Pakistan Muslim League (N) party stated, 'Nawaz Sharif needs urgent treatment'. But as his name is in the exit control list of the Pak government so he has still not been allowed to go abroad for the treatment. Watch this video to find out more in detail. WION's Pakistan Bureau Chief Anas Mallick tells more on this. Listen to him for more.

''Nawaz Sharif needs urgent treatment'', says PML(N), not allowed to go abroad

Patience is wearing thin among some residents of the Pakistani capital enduring another round of anti-government protests, with tens of thousands of opposition supporters showing no sign of giving up despite the onset of winter rain.

Huge crowds descended on Islamabad from various parts of the country a week ago, denouncing the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan as illegitimate and calling for him to step down.

It is the first concerted challenge that the cricket star-turned-politician has faced since he won a general election last year promising to end corruption and create jobs for the poor.

Khan has dismissed the calls to resign and his government, which the opposition says won power after a fraudulent election with the support of the military, has denounced the protests as a threat to democracy.

The military denies favouring any party saying it supports the constitution.

The protesters are occupying a large open area alongside one of Islamabad's main roads, the latest in a succession of drawn-out sit-ins over recent years, including one Khan himself led against the previous government.

"This is the third sit-in since 2014 in Islamabad - it has to stop if this country wants to progress,” said office worker Ghazanfar Ali, 47.

The capital's sole public transport system, which runs by the protest site, has been suspended and Ali said he had to spend twice as much getting to work.

Student Zeeshan Azeem, 17, said the internet had been down at his home all week, which he blamed on government attempts to disrupt the protesters' communications.

"We're forced to travel a considerable distance from the protest site to use the internet," said Azeem, clutching his books as he headed home from school.

"When we complain to the service provider, they said they have down-graded the service on the government's instructions."

The government has not confirmed any such order but it is a regular tactic in Pakistan, and staff at providers have said they had been told to suspend services in some areas.

The protests are being led by one of the country's main conservative religious parties, with the support of the two main parties. The huge crowd is almost exclusively made up of bearded men, waving flags and chanting slogans.

They have set up a tent city with plastic sheets, and cook and rest when their leaders are not giving speeches. The mood has been cheerful and there has been no significant trouble.

The biggest problem has been the onset of cold rain.

Khan said on Twitter this week he had directed city authorities to assess what help could be provided for the protesters.

Opposition leaders declined the offer.

Patience is wearing thin among some residents of the Pakistani capital enduring another round of anti-government protests, with tens of thousands of opposition supporters showing no sign of giving up despite the onset of winter rain.

Patience is wearing thin among some residents of the Pakistani capital enduring another round of anti-government protests, with tens of thousands of opposition supporters showing no sign of giving up despite the onset of winter rain. Huge crowds descended on Islamabad from various parts of the country a week ago, denouncing the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan as illegitimate and calling for him to step down. It is the first concerted challenge that the cricket star-turned-politician has faced since he won a general election last year promising to end corruption and create jobs for the poor. Khan has dismissed the calls to resign and his government, which the opposition says won power after a fraudulent election with the support of the military, has denounced the protests as a threat to democracy. The military denies favouring any party saying it supports the constitution. The protesters are occupying a large open area alongside one of Islamabad's main roads, the latest in a succession of drawn-out sit-ins over recent years, including one Khan himself led against the previous government. "This is the third sit-in since 2014 in Islamabad - it has to stop if this country wants to progress,” said office worker Ghazanfar Ali, 47. The capital's sole public transport system, which runs by the protest site, has been suspended and Ali said he had to spend twice as much getting to work. Student Zeeshan Azeem, 17, said the internet had been down at his home all week, which he blamed on government attempts to disrupt the protesters' communications. "We're forced to travel a considerable distance from the protest site to use the internet," said Azeem, clutching his books as he headed home from school. "When we complain to the service provider, they said they have down-graded the service on the government's instructions." The government has not confirmed any such order but it is a regular tactic in Pakistan, and staff at providers have said they had been told to suspend services in some areas. The protests are being led by one of the country's main conservative religious parties, with the support of the two main parties. The huge crowd is almost exclusively made up of bearded men, waving flags and chanting slogans. They have set up a tent city with plastic sheets, and cook and rest when their leaders are not giving speeches. The mood has been cheerful and there has been no significant trouble. The biggest problem has been the onset of cold rain. Khan said on Twitter this week he had directed city authorities to assess what help could be provided for the protesters. Opposition leaders declined the offer.

Islamabad: Another round of protests begin as part of 'Azadi March', asking for the resignation of Imran Khan

A record-breaking 44,415 cases of the dengue fever were registered across Pakistan in 2019, while 66 people died from the virus over the year, media reported on Wednesday.

The largest number of cases — over 12,400 — was registered in Islamabad, the Dawn newspaper reported. As many as 10,142 cases were reported in the Sindh province, while in Punjab, 9,260 people were infected with the dengue virus.

Despite the record number of cases, there is a positive trend in reducing the number of deaths, the media said, citing the Pakistani National Institute of Health.&nbsp;

In 2011, 370 people out of 27,000 of those infected died from the disease. Dengue fever, the symptoms of which range from a severe headache and high fever to internal bleeding, is primarily dangerous due to the possibility of recurrence.

A patient who has the fever develops immunity to only one of the four variations of the virus that causes it. Recurrent illnesses usually proceed more severely than the first ones.

Dengue fever most often affects children, middle-aged people and the elderly. However, up to half of the deaths related to the illness occur among adults between the ages of 20 to 40.

A record-breaking 44,415 cases of the dengue fever were registered across Pakistan in 2019, while 66 people died from the virus over the year, media reported on Wednesday.

A record-breaking 44,415 cases of the dengue fever were registered across Pakistan in 2019, while 66 people died from the virus over the year, media reported on Wednesday. The largest number of cases — over 12,400 — was registered in Islamabad, the Dawn newspaper reported. As many as 10,142 cases were reported in the Sindh province, while in Punjab, 9,260 people were infected with the dengue virus. Despite the record number of cases, there is a positive trend in reducing the number of deaths, the media said, citing the Pakistani National Institute of Health. In 2011, 370 people out of 27,000 of those infected died from the disease. Dengue fever, the symptoms of which range from a severe headache and high fever to internal bleeding, is primarily dangerous due to the possibility of recurrence. A patient who has the fever develops immunity to only one of the four variations of the virus that causes it. Recurrent illnesses usually proceed more severely than the first ones. Dengue fever most often affects children, middle-aged people and the elderly. However, up to half of the deaths related to the illness occur among adults between the ages of 20 to 40.

Over 44,000 cases of Dengue fever registered in Pakistan in 2019 

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

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

The Sheer Size Of Azadi March Does Not Augur Well For Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

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.

Pakistani protesters descend on capital to demand Prime Minister Khan quits

Pak's Railway Minister Says Gas Cylinder Explosion Led To Train Accident, Eyewitnesses Tell A Different Story.

Gravitas: Major train accident in Pakistan: What led to the tragedy?

Islamic Hardliners Lead A Massive Protest Against Imran Khan. Azadi March In Islamabad On Friday.

Gravitas: Thousands join anti-Imran protest: mega rally in Islamabad on Friday

Pak opposition leads 'Azadi March', Imran critic Fazlur Rehman leads Protest. 21,000 security personnel on standby in Islamabad.

Pak opposition leads 'Azadi March'

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan faces the first major challenge to his leadership as a grey-bearded, orange-turbaned rival he calls "Maulana Diesel" marches to Islamabad with thousands of Islamists hoping to bring down the government.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan opposition set to march in Islamabad

The local administration has imposed a ban on the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in the city for two months, fearing that these can be used by miscreants to sabotage security during the anti-government protest,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/azadi-march-sets-out-from-karachi-to-islamabad-258535">'Azadi March'</a>.

An order issued by the District Magistrate of Islamabad stated that the UAVs pose a unique threat to the precarious security situation of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and can be used by "miscreants to conduct terrorist acts in the areas that have been secured and safeguarded against the ground attacks."

"It has been informed that a certain segment of public operates 'Un-manned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Islamabad, which pose a unique threat to the precarious security situation of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). These UAVs can be used by miscreant to conduct terrorist acts in the areas that have been secured and safeguarded against ground attacks," the order read, as cited in a report by Geo News.

"Any possible terrorist attack would jeopardise the security of the residents of ICT and sensitive installations that would create law and order situation and threat public peace at large," added the order.

Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad Hamza Shafqaat has said the ban has been imposed for a period of two months on all kinds of UAVs, including remote-controlled aircraft.

In addition, a source in the Islamabad Administration has said that the use of drone cameras by media would also be strictly prohibited during the coverage of 'Azadi March,' reports Geo News.

The anti-government Azadi March caravan led by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman and joined by other opposition parties in Pakistan will reach Islamabad on Thursday.

The local administration has imposed a ban on the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in the city for two months, fearing that these can be used by miscreants to sabotage security during the anti-government protest, 'Azadi March'.

The local administration has imposed a ban on the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in the city for two months, fearing that these can be used by miscreants to sabotage security during the anti-government protest, 'Azadi March'. An order issued by the District Magistrate of Islamabad stated that the UAVs pose a unique threat to the precarious security situation of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and can be used by "miscreants to conduct terrorist acts in the areas that have been secured and safeguarded against the ground attacks." "It has been informed that a certain segment of public operates 'Un-manned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Islamabad, which pose a unique threat to the precarious security situation of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). These UAVs can be used by miscreant to conduct terrorist acts in the areas that have been secured and safeguarded against ground attacks," the order read, as cited in a report by Geo News. "Any possible terrorist attack would jeopardise the security of the residents of ICT and sensitive installations that would create law and order situation and threat public peace at large," added the order. Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad Hamza Shafqaat has said the ban has been imposed for a period of two months on all kinds of UAVs, including remote-controlled aircraft. In addition, a source in the Islamabad Administration has said that the use of drone cameras by media would also be strictly prohibited during the coverage of 'Azadi March,' reports Geo News. The anti-government Azadi March caravan led by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman and joined by other opposition parties in Pakistan will reach Islamabad on Thursday.

Drones in Islamabad banned for two months

Nawaz Sharif's 8 weeks bail plea approved by Islamabad High Court. Watch the complete video to find out more.

Nawaz Sharif's 8 weeks bail plea approved by Islamabad High Court

Azadi March Sets Out From Karachi To Islamabad. Watch video to know more.

Azadi March Sets Out From Karachi To Islamabad

Nawaz Sharif got 2-day bail from Islamabad High Court as his health was worsening since last week. He is on oxygen support as well. Will he be allowed to travel abroad for treatment? Watch this video to know more.

Nawaz Sharif got 2-day bail from Islamabad High Court after health worsen

Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday announced that Islamabad will take part in the upcoming Afghan Peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow.

"Pakistan had participated in the first round of four-party talks in Beijing in July this year," Faisal said at a media briefing as quoted by the News International.

Meanwhile, the United States' Defence Secretary Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kabul with the aim of reaching a peace agreement with Afghanistan.

In September, an agreement was reached "in principle" to withdraw over 5,000 troops from Afghanistan in exchange for guarantees by the Taliban.

However, US President Donald Trump called off the peace negotiations, citing the September 6 Kabul car bombing carried out by the terrorist group, which claimed 12 lives, including an American soldier.

Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday announced that Islamabad will take part in the upcoming Afghan Peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow.

Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday announced that Islamabad will take part in the upcoming Afghan Peace talks scheduled to be held in Moscow. "Pakistan had participated in the first round of four-party talks in Beijing in July this year," Faisal said at a media briefing as quoted by the News International. Meanwhile, the United States' Defence Secretary Mark Esper on Sunday visited Kabul with the aim of reaching a peace agreement with Afghanistan. In September, an agreement was reached "in principle" to withdraw over 5,000 troops from Afghanistan in exchange for guarantees by the Taliban. However, US President Donald Trump called off the peace negotiations, citing the September 6 Kabul car bombing carried out by the terrorist group, which claimed 12 lives, including an American soldier.

Islamabad set to attend Afghanistan peace talks in Russia

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said that he will not resign under pressure from the opposition Jamiat Ulema-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), which intends to launch an anti-government protest named 'Azadi March' later this month.

In a meeting with senior journalists and analysts, Khan said that he sees a conspiracy behind JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman's protest which he said is driven by a certain agenda, reported Geo news.

"There is no question of my resignation and I will not resign. Dharna is agenda-based, and it has foreign support," Khan said at the meeting.

"I don't understand what Maulana's problem is," he added. "I don't understand the agenda of the opposition."

The Azadi March has been announced by the JUI-F chief in a bid to topple the government, which Rehman says came to power through "fake elections".

Meanwhile, the Pakistan government has decided to let the march proceed as long as parameters laid out by courts for lawful protest are not breached, reported Dawn.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said that he will not resign under pressure from the opposition Jamiat Ulema-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), which intends to launch an anti-government protest named 'Azadi March' later this month.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said that he will not resign under pressure from the opposition Jamiat Ulema-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), which intends to launch an anti-government protest named 'Azadi March' later this month. In a meeting with senior journalists and analysts, Khan said that he sees a conspiracy behind JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman's protest which he said is driven by a certain agenda, reported Geo news. "There is no question of my resignation and I will not resign. Dharna is agenda-based, and it has foreign support," Khan said at the meeting. "I don't understand what Maulana's problem is," he added. "I don't understand the agenda of the opposition." The Azadi March has been announced by the JUI-F chief in a bid to topple the government, which Rehman says came to power through "fake elections". Meanwhile, the Pakistan government has decided to let the march proceed as long as parameters laid out by courts for lawful protest are not breached, reported Dawn.

'Will not resign,' says Imran Khan ahead of anti-government protests

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon.

The director, who is popularly known as Jami, rocked Pakistani social media over the weekend after he published several tweets describing the alleged assault that happened 13 years ago.

"Why I'm so strongly supporting #metoo? cuz I know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz I was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world," he wrote Sunday evening.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Why im so strongly supporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/metoo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#metoo</a> ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but
— jami (@jamiazaad) <a href="https://twitter.com/jamiazaad/status/1185980753584316418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The tweets were in response to a backlash online after a professor in the eastern city of Lahore committed suicide after allegedly being falsely accused of sexual harassment.

Amid the backlash, Jami pleaded with social media users to trust victims of sexual assault and avoid ignoring their accusations.

"I told my few close friends but no one took it seriously," added Jami, whose 2015 film 'Moor'&nbsp;('Mothe') was a massive hit.

The film-maker has so far refused to name the tycoon allegedly behind the assault, while the allegations have unleashed a torrent of differing reactions online.

"@jamiazaad I see you. I hear&nbsp;you. I stand with you. Always," tweeted popular actress Meesha Shafi -- who helped kickstart Pakistan's #MeToo movement in 2018 after accusing a popular singer in the country of harassment -- on Thursday.

"Jami is a true ally. This is unprecedented in Pakistan. This kind of revelation from a man" wrote Twitter user Khizra.&nbsp;

Others were more sceptical.

"Still, u cant b serious using it to square Lhr professor's suicide &amp; misuse of #MeToo," said another Twitter user Razi. "Pakistan is suffering by both #metoo &amp; misuse of #MeToo."

"No #MeToo here. Should have said No, but succumbed," wrote Ali Raj in response to a blog about the story.

The #MeToo and #Timesup campaigns have gone global since allegations of sexual misconduct by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in 2017, sparking an avalanche of accusations against other powerful men.

However, the movement has been slow to catch on in Pakistan, where women have fought for their rights for years in a patriarchal society where so-called "honour" killings and attacks on women remain commonplace.

In 2017, future Prime Minister Imran Khan was also hit with allegations of sexual misconduct by a female lawmaker who accused the famed cricketer of sending obscene text messages.&nbsp;

He later denied the allegations.

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon.

Acclaimed Pakistani filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood Raza has added new momentum to the country's fledgeling #MeToo movement after airing allegations that he was raped by an unnamed media tycoon. The director, who is popularly known as Jami, rocked Pakistani social media over the weekend after he published several tweets describing the alleged assault that happened 13 years ago. "Why I'm so strongly supporting #metoo? cuz I know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz I was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world," he wrote Sunday evening. Why im so strongly supporting #metoo ? cuz i know exactly how it happens now, inside a room then outside courts inside courts and how a survivor hides confides cuz i was brutally raped by a very powerful person in our media world. A Giant actually. and yes im taller than him but — jami (@jamiazaad) October 20, 2019 × The tweets were in response to a backlash online after a professor in the eastern city of Lahore committed suicide after allegedly being falsely accused of sexual harassment. Amid the backlash, Jami pleaded with social media users to trust victims of sexual assault and avoid ignoring their accusations. "I told my few close friends but no one took it seriously," added Jami, whose 2015 film 'Moor' ('Mothe') was a massive hit. The film-maker has so far refused to name the tycoon allegedly behind the assault, while the allegations have unleashed a torrent of differing reactions online. "@jamiazaad I see you. I hear you. I stand with you. Always," tweeted popular actress Meesha Shafi -- who helped kickstart Pakistan's #MeToo movement in 2018 after accusing a popular singer in the country of harassment -- on Thursday. "Jami is a true ally. This is unprecedented in Pakistan. This kind of revelation from a man" wrote Twitter user Khizra. Others were more sceptical. "Still, u cant b serious using it to square Lhr professor's suicide & misuse of #MeToo," said another Twitter user Razi. "Pakistan is suffering by both #metoo & misuse of #MeToo." "No #MeToo here. Should have said No, but succumbed," wrote Ali Raj in response to a blog about the story. The #MeToo and #Timesup campaigns have gone global since allegations of sexual misconduct by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in 2017, sparking an avalanche of accusations against other powerful men. However, the movement has been slow to catch on in Pakistan, where women have fought for their rights for years in a patriarchal society where so-called "honour" killings and attacks on women remain commonplace. In 2017, future Prime Minister Imran Khan was also hit with allegations of sexual misconduct by a female lawmaker who accused the famed cricketer of sending obscene text messages. He later denied the allegations.

Filmmaker in Pakistan stirs #MeToo debate, claims he was raped by media tycoon

Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate landed in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on Friday, after turbulence forced the couple to stay overnight in Lahore.

On Thursday an RAF Voyager carrying the royals, who are on a four-day official visit to Pakistan, aborted landings in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi due to severe turbulence.

The couple on&nbsp;a five-day visit met&nbsp;Pakistan's&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Imran&nbsp;Khan on Tuesday. They&nbsp;also toured a school and a national park in the capital Islamabad where they chatted with children and admired their drawings.

The trip, which focused&nbsp;on climate change and access to education, has been described by palace officials as the most complex the couple have undertaken due to security issues.

Foreign policy experts and officials have said the trip, the first by a British royal family member in more than a decade and made at the request of the British foreign office, represented a soft power push, which may help both sides further their diplomatic aims.

It comes as Britain seeks to reinvigorate its foreign relationships as the deadline looms for its departure from the European Union, while Pakistan works to repair its global image to boost tourism and investment.

Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate landed in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on Friday, after turbulence forced the couple to stay overnight in Lahore. On Thursday an RAF Voyager carrying the royals, who are on a four-day official visit to Pakistan, aborted landings in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi due to severe turbulence.

Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate landed in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on Friday, after turbulence forced the couple to stay overnight in Lahore. On Thursday an RAF Voyager carrying the royals, who are on a four-day official visit to Pakistan, aborted landings in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi due to severe turbulence. The couple on a five-day visit met Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday. They also toured a school and a national park in the capital Islamabad where they chatted with children and admired their drawings. The trip, which focused on climate change and access to education, has been described by palace officials as the most complex the couple have undertaken due to security issues. Foreign policy experts and officials have said the trip, the first by a British royal family member in more than a decade and made at the request of the British foreign office, represented a soft power push, which may help both sides further their diplomatic aims. It comes as Britain seeks to reinvigorate its foreign relationships as the deadline looms for its departure from the European Union, while Pakistan works to repair its global image to boost tourism and investment.

Prince William and Kate Middleton land in Pakistan capital after aborted flight

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran&nbsp;Khan&nbsp;is likely to&nbsp;visit&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia and&nbsp;Iran, the foreign office in Islamabad said on Thursday, weeks&nbsp;after&nbsp;Islamabad said Washington had asked it to mediate with Tehran.

"The possibility of a&nbsp;visit&nbsp;of the prime minister to&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia and&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;is on the cards and I will update you as things unfold," foreign office spokesman, Mohammad Fasisal, told a news briefing.

The announcement of the possible&nbsp;visit&nbsp;comes&nbsp;after&nbsp;Khan&nbsp;last month described a request by&nbsp;US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, asking the&nbsp;Pakistani leader to help defuse tensions with&nbsp;Iran. Washington had blamed Tehran for an attack on the world's biggest crude oil processing facility in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.

Faisal declined to comment when asked whether the&nbsp;visit&nbsp;was related to the&nbsp;mediation&nbsp;request.

Tensions have elevated between&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-attack-at-saudi-arabias-oil-refinery-massive-fire-broke-out-249565">attack, which took place on Sept. 14.</a>

Yemen's&nbsp;Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has been fighting a&nbsp;Saudi-led military coalition since 2015, has claimed responsibility, but Washington and Riyadh say they believe the attack came from the opposite direction and blame&nbsp;Iran.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;denies involvement.

Khan&nbsp;said&nbsp;after&nbsp;a meeting with Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York that he was "trying and mediating" and had also spoken with&nbsp;Iran's President Hassan Rouhani.

Khan&nbsp;has ramped up his government's engagement on the international stage, offering to negotiate regional tensions. He has separately proposed to Trump that&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;could&nbsp;help broker peace in neighbouring Afghanistan.

Last week<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-delegation-meets-imran-khan-discusses-afghan-peace-process-253661">&nbsp;Pakistani government ministers met with both Taliban representatives</a> and the&nbsp;US&nbsp;peace envoy for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, in Islamabad while&nbsp;Pakistan's foreign minister called for a resumption in stalled peace talks between the Taliban and Washington.

The Taliban also met with Khalilzad, sources told Reuters, the first known contact since Trump halted talks last month, though officials said the talks did not represent a formal resumption of negotiations.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is likely to visit Saudi Arabia and Iran, the foreign office in Islamabad said on Thursday, weeks after Islamabad said Washington had asked it to mediate with Tehran.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is likely to visit Saudi Arabia and Iran, the foreign office in Islamabad said on Thursday, weeks after Islamabad said Washington had asked it to mediate with Tehran. "The possibility of a visit of the prime minister to Saudi Arabia and Iran is on the cards and I will update you as things unfold," foreign office spokesman, Mohammad Fasisal, told a news briefing. The announcement of the possible visit comes after Khan last month described a request by US President Donald Trump, asking the Pakistani leader to help defuse tensions with Iran. Washington had blamed Tehran for an attack on the world's biggest crude oil processing facility in Saudi Arabia. Faisal declined to comment when asked whether the visit was related to the mediation request. Tensions have elevated between Iran and Saudi Arabia since the attack, which took place on Sept. 14. Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has been fighting a Saudi-led military coalition since 2015, has claimed responsibility, but Washington and Riyadh say they believe the attack came from the opposite direction and blame Iran. Iran denies involvement. Khan said after a meeting with Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York that he was "trying and mediating" and had also spoken with Iran's President Hassan Rouhani. Khan has ramped up his government's engagement on the international stage, offering to negotiate regional tensions. He has separately proposed to Trump that Pakistan could help broker peace in neighbouring Afghanistan. Last week Pakistani government ministers met with both Taliban representatives and the US peace envoy for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, in Islamabad while Pakistan's foreign minister called for a resumption in stalled peace talks between the Taliban and Washington. The Taliban also met with Khalilzad, sources told Reuters, the first known contact since Trump halted talks last month, though officials said the talks did not represent a formal resumption of negotiations.

Pakistan says Imran Khan could visit Saudi, Iran, after US mediation request

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. 
 
Pakistan is not a normal country with political leaders, a Parliament, a constitution, the army and other branches of the state. It is one of the few places in the world where the army owns a country and runs it. The army is also in charge of a substantial portion of its economy.&nbsp;

After Indian action on Article 370, Pakistan appears to be very concerned about our 'secular’ fabric. They are trying to raise the issue in every way possible, without success.

In their ignorance or over enthusiasm, they claim that Kashmir is the jugular 'vain’ of Pakistan, as a recent press release by their official spokesperson, Director General ISPR revealed: “Pak Army is fully configured, prepared &amp; determined to defend honour, dignity &amp; territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain (sic) of Pakistan &amp; no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren” - COAS. Such is their level of vain about the jugular!&nbsp;

Their Constitution – the 1973 version visualises– to quote from its preamble, “Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed”&nbsp;

It is the Pakistani Army which is the chosen instrument to implement the will of God. This was clearly enunciated by its former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani; protecting Islam and protecting Pakistan are the sovereign duties of the armed forces. Actually, Kayani suggested that the role of army is more than protecting the country – it is to protect the idea and religion.&nbsp;

An UN investigating team appointed by former Pakistan President Asif Zardari probing the death of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could interview all civil leaders, including the PM and the President, but not the military brass. When the army objected to the Kerry–Lugar bill, the President had to bring in Kerry himself to convince the army chief.&nbsp;

It does not stop there. The army does not recognise some sects of Islam as Muslims. Ahmadis are an example. Abdus Salam, a Pak-origin scientist got the Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Steven Wienberg in 1979. His home town municipality erected an arch in memory of him, which said: ‘First Muslim Nobel Laureate in Physics’. There was a big hue and cry since he was an Ahmadi. So the word Muslim was erased. The revised plaque read: “First Nobel Laureate in Physics”!

Very recently, an MP brought a bill in the Pakistan senate to allow non-Muslims to occupy positions like Prime Minister, President etc. That was out rightly rejected by the parliamentarians. Forget about other ethnic groups like Hindus and Christians, minorities even within Islamic sects like Ahmadis and Bahais cannot occupy high constitutional positions.

In India, the defence minister can ask the army chief to court martial a General, but in Pakistan, any such attempt will result in a coup. That is why Pakistan always negotiates with a gun to its own head. It wants to assert its suicidal tendencies.&nbsp;

Many studies have found that a large number of companies in Pakistan are ultimately owned by Fauji Foundation (FF), Army Welfare Trust (AWT), Bahria Foundation (BF) and Shaheen Foundation (SF), all different wings of its armed forces.

Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). &nbsp;One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous.

At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country.&nbsp;

At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council.&nbsp;

If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them.

There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. 
 
There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship.

Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). &nbsp;One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous.

At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country.&nbsp;

At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council.&nbsp;

If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them.

There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pak-an-army-with-a-country-2795225">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship.

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. Pakistan is not a normal country with political leaders, a Parliament, a constitution, the army and other branches of the state. It is one of the few places in the world where the army owns a country and runs it. The army is also in charge of a substantial portion of its economy. After Indian action on Article 370, Pakistan appears to be very concerned about our 'secular’ fabric. They are trying to raise the issue in every way possible, without success. In their ignorance or over enthusiasm, they claim that Kashmir is the jugular 'vain’ of Pakistan, as a recent press release by their official spokesperson, Director General ISPR revealed: “Pak Army is fully configured, prepared & determined to defend honour, dignity & territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain (sic) of Pakistan & no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren” - COAS. Such is their level of vain about the jugular! Their Constitution – the 1973 version visualises– to quote from its preamble, “Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed” It is the Pakistani Army which is the chosen instrument to implement the will of God. This was clearly enunciated by its former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani; protecting Islam and protecting Pakistan are the sovereign duties of the armed forces. Actually, Kayani suggested that the role of army is more than protecting the country – it is to protect the idea and religion. An UN investigating team appointed by former Pakistan President Asif Zardari probing the death of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could interview all civil leaders, including the PM and the President, but not the military brass. When the army objected to the Kerry–Lugar bill, the President had to bring in Kerry himself to convince the army chief. It does not stop there. The army does not recognise some sects of Islam as Muslims. Ahmadis are an example. Abdus Salam, a Pak-origin scientist got the Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Steven Wienberg in 1979. His home town municipality erected an arch in memory of him, which said: ‘First Muslim Nobel Laureate in Physics’. There was a big hue and cry since he was an Ahmadi. So the word Muslim was erased. The revised plaque read: “First Nobel Laureate in Physics”! Very recently, an MP brought a bill in the Pakistan senate to allow non-Muslims to occupy positions like Prime Minister, President etc. That was out rightly rejected by the parliamentarians. Forget about other ethnic groups like Hindus and Christians, minorities even within Islamic sects like Ahmadis and Bahais cannot occupy high constitutional positions. In India, the defence minister can ask the army chief to court martial a General, but in Pakistan, any such attempt will result in a coup. That is why Pakistan always negotiates with a gun to its own head. It wants to assert its suicidal tendencies. Many studies have found that a large number of companies in Pakistan are ultimately owned by Fauji Foundation (FF), Army Welfare Trust (AWT), Bahria Foundation (BF) and Shaheen Foundation (SF), all different wings of its armed forces. Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous. At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country. At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council. If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them. There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous. At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country. At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council. If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them. There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan: An army with a country

Even as last week saw pictures of camaraderie and bonhomie between the Taliban and Pakistan, Afghanistan has come hard on Islamabad for hosting the group and India has said that New Delhi is monitoring the development.

President Ashraf Ghani's spokesman Sediq Sediqqi, speaking to WION, slammed Pakistan and said, "We don’t know why these Taliban-Pak are talks happening!"

Sediq added, "The key to sustainable peace is in Afghanistan. This kind of hosting of the Taliban by Pakistan only emboldens them to continue and hold to their violence against the Afghan government."

Meanwhile, India is also "closely monitoring" the developments from Islamabad on the Taliban-Pakistan talks.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in his weekly press briefing, on Friday said, "All sections of the Afghan government, including the legitimately elected Afghan government, should be part of the Afghan peace process" and "all processes should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate" clearly highlighting the exclusion of government in Kabul will not be accepted by India.

New Delhi also said, no "ungoverned spaces where terrorist and their proxies can operate and where they can create bases to target India" should form as the outcome of any talks.

India did not have ties with Afghanistan when it was under the Taliban's control in the late 199s. Pakistan was among the very few countries to have ties with Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. India saw its plane hijacked - Indian Airlines flight 814 - and taken to Kandahar in 1999 by Pakistan-based terrorist.

New Delhi is engaging with the United States and Afghanistan both on the recent developments in the South Asian country.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with US special envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad last week on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the first meet since US President Donald Trump cancelled talks with the Taliban.

Even as last week saw pictures of camaraderie and bonhomie between the Taliban and Pakistan, Afghanistan has come hard on Islamabad for hosting the group and India has said that New Delhi is monitoring the development.

Even as last week saw pictures of camaraderie and bonhomie between the Taliban and Pakistan, Afghanistan has come hard on Islamabad for hosting the group and India has said that New Delhi is monitoring the development. President Ashraf Ghani's spokesman Sediq Sediqqi, speaking to WION, slammed Pakistan and said, "We don’t know why these Taliban-Pak are talks happening!" Sediq added, "The key to sustainable peace is in Afghanistan. This kind of hosting of the Taliban by Pakistan only emboldens them to continue and hold to their violence against the Afghan government." Meanwhile, India is also "closely monitoring" the developments from Islamabad on the Taliban-Pakistan talks. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in his weekly press briefing, on Friday said, "All sections of the Afghan government, including the legitimately elected Afghan government, should be part of the Afghan peace process" and "all processes should respect the constitutional legacy and political mandate" clearly highlighting the exclusion of government in Kabul will not be accepted by India. New Delhi also said, no "ungoverned spaces where terrorist and their proxies can operate and where they can create bases to target India" should form as the outcome of any talks. India did not have ties with Afghanistan when it was under the Taliban's control in the late 199s. Pakistan was among the very few countries to have ties with Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. India saw its plane hijacked - Indian Airlines flight 814 - and taken to Kandahar in 1999 by Pakistan-based terrorist. New Delhi is engaging with the United States and Afghanistan both on the recent developments in the South Asian country. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with US special envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad last week on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the first meet since US President Donald Trump cancelled talks with the Taliban.

Pakistan-Taliban talks: Afghanistan slams Islamabad; India says closely monitoring development 

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi lost his cool on being asked to name the 58 countries that Prime Minister Imran Khan commended for backing Islamabad on its stance on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/youth-from-jammu-and-kashmir-line-up-to-join-indian-army-in-srinagar-253536">Kashmir</a> issue at the UNHRC.

During a talk show on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-summons-indian-envoy-following-ceasefire-violation-along-line-of-control-253275">Pakistan </a>TV channel Express-News, Qureshi was asked the question as he had repeatedly endorsed Khan's statement that 58 countries had supported Islamabad on the Kashmir issue, reported Sputnik news agency.

"On whose agenda are you working?"Khan snapped at talk show host Javed Chaudhry.

"Are you going to tell me or decide which countries have or have not supported Pakistan at the UN? You may write whatever you want!"

On being again pressed for endorsing Khan's comment on his own Twitter handle, Qureshi said, No! No! Show me the tweet I have written, not what Prime Minister Khan has written. You have said my tweet shows that to me. I want my tweet."

Oddly still, after the minister was shown the tweet, Qureshi said he found nothing wrong in the tweet. "I stand by what I have said. What is so surprising in this whose agenda are you following?.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi lost his cool on being asked to name the 58 countries that Prime Minister Imran Khan commended for backing Islamabad on its stance on the Kashmir issue at the UNHRC.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi lost his cool on being asked to name the 58 countries that Prime Minister Imran Khan commended for backing Islamabad on its stance on the Kashmir issue at the UNHRC. During a talk show on Pakistan TV channel Express-News, Qureshi was asked the question as he had repeatedly endorsed Khan's statement that 58 countries had supported Islamabad on the Kashmir issue, reported Sputnik news agency. "On whose agenda are you working?"Khan snapped at talk show host Javed Chaudhry. "Are you going to tell me or decide which countries have or have not supported Pakistan at the UN? You may write whatever you want!" On being again pressed for endorsing Khan's comment on his own Twitter handle, Qureshi said, No! No! Show me the tweet I have written, not what Prime Minister Khan has written. You have said my tweet shows that to me. I want my tweet." Oddly still, after the minister was shown the tweet, Qureshi said he found nothing wrong in the tweet. "I stand by what I have said. What is so surprising in this whose agenda are you following?.

Qureshi loses cool when asked to name 58 countries supporting Islamabad on Kashmir issue

A Taliban delegation met US&nbsp;special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on Thursday, two sources told Reuters, the first known contact between the two sides since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-says-taliban-talks-dead-us-military-to-ramp-up-afghanistan-operations-248707">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump called off talks last month.</a>

Sources cautioned the meeting, which lasted more than an hour, did not represent a resumption of formal negotiations.

"The Taliban officials held a meeting with Zalmay Khalilzad...all I can tell you is that Pakistan played a big role in it to convince them how important it was for the peace process," a senior Pakistan government official told Reuters, declining to be named as he was not authorised to speak publicly about the matter.

He added the contact, which was confirmed by a second source, did not involve formal negotiations on the peace process, but were interactions aimed at building confidence. He declined to elaborate further on the content of the discussions.

The US&nbsp;Embassy in Islamabad and State Department in Washington declined to comment on whether a meeting had taken place. A State Department spokesperson said that Khalilzad had spent "several days" in Islamabad this week for consultations with authorities in Pakistan.

The spokesperson said Khalilzad's meetings while in Islamabad did not represent a re-start to the Afghan peace process.

Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesman, would not confirm or deny that the Taliban had met Khalilzad, adding that the Taliban delegation was still in Islamabad for meetings on Friday.

Trump halted the talks with the Taliban, aimed at striking a deal allowing the US&nbsp;and other foreign troops to withdraw in exchange for Taliban security guarantees, following the death of a US&nbsp;soldier and 11 others in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul.

The Taliban delegation led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, one of the group's founders, had earlier met <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-delegation-to-visit-pakistan-and-discuss-failed-afghan-peace-talks-253201">Pakistan's foreign minister in Islamabad on Thursday</a> and both sides called for a resumption of the talks as soon as possible.

The United States has long considered Pakistan's cooperation crucial to efforts to end the war in Afghanistan and the latest developments follow a meeting last week between Trump and Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The US&nbsp;and Taliban said last month, shortly before talks broke off, that they were close to reaching a deal, despite concerns among some US&nbsp;security officials and within the Afghan government that a US&nbsp;withdrawal could lead to more conflict and a possible resurgence of Islamist militant factions.

A Taliban delegation met US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on Thursday, two sources told Reuters, the first known contact between the two sides since US President Donald Trump called off talks last month.

A Taliban delegation met US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on Thursday, two sources told Reuters, the first known contact between the two sides since US President Donald Trump called off talks last month. Sources cautioned the meeting, which lasted more than an hour, did not represent a resumption of formal negotiations. "The Taliban officials held a meeting with Zalmay Khalilzad...all I can tell you is that Pakistan played a big role in it to convince them how important it was for the peace process," a senior Pakistan government official told Reuters, declining to be named as he was not authorised to speak publicly about the matter. He added the contact, which was confirmed by a second source, did not involve formal negotiations on the peace process, but were interactions aimed at building confidence. He declined to elaborate further on the content of the discussions. The US Embassy in Islamabad and State Department in Washington declined to comment on whether a meeting had taken place. A State Department spokesperson said that Khalilzad had spent "several days" in Islamabad this week for consultations with authorities in Pakistan. The spokesperson said Khalilzad's meetings while in Islamabad did not represent a re-start to the Afghan peace process. Zabihullah Mujahid, a Taliban spokesman, would not confirm or deny that the Taliban had met Khalilzad, adding that the Taliban delegation was still in Islamabad for meetings on Friday. Trump halted the talks with the Taliban, aimed at striking a deal allowing the US and other foreign troops to withdraw in exchange for Taliban security guarantees, following the death of a US soldier and 11 others in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul. The Taliban delegation led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, one of the group's founders, had earlier met Pakistan's foreign minister in Islamabad on Thursday and both sides called for a resumption of the talks as soon as possible. The United States has long considered Pakistan's cooperation crucial to efforts to end the war in Afghanistan and the latest developments follow a meeting last week between Trump and Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The US and Taliban said last month, shortly before talks broke off, that they were close to reaching a deal, despite concerns among some US security officials and within the Afghan government that a US withdrawal could lead to more conflict and a possible resurgence of Islamist militant factions.

Taliban delegation met US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad during visit to Islamabad

US special envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad is in Islamabad to “review the progress made under US-Taliban peace talks so far.

Pakistan hosts Afghan peace talks again

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan.

Since 1947, Pakistan has spent the bulk of its existence under army rule.

Despite that dodgy tradition, when the business community goes to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa&nbsp;for ideas instead of the elected prime minister, it gives rise to some serious questions.

Is Pakistan a country with an army? Or is Pakistan an army with a country?

On WION Edit, we will specifically explore these questions in the context of the economy. When Imran Khan came to power, he came on two tall promises.

1, Rooting out corruption 
2, Ushering in an era of economic growth

It is safe to say that the Pakistan Prime Minister has failed on both counts in a spectacular fashion. But still, can General Bajwa revive the economy?

Here, we have to understand the political dynamics in Pakistan.

Pakistan's army runs the country's economy. The Fauji Foundation is the second-largest conglomerate in Pakistan. It controls everything from the food sector to energy. And guess who runs it - the army

Decades of army rule have eroded democratic institutions in Islamabad. Besides General Bajwa always held more power than Imran khan.

Imran Khan calls himself the ambassador of Kashmir. In truth, he is just a spokesperson of the Pakistani army.

So would things change now, given that General Bajwa looks set to take economic decisions?

The straight-forward answer is 'no', not a chance.

Pakistan's economic troubles run deep and are structural. Right now, Pakistan is running on external money and debt is soaring.

And Imran Khan has no clue, no say, and general Bajwa will continue to protect the army's interests. Already, he has linked the economy with national security.

Unless Pakistan gets a semblance of democracy, the welfare measures will not reach the common man. With a more prominent role for General Bajwa, Pakistan's sham-democracy is unlikely to deliver growth.

Unless public investment and private investment picks up, unless wealth creation is prioritised, Pakistan's economic problems will continue.

And when you are an army with a country, the country will be forced to serve the needs of the army and not vice versa. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan.

The most trusted institution, the most powerful institution in pakistan is its army. In fact, political succession does not happen through democratic processes along in Pakistan. Since 1947, Pakistan has spent the bulk of its existence under army rule. Despite that dodgy tradition, when the business community goes to Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa for ideas instead of the elected prime minister, it gives rise to some serious questions. Is Pakistan a country with an army? Or is Pakistan an army with a country? On WION Edit, we will specifically explore these questions in the context of the economy. When Imran Khan came to power, he came on two tall promises. 1, Rooting out corruption 2, Ushering in an era of economic growth It is safe to say that the Pakistan Prime Minister has failed on both counts in a spectacular fashion. But still, can General Bajwa revive the economy? Here, we have to understand the political dynamics in Pakistan. Pakistan's army runs the country's economy. The Fauji Foundation is the second-largest conglomerate in Pakistan. It controls everything from the food sector to energy. And guess who runs it - the army Decades of army rule have eroded democratic institutions in Islamabad. Besides General Bajwa always held more power than Imran khan. Imran Khan calls himself the ambassador of Kashmir. In truth, he is just a spokesperson of the Pakistani army. So would things change now, given that General Bajwa looks set to take economic decisions? The straight-forward answer is 'no', not a chance. Pakistan's economic troubles run deep and are structural. Right now, Pakistan is running on external money and debt is soaring. And Imran Khan has no clue, no say, and general Bajwa will continue to protect the army's interests. Already, he has linked the economy with national security. Unless Pakistan gets a semblance of democracy, the welfare measures will not reach the common man. With a more prominent role for General Bajwa, Pakistan's sham-democracy is unlikely to deliver growth. Unless public investment and private investment picks up, unless wealth creation is prioritised, Pakistan's economic problems will continue. And when you are an army with a country, the country will be forced to serve the needs of the army and not vice versa. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: General in his labyrinth

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count. There were suicide squads that had wreaked havoc before. But somehow this time, it was different. Several high-profile incidents had taken place that year. Suicide attack at Pathankot Air Base in January, biggest hostage situation in six storeyed EDI Building in Pampore in February, Kashmir Valley on the boil after terrorist leader Burhan Wani’s elimination in July. Right timing an audacious military plan backed by bold leadership that not only took ownership, but also converged other instruments of power to multiply the pressure on Pakistan.&nbsp;

Swift retaliation at terrorist launch pads across the line of control (LoC) followed with a stated intent served a twofold purpose. One, India had found space below the nuclear threshold, which we colloquially hear as being said, ‘…called their nuclear bluff’. The second and more importantly, we had now established our stance of dissuasion. For over three decades Pakistan has been waging a proxy war and pushing in terrorists into J&amp;K across the LoC, inter alia. Our response has been largely defensive and restricted to the confines of the LoC. By following the concept of ‘hot pursuit’ we’ve taken the battle to the enemy’s territory, as we would say in military parlance. The doctrine of hot pursuit owes its origin to the law of the seas, at a time when smuggling and piracy were rampant, this customary doctrine emerged to empower a coastal state to pursue on to the high seas a vessel that had violated its laws within its waters.&nbsp;

Over the years, some countries have expanded the doctrine of hot pursuit on land, to justify the breaches of territorial sovereignty of foreign states as part of the ongoing pursuit of offenders. It started in 1986 when South Africa sought to justify its incursions into neighbouring African states against rebels. More recently, it has been employed by the United States regarding Taliban militants crossing into Pakistan or by Turkey regarding its attacks on Kurdistan Workers Party bases in Northern Iraq, also by Colombia regarding its raid on a Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia camp in Ecuador in 2008.

Two years later when a similar high-profile suicide attack at Pulwama caused a larger number of casualties, the whole country expected another bold ‘surgical strike’, as the September retaliation at terrorist launch pads in POK had come to be known. Precise airstrikes were launched within 12 days, striking at the roots of terror far deep inside Pakistan. And like before, we announced to the world and to Pakistan, our intent and purpose. In both cases, India arguably found heartening international support against terrorist endeavours. The world has little patience for terrorism or its sponsors. India had firmly shed the soft-state tag.

Two other unconnected incidents have helped India cement it’s resolve and gain more confidence in initiating strong steps in support of bold decisions taken in the national interest, a veritable departure from the past practices notwithstanding. First, it was our operations against the Northeast insurgents camps in Myanmar, and second, was our standing up to China resolutely to defend the interest of Bhutan in Dolam Plateau in 2017. Is this the new normal? Has India announced a paradigm shift? Have we redrawn our red lines? And statedly so? These strong responses may seem like a one-off raid or strike, but a great deal of preparation and planning goes into it. Planning and execution of the operation itself is not the only facet. Planning and preparation for the possible enemy retaliation and being ready for all scenarios is the larger part. This includes diplomatic fallout as well. Mobilisation of international opinion against terrorism has to be balanced with other elements of state policy as well. Economic or commercial linkages were also leveraged.

India has taken a bold stand. Why must we continue to adopt such a strong response posture? Let us take a look at the emerging situation in Afghanistan. If USA pulls out soon, owing to its domestic compulsions, we may witness a situation like the nineties, with Pakistan in control (or not) of jihadis of different hues. And a there would natural inclination on their part to push them across the LoC, lest they destabilise their territory. It will also serve their agenda of reinvigorating proxy war in Kashmir. While we must prepare ourselves against this scenario, we must also take heart from the fact that India’s preparedness on the line of control today is far better than it was three decades ago. Our troop deployment, as well as weapon &amp; equipment profile, is much more robust now and there is an LC fence in place. However, our biggest card should be this new, bold response posture of taking the battle to enemy territory, if required. Therefore it is in India’s interest that this new dissuasive stand that we have started adopting must continue, the mode and modalities of dissuasion can change, must change actually. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-tackling-terrorism-smartly-2793140">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count.

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count. There were suicide squads that had wreaked havoc before. But somehow this time, it was different. Several high-profile incidents had taken place that year. Suicide attack at Pathankot Air Base in January, biggest hostage situation in six storeyed EDI Building in Pampore in February, Kashmir Valley on the boil after terrorist leader Burhan Wani’s elimination in July. Right timing an audacious military plan backed by bold leadership that not only took ownership, but also converged other instruments of power to multiply the pressure on Pakistan. Swift retaliation at terrorist launch pads across the line of control (LoC) followed with a stated intent served a twofold purpose. One, India had found space below the nuclear threshold, which we colloquially hear as being said, ‘…called their nuclear bluff’. The second and more importantly, we had now established our stance of dissuasion. For over three decades Pakistan has been waging a proxy war and pushing in terrorists into J&K across the LoC, inter alia. Our response has been largely defensive and restricted to the confines of the LoC. By following the concept of ‘hot pursuit’ we’ve taken the battle to the enemy’s territory, as we would say in military parlance. The doctrine of hot pursuit owes its origin to the law of the seas, at a time when smuggling and piracy were rampant, this customary doctrine emerged to empower a coastal state to pursue on to the high seas a vessel that had violated its laws within its waters. Over the years, some countries have expanded the doctrine of hot pursuit on land, to justify the breaches of territorial sovereignty of foreign states as part of the ongoing pursuit of offenders. It started in 1986 when South Africa sought to justify its incursions into neighbouring African states against rebels. More recently, it has been employed by the United States regarding Taliban militants crossing into Pakistan or by Turkey regarding its attacks on Kurdistan Workers Party bases in Northern Iraq, also by Colombia regarding its raid on a Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia camp in Ecuador in 2008. Two years later when a similar high-profile suicide attack at Pulwama caused a larger number of casualties, the whole country expected another bold ‘surgical strike’, as the September retaliation at terrorist launch pads in POK had come to be known. Precise airstrikes were launched within 12 days, striking at the roots of terror far deep inside Pakistan. And like before, we announced to the world and to Pakistan, our intent and purpose. In both cases, India arguably found heartening international support against terrorist endeavours. The world has little patience for terrorism or its sponsors. India had firmly shed the soft-state tag. Two other unconnected incidents have helped India cement it’s resolve and gain more confidence in initiating strong steps in support of bold decisions taken in the national interest, a veritable departure from the past practices notwithstanding. First, it was our operations against the Northeast insurgents camps in Myanmar, and second, was our standing up to China resolutely to defend the interest of Bhutan in Dolam Plateau in 2017. Is this the new normal? Has India announced a paradigm shift? Have we redrawn our red lines? And statedly so? These strong responses may seem like a one-off raid or strike, but a great deal of preparation and planning goes into it. Planning and execution of the operation itself is not the only facet. Planning and preparation for the possible enemy retaliation and being ready for all scenarios is the larger part. This includes diplomatic fallout as well. Mobilisation of international opinion against terrorism has to be balanced with other elements of state policy as well. Economic or commercial linkages were also leveraged. India has taken a bold stand. Why must we continue to adopt such a strong response posture? Let us take a look at the emerging situation in Afghanistan. If USA pulls out soon, owing to its domestic compulsions, we may witness a situation like the nineties, with Pakistan in control (or not) of jihadis of different hues. And a there would natural inclination on their part to push them across the LoC, lest they destabilise their territory. It will also serve their agenda of reinvigorating proxy war in Kashmir. While we must prepare ourselves against this scenario, we must also take heart from the fact that India’s preparedness on the line of control today is far better than it was three decades ago. Our troop deployment, as well as weapon & equipment profile, is much more robust now and there is an LC fence in place. However, our biggest card should be this new, bold response posture of taking the battle to enemy territory, if required. Therefore it is in India’s interest that this new dissuasive stand that we have started adopting must continue, the mode and modalities of dissuasion can change, must change actually. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India has taken the battle to enemy’s territory through surgical strike

Pakistan continues to play hide and seek game with the international community as far as Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jammat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed is concerned. Within a month of Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) arresting Saeed in connection with a terrorism financing case on July 17 this year, Pakistani authorities moved swiftly to move the United Nations to allow him to use his bank account for his family's basic monthly expenses.&nbsp;

It is baffling to figure out the purpose behind Pakistan writing a letter to the United Nations Security Council, which though approved its request as no objections were raised by member countries by the deadline of August 15. Pakistan seems to have scored a self-goal by approaching the United Nations, which shows its apathy for a terrorist. Does Saeed really need access to his bank account to meet his daily expenses when he is hosted by the Pakistani authorities? Couldn’t Pakistan bear his expenses covertly as it has been doing for the last several decades?&nbsp;

The recent development has not only put Pakistani foreign policy mandarins shamefaced but also exposed their shady character. This comes at a time when Prime Minister Imran Khan is besieging the international community on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly against possible blacklisting of his almost bankrupt country by the inter-governmental Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Pakistan, which has been placed on the grey list of countries whose domestic laws are considered weak to tackle challenges of money laundering and terror&nbsp;financing, has time till October to get the decision revoked. The Paris-based body is holding its week-long plenary meeting from October 13 when Pakistan’s fate will be sealed. Pakistan, which has been reeling under double-digit inflation, high-interest rates and massive discontentment as unemployment rises, will be dealt a major body blow if it is blacklisted by FATF.

It should be recalled that the Asia Pacific Group (APG) under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) during its last month meeting in Bangkok had placed Pakistan in the Enhanced Expedited Follow Up List (Blacklist) for its failure to meet 21 of the 27 action parameters. Out of 118 UN-designated terrorists, Pakistan could show action against only five, including Hafiz Saeed. The agency noted that no demonstrable action could be shown against individuals like Masood Azhar, Rauf Azhar and Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi or groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Falah-e-Insaniat, Haqqani network or Daesh (Islamic State).

Last year also, Pakistan had made a mockery of its so-called avowed commitment to the implementation of the United Nations Security Council 1267 sanctions regime on terrorists when it freed Saeed from the purported “house arrest” with the lame excuse that the Lahore court did not merit his detention. If that was not enough, Pakistan allowed Saeed to open the first office of his political group Milli Muslim League (MML) in Lahore. Ironically, according to Pakistani government records, the MML is the offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and JuD.

What makes Saeed such a formidable force that Pakistan wants to protect the UN-designated terrorist, who carries a $10 million American bounty on his head for terror activities. Saeed is an important asset for Pakistani establishment which uses his influence to carry out terror activities in Kashmir and elsewhere. Whilst LeT remains banned in Pakistan, the political arm of the group, Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) continues to function unhindered. LeT has been accused of attacking military and civilian targets in India, most notably the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Pulwama attack on armed forces. Despite the ban, Pakistan's main intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), continues to offer LeT help and protection. Not only the ISI, but Saeed also enjoys the support of the powerful army as well. In fact, Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa had come in full support of him when he appeared before a parliament forum last year and said that Saeed, like every other Pakistani, had the right to raise the Kashmir issue.

Approaching the UN Security Council is nothing but a false show by Pakistan that it has choked all funds to Saeed who desperately needed money to meet his expenses. In the letter, Pakistan has described Saeed, a designated global terrorist, as an assistant professor of engineering and technology in Lahore. In its overzealousness in garnering support for Saeed, Pakistani foreign ministry officials convincingly forgot that the establishment had only a few months ago arrested him on charges of terror financing. The latest development is another concrete proof of Pakistan’s deepening nexus between the establishment and the terrorists and terrorist organisations.

Pakistan’s steadfast support to terrorists like Saeed, that too when the FATF meet is scheduled next month, is something hard to digest. Either it is not aware of the impending dangers or is it confident that it will manage to extricate out of the mess. In the event of Pakistan downgraded further and blacklisted by FATF, not only will it lose its power to approach major international banks for loans, no country or institution will be permitted to invest in Pakistan. Can Pakistan afford this? In the 36-member FATF, Pakistan needs at least 15 votes to escape the humiliation and getting blacklisted, which looks highly unlikely.

It is high time the global community sees through the shenanigans of Pakistan whose Prime Minister Imran Khan has proudly claimed to be hosting 30,000 to 40,000 terrorists and threatening nuclear war with India. Khan also boasted that "40 different militant groups" were operating from Pakistan. What more evidence does the international community need when an elected prime minister of Pakistan himself claims that his country is the hub of terrorists! The world’s major powers have time and again failed to practice what they preach the so-called war against terrorism. The problem is every country looks at terrorism through its only prism. For example, Iran is a ‘number one nation of terror’ according to President Donald Trump who carefully avoids a question on Pakistan as a terrorist country. For President Trump, Pakistan can still prove its worthiness whenever he takes a U-turn, as has been his forte, and wants to reopen talks with the Taliban so as to pull out his forces from Afghanistan before he bids for re-election next year.

Until and unless the world comes round the view that terrorism offers the biggest challenge to mankind and requires concerted action, the war against terrorism is not going to succeed. Or one to understand that some powerful countries don’t really want an end to terrorism so that they can continue selling their military hardware to countries afflicted with terrorism and make capital out of it! &nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan continues to play hide and seek game with the international community as far as Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jammat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed is concerned.

Pakistan continues to play hide and seek game with the international community as far as Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jammat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed is concerned. Within a month of Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) arresting Saeed in connection with a terrorism financing case on July 17 this year, Pakistani authorities moved swiftly to move the United Nations to allow him to use his bank account for his family's basic monthly expenses. It is baffling to figure out the purpose behind Pakistan writing a letter to the United Nations Security Council, which though approved its request as no objections were raised by member countries by the deadline of August 15. Pakistan seems to have scored a self-goal by approaching the United Nations, which shows its apathy for a terrorist. Does Saeed really need access to his bank account to meet his daily expenses when he is hosted by the Pakistani authorities? Couldn’t Pakistan bear his expenses covertly as it has been doing for the last several decades? The recent development has not only put Pakistani foreign policy mandarins shamefaced but also exposed their shady character. This comes at a time when Prime Minister Imran Khan is besieging the international community on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations General Assembly against possible blacklisting of his almost bankrupt country by the inter-governmental Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Pakistan, which has been placed on the grey list of countries whose domestic laws are considered weak to tackle challenges of money laundering and terror financing, has time till October to get the decision revoked. The Paris-based body is holding its week-long plenary meeting from October 13 when Pakistan’s fate will be sealed. Pakistan, which has been reeling under double-digit inflation, high-interest rates and massive discontentment as unemployment rises, will be dealt a major body blow if it is blacklisted by FATF. It should be recalled that the Asia Pacific Group (APG) under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) during its last month meeting in Bangkok had placed Pakistan in the Enhanced Expedited Follow Up List (Blacklist) for its failure to meet 21 of the 27 action parameters. Out of 118 UN-designated terrorists, Pakistan could show action against only five, including Hafiz Saeed. The agency noted that no demonstrable action could be shown against individuals like Masood Azhar, Rauf Azhar and Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi or groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Falah-e-Insaniat, Haqqani network or Daesh (Islamic State). Last year also, Pakistan had made a mockery of its so-called avowed commitment to the implementation of the United Nations Security Council 1267 sanctions regime on terrorists when it freed Saeed from the purported “house arrest” with the lame excuse that the Lahore court did not merit his detention. If that was not enough, Pakistan allowed Saeed to open the first office of his political group Milli Muslim League (MML) in Lahore. Ironically, according to Pakistani government records, the MML is the offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and JuD. What makes Saeed such a formidable force that Pakistan wants to protect the UN-designated terrorist, who carries a $10 million American bounty on his head for terror activities. Saeed is an important asset for Pakistani establishment which uses his influence to carry out terror activities in Kashmir and elsewhere. Whilst LeT remains banned in Pakistan, the political arm of the group, Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) continues to function unhindered. LeT has been accused of attacking military and civilian targets in India, most notably the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Pulwama attack on armed forces. Despite the ban, Pakistan's main intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), continues to offer LeT help and protection. Not only the ISI, but Saeed also enjoys the support of the powerful army as well. In fact, Pakistan Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa had come in full support of him when he appeared before a parliament forum last year and said that Saeed, like every other Pakistani, had the right to raise the Kashmir issue. Approaching the UN Security Council is nothing but a false show by Pakistan that it has choked all funds to Saeed who desperately needed money to meet his expenses. In the letter, Pakistan has described Saeed, a designated global terrorist, as an assistant professor of engineering and technology in Lahore. In its overzealousness in garnering support for Saeed, Pakistani foreign ministry officials convincingly forgot that the establishment had only a few months ago arrested him on charges of terror financing. The latest development is another concrete proof of Pakistan’s deepening nexus between the establishment and the terrorists and terrorist organisations. Pakistan’s steadfast support to terrorists like Saeed, that too when the FATF meet is scheduled next month, is something hard to digest. Either it is not aware of the impending dangers or is it confident that it will manage to extricate out of the mess. In the event of Pakistan downgraded further and blacklisted by FATF, not only will it lose its power to approach major international banks for loans, no country or institution will be permitted to invest in Pakistan. Can Pakistan afford this? In the 36-member FATF, Pakistan needs at least 15 votes to escape the humiliation and getting blacklisted, which looks highly unlikely. It is high time the global community sees through the shenanigans of Pakistan whose Prime Minister Imran Khan has proudly claimed to be hosting 30,000 to 40,000 terrorists and threatening nuclear war with India. Khan also boasted that "40 different militant groups" were operating from Pakistan. What more evidence does the international community need when an elected prime minister of Pakistan himself claims that his country is the hub of terrorists! The world’s major powers have time and again failed to practice what they preach the so-called war against terrorism. The problem is every country looks at terrorism through its only prism. For example, Iran is a ‘number one nation of terror’ according to President Donald Trump who carefully avoids a question on Pakistan as a terrorist country. For President Trump, Pakistan can still prove its worthiness whenever he takes a U-turn, as has been his forte, and wants to reopen talks with the Taliban so as to pull out his forces from Afghanistan before he bids for re-election next year. Until and unless the world comes round the view that terrorism offers the biggest challenge to mankind and requires concerted action, the war against terrorism is not going to succeed. Or one to understand that some powerful countries don’t really want an end to terrorism so that they can continue selling their military hardware to countries afflicted with terrorism and make capital out of it! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why Pakistan’s heart bleeds for Hafiz Saeed?

Member of the European parliament Neena Gill has slammed Pakistan for not able to protect minorities in the country, human rights violation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and its lack of action on terrorism.

Speaking during a discussion on Kashmir, Gill said, "To those members who have spoken today of their indignation towards India, I am astonished by your partiality, oversight and lack of any real empathy with the Kashmiris. Why do I say partial?"

"When Pakistan took the same measures in Gilgit and Baltistan, we didn’t speak up. When they gave away territory, which wasn't theirs, to China, we didn't speak up. Or when Sikhs and other minority women are abducted and forced to convert, we don't speak up. The fact is, there are human rights violations in PoK and very many honourable colleagues look the other way," Gill added.&nbsp;

Weeks ago a Sikh girl in Pakistan's Punjab province, Jagjit Kaur, was abducted and converted to Islam causing an international outcry.

Rapping Islamabad for its support to terror, Neena said, "The solution to Kashmir will come when state-sponsored terrorism and global misinformation by Pakistan ends, then dialogue will follow."

"Pakistan may talk the talk but it does not walk the walk when it comes to human rights... And I say to those colleagues concerned about rescinding of Article 370, you focus on one part and ignore the other issues that are dear to the hearts of many of us. Not only will it improve the rights of LGBT, women, minorities, it will also improve environmental protections amongst others and ban the outrageous triple talaq divorce," she added.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been trying to rake up Kashmir globally but hasn't found any traction. Last month at the United Nations Security Council it tried to rake up issue via China but other members of the UNSC did not support for an emergency session on Kashmir. &nbsp;

Member of the European parliament Neena Gill has slammed Pakistan for not able to protect minorities in the country, human rights violation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and its lack of action on terrorism.

Member of the European parliament Neena Gill has slammed Pakistan for not able to protect minorities in the country, human rights violation in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir and its lack of action on terrorism. Speaking during a discussion on Kashmir, Gill said, "To those members who have spoken today of their indignation towards India, I am astonished by your partiality, oversight and lack of any real empathy with the Kashmiris. Why do I say partial?" "When Pakistan took the same measures in Gilgit and Baltistan, we didn’t speak up. When they gave away territory, which wasn't theirs, to China, we didn't speak up. Or when Sikhs and other minority women are abducted and forced to convert, we don't speak up. The fact is, there are human rights violations in PoK and very many honourable colleagues look the other way," Gill added. Weeks ago a Sikh girl in Pakistan's Punjab province, Jagjit Kaur, was abducted and converted to Islam causing an international outcry. Rapping Islamabad for its support to terror, Neena said, "The solution to Kashmir will come when state-sponsored terrorism and global misinformation by Pakistan ends, then dialogue will follow." "Pakistan may talk the talk but it does not walk the walk when it comes to human rights... And I say to those colleagues concerned about rescinding of Article 370, you focus on one part and ignore the other issues that are dear to the hearts of many of us. Not only will it improve the rights of LGBT, women, minorities, it will also improve environmental protections amongst others and ban the outrageous triple talaq divorce," she added. Pakistan has been trying to rake up Kashmir globally but hasn't found any traction. Last month at the United Nations Security Council it tried to rake up issue via China but other members of the UNSC did not support for an emergency session on Kashmir.

I'm astonished by your partiality: European parliamentarian raises issue of human rights violation in PoK 

India has raised the issue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-incessant-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-along-loc-causing-constant-worry-among-locals-248365">ceasefire violation by Pakistan</a> and its support to cross border terrorist infiltration which is aided by unprovoked firing from the other side.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "have highlighted our concerns at unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces, including in support of cross border terrorist infiltration, and targeting of Indian civilians and border posts by them".

There have been 2,050 unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan this year in which 21 Indians have died.

Asking Pakistan to "adhere to 2003 ceasefire understanding and maintain peace and tranquillity along the LOC and IB", the MEA spokesperson said, "Indian forces exercise maximum restraint and respond to unprovoked violations and attempts at cross border terrorist infiltration".

India had raised the matter via diplomatic channels in Islamabad. Pakistan had summoned Indian deputy high commissioner on Saturday, the latter had told them not to exacerbate the situation at the LoC.

Increasingly, it is being seen that Pakistan has been instigating people on its side to cross the Line Of Control.

Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command of the Indian Army on Saturday said, "There are a large number of leaders across the LoC who are instigating PoK residents. It's trying to use them as cannon fodder for attempts to come close to LoC".

Exuding confidence, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh said, "situation at LoC is firmly under control. By our calibrated and proactive approach, we have been able to attain complete moral ascendency over the enemy".

He visited forward posts in Rajouri and Sunderbani sectors on Saturday to review the operational preparedness and the prevalent security situation.

India has raised the issue of ceasefire violation by Pakistan and its support to cross border terrorist infiltration which is aided by unprovoked firing from the other side.

India has raised the issue of ceasefire violation by Pakistan and its support to cross border terrorist infiltration which is aided by unprovoked firing from the other side. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "have highlighted our concerns at unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan forces, including in support of cross border terrorist infiltration, and targeting of Indian civilians and border posts by them". There have been 2,050 unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan this year in which 21 Indians have died. Asking Pakistan to "adhere to 2003 ceasefire understanding and maintain peace and tranquillity along the LOC and IB", the MEA spokesperson said, "Indian forces exercise maximum restraint and respond to unprovoked violations and attempts at cross border terrorist infiltration". India had raised the matter via diplomatic channels in Islamabad. Pakistan had summoned Indian deputy high commissioner on Saturday, the latter had told them not to exacerbate the situation at the LoC. Increasingly, it is being seen that Pakistan has been instigating people on its side to cross the Line Of Control. Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command of the Indian Army on Saturday said, "There are a large number of leaders across the LoC who are instigating PoK residents. It's trying to use them as cannon fodder for attempts to come close to LoC". Exuding confidence, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh said, "situation at LoC is firmly under control. By our calibrated and proactive approach, we have been able to attain complete moral ascendency over the enemy". He visited forward posts in Rajouri and Sunderbani sectors on Saturday to review the operational preparedness and the prevalent security situation.

Over 2,000 ceasefire violations by Pak this year, India asks Islamabad to stop supporting terror infiltration

Pakistan Interior Minister Brig Ijaz Ahmed Shah has brought a major embarrassment to Prime Minister Imran Khan and his coterie of ministers with his admission that Islamabad has failed to get support from the international community over its stand on Kashmir issue.

Shah blamed Pakistan's "ruling elite" including Khan for "destroying" the image of the country.

"People do not believe us in the international community. We say they (India) impose curfew and are not giving medicines to people of Jammu and Kashmir. People do not believe us but they believe them. The ruling elite has destroyed the country. The ruling elite of this country destroyed the name. People thought we are not a serious nation," he said, during a talk show on Pakistani news channel Hum News on Wednesday.

When asked whether Khan, Benazir Bhutto, Pervez Musharraf, and others were a part of the ruling elite, the former spy chief said: "Everyone is responsible. Pakistan should now do a soul searching."

Ijaz's remarks came a day after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, during a UNHRC session in Geneva, claimed that India has transformed Jammu and Kashmir into the largest "caged prison in this planet" after the abrogation of Article 370 and that the human rights were being "trampled with impunity" there.

India had rejected Qureshi's allegations and hit back saying a "fabricated narrative" on Jammu and Kashmir has come from "the epicentre of global terrorism" and from a nation, which conducts cross-border terrorism as a form of alternate diplomacy.

Islamabad has been left red-faced after its desperate attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue fell flat.

The country has found itself isolated after being snubbed at the United Nations, as well as by countries like the United States, France, and Russia. India's decision has been hailed internationally with several countries calling the move as India's internal matter even as Pakistan has been trying to internationalise the issue.

Islamabad has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue.

Pakistan has approached various world leaders, including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Jordanian King Abdullah II to seek their interventions into the issue, but in vain.

However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.&nbsp;

Pakistan Interior Minister Brig Ijaz Ahmed Shah has brought a major embarrassment to Prime Minister Imran Khan and his coterie of ministers with his admission that Islamabad has failed to get support from the international community over its stand on Kashmir issue.

Pakistan Interior Minister Brig Ijaz Ahmed Shah has brought a major embarrassment to Prime Minister Imran Khan and his coterie of ministers with his admission that Islamabad has failed to get support from the international community over its stand on Kashmir issue. Shah blamed Pakistan's "ruling elite" including Khan for "destroying" the image of the country. "People do not believe us in the international community. We say they (India) impose curfew and are not giving medicines to people of Jammu and Kashmir. People do not believe us but they believe them. The ruling elite has destroyed the country. The ruling elite of this country destroyed the name. People thought we are not a serious nation," he said, during a talk show on Pakistani news channel Hum News on Wednesday. When asked whether Khan, Benazir Bhutto, Pervez Musharraf, and others were a part of the ruling elite, the former spy chief said: "Everyone is responsible. Pakistan should now do a soul searching." Ijaz's remarks came a day after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, during a UNHRC session in Geneva, claimed that India has transformed Jammu and Kashmir into the largest "caged prison in this planet" after the abrogation of Article 370 and that the human rights were being "trampled with impunity" there. India had rejected Qureshi's allegations and hit back saying a "fabricated narrative" on Jammu and Kashmir has come from "the epicentre of global terrorism" and from a nation, which conducts cross-border terrorism as a form of alternate diplomacy. Islamabad has been left red-faced after its desperate attempts to internationalise the Kashmir issue fell flat. The country has found itself isolated after being snubbed at the United Nations, as well as by countries like the United States, France, and Russia. India's decision has been hailed internationally with several countries calling the move as India's internal matter even as Pakistan has been trying to internationalise the issue. Islamabad has found itself completely isolated despite desperate attempts aimed at internationalising the issue. Pakistan has approached various world leaders, including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Jordanian King Abdullah II to seek their interventions into the issue, but in vain. However, Pakistan has been told to engage bilaterally with India to end tensions. India has repeatedly made it clear that talks with Pakistan are only possible after Islamabad stops sponsoring terror.

Pakistan fails to convince international community over Kashmir issue: Minister

islamabad

Islamabad, News on Islamabad, stories on Islamabad, articles on Islamabad, Islamabad stories at Wion, Islamabad news, Islamabad latest news