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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 6th, 2019

Pakistan: Imran Khan adamant on staying in power. Watch video to know more.

Pakistan: Imran Khan adamant on staying in power

Pakistan's opposition rejected Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government's proposal for a judicial commission to probe the alleged rigging in the July 2018 election.

"We reject every proposal for the formation of a commission and maintain our demand for fresh elections. There can be no change in the matter," JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-azadi-march-opposition-calls-for-imran-khans-resignation-260096">anti-government protest</a> entered its fifth day here.

"Now it's up to you. The sooner you decide on this, the sooner we can see this matter resolved. If you think this crowd should disperse, then go ahead and give the call. Neither will you remain in a fix and neither will we, then, have any lack of clarity on the matter," Rehman said.

Meanwhile, according to DAWN, the second round of talks between the government negotiating team and the Opposition's Rehbar Committee failed to break the ongoing deadlock between the two sides.

Defence Minister Pervez Khattak said the government is trying to find a middle ground with the opposition to break the ongoing deadlock.

The opposition has demanded the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-imran-khan-adamant-on-staying-in-power-260219"> resignation of Imran Khan</a> and calling of an election immediately.

Khan has said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, except their call for his resignation.

According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune.

"The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan.

Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march.

The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year.

According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan".

Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post.

The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan's opposition rejected Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government's proposal for a judicial commission to probe the alleged rigging in the July 2018 election.

Pakistan's opposition rejected Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government's proposal for a judicial commission to probe the alleged rigging in the July 2018 election. "We reject every proposal for the formation of a commission and maintain our demand for fresh elections. There can be no change in the matter," JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said as the anti-government protest entered its fifth day here. "Now it's up to you. The sooner you decide on this, the sooner we can see this matter resolved. If you think this crowd should disperse, then go ahead and give the call. Neither will you remain in a fix and neither will we, then, have any lack of clarity on the matter," Rehman said. Meanwhile, according to DAWN, the second round of talks between the government negotiating team and the Opposition's Rehbar Committee failed to break the ongoing deadlock between the two sides. Defence Minister Pervez Khattak said the government is trying to find a middle ground with the opposition to break the ongoing deadlock. The opposition has demanded the resignation of Imran Khan and calling of an election immediately. Khan has said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, except their call for his resignation. According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune. "The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan. Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march. The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan". Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan: Opposition rejects government proposal to probe 2018 election results

India is yet to receive a confirmation from Pakistan on a list of prominent Sikh leaders and other dignitaries who are part of the inaugural 'jatha'&nbsp;visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, government sources said on Tuesday.

Sources added that Pakistan has not yet allowed any team from India to visit Kartarpur Sahib in advance to confirm the arrangements made for the inaugural jatha. In addition, the country has unilaterally decided the programme and timing of the pilgrims without taking into account India's inputs in the matter.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said last week that India has shared the list of people visiting the Gurudwara with Pakistan so as to seek visas for them."Pakistan tries to project that it is trying to facilitate Sikh pilgrimage, and we have not heard from them. In fact, we hear that the visas will not be granted. We feel that it is disrespect to the sentiments of Sikh pilgrims, especially on this pious occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak," Kumar had said.

Sources added that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's tweet stating that no passports will be required to undertake the pilgrimage has created confusion among the pilgrims as to what documents they should carry as the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in this regard mentions the requirement of carrying passports.

In addition, no offer has been made by Pakistan to amend the MoU in light of Khan's tweet.

Critical information such as medical facilities available and security arrangements for the pilgrims have also not been shared with India yet. India has all along remained strongly committed to expeditiously realize the Kartarpur corridor on time, keeping in mind the sentiments of the pilgrims.

The construction work on India's side has been completed on time, and New Delhi even agreed to go ahead with the MoU despite Pakistan's insistence on levying a $20 service fee on the pilgrims.

Pakistan's refusal to extend full cooperation with India in the matter is against the spirit of pilgrimage, sources said.

India and Pakistan had signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib corridor on October 24, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

India is yet to receive a confirmation from Pakistan on a list of prominent Sikh leaders and other dignitaries who are part of the inaugural 'jatha' visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, government sources said on Tuesday.

India is yet to receive a confirmation from Pakistan on a list of prominent Sikh leaders and other dignitaries who are part of the inaugural 'jatha' visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, government sources said on Tuesday. Sources added that Pakistan has not yet allowed any team from India to visit Kartarpur Sahib in advance to confirm the arrangements made for the inaugural jatha. In addition, the country has unilaterally decided the programme and timing of the pilgrims without taking into account India's inputs in the matter. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said last week that India has shared the list of people visiting the Gurudwara with Pakistan so as to seek visas for them."Pakistan tries to project that it is trying to facilitate Sikh pilgrimage, and we have not heard from them. In fact, we hear that the visas will not be granted. We feel that it is disrespect to the sentiments of Sikh pilgrims, especially on this pious occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak," Kumar had said. Sources added that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's tweet stating that no passports will be required to undertake the pilgrimage has created confusion among the pilgrims as to what documents they should carry as the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in this regard mentions the requirement of carrying passports. In addition, no offer has been made by Pakistan to amend the MoU in light of Khan's tweet. Critical information such as medical facilities available and security arrangements for the pilgrims have also not been shared with India yet. India has all along remained strongly committed to expeditiously realize the Kartarpur corridor on time, keeping in mind the sentiments of the pilgrims. The construction work on India's side has been completed on time, and New Delhi even agreed to go ahead with the MoU despite Pakistan's insistence on levying a $20 service fee on the pilgrims. Pakistan's refusal to extend full cooperation with India in the matter is against the spirit of pilgrimage, sources said. India and Pakistan had signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib corridor on October 24, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

India yet to receive confirmation from Pakistan on list of inaugural 'jatha' visiting Kartarpur Sahib

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India.

In its latest report on Afghanistan, the independent and bipartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) identified Pakistan as the most important neighbour of Afghanistan. Pakistan, it said, has played an active, and by many accounts, a negative role in Afghan affairs for decades.

"Pakistan's security services maintain ties to Afghan insurgent groups, most notably the Haqqani Network, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that has become an official, the semi-autonomous component of the Taliban," CRS, which periodically prepares reports on issues of importance for Congressmen for them to make informed decisions, said.

Pakistan is concerned about the strategic encirclement by India as New Delhi is establishing strong relations with Central Asian countries.

"India's diplomatic and commercial presence in Afghanistan and US rhetorical support for it exacerbates Pakistani fears of encirclement. Indian interest in Afghanistan stems largely from India's broader regional rivalry with Pakistan, which impedes Indian efforts to establish stronger and more direct commercial and political relations with Central Asia," the CRS said in its latest report on Afghanistan released on November 1.

The US&nbsp;officials have long identified militant safe havens in Pakistan as a threat to security in Afghanistan, though some Pakistani officials dispute that charge and note the Taliban's increased territorial control within Afghanistan itself, the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-chief-of-staff-summoned-to-testify-in-impeachment-probe-260220">President Donald Trump</a>, it added, has also accused Pakistan of "housing the very terrorists that we are fighting."

"Pakistan may view a weak and destabilised Afghanistan as preferable to a strong, unified Afghan state (particularly one led by an ethnic Pashtun-dominated government in Kabul; Pakistan has a large and restive Pashtun minority)," the CRS said.

However, instability in Afghanistan could rebound to Pakistan's detriment; Pakistan has struggled with indigenous Islamist militants of its own, the report added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-set-to-attend-afghanistan-peace-talks-in-russia-257851">Afghanistan-Pakistan</a> relations are further complicated by the presence of over a million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, as well a long-running and ethnically tinged dispute over their shared 1,600-mile border.

In his August 2017 speech, the US President did encourage India to play a greater role in Afghan economic development.

The CRS said insurgent and terrorist groups have demonstrated considerable capabilities in 2019, throwing into sharp relief the daunting security challenges that the Afghan government and its US and international partners face.

At the same time, prospects for a negotiated settlement, driven by direct US-Taliban talks, are uncertain in light of the September 2019 cancellation of those negotiations and the Taliban's continued refusal to talk to the Afghan government, it said.

However, a potential collapse of the Afghan military and/or the government that commands it could have significant implications for the United States, particularly given the nature of negotiated security arrangements, the report warned.

Regardless of how likely the Taliban would be to gain full control over all or even most of the country, the breakdown of social order and the fracturing of the country into fiefdoms controlled by paramilitary commanders and their respective militias may be plausible, even probable, it added.

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India.

US Congressional report on Afghan Affairs has specifically mentioned that Pakistan has been playing 'an active but negative role' in Afghanistan while simultaneously, is fearful of strategic encirclement by India. In its latest report on Afghanistan, the independent and bipartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) identified Pakistan as the most important neighbour of Afghanistan. Pakistan, it said, has played an active, and by many accounts, a negative role in Afghan affairs for decades. "Pakistan's security services maintain ties to Afghan insurgent groups, most notably the Haqqani Network, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that has become an official, the semi-autonomous component of the Taliban," CRS, which periodically prepares reports on issues of importance for Congressmen for them to make informed decisions, said. Pakistan is concerned about the strategic encirclement by India as New Delhi is establishing strong relations with Central Asian countries. "India's diplomatic and commercial presence in Afghanistan and US rhetorical support for it exacerbates Pakistani fears of encirclement. Indian interest in Afghanistan stems largely from India's broader regional rivalry with Pakistan, which impedes Indian efforts to establish stronger and more direct commercial and political relations with Central Asia," the CRS said in its latest report on Afghanistan released on November 1. The US officials have long identified militant safe havens in Pakistan as a threat to security in Afghanistan, though some Pakistani officials dispute that charge and note the Taliban's increased territorial control within Afghanistan itself, the report said. President Donald Trump, it added, has also accused Pakistan of "housing the very terrorists that we are fighting." "Pakistan may view a weak and destabilised Afghanistan as preferable to a strong, unified Afghan state (particularly one led by an ethnic Pashtun-dominated government in Kabul; Pakistan has a large and restive Pashtun minority)," the CRS said. However, instability in Afghanistan could rebound to Pakistan's detriment; Pakistan has struggled with indigenous Islamist militants of its own, the report added. Afghanistan-Pakistan relations are further complicated by the presence of over a million Afghan refugees in Pakistan, as well a long-running and ethnically tinged dispute over their shared 1,600-mile border. In his August 2017 speech, the US President did encourage India to play a greater role in Afghan economic development. The CRS said insurgent and terrorist groups have demonstrated considerable capabilities in 2019, throwing into sharp relief the daunting security challenges that the Afghan government and its US and international partners face. At the same time, prospects for a negotiated settlement, driven by direct US-Taliban talks, are uncertain in light of the September 2019 cancellation of those negotiations and the Taliban's continued refusal to talk to the Afghan government, it said. However, a potential collapse of the Afghan military and/or the government that commands it could have significant implications for the United States, particularly given the nature of negotiated security arrangements, the report warned. Regardless of how likely the Taliban would be to gain full control over all or even most of the country, the breakdown of social order and the fracturing of the country into fiefdoms controlled by paramilitary commanders and their respective militias may be plausible, even probable, it added.

Pakistan fearful of strategic encirclement by India: US report on Afghan affairs

Imran Khan Is Hiding Behind the Constitution As Calls Asking For His Resignation Get Louder.

Gravitas: Imran Khan Adamant At Staying In Power

Imran Khan holds a meeting with the top government committee

Pakistan PM Imran Khan Meets Opposition parties

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/azadi-march-fazlur-rehman-gives-imran-khan-2-day-ultimatum-to-resign-259415">Azadi March protesters</a>, led by firebrand cleric Maulana Fazlur Rehman, except their call for his resignation. 
 
According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Defence Minister Pervez Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune. 
 
"The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan. 
 
Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march. 
 
This comes a day after Cleric cum politician Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief said, "We have a Plan B, a Plan C. This is only Plan A. Your jails will fall short of space. We will shut down the entire country as well and continue our war." 
 
"We have decided not to go to any court or election commission," he said. "Only a parliamentary committee will decide about rigging," he added. 
 
The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. 
 
According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan". 
 
Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post. 
 
The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, led by firebrand cleric Maulana Fazlur Rehman, except their call for his resignation.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was ready to accept all "valid" demands of the Azadi March protesters, led by firebrand cleric Maulana Fazlur Rehman, except their call for his resignation. According to the local media, the Pakistan premier made the statement in a meeting led by Defence Minister Pervez Khattak to negotiate with the opposition parties taking part in the 'Azadi March', reported the Express Tribune. "The government is ready to accept all valid demands except the demand for resignation," said Khan. Khan also stated that his negotiation team will respond positively if the opposition displays seriousness towards reaching a consensus to end the protest march. This comes a day after Cleric cum politician Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief said, "We have a Plan B, a Plan C. This is only Plan A. Your jails will fall short of space. We will shut down the entire country as well and continue our war." "We have decided not to go to any court or election commission," he said. "Only a parliamentary committee will decide about rigging," he added. The purported aim of the march is to oust Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. According to Fazlur Rehman aka Maulana Diesel, the march has been called to "protect the Constitution, democracy and Pakistan". Earlier, Khan made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

Imran Khan refuses to resign amid mass protests

Pakistan slams U.S terror Report and tried to defend its failure to curb terrorism.

Pakistan slams U.S terror Report

Pakistan Azadi March: Opposition calls for Imran Khan's resignation. Watch video to know more.

Pakistan Azadi March: Opposition calls for Imran Khan's resignation

Pakistan Azadi March: Imran Khan sends negotiating team to meet oppn members. Watch video to know more.

Pakistan Azadi March: Imran Khan sends negotiating team to meet oppn members

Will Imran Khan Resign As The Prime Minister Of Pakistan?

Gravitas: Protests Against Pakistan's PM To Continue

Azadi March, the protest against Pakistani PM is set to continue in Islamabad. Anas Mallick brings you the latest on this news.

Anas Mallick on Anti-Imran 'Azadi March'

Its a D-Day for the Pakistan PM Imran Khan. The 2-day deadline that was given by the opposition expires today. Now Fazlur Rehman Threatens to 'Shut Down' Pakistan

D-Day for Pakistan PM Imran Khan; WION reports from Azadi March Camp

Dr Shabir Choudhry, a writer and an activist from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), on Monday accused Pakistan of deceiving Kashmiri people by creating a division in the name of religion.

He said Islamabad is using PoK territory for nurturing terrorist&nbsp;outfits, which are being used as proxies against India.

Since the withdrawal of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has intensified its tactic to create division and provoke Kashmiris on the basis of religion.

"The major problem of Pakistani establishment is that they want to find justification for the division of India in the name of religion. Now, people ask them as if your vision of two-nation theory on the basis of religion is so strong then why Bangladesh was created," said Dr Shabir.

"Why people in Balochistan are seeking independence? In Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Sindh, people are asking for independence. Pakistan wants to make Jammu and Kashmir dispute as a religious issue. They are fooling and motivating people in the name of religion," the writer, activist added.

Shabir also called Pakistan a failed democracy where the Army always projects itself as 'supreme'.

"Anybody who opposes or criticises Pakistan is called a 'traitor'. It is in Pakistan's culture as they called (Muhammad Ali) Jinnah a traitor. When Fatima Jinnah fought an election against Dr Ayub Khan, she was termed an Indian agent. Nawaz Sharif, who is three times Prime Minister of Pakistan, is also labelled as India's agent. There's a long list," he said.

"Anybody who disagrees with the views of the establishment and the government is an Indian agent. In that kind of environment, our survival is very difficult," Choudhry added.

The London-based activist also accused Pakistan of exploiting natural resources in PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower plant, which has been designed to divert water from the Neelum River to a power station on the Jhelum River, has faced a wider criticism by the people of Muzaffarabad city.

The project raised several environmental and economic challenges for the indigenous people. Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower plant is one among several projects which Pakistan has launched in PoK but it only benefits Pakistani provinces and not the residents in the occupied territory.

Shabir further said,&nbsp;"If you see old electric bills, the government used to charge over Rs 20 from each household depending on its areas from the local residents in the name of construction of a dam.

They are using our resources and also ask users to pay money for the construction, whereas it directly benefits Pakistan. We have got nothing."

He added, "The flow of the river has been diverted and we have been facing environmental and health issues. The dried river has turned into sewerage and a place for garbage dumping. In future, there will be having numerous issues, which will force locals to migrate, many of them into Pakistan. If they are so concerned about us, they won't have done this."

Despite Islamabad's attempts to gain sympathy of Kashmiris, massive anti-Pakistan and pro-freedom protests are going on in Muzaffarabad and other parts of PoK. This anger clearly shows a growing mistrust among the people of PoK and Gilgit Baltistan against Pakistan`s malicious designs, he added.&nbsp;

Dr Shabir Choudhry, a writer and an activist from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), on Monday accused Pakistan of deceiving Kashmiri people by creating a division in the name of religion.

Dr Shabir Choudhry, a writer and an activist from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), on Monday accused Pakistan of deceiving Kashmiri people by creating a division in the name of religion. He said Islamabad is using PoK territory for nurturing terrorist outfits, which are being used as proxies against India. Since the withdrawal of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has intensified its tactic to create division and provoke Kashmiris on the basis of religion. "The major problem of Pakistani establishment is that they want to find justification for the division of India in the name of religion. Now, people ask them as if your vision of two-nation theory on the basis of religion is so strong then why Bangladesh was created," said Dr Shabir. "Why people in Balochistan are seeking independence? In Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Sindh, people are asking for independence. Pakistan wants to make Jammu and Kashmir dispute as a religious issue. They are fooling and motivating people in the name of religion," the writer, activist added. Shabir also called Pakistan a failed democracy where the Army always projects itself as 'supreme'. "Anybody who opposes or criticises Pakistan is called a 'traitor'. It is in Pakistan's culture as they called (Muhammad Ali) Jinnah a traitor. When Fatima Jinnah fought an election against Dr Ayub Khan, she was termed an Indian agent. Nawaz Sharif, who is three times Prime Minister of Pakistan, is also labelled as India's agent. There's a long list," he said. "Anybody who disagrees with the views of the establishment and the government is an Indian agent. In that kind of environment, our survival is very difficult," Choudhry added. The London-based activist also accused Pakistan of exploiting natural resources in PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan. The Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower plant, which has been designed to divert water from the Neelum River to a power station on the Jhelum River, has faced a wider criticism by the people of Muzaffarabad city. The project raised several environmental and economic challenges for the indigenous people. Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower plant is one among several projects which Pakistan has launched in PoK but it only benefits Pakistani provinces and not the residents in the occupied territory. Shabir further said, "If you see old electric bills, the government used to charge over Rs 20 from each household depending on its areas from the local residents in the name of construction of a dam. They are using our resources and also ask users to pay money for the construction, whereas it directly benefits Pakistan. We have got nothing." He added, "The flow of the river has been diverted and we have been facing environmental and health issues. The dried river has turned into sewerage and a place for garbage dumping. In future, there will be having numerous issues, which will force locals to migrate, many of them into Pakistan. If they are so concerned about us, they won't have done this." Despite Islamabad's attempts to gain sympathy of Kashmiris, massive anti-Pakistan and pro-freedom protests are going on in Muzaffarabad and other parts of PoK. This anger clearly shows a growing mistrust among the people of PoK and Gilgit Baltistan against Pakistan`s malicious designs, he added.

Pakistan government using religion to create rift, says PoK activist

Pakistan's diplomat Munir Akram took charge as the country's new permanent representative to the United Nations here on Friday.

Akram, 74, replaces outgoing envoy Maleeha Lodhi, who had been serving the post since February 2015."I am coming back to the UN post at a time when Pakistan faces imposing challenges in the East and the West. But challenges are always accompanied by opportunities," Akram was quoted by Geo News as saying.

The development came after a plea was filed on Thursday by the Women`s Action Forum (WAF) at the Sindh High Court in Pakistan, which sought Akram`s removal from the post, calling his re-appointment as "illegal and unlawful".

This came after several women's rights bodies had protested over Akram's appointment as the country`s envoy to the UN.

The plea mentioned allegations of domestic abuse against Akram. Citing reports from international media, the WAF alleged that the Pakistani diplomat was involved in assaulting a woman in a domestic violence incident.

Akram, a known hawk on India, had previously served as Pakistan`s permanent representative to the UN for six years from 2002 to 2008. He is said to be anti-India and sharp-tongued.

His appointment came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had returned to the US where he went to participate in the 74th session of United Nations General Assembly session.

As expected, he sought to internationalize India's internal decision to repeal Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir but Pakistan`s stance did not find takers.

On the other hand, Lodhi's exit was being linked to her "failure" to muster international support at the UN on Pakistan`s position on Kashmir.

However, Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal refuted reports that Lodhi was "removed" from the post, in a bid to douse the controversy which had erupted after Akram was announced as Lodhi's successor.&nbsp;

Pakistan's diplomat Munir Akram took charge as the country's new permanent representative to the United Nations here on Friday. Akram, 74, replaces outgoing envoy Maleeha Lodhi, who had been serving the post since February 2015.

Pakistan's diplomat Munir Akram took charge as the country's new permanent representative to the United Nations here on Friday. Akram, 74, replaces outgoing envoy Maleeha Lodhi, who had been serving the post since February 2015."I am coming back to the UN post at a time when Pakistan faces imposing challenges in the East and the West. But challenges are always accompanied by opportunities," Akram was quoted by Geo News as saying. The development came after a plea was filed on Thursday by the Women`s Action Forum (WAF) at the Sindh High Court in Pakistan, which sought Akram`s removal from the post, calling his re-appointment as "illegal and unlawful". This came after several women's rights bodies had protested over Akram's appointment as the country`s envoy to the UN. The plea mentioned allegations of domestic abuse against Akram. Citing reports from international media, the WAF alleged that the Pakistani diplomat was involved in assaulting a woman in a domestic violence incident. Akram, a known hawk on India, had previously served as Pakistan`s permanent representative to the UN for six years from 2002 to 2008. He is said to be anti-India and sharp-tongued. His appointment came after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had returned to the US where he went to participate in the 74th session of United Nations General Assembly session. As expected, he sought to internationalize India's internal decision to repeal Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir but Pakistan`s stance did not find takers. On the other hand, Lodhi's exit was being linked to her "failure" to muster international support at the UN on Pakistan`s position on Kashmir. However, Pakistan Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal refuted reports that Lodhi was "removed" from the post, in a bid to douse the controversy which had erupted after Akram was announced as Lodhi's successor.

Munir Akram takes charge as Pakistan's envoy to United Nations

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday gave Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan the ultimatum of two days to resign in the face of the massive ongoing anti-government -- Azadi March -- in the country.

Addressing a mammoth crowd gathered during the March, Rehman said the opposition does not intend to clash with the institutions in the country but wish to see them strengthened. He lashed out at the opposition for alleging that he was using the religion card to instigate the masses in the country, reported Geo News.

"We cannot show more patience. We are giving two days'&nbsp;time. Otherwise, the people have the capability to enter the PM House by force and arrest the Prime Minister," Rehman said.

"Who are you to deny me the right when our Constitution talks about religion. Who are you to deny me my rights that are enshrined in the Constitution," he asked.

The ongoing Azadi March kickstarted from Karachi's Sohrab Goth area on October 27 amid a massive show of strength by the party workers from other opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Awami National Party (ANP), Dawn reported.

The caravan reached its final destination at Peshawar Morr in the wee hours on Friday.JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman welcomed participants to the Azadi March.

He also thanked Awami National Party president Asfandyar Khan Wali, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, PML-N and ANP workers as well all other parties'&nbsp;workers.

The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna'&nbsp;held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

The purported aim of the march is to oust Imran Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year.

Khan has made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post.&nbsp;

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday gave Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan the ultimatum of two days to resign in the face of the massive ongoing anti-government -- Azadi March -- in the country.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Friday gave Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan the ultimatum of two days to resign in the face of the massive ongoing anti-government -- Azadi March -- in the country. Addressing a mammoth crowd gathered during the March, Rehman said the opposition does not intend to clash with the institutions in the country but wish to see them strengthened. He lashed out at the opposition for alleging that he was using the religion card to instigate the masses in the country, reported Geo News. "We cannot show more patience. We are giving two days' time. Otherwise, the people have the capability to enter the PM House by force and arrest the Prime Minister," Rehman said. "Who are you to deny me the right when our Constitution talks about religion. Who are you to deny me my rights that are enshrined in the Constitution," he asked. The ongoing Azadi March kickstarted from Karachi's Sohrab Goth area on October 27 amid a massive show of strength by the party workers from other opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Awami National Party (ANP), Dawn reported. The caravan reached its final destination at Peshawar Morr in the wee hours on Friday.JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman welcomed participants to the Azadi March. He also thanked Awami National Party president Asfandyar Khan Wali, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, PML-N and ANP workers as well all other parties' workers. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif. The purported aim of the march is to oust Imran Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. Khan has made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the opposition and not resign from his post.

Azadi March: Fazlur Rehman gives Imran Khan 2-day ultimatum to resign

Fazlur Rehman has given an ultimatum to Imran Khan and said that he must resign in 2 days.

Pakistan: Imran Khan slams opposition's Azadi March

Fazlur Rehman has given an ultimatum to Imran Khan and said that he must resign in 2 days

Pakistan's Azadi March: Ultimatum to Imran

Calling Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a "puppet", Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari addressed a large crowd at the main camp of anti-government march and said that they will not bow down to any 'dictator'.

"We are not ready to bow before any selector or dictator... The hub of power is people and not the state", Bilawal said in front of the charged-up crowd waving flags of the various opposition party on Friday.

He also asked Prime Minister Imran Khan to step down and said, "All opposition parties have gathered at one platform to give a clear message to Prime Minister Khan that the time had come for him to step down".

The march, spearheaded by Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the chief of the right-wing Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), kickstarted from Karachi's Sohrab Goth area on October 27 amidst a massive show of strength by the party workers from other opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Awami National Party (ANP), Dawn reported.

The anti-government 'Azadi March'&nbsp;caravans reached its final destination at Peshawar Morr in the wee hours on Friday. Opposition parties participating in the massive protest are scheduled to hold a rally after Friday prayers.JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman welcomed participants to the Azadi March.

He also thanked Awami National Party president Asfandyar Khan Wali, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, PPP, PML-N and ANP workers as well all other parties` workers.

Informed sources told The Dawn that PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif is expected to join Rahman in his Azadi March rally in Islamabad.

The PML-N leader is scheduled to depart for Islamabad from Lahore and is expected to address the gathering in the capital.

The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna'&nbsp;held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

The purported aim of the march is to oust Imran Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year.

Imran Khan has made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the Opposition and not resign from his post.

Calling Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a "puppet", Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari addressed a large crowd at the main camp of anti-government march and said that they will not bow down to any 'dictator'.

Calling Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a "puppet", Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari addressed a large crowd at the main camp of anti-government march and said that they will not bow down to any 'dictator'. "We are not ready to bow before any selector or dictator... The hub of power is people and not the state", Bilawal said in front of the charged-up crowd waving flags of the various opposition party on Friday. He also asked Prime Minister Imran Khan to step down and said, "All opposition parties have gathered at one platform to give a clear message to Prime Minister Khan that the time had come for him to step down". The march, spearheaded by Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the chief of the right-wing Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), kickstarted from Karachi's Sohrab Goth area on October 27 amidst a massive show of strength by the party workers from other opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Awami National Party (ANP), Dawn reported. The anti-government 'Azadi March' caravans reached its final destination at Peshawar Morr in the wee hours on Friday. Opposition parties participating in the massive protest are scheduled to hold a rally after Friday prayers.JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman welcomed participants to the Azadi March. He also thanked Awami National Party president Asfandyar Khan Wali, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, PPP, PML-N and ANP workers as well all other parties` workers. Informed sources told The Dawn that PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif is expected to join Rahman in his Azadi March rally in Islamabad. The PML-N leader is scheduled to depart for Islamabad from Lahore and is expected to address the gathering in the capital. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif. The purported aim of the march is to oust Imran Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year. Imran Khan has made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the Opposition and not resign from his post.

Not ready to bow before any dictator, says Bilawal Bhutto at Azadi March

The anti-government 'Azadi March'&nbsp;caravans led by Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the chief of the right-wing Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) party entered the country's capital Islamabad on Thursday evening and opposition parties participating in the massive protest are scheduled to hold a rally after Friday prayers.

The march, spearheaded by Rehman, kickstarted from Karachi's Sohrab Goth area on October 27 amidst a massive show of strength by the party workers from other opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Awami National Party (ANP).

JUI-F party leader and Rahman's spokesperson Akram Khan Durrani confirmed that the planned rally will take place on Friday as a part of the anti-government protests, The Dawn reported.

The Azadi March caravans travelling across the country will enter Islamabad and spend the night in the capital, Durrani earlier said.

Earlier on Thursday, Rahman asserted that the rally would take place today, despite an announcement by the PML-N that it was postponed.PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal had said that the Islamabad rally scheduled for Thursday was postponed to Friday in the wake of the Tezgam train accident near Liquatpur city in Rahim Yar Khan district of Punjab province.

Meanwhile, Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has announced his participation in the Azadi March rally. Party workers have been directed to ensure maximum participation in the scheduled public gathering.

Zardari's decision to participate in the anti-government rally came after a meeting of the party's senior leadership.

Informed sources told The Dawn that PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif is expected to join Rahman in his Azadi March rally in Islamabad. The PML-N leader is scheduled to depart for Islamabad from Lahore and is expected to address the gathering in the capital.

The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna'&nbsp;held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif.

The purported aim of the march is to oust Imran Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year.Imran Khan has made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the Opposition and not resign from his post.

The anti-government 'Azadi March' caravans led by Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the chief of the right-wing Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) party entered the country's capital Islamabad on Thursday evening and opposition parties participating in the massive protest are scheduled to hold a rally after Friday prayers.

The anti-government 'Azadi March' caravans led by Maulana Fazlur Rahman, the chief of the right-wing Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) party entered the country's capital Islamabad on Thursday evening and opposition parties participating in the massive protest are scheduled to hold a rally after Friday prayers. The march, spearheaded by Rehman, kickstarted from Karachi's Sohrab Goth area on October 27 amidst a massive show of strength by the party workers from other opposition parties including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and Awami National Party (ANP). JUI-F party leader and Rahman's spokesperson Akram Khan Durrani confirmed that the planned rally will take place on Friday as a part of the anti-government protests, The Dawn reported. The Azadi March caravans travelling across the country will enter Islamabad and spend the night in the capital, Durrani earlier said. Earlier on Thursday, Rahman asserted that the rally would take place today, despite an announcement by the PML-N that it was postponed.PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal had said that the Islamabad rally scheduled for Thursday was postponed to Friday in the wake of the Tezgam train accident near Liquatpur city in Rahim Yar Khan district of Punjab province. Meanwhile, Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has announced his participation in the Azadi March rally. Party workers have been directed to ensure maximum participation in the scheduled public gathering. Zardari's decision to participate in the anti-government rally came after a meeting of the party's senior leadership. Informed sources told The Dawn that PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif is expected to join Rahman in his Azadi March rally in Islamabad. The PML-N leader is scheduled to depart for Islamabad from Lahore and is expected to address the gathering in the capital. The anti-government protest is likely to be one of the biggest in the country, surpassing the numbers of the 2014 'dharna' held against the then Pakistani government led by Nawaz Sharif. The purported aim of the march is to oust Imran Khan, who has been at the helm for just over a year.Imran Khan has made it clear that he will not succumb to pressure from the Opposition and not resign from his post.

'Azadi March' caravan reaches Islamabad, opposition rally to take place today

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'No entry fee for For Indian Sikhs' says Imran Khan on Kartarpur Corridor opening day

The Azadi March in Islamabad has left the Pakistani Army divided. As Imran Khan scrambles to control the rally, reports say a few Generals have taken a stand against General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Gravitas: Pakistan's army divided over opposition protest in Islamabad

Azadi March in Pakistan: Calls for Imran's resignation grow. Watch video to know more.

Azadi March in Pakistan: Calls for Imran's resignation grow

WION Dispatch: Pak opposition leads 'Azadi March' against Imran govt, asks Pak PM Imran Khan to resign from the chair. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Pak opposition leads 'Azadi March' against Imran govt, asks PM to resign

WION's Pakistan Bureau Chief Anas Mallick visits the medical camp at 'Azadi March' protest venue in Pakistan. Watch WION's exclusive ground report.

Pakistan: Medical camp at 'Azadi March' protest venue | WION Exclusive Ground report

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WION Edit: Will 'Azadi March' loosen Imran Khan's grip on power?

Thousands of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-join-azadi-march-against-imran-khans-govt-in-pakistan-258908">anti-government demonstrators</a> were due in the&nbsp;Pakistani&nbsp;capital&nbsp;on Thursday to&nbsp;demand&nbsp;that the government step down, piling more pressure on Prime Minister Imran Khan as he strives to get the faltering economy on track.

The protests are organised by Fazl-ur-Rehman, the leader of one of Pakistan's largest religious parties, who says the government of cricketer-turned-politician Khan is incompetent and illegitimate and was installed by the military after a rigged election last year.

Schools and some offices were closed in Islamabad as the&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;made their way from the eastern city of Lahore. They were due to arrive later in the day.

Police have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ramps-up-security-in-capital-ahead-of-islamist-march-258662">reinforced checkpoints</a> and brought in extra barriers, including shipping containers to block roads and seal off the administrative and diplomatic heart of the city.

Rehman, who heads the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl party, has billed his protest as an Azadi, or freedom, march.

"This movement will not stop if we don't get the desired results after reaching Islamabad," Rehman told reporters in Lahore late on Thursday.

"We want the prime minister's resignation, the entire assembly is fake, we want to dissolve it."

Khan won last year's election on a promise to end corruption, help middle-class families and get the economy on track.

But the honeymoon has come to an end as the economy runs into headwinds with the fiscal deficit ballooning to about 7 per cent&nbsp;of gross domestic product and a balance of payments crisis is looming.

Consumer inflation increased to 11.37 per cent&nbsp;year-on-year in September from 10.49 per cent&nbsp;in August largely on food price rises, while the rupee has fallen more than 50 per cent&nbsp;against the dollar since the end of 2017.

The government agreed in July to a $6 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

Khan rejects his critics' accusations that he is backed by the military, which has a long record of intervention in politics. The military also denies any involvement in civilian politics.

Election authorities rejected opposition complaints of rigging in the 2018 vote.

Rehman is a veteran politician who heads an alliance with several seats in the National Assembly and provincial assemblies.

But his real influence comes from his ability to mobilise support, particularly in numerous religious schools, or madrasas, across the country.

Pakistan's two main opposition parties have both said they would back Rehman's campaign against Khan, though have also said they would not support any unconstitutional action.

The government has said it wants negotiations with the opposition while vowing that no one would be allowed to paralyse life in the&nbsp;capital.

Thousands of anti-government demonstrators were due in the Pakistani capital on Thursday to demand that the government step down, piling more pressure on Prime Minister Imran Khan as he strives to get the faltering economy on track.

Thousands of anti-government demonstrators were due in the Pakistani capital on Thursday to demand that the government step down, piling more pressure on Prime Minister Imran Khan as he strives to get the faltering economy on track. The protests are organised by Fazl-ur-Rehman, the leader of one of Pakistan's largest religious parties, who says the government of cricketer-turned-politician Khan is incompetent and illegitimate and was installed by the military after a rigged election last year. Schools and some offices were closed in Islamabad as the protesters made their way from the eastern city of Lahore. They were due to arrive later in the day. Police have reinforced checkpoints and brought in extra barriers, including shipping containers to block roads and seal off the administrative and diplomatic heart of the city. Rehman, who heads the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl party, has billed his protest as an Azadi, or freedom, march. "This movement will not stop if we don't get the desired results after reaching Islamabad," Rehman told reporters in Lahore late on Thursday. "We want the prime minister's resignation, the entire assembly is fake, we want to dissolve it." Khan won last year's election on a promise to end corruption, help middle-class families and get the economy on track. But the honeymoon has come to an end as the economy runs into headwinds with the fiscal deficit ballooning to about 7 per cent of gross domestic product and a balance of payments crisis is looming. Consumer inflation increased to 11.37 per cent year-on-year in September from 10.49 per cent in August largely on food price rises, while the rupee has fallen more than 50 per cent against the dollar since the end of 2017. The government agreed in July to a $6 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund. Khan rejects his critics' accusations that he is backed by the military, which has a long record of intervention in politics. The military also denies any involvement in civilian politics. Election authorities rejected opposition complaints of rigging in the 2018 vote. Rehman is a veteran politician who heads an alliance with several seats in the National Assembly and provincial assemblies. But his real influence comes from his ability to mobilise support, particularly in numerous religious schools, or madrasas, across the country. Pakistan's two main opposition parties have both said they would back Rehman's campaign against Khan, though have also said they would not support any unconstitutional action. The government has said it wants negotiations with the opposition while vowing that no one would be allowed to paralyse life in the capital.

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