to PM’s speech in NA today, it is clarified that PM twice used the word “killed” for OBL. An unwarranted attempt is being made at home/abroad with a clear intent to make his remarks controversial unnecessarily.
— Dr. Shahbaz GiLL (@SHABAZGIL) <a href="https://twitter.com/SHABAZGIL/status/1276214755070337024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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PPP Senator Sherry Rehman also took to Twitter to criticise the remark and said that the country was a victim of terrorst attacks caused due to Osama Bin Laden. "Because of him the country is in such a state and you are presenting him as a hero on the assembly floor?"

"Remember that Osama Bin Laden can be the PM's hero but not the nation's. He was and will remain a criminal of the state and the people," she tweeted.

Khan's statement came after the US issued a report claiming that Pakistan continues to serve as a safe haven for terrorist groups.

“While the report recognizes that al Qaeda has been seriously degraded in the region, it neglects to mention Pakistan’s crucial role in decimating al Qaeda, thereby diminishing the threat that the terrorist group once posed to the world,” a foreign office statement said on Thursday.

Pakistan's Prime Minister on Wednesday, while addressing the Parliament, called Osama Bin Laden a ‘shaheed’ (martyr). The usage of the word 'shaheed', which is usually used for soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the good of their nation, gathered a lot of criticism from the opposition leaders and the locals of Pakistan.

Pakistan's Prime Minister on Wednesday, while addressing the Parliament, called Osama Bin Laden a ‘shaheed’ (martyr). The usage of the word 'shaheed', which is usually used for soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the good of their nation, gathered a lot of criticism from the opposition leaders and the locals of Pakistan. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan calls Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' in Parliament Opposition political leader Khawaja Asif, described Laden as the “ultimate terrorist” and said, “He destroyed my nation, and he (Khan) is calling him a martyr." Mohsin Dawar, Member of Parliament and leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, also lashed back at the Prime Minister and reminded the PM about the numerous victims and soldiers who lost their lives due to the terrorist activities in the country. Today in NA, I asked @ImranKhanPTI, that if #OBL is a martyr then what about all the Pakistanis who became victims of his terrorism? What abt those soldiers who died fighting against his terror? Which side are our martyrs? Please stop these double games that've cost us 70K lives. pic.twitter.com/Vv1emupP08 — Mohsin Dawar (@mjdawar) June 25, 2020 × Bilwal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman of PPP, also said, "PM IK calling OBL a martyr in NA is consistent with his history of appeasement to violent extremism. It is during his govt that those involved in APS attack “escaped” & those involved in Daniel Pearls murder get relief. Running with the hare & hunting with the hound." However, Khan's minister Dr. Shahbaz Gill tried to come to his defense by tweeting that the remarks were being misread with a "clear intent to make his remarks controversial unnecessarily." Referring to PM’s speech in NA today, it is clarified that PM twice used the word “killed” for OBL. An unwarranted attempt is being made at home/abroad with a clear intent to make his remarks controversial unnecessarily. — Dr. Shahbaz GiLL (@SHABAZGIL) June 25, 2020 × PPP Senator Sherry Rehman also took to Twitter to criticise the remark and said that the country was a victim of terrorst attacks caused due to Osama Bin Laden. "Because of him the country is in such a state and you are presenting him as a hero on the assembly floor?" "Remember that Osama Bin Laden can be the PM's hero but not the nation's. He was and will remain a criminal of the state and the people," she tweeted. Khan's statement came after the US issued a report claiming that Pakistan continues to serve as a safe haven for terrorist groups. “While the report recognizes that al Qaeda has been seriously degraded in the region, it neglects to mention Pakistan’s crucial role in decimating al Qaeda, thereby diminishing the threat that the terrorist group once posed to the world,” a foreign office statement said on Thursday.

Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr'

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday called the 9/11 mastermind and founder of the terrorist organization al-Qaeda Osama bin Laden a ‘shaheed’ (martyr) while speaking in the country’s Parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-remain-in-fatfs-terror-financing-grey-list-report-308408">Also read: Pakistan to remain in FATF's terror-financing 'grey list'</a>

In his speech at the parliament, he said, "We were very embarrassed when Americans came and killed Osama bin Laden at Abbottabad and martyred him."

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> refers to Osama Bin Laden as "shaheed" . 🤔👇👇👇 <a href="https://t.co/mvYyo5rbqu">pic.twitter.com/mvYyo5rbqu</a>
— Ehtesham Amir-ud-din (@Ehtesham_AD) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ehtesham_AD/status/1276124335271485440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Osama bin Laden was killed in a military operation by US Navy Seals in 2011 at the garrison town Abbottabad. He was accused of engineering a number of terror attacks worldwide, particularly targeting the American installations including the 9/11 incident of 2001 when close to 3,000 people lost their lives when five planes were hijacked to target US cities.

Meanwhile, a US government report on Wednesday blamed Pakistan for continuing to serve as a safe haven for terrorist groups and allowing outfits including the Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed to operate from its territory.

The plenary meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has decided to keep Pakistan on the terror "grey list".

Pakistan will reportedly continue to be in the grey list till February 2021, even if it completes all its action plan items by October 2020, reports said. ANI sources said that a FATF team would have to confirm completion of Action Plan with an on-site visit before it can put Pakistan out of the "grey list".

Blacklisting by the Paris-based financial action task force will be a big blow for Pakistan's economic reform programme leading to severe economic sanctions with the country already under strain due to the coronavirus pandemic.

(With input from agencies)

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday called the 9/11 mastermind and founder of the terrorist organization al-Qaeda Osama bin Laden a ‘shaheed’ (martyr) while speaking in the country’s Parliament.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday called the 9/11 mastermind and founder of the terrorist organization al-Qaeda Osama bin Laden a ‘shaheed’ (martyr) while speaking in the country’s Parliament. Also read: Pakistan to remain in FATF's terror-financing 'grey list' In his speech at the parliament, he said, "We were very embarrassed when Americans came and killed Osama bin Laden at Abbottabad and martyred him." PM @ImranKhanPTI refers to Osama Bin Laden as "shaheed" . 🤔👇👇👇 pic.twitter.com/mvYyo5rbqu — Ehtesham Amir-ud-din (@Ehtesham_AD) June 25, 2020 × Osama bin Laden was killed in a military operation by US Navy Seals in 2011 at the garrison town Abbottabad. He was accused of engineering a number of terror attacks worldwide, particularly targeting the American installations including the 9/11 incident of 2001 when close to 3,000 people lost their lives when five planes were hijacked to target US cities. Meanwhile, a US government report on Wednesday blamed Pakistan for continuing to serve as a safe haven for terrorist groups and allowing outfits including the Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed to operate from its territory. The plenary meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has decided to keep Pakistan on the terror "grey list". Pakistan will reportedly continue to be in the grey list till February 2021, even if it completes all its action plan items by October 2020, reports said. ANI sources said that a FATF team would have to confirm completion of Action Plan with an on-site visit before it can put Pakistan out of the "grey list". Blacklisting by the Paris-based financial action task force will be a big blow for Pakistan's economic reform programme leading to severe economic sanctions with the country already under strain due to the coronavirus pandemic. (With input from agencies)

Pakistan PM Imran Khan calls Osama Bin Laden a 'martyr' in Parliament

Not just Line of Actual Control, there are tensions at Line of Control (LoC) too. There have been a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the last few days, not only in the Jammu division but also in the Kashmir valley.

Since June 7, Pakistan has targeted Indian villages and military positions multiple times. There has been unprovoked firing in the sectors of Rampur, Keran and Tangdhar.

There seems to be a pattern behind Pakistan's ceasefire violations. The Pakistani Prime Minister seems to be on the same page as the Chinese president in provoking India.

<a href="Pakistan reports 132 COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours; infections rise to over 165,000">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan reports 132 COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours; infections rise to over 165,000</a>

Imran Khan promised a 'naya Pakistan'. He vowed to end corruption. The PM&nbsp;positioned himself as a champion of austerity. Most importantly, he swore to serve the people, not the army.

Imran khan became the Prime Minister of Pakistan riding on all these promises. Then, he began complaining about how low his salary was.

He started replacing civilians in his government with army generals. He began adjusting corruption by his ministers, and&nbsp;used relief money to pay his bills.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mulls-using-dexamethasone-for-critically-ill-patients-as-covid-19-death-toll-tops-3000-306588">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan mulls using dexamethasone for critically ill patients as COVID-19 death toll tops 3,000</a>

In short, he broke all his promises and his sham of austerity was busted.

His country is on the brink of economic collapse. Pakistan&nbsp;doesn't have enough health supplies to keep up during this pandemic, and the food sector has been crippled.

How has the Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his&nbsp;remorse at not being able to live up to expectations? By enjoying opulent feasts!

These are not our words, but Pakistani media itself.

According to Pakistan media reports, Imran Khan was served 135 traditional dishes during his visit to Larkana in north-western Sindh.

Pakistan is starving as Imran Khan is feasting.

The most shocking and ironic thing is that his visit was supposed to be a review visit of the functioning of hospitals filled with coronavirus patients, as Sindh is the hardest-hit region in all of Pakistan. However, for Imran Khan, good food is more important.

Reports further claim that atleast 37 protocol vehicles accompanied him on his visit to the city.

All of this amid slashes in Pakistan's budget, and at a time when Imran Khan's allies are deserting him and his government is in troubled waters.

A threat to&nbsp;coalition

Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the chief of the Balochistan National Party has announced to part ways with PTI-led coalition government.

He says the PTI has failed to implement accords with allies, and that agreements and promises made to the people of Balochistan have not been kept.

Imran Khan's coalition had 184 seats in the national assembly. After this announcement,&nbsp;it will be down to 180, which&nbsp;threatens the future of this coalition.

A minimum of 172 seats are required to form a government in Pakistan's national assembly. So, if any other coalition partner pulls out,&nbsp;Imran Khan can face a vote of no confidence in the Pakistan&nbsp;assembly.

Not just Line of Actual Control, there are tensions at Line of Control (LoC) too. There have been a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the last few days, not only in the Jammu division but also in the Kashmir valley.

Not just Line of Actual Control, there are tensions at Line of Control (LoC) too. There have been a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the last few days, not only in the Jammu division but also in the Kashmir valley. Since June 7, Pakistan has targeted Indian villages and military positions multiple times. There has been unprovoked firing in the sectors of Rampur, Keran and Tangdhar. There seems to be a pattern behind Pakistan's ceasefire violations. The Pakistani Prime Minister seems to be on the same page as the Chinese president in provoking India. Also read| Pakistan reports 132 COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours; infections rise to over 165,000 Imran Khan promised a 'naya Pakistan'. He vowed to end corruption. The PM positioned himself as a champion of austerity. Most importantly, he swore to serve the people, not the army. Imran khan became the Prime Minister of Pakistan riding on all these promises. Then, he began complaining about how low his salary was. He started replacing civilians in his government with army generals. He began adjusting corruption by his ministers, and used relief money to pay his bills. Also read| Pakistan mulls using dexamethasone for critically ill patients as COVID-19 death toll tops 3,000 In short, he broke all his promises and his sham of austerity was busted. His country is on the brink of economic collapse. Pakistan doesn't have enough health supplies to keep up during this pandemic, and the food sector has been crippled. How has the Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his remorse at not being able to live up to expectations? By enjoying opulent feasts! These are not our words, but Pakistani media itself. According to Pakistan media reports, Imran Khan was served 135 traditional dishes during his visit to Larkana in north-western Sindh. Pakistan is starving as Imran Khan is feasting. The most shocking and ironic thing is that his visit was supposed to be a review visit of the functioning of hospitals filled with coronavirus patients, as Sindh is the hardest-hit region in all of Pakistan. However, for Imran Khan, good food is more important. Reports further claim that atleast 37 protocol vehicles accompanied him on his visit to the city. All of this amid slashes in Pakistan's budget, and at a time when Imran Khan's allies are deserting him and his government is in troubled waters. A threat to coalition Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the chief of the Balochistan National Party has announced to part ways with PTI-led coalition government. He says the PTI has failed to implement accords with allies, and that agreements and promises made to the people of Balochistan have not been kept. Imran Khan's coalition had 184 seats in the national assembly. After this announcement, it will be down to 180, which threatens the future of this coalition. A minimum of 172 seats are required to form a government in Pakistan's national assembly. So, if any other coalition partner pulls out, Imran Khan can face a vote of no confidence in the Pakistan assembly.

Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan

Cynthia Ritchie, an American writer, earlier this month accused several Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders, including former prime minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to sexually harass her.

In a new development, Ritchie, who is questioned for her proximity to Pakistani establishment and country's all-powerful military, said that she has also faced "mild harassment" from ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders in the past.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/decoding-the-sex-scandal-that-has-rocked-politics-in-pakistan-304365">Decoding the sex scandal that has rocked politics in Pakistan</a>

"I have experienced a few cases of mild harassment from PTI workers in the past", the American writer said in an interview with DW.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/american-blogger-accuses-pakistans-zardari-govt-officials-of-rape-harassment-former-minister-denies-charges-303796">American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges</a>

However, she added that the harassment was "nothing close to the violent, aggressive attacks" she has experienced by the people "affiliated with the PPP".&nbsp;

In the interview, Ritchie also said that the issue of sexual harassment in Pakistan "comes mostly from the educated elites".

She also said that she decided to come out with her reality after so long as some "detailed information" was shared by a person associated with PPP, but pretended to be his half-sibling.

"Abusing me is one thing. Abusing my family is where I draw the line," she added.

She also said that abuse is not openly discussed in Pakistan as it is in the West and is considered acceptable "as long as one maintains a luxury lifestyle".

In a Facebook Live video, Ritchie, earlier this month said that she was raped by former interior minister Rehman Malik. She also accused former federal minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin and ex-prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani of "physically manhandling" her.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Cynthia Ritchie, an American writer, earlier this month accused several Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders, including former prime minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to sexually harass her.

Cynthia Ritchie, an American writer, earlier this month accused several Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leaders, including former prime minister Yousaf Raza Gilani to sexually harass her. In a new development, Ritchie, who is questioned for her proximity to Pakistani establishment and country's all-powerful military, said that she has also faced "mild harassment" from ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders in the past. Also read | Decoding the sex scandal that has rocked politics in Pakistan "I have experienced a few cases of mild harassment from PTI workers in the past", the American writer said in an interview with DW. Also read | American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges However, she added that the harassment was "nothing close to the violent, aggressive attacks" she has experienced by the people "affiliated with the PPP". In the interview, Ritchie also said that the issue of sexual harassment in Pakistan "comes mostly from the educated elites". She also said that she decided to come out with her reality after so long as some "detailed information" was shared by a person associated with PPP, but pretended to be his half-sibling. "Abusing me is one thing. Abusing my family is where I draw the line," she added. She also said that abuse is not openly discussed in Pakistan as it is in the West and is considered acceptable "as long as one maintains a luxury lifestyle". In a Facebook Live video, Ritchie, earlier this month said that she was raped by former interior minister Rehman Malik. She also accused former federal minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin and ex-prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani of "physically manhandling" her.

Have experienced 'mild' harassment from PTI leaders: Cynthia Ritchie

Prime Minister Imran Khan's poor handling of the COVID-19 pandemic fallout has placed it in a confrontation path with the Army whose top brass is unhappy at the failure of the Government to deal with the Pandemic.

Wajid Shamsul Hasan, a former Pakistani diplomat, and journalist said that the total failure of Imran Khan government's anti-COVID-19 policies has justified the Generals to be back in the front seat in control in Pakistan -- though there is no official declaration of martial law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pok-rights-activist-blames-pak-army-for-first-ever-negative-economic-growth-305578">Also read:&nbsp;PoK rights activist blames Pak army for first ever negative economic growth</a>

"Until last induction of officers up to the rank of Lt. Generals in the civilian cadre, there are now more than a dozen former and current military officials in prominent government posts such as running the state-owned PIA, the power regulator and the National Institute of Health, which is leading the country's pandemic response. Three of those appointments happened in the last two months."

Hasan believes that Imran Khan has failed to make up its mind to decide its best options for combating the pandemic COVID-19.

"Having opposed lockdown since the day Sindh government decide to use it to minimise the surge, the latest decision from Khan is so-called 'smart lockdown' in places where the surge is more severe. By the time of writing this piece, the death toll has nearly 3000 and the spread of infection has hit more than 130,000".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-struggles-to-contain-coronavirus-cases-surge-exponentially-since-lockdown-lifted-305704">Also watch:&nbsp;Pakistan struggles to contain Coronavirus, cases surge exponentially since lockdown lifted</a>

Since the situation has become more threatening, the World Health Organization has warned Pakistan of dire consequences.

In its latest directive WHO has asked Pakistan to implement "intermittent" lockdowns to counter the surge in coronavirus infections that has come as the country's Prime Minister opted for loosening restrictions pertaining to lockdown.

Ever since the discovery of COVID-19's presence with a pilgrim from Iran's presence and the start of the outbreak in Pakistan in March, Prime Minister Khan has been emphasising against lockdown measures adopted by Sindh government and other provinces arguing the impoverished country could not afford massive unemployment due to it four provinces ordered a patchwork of closures, and last week Khan said most of these restrictions due to lockdown would be lifted. That decision as such has come as Pakistan found the worsening of the surge across all of South Asia, which until recently had lagged Western nations in virus tolls.

WHO officials said last week they had recorded a total of 108,317 cases and 2,172 deaths - though with testing still limited, real rates are thought to be much higher.

"As of today, Pakistan does not meet any of the pre-requisite conditions for opening the lockdown", the WHO said in a letter to Punjab's provincial health minister Dr Yasmin Rashid recommending an intermittent lockdown cycle of two weeks on, two weeks off.

WHO believes that 25 per cent of tests in Pakistan come back positive for COVID-19, the WHO said, indicating high levels of infection in the general population. Hospitals across the country say they are at or near capacity, and some are turning COVID-19 patients away.In a panic reaction, the Health Authorities in Islamabad have identified and sealed off nearly 1,300 coronavirus hotspots across the country to contain the surging trajectory of new infections.

The sealing of high-risk areas comes as government's COVID-19 portal reported 6,472 new cases in the last 24 hours, the country's highest single-day total.Pakistan has reported 132,405 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, including 2,551 deaths since its first case emerged on Feb 26.

After initially imposing a countrywide lockdown, the government has now eased restrictions, saying it was necessary to save the country's economy, but it has caused a surge in infections.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has resisted demands from medical experts to reinforce the lockdown, citing its economy going bankrupt. Authorities, however, are now using the term coined as "smart lockdown" to close shops and markets and force people to stay home in areas where confirmed cases have increased in recent weeks.

Hasan believes that Imran Khan's influence has undermined due to the collapsing economy, galloping consumer prices, and grave law and order situation.

"He feels that his same page partners are stabbing it in the back on the quiet. Recent findings of anti-corruption investigations exposing mega corruption by his close aides is a clear indication that noose is tightening around his neck with Army's role as same page partners being rendered into a veneer", said Hasan.

The former diplomat believes that the Army's support was considered as the mainstay, critical together for a government that relies on several smaller coalition partners who are believed to be puppet on the Establishment's chain to stay afloat.

He said, "Developments as such are not new. One can find similarities now and the previous governments when powers that be took over gradually with subtle moves. It must be remembered that the military has always been Pakistan's most powerful institution and has directly ruled the country for most of the part of its seventy years independent existence."

Prime Minister Imran Khan's poor handling of the COVID-19 pandemic fallout has placed it in a confrontation path with the Army whose top brass is unhappy at the failure of the Government to deal with the Pandemic.

Prime Minister Imran Khan's poor handling of the COVID-19 pandemic fallout has placed it in a confrontation path with the Army whose top brass is unhappy at the failure of the Government to deal with the Pandemic. Wajid Shamsul Hasan, a former Pakistani diplomat, and journalist said that the total failure of Imran Khan government's anti-COVID-19 policies has justified the Generals to be back in the front seat in control in Pakistan -- though there is no official declaration of martial law. Also read: PoK rights activist blames Pak army for first ever negative economic growth "Until last induction of officers up to the rank of Lt. Generals in the civilian cadre, there are now more than a dozen former and current military officials in prominent government posts such as running the state-owned PIA, the power regulator and the National Institute of Health, which is leading the country's pandemic response. Three of those appointments happened in the last two months." Hasan believes that Imran Khan has failed to make up its mind to decide its best options for combating the pandemic COVID-19. "Having opposed lockdown since the day Sindh government decide to use it to minimise the surge, the latest decision from Khan is so-called 'smart lockdown' in places where the surge is more severe. By the time of writing this piece, the death toll has nearly 3000 and the spread of infection has hit more than 130,000". Also watch: Pakistan struggles to contain Coronavirus, cases surge exponentially since lockdown lifted Since the situation has become more threatening, the World Health Organization has warned Pakistan of dire consequences. In its latest directive WHO has asked Pakistan to implement "intermittent" lockdowns to counter the surge in coronavirus infections that has come as the country's Prime Minister opted for loosening restrictions pertaining to lockdown. Ever since the discovery of COVID-19's presence with a pilgrim from Iran's presence and the start of the outbreak in Pakistan in March, Prime Minister Khan has been emphasising against lockdown measures adopted by Sindh government and other provinces arguing the impoverished country could not afford massive unemployment due to it four provinces ordered a patchwork of closures, and last week Khan said most of these restrictions due to lockdown would be lifted. That decision as such has come as Pakistan found the worsening of the surge across all of South Asia, which until recently had lagged Western nations in virus tolls. WHO officials said last week they had recorded a total of 108,317 cases and 2,172 deaths - though with testing still limited, real rates are thought to be much higher. "As of today, Pakistan does not meet any of the pre-requisite conditions for opening the lockdown", the WHO said in a letter to Punjab's provincial health minister Dr Yasmin Rashid recommending an intermittent lockdown cycle of two weeks on, two weeks off. WHO believes that 25 per cent of tests in Pakistan come back positive for COVID-19, the WHO said, indicating high levels of infection in the general population. Hospitals across the country say they are at or near capacity, and some are turning COVID-19 patients away.In a panic reaction, the Health Authorities in Islamabad have identified and sealed off nearly 1,300 coronavirus hotspots across the country to contain the surging trajectory of new infections. The sealing of high-risk areas comes as government's COVID-19 portal reported 6,472 new cases in the last 24 hours, the country's highest single-day total.Pakistan has reported 132,405 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, including 2,551 deaths since its first case emerged on Feb 26. After initially imposing a countrywide lockdown, the government has now eased restrictions, saying it was necessary to save the country's economy, but it has caused a surge in infections. Prime Minister Imran Khan has resisted demands from medical experts to reinforce the lockdown, citing its economy going bankrupt. Authorities, however, are now using the term coined as "smart lockdown" to close shops and markets and force people to stay home in areas where confirmed cases have increased in recent weeks. Hasan believes that Imran Khan's influence has undermined due to the collapsing economy, galloping consumer prices, and grave law and order situation. "He feels that his same page partners are stabbing it in the back on the quiet. Recent findings of anti-corruption investigations exposing mega corruption by his close aides is a clear indication that noose is tightening around his neck with Army's role as same page partners being rendered into a veneer", said Hasan. The former diplomat believes that the Army's support was considered as the mainstay, critical together for a government that relies on several smaller coalition partners who are believed to be puppet on the Establishment's chain to stay afloat. He said, "Developments as such are not new. One can find similarities now and the previous governments when powers that be took over gradually with subtle moves. It must be remembered that the military has always been Pakistan's most powerful institution and has directly ruled the country for most of the part of its seventy years independent existence."

Imran Khan's relationship with Army on the rocks amid COVID-19 outbreak

The press in Pakistan has a habit of embarrassing the government. This time it has embarrassed Islamabad by depicting the reality.

PTV, Pakistan's state broadcaster aired a map with Kashmir rightfully portrayed as a part of India.&nbsp;

Kashmir was shown as a legitimate part of India on national TV&nbsp;in Pakistan.

The news channel was broadcasting a story about Pakistan's population. It didn't pay attention to the geographical details. What's worse, this happened on a children's show.

The news channel has apologised. It says it has zero-tolerance for such negligence and has promised strict action.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-true-story-of-naya-pakistan-304946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But the Pakistan government is mighty upset. Chaudhary Fawad Hussain, the minister of science and technology, couldn't stop himself from venting his frustration at the channel's owners.

&nbsp;He Tweeted: "Shameful .. Arshad Khan is heading PTV since decades, it seems he forgot he is the chairman and de-facto managing director of PTV and not Doordarshan. I expect Shibli Faraz the information and broadcasting minister to take all measures to teach them what Kashmir is to Pakistan."

This is not the first time that PTA has embarrassed the Pakistan government. The biggest problem in the world is money laundering --- said the Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan.

What's the biggest problem in Pakistan? 
As of last night, it was an incursion by the Indian Air Force as what People in Pakistan said.&nbsp;

Panic gripped Pakistan last night after rumours spread that Indian Air Force fighter jets had crossed the Line of Control. There were rumours of a breakout-style raid in the city of Karachi.

Some said that the authorities had put Karachi under blackout after IAF fighter jets were spotted near the city.

But the jets were from Pakistan Air Force. These people mistook their aircraft as India's.

The Indian air force has categorically denied any such mischievous activity.

But that's not the end of this Pakistan story. It gets more bizarre. A donkey has been arrested in Pakistan for gambling. This happened in Raheem Yaar Khan, a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan.

A donkey along with eight humans was arrested because its name was included in the FIR. It has been charged with participating in gambling.

The press in Pakistan has a habit of embarrassing the government. This time it has embarrassed Islamabad by depicting the reality. PTV, Pakistan's state broadcaster aired a map with Kashmir rightfully portrayed as a part of India.

The press in Pakistan has a habit of embarrassing the government. This time it has embarrassed Islamabad by depicting the reality. PTV, Pakistan's state broadcaster aired a map with Kashmir rightfully portrayed as a part of India. Kashmir was shown as a legitimate part of India on national TV in Pakistan. The news channel was broadcasting a story about Pakistan's population. It didn't pay attention to the geographical details. What's worse, this happened on a children's show. The news channel has apologised. It says it has zero-tolerance for such negligence and has promised strict action. But the Pakistan government is mighty upset. Chaudhary Fawad Hussain, the minister of science and technology, couldn't stop himself from venting his frustration at the channel's owners. He Tweeted: "Shameful .. Arshad Khan is heading PTV since decades, it seems he forgot he is the chairman and de-facto managing director of PTV and not Doordarshan. I expect Shibli Faraz the information and broadcasting minister to take all measures to teach them what Kashmir is to Pakistan." This is not the first time that PTA has embarrassed the Pakistan government. The biggest problem in the world is money laundering --- said the Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan. What's the biggest problem in Pakistan? As of last night, it was an incursion by the Indian Air Force as what People in Pakistan said. Panic gripped Pakistan last night after rumours spread that Indian Air Force fighter jets had crossed the Line of Control. There were rumours of a breakout-style raid in the city of Karachi. Some said that the authorities had put Karachi under blackout after IAF fighter jets were spotted near the city. But the jets were from Pakistan Air Force. These people mistook their aircraft as India's. The Indian air force has categorically denied any such mischievous activity. But that's not the end of this Pakistan story. It gets more bizarre. A donkey has been arrested in Pakistan for gambling. This happened in Raheem Yaar Khan, a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. A donkey along with eight humans was arrested because its name was included in the FIR. It has been charged with participating in gambling.

Bizarre! Pakistan's press continues to embarrass Islamabad

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted.

The UN report said that around 6,500 Pakistani nationals were among foreign terrorists operating in Afghanistan and that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba are engaged in trafficking fighters into that country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/us-spl-envoy-khalilzad-pak-army-chief-bajwa-discuss-afghan-peace-process-304210">US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process</a>

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Friday that the international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism".

On Monday, the Foreign Office said in a statement that even the remarks of Prime Minister Khan were completely twisted by India.

"This mischievous attempt is highly condemnable," it said.

It claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs' comments are in continuation of their campaign to divert international attention from Kashmir.

"Pakistan has been the principal victim of terrorism, including terrorism perpetrated against our people from across the border,"&nbsp;it said.

"It is India that is seeking to distort and misrepresent the report of the UN Security Council's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team to promote its anti-Pakistan propaganda. We are sure that the world community will not be misled,"&nbsp;the FO claimed.

Pakistan's role as a facilitator to the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan has been widely acknowledged by the relevant international partners, it said.

"We wish to reiterate that all relevant partner countries must guard against such attempts, while supporting the process for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan,"&nbsp;it added.

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted.

Pakistan's Foreign Office on Monday rejected what it called India's "malicious assertions" based on complete distortion of facts, days after New Delhi said a recent UN report about Pakistan-based terror groups sending thousands of terrorists to Afghanistan is a reiteration of what Prime Minister Imran Khan publicly admitted. The UN report said that around 6,500 Pakistani nationals were among foreign terrorists operating in Afghanistan and that Pakistan-based terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba are engaged in trafficking fighters into that country. Also read | US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said on Friday that the international community is well acquainted with the reality that Pakistan is the "nerve centre of terrorism". On Monday, the Foreign Office said in a statement that even the remarks of Prime Minister Khan were completely twisted by India. "This mischievous attempt is highly condemnable," it said. It claimed that the Ministry of External Affairs' comments are in continuation of their campaign to divert international attention from Kashmir. "Pakistan has been the principal victim of terrorism, including terrorism perpetrated against our people from across the border," it said. "It is India that is seeking to distort and misrepresent the report of the UN Security Council's Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team to promote its anti-Pakistan propaganda. We are sure that the world community will not be misled," the FO claimed. Pakistan's role as a facilitator to the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan has been widely acknowledged by the relevant international partners, it said. "We wish to reiterate that all relevant partner countries must guard against such attempts, while supporting the process for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement in Afghanistan," it added.

Pakistan rejects UN report which claimed its terror groups operating in Afghanistan

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has ordered aviation authorities to restructure the cash-strapped national flag carrier PIA which is making losses worth USD 3.68 million per month, according to an official statement.

Khan said this while presiding over a meeting on the aviation sector on Monday in the backdrop of the recent Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plane crash in Karachi that claimed 98 lives.

"Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the country''s economy is facing difficulties and the people have had to bear the burden of billions of rupees loss on a monthly basis suffered by the state-owned entities," he said.

PIA’s Chief Executive Officer Air Marshal Arshad Malik gave a detailed briefing on the prevailing situation of the PIA, saying that it was suffering a loss of USD 3.68 million per month.

Malik said USD 14 million was being spent yearly on the payment of salaries to the PIA’s 14,500 employees alone.

He said litigation was one of the hurdles in the way of reform of the PIA as employees seek court orders to stay reforms and the legal processes linger on for years.

Malik said that he too could not perform his duties for three months out of his 16 months tenure due to a case against his appointment. “Due to such issues, the reforms process in the organisation has badly suffered,” he added.

The prime minister was also apprised that during the last 12 years, the PIA had 10 chiefs.

According to an official press release, the prime minister asked the PIA to bring down the expenditures and focus on increasing its income and upgrading its fleet.

He also directed to utilise the huge domestic and foreign assets of the PIA through a complete transparent and clear manner.

“The assets should create financial resources for the organisation instead of becoming a burden on the general public,” he said.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Aviation Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Minister for Information Senator Shibli Faraz, Adviser on Reforms Dr Ishrat Hussain, Special Assistant retired Lt Gen Asim Salim Bajwa and other senior officials.

A timeline for the restructuring of the PIA and a comprehensive roadmap over reforms and implementation was also submitted before the prime minister.

It was the first meeting on aviation after the recent PIA plane crash in Karachi and the CEO also apprised about the progress about the investigation into the crash and other relevant issues.

The PIA has been running into huge financial losses. For years, the airlines has only been adding billions to its loss sheets.

The PIA faced a huge loss worth Rs 180 million (USD 1.1 million) during 2016-27, according to Pakistani media reports.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has ordered aviation authorities to restructure the cash-strapped national flag carrier PIA which is making losses worth USD 3.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has ordered aviation authorities to restructure the cash-strapped national flag carrier PIA which is making losses worth USD 3.68 million per month, according to an official statement. Khan said this while presiding over a meeting on the aviation sector on Monday in the backdrop of the recent Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plane crash in Karachi that claimed 98 lives. "Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the country''s economy is facing difficulties and the people have had to bear the burden of billions of rupees loss on a monthly basis suffered by the state-owned entities," he said. PIA’s Chief Executive Officer Air Marshal Arshad Malik gave a detailed briefing on the prevailing situation of the PIA, saying that it was suffering a loss of USD 3.68 million per month. Malik said USD 14 million was being spent yearly on the payment of salaries to the PIA’s 14,500 employees alone. He said litigation was one of the hurdles in the way of reform of the PIA as employees seek court orders to stay reforms and the legal processes linger on for years. Malik said that he too could not perform his duties for three months out of his 16 months tenure due to a case against his appointment. “Due to such issues, the reforms process in the organisation has badly suffered,” he added. The prime minister was also apprised that during the last 12 years, the PIA had 10 chiefs. According to an official press release, the prime minister asked the PIA to bring down the expenditures and focus on increasing its income and upgrading its fleet. He also directed to utilise the huge domestic and foreign assets of the PIA through a complete transparent and clear manner. “The assets should create financial resources for the organisation instead of becoming a burden on the general public,” he said. The meeting was attended by Minister for Aviation Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Minister for Information Senator Shibli Faraz, Adviser on Reforms Dr Ishrat Hussain, Special Assistant retired Lt Gen Asim Salim Bajwa and other senior officials. A timeline for the restructuring of the PIA and a comprehensive roadmap over reforms and implementation was also submitted before the prime minister. It was the first meeting on aviation after the recent PIA plane crash in Karachi and the CEO also apprised about the progress about the investigation into the crash and other relevant issues. The PIA has been running into huge financial losses. For years, the airlines has only been adding billions to its loss sheets. The PIA faced a huge loss worth Rs 180 million (USD 1.1 million) during 2016-27, according to Pakistani media reports.

Imran Khan orders reforms in Pakistan International Airlines to bring down losses

Pakistan is in the middle of a sex scandal and three of its Opposition leaders, including a former prime minister have come under scanner.&nbsp;

Cynthia Ritchie, an Islamabad-based US blogger has made allegations of sexual assault against three leaders of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/american-blogger-accuses-pakistans-zardari-govt-officials-of-rape-harassment-former-minister-denies-charges-303796">American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges</a>

Ritchie has made the allegations during a Facebook Live session. She said that she was raped by then home minister Rehman Malik in 2011, saying that the incident took place at his residence where her drink was drugged.&nbsp;

She also accused former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani of physically manhandling her. Similar allegations have also been made against former federal minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-american-woman-accuses-top-pak-leaders-of-rape-assault-304372/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ritchie has also said that these were not the only politicians involved, adding that some of those also belonged to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the party of former PM Nawaz Sharif.&nbsp;

Now, the question is that why a nine-year-old incident has now come to light?

It all began in late May, when Ritchie accused former prime minister Benazir Bhutto of ordering her guards to rape women, who had affairs with her husband, &nbsp;

PPP filed a complaint accusing Ritchie of hateful comment and slander against their former leader.&nbsp;

A week later, Ritchie accused PPP leaders of assaulting and raping her.&nbsp;

Rehman Malik sent a legal notice to Ritchie, accusing her of character assassination.&nbsp;

In Pakistan, several people have questioned the US blogger's allegations, saying that she is close to establishment and Imran Khan government is using her to divert people's attention from health and economic crisis in the country.&nbsp;

Some people also question how could she manage to stay in the country for years. Some people also call her a CIA mole.&nbsp;

Ritchie's pictures with senior military leaders were also shared.&nbsp;

The blogger says that she narrated the incident to the US Embassy in 2011, but their response was "less than adequate".&nbsp;

On Twitter, Ritchie's supporters are describing her critics as traitors, anti-Pakistanis.&nbsp;

WION cannot fact-check the claims, but the scandal has given Pakistan PM an opportunity to launch a political tool against his opponents.&nbsp;

Also, if Ritchie's claims are right, it exposes an even-darker side of Pakistan's political elite.&nbsp;

Pakistan is in the middle of a sex scandal and three of its Opposition leaders, including a former prime minister have come under scanner. Cynthia Ritchie, an Islamabad-based US blogger has made allegations of sexual assault against three leaders of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

Pakistan is in the middle of a sex scandal and three of its Opposition leaders, including a former prime minister have come under scanner. Cynthia Ritchie, an Islamabad-based US blogger has made allegations of sexual assault against three leaders of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). Also read | American blogger accuses Pakistan's Zardari govt officials of rape, harassment; former minister denies charges Ritchie has made the allegations during a Facebook Live session. She said that she was raped by then home minister Rehman Malik in 2011, saying that the incident took place at his residence where her drink was drugged. She also accused former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani of physically manhandling her. Similar allegations have also been made against former federal minister Makhdoom Shahabuddin. Ritchie has also said that these were not the only politicians involved, adding that some of those also belonged to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the party of former PM Nawaz Sharif. Now, the question is that why a nine-year-old incident has now come to light? It all began in late May, when Ritchie accused former prime minister Benazir Bhutto of ordering her guards to rape women, who had affairs with her husband, PPP filed a complaint accusing Ritchie of hateful comment and slander against their former leader. A week later, Ritchie accused PPP leaders of assaulting and raping her. Rehman Malik sent a legal notice to Ritchie, accusing her of character assassination. In Pakistan, several people have questioned the US blogger's allegations, saying that she is close to establishment and Imran Khan government is using her to divert people's attention from health and economic crisis in the country. Some people also question how could she manage to stay in the country for years. Some people also call her a CIA mole. Ritchie's pictures with senior military leaders were also shared. The blogger says that she narrated the incident to the US Embassy in 2011, but their response was "less than adequate". On Twitter, Ritchie's supporters are describing her critics as traitors, anti-Pakistanis. WION cannot fact-check the claims, but the scandal has given Pakistan PM an opportunity to launch a political tool against his opponents. Also, if Ritchie's claims are right, it exposes an even-darker side of Pakistan's political elite.

Decoding the sex scandal that has rocked politics in Pakistan

Pakistan for the first time has recorded more than 100 deaths in a single day due to the deadly coronavirus which has infected over 108,000 people in the country, health officials said on Tuesday.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 105 deaths were reported on Monday as the total number of fatalities reached 2,172 in the country.

It also showed that at least 35,018 patients have fully recovered from the coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-cases-expected-to-peak-by-end-of-july-august-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-304385" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases expected to peak by end of July, August: Pakistan PM Imran Khan</a>

Another 4,646 new patents were diagnosed in the last 24 hours, taking the total tally of patients to 108,317.

Punjab has registered 40,819 cases, Sind 39,555, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 14,006, Balochistan 6,788, Islamabad 5,785, Gilgit-Baltistan 952 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 412.

The authorities conducted a record 24,620 tests in the last 24 hours, taking the number of total tests done so far to 730,453 across the country.

As the number soared, the worst fear may come true about the capacity of hospitals across the country to accommodate the patients. Though, the government still claimed that there was enough space available.

But the resources would be spread thin in the coming days as peak time would come by the end of July or beginning of August.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb was tested positive a day after she confirmed that former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was tested positive. 
Marriyum's mother and PML-N lawmaker Tahira Aurangzeb was also tested positive. Both mother and daughter have quarantined themselves.

Pakistan for the first time has recorded more than 100 deaths in a single day due to the deadly coronavirus which has infected over 108,000 people in the country, health officials said on Tuesday.

Pakistan for the first time has recorded more than 100 deaths in a single day due to the deadly coronavirus which has infected over 108,000 people in the country, health officials said on Tuesday. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 105 deaths were reported on Monday as the total number of fatalities reached 2,172 in the country. It also showed that at least 35,018 patients have fully recovered from the coronavirus. Also read: Coronavirus cases expected to peak by end of July, August: Pakistan PM Imran Khan Another 4,646 new patents were diagnosed in the last 24 hours, taking the total tally of patients to 108,317. Punjab has registered 40,819 cases, Sind 39,555, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 14,006, Balochistan 6,788, Islamabad 5,785, Gilgit-Baltistan 952 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir 412. The authorities conducted a record 24,620 tests in the last 24 hours, taking the number of total tests done so far to 730,453 across the country. As the number soared, the worst fear may come true about the capacity of hospitals across the country to accommodate the patients. Though, the government still claimed that there was enough space available. But the resources would be spread thin in the coming days as peak time would come by the end of July or beginning of August. Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb was tested positive a day after she confirmed that former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was tested positive. Marriyum's mother and PML-N lawmaker Tahira Aurangzeb was also tested positive. Both mother and daughter have quarantined themselves.

Pakistan reports more than 100 coronavirus deaths in single day, cases cross 108,000

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