A policeman was killed, and two others were left injured after two masked men riding a motorcycle opened fire at a police checkpoint in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad city.

The incident has shocked everyone, with police describing the late-night shootout as a “rare security breach” in the city, which hosts more than a dozen embassies.

The Monday night gun battle, in which two militants were also shot dead, took place in the vicinity of the Karachi Company police station.

The country’s interior minister Sheikh Rasheed has warned of more terrorism-related incidents in the federal capital.

“This was not an incident of dacoity or theft. Terrorists opened fire on them [police officials]. This is a signal for us that terror incidents have started taking place in Islamabad,” he said while speaking to journalists after the deceased police officer’s funeral prayers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ttp-claims-responsibility-for-suicide-attack-in-pakistans-quetta-410824">TTP claims responsibility for suicide attack in Pakistan's Quetta</a>

The interior minister said authorities needed to remain alert, as he noted the incident was "purely of terrorism". Rasheed said the authorities had tracked down the "sleeper cell" of the terrorists through their motorcycle.

"Islamabad police and other forces are on alert."

Shahid Zaman, a senior Islamabad Police official, also told&nbsp;AFP&nbsp;the incident was "an act of terrorism".

The martyred police official has been identified as Head Constable Munawwar, while the injured include Amin and Rashid, a spokesperson for the police said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-has-reassured-it-wont-allow-ttp-to-attack-us-says-pak-minister-409573">Taliban has reassured it won't allow TTP to attack us, says Pak minister</a>

The outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility of the gun battle.

TTP is an umbrella group which shares its common roots from the Afghan Taliban.

In November, Pakistan announced a month-long cease-fire with the TTP. The group has been behind numerous attacks on security forces and civilians over the last 14 years.

The cease-fire ended on December 9 and since then, the group has resumed attacks. The Taliban, who brokered the monthlong truce, have assured Islamabad that they will not allow TTP to use Afghan soil for violence in Pakistan.

Pakistani authorities say the talks with the TTP failed because they presented demands that were non-negotiable. The demands have not been publicly disclosed.

(With inputs from agencies)

A policeman was killed, and two others were left injured after two masked men riding a motorcycle opened fire at a police checkpoint in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad city.

A policeman was killed, and two others were left injured after two masked men riding a motorcycle opened fire at a police checkpoint in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad city. The incident has shocked everyone, with police describing the late-night shootout as a “rare security breach” in the city, which hosts more than a dozen embassies. The Monday night gun battle, in which two militants were also shot dead, took place in the vicinity of the Karachi Company police station. The country’s interior minister Sheikh Rasheed has warned of more terrorism-related incidents in the federal capital. “This was not an incident of dacoity or theft. Terrorists opened fire on them [police officials]. This is a signal for us that terror incidents have started taking place in Islamabad,” he said while speaking to journalists after the deceased police officer’s funeral prayers. Also read | TTP claims responsibility for suicide attack in Pakistan's Quetta The interior minister said authorities needed to remain alert, as he noted the incident was "purely of terrorism". Rasheed said the authorities had tracked down the "sleeper cell" of the terrorists through their motorcycle. "Islamabad police and other forces are on alert." Shahid Zaman, a senior Islamabad Police official, also told AFP the incident was "an act of terrorism". The martyred police official has been identified as Head Constable Munawwar, while the injured include Amin and Rashid, a spokesperson for the police said. Also read | Taliban has reassured it won't allow TTP to attack us, says Pak minister The outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility of the gun battle. TTP is an umbrella group which shares its common roots from the Afghan Taliban. In November, Pakistan announced a month-long cease-fire with the TTP. The group has been behind numerous attacks on security forces and civilians over the last 14 years. The cease-fire ended on December 9 and since then, the group has resumed attacks. The Taliban, who brokered the monthlong truce, have assured Islamabad that they will not allow TTP to use Afghan soil for violence in Pakistan. Pakistani authorities say the talks with the TTP failed because they presented demands that were non-negotiable. The demands have not been publicly disclosed. (With inputs from agencies)

Policeman killed in Islamabad shootout, Pak min warns of more ‘terror incidents’

Pakistan has unveiled its first-ever national security policy. The document blames India for Islamabad’s strategic and economic failures. Palki Sharma tells you why this is a new policy with the old anti-India obsession.

Gravitas: Pakistan wants ‘100 years of peace’ with India

Islamabad & Beijing have agreed to bolster their ties further. It's through CPEC. This belt and road project ends at the Gwadar port in Balochistan. The two nations have decided to start work on the phase-2 of this project. However, the locals are up in arms against this project.

Islamabad & Beijing to start work on phase-2 of CPEC project

Leaders of Islamic nations have gathered in Pakistan for a special meeting of the 57-member organization of Islamic cooperation (OIC). The focus of the meet is on Afghan crisis, in the latest, Pakistan has warned of 'grave consequences' for the international communities if Afghanistan's economic meltdown continues.

Pakistan: Special OIC meeting on Afghanistan held in Islamabad

Afghanistan’s envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has warned of a "catastrophic situation" in his country.

"People are not getting paid on time, there is little business activities. There is a humanitarian crisis, unfolding economic crisis," he said.

Since the Taliban's takeover in August, the country has slid in every parameter, even as the onset of winters has worsened the situation in the country.&nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mamundzay thanked New Delhi for its&nbsp;pledge to send 50,000 MT of wheat to the country.

He said, 'India has time and again proved to be a close and reliable friend of the Afghan people and stood by us at a difficult time." The envoy called for more visas by India for Afghans, especially students who have to continue their studies in Indian universities.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-unveils-saryu-canal-national-project-to-benefit-29-lakh-farmers-436044" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi unveils Saryu Canal National Project to benefit 29 lakh farmers</a>

In the first-ever extensive interview to any India-based channel since the Taliban takeover in August, envoy Mamundzay pointed how the last four&nbsp;months have been "difficult, emotionally and administratively and financially" for the mission and its diplomats but he pointed, "We can't pack up and leave. We have moral obligations and responsibility towards our people and country to continue serving them."

WION: Your reaction to the humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to the Afghanistan people? 
Farid Mamundzay: Yes, India has time and again proved to be a close and reliable friend of the Afghan people and stood by us at a difficult time. The generous act of helping us with 50,000 MT of wheat with lifesaving medicines and half a million covid vaccines is something that is greatly needed in times of crisis and we are grateful for this assistance and support.

WION: But there are certain challenges, given it as to use Pakistani territory, and do you&nbsp;expect more such humanitarian support? 
Farid Mamundzay: Yes, that was something that was greatly discussed by the Afghan embassy and the Indian government, and the quickest route we found was Pakistan that will take a short period of time to send much-needed assistance to Afghanistan quite quickly. So I hope Pakistan would continue to assist us as they have indicated that they will allow this convey to transit through Pakistan. I hope that spirit will continue in Islamabad to allow the lifesaving drugs and wheat to flow into Afghanistan. The need is dire. The world food program estimates that around 9 million people require urgent food assistance. by end of next year, there will be 3 million malnutritional children. The need is huge and I hope more countries in the region and the globe will come in and elevate the suffering of Afghan people. There were billions of dollars and euros pledged by the international community in Europe last month. I hope more and more assistance would come to help our people at this difficult time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-economic-collapse-is-happening-before-our-eyes-un-435781" hreflang="en">Afghanistan's economic collapse is happening 'before our eyes': UN</a>

WION: How difficult the situation is in Afghanistan, especially with the onset of the winter 
Farid Mamundzay: The winter is approaching rather fast; most banks are not operating as they were doing in the past. People are leaving in large number for many countries in the region and for western countries and capitals. People are not getting paid on time, there is little business activity. Teachers, Doctors are not being paid. There is a humanitarian crisis, an unfolding economic crisis, it's a catastrophic situation right across the country. The New Taliban regime hasn't been recognized by any country, even after 4 months. It's a difficult situation ordinary Afghans are facing; a lot of challenges and it is time for the international community to rescue and support Afghan people who are facing a difficult time after 20 years of a rather stable period in their lives.

WION: What more do you expect from New Delhi, especially on the issue of visas, visas for Afghan students. 
Farid Mamundzay: We require a lot of assistance from India in terms of humanitarian assistance at this stage. Together with humanitarian assistance we also need visa support. India so far has been kind to issue Afghans 200 visas but for a nation of 40 million people, it is five&nbsp;visas per million people that is certainly not enough and we expect India to help us during this difficult time. There are more than 2500 students stranded in Afghanistan who are in the middle of their studies, some of them in their second and third&nbsp;years. So if they don't come here, resume, and continue their studies they will lose whatever they have done in the past--those 2-3 years are going to be wasted. So, I request the Indian government to consider granting those students visas and consider them bringing them to India. Also, 50,000 people who came here for medical treatment annually, are people with fatal medical conditions. Those people are willing to here for medical treatment. So, people who have a long history of travel to India should be considered. We consider India our historic friend and a strategically and in this difficult hour that hand of cooperation is expected from millions of Afghans to be extended. We hope that policy will be continued to evolve and change and our needs will be considered.&nbsp;

WION: How has been the situation in Afghanistan, politically since the Taliban takeover.&nbsp; 
Farid Mamundzay: Well past four&nbsp;months we are going through an economic, political, and social freefall. The gains of the last 20 years have sadly been reversed or being reversed as we go into the future. So there is not any positive development on many fronts on political, social, and other fronts. The hope of the Afghan people is that we the Afghans reach a stage where we form an inclusive government, where the Taliban will allow shape a government that will be inclusive, where we would have true and fair representation of the entire country. And women would be given due rights, their rightful position in the Afghan society. They make up half of our population and they should be treated with rights, and they deserve dignity and respect. Women should be allowed to go to school and do their jobs. So there are expectations and we hope the international community will continue to engage the Taliban in order to encourage them to take appropriate steps required to put Afghanistan back on a trajectory where people of that country deserve to live a dignified life and not put Afghanistan through a stage where it will become a safe haven and a hub for regional and international terrorism. I hope that would not be repeated and there would be steps taken in order to avoid that.&nbsp;

WION: What is the status of the Afghan embassy, globally, and this one and financial crisis they have been facing... 
Farid Mamundzay: Well for the past four&nbsp;months has been difficult, emotionally and administratively, and financially. Most of the missions including here in India have not been receiving assistance that we used to get in the past from Kabul. But the spirit of our staff is high and they continue to serve the Afghan community and consular service have been running normally. Our focus in India has been on 3 main elements-- we focus greatly on humanitarian and relief assistance, wheat, covid vaccines, medicines and warm clothes, and things that are greatly needed in Afghanistan. So we are largely focused on working on humanitarian assistance to be challenged from India to Afghanistan in close coordination with relevant UN agencies like the world food progamme, world health organisations, and other relevant authorities. The second focus has been to provide consular services. There are 100,000 Afghan citizens living in India who require regular consular services and support. So, our focus is not to hinder, hamper or delay those services. services provisions for our community. The third&nbsp;is educational support for our students. Still, over 15000 Afghan students in India require ongoing support. These three&nbsp;areas are areas of main engagement, along with other diplomatic engagement with the host country here in India and other diplomatic missions. Life has been somewhat different, challenging. We can't pack up and leave. We have moral obligations and responsibility towards our people and country to continue serving them.&nbsp;

Afghanistan’s envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has warned of a "catastrophic situation" in his country. "People are not getting paid on time, there is little business activities.

Afghanistan’s envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has warned of a "catastrophic situation" in his country. "People are not getting paid on time, there is little business activities. There is a humanitarian crisis, unfolding economic crisis," he said. Since the Taliban's takeover in August, the country has slid in every parameter, even as the onset of winters has worsened the situation in the country. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mamundzay thanked New Delhi for its pledge to send 50,000 MT of wheat to the country. He said, 'India has time and again proved to be a close and reliable friend of the Afghan people and stood by us at a difficult time." The envoy called for more visas by India for Afghans, especially students who have to continue their studies in Indian universities. Also read | Indian PM Modi unveils Saryu Canal National Project to benefit 29 lakh farmers In the first-ever extensive interview to any India-based channel since the Taliban takeover in August, envoy Mamundzay pointed how the last four months have been "difficult, emotionally and administratively and financially" for the mission and its diplomats but he pointed, "We can't pack up and leave. We have moral obligations and responsibility towards our people and country to continue serving them." WION: Your reaction to the humanitarian support of 50,000 MT of wheat to the Afghanistan people? Farid Mamundzay: Yes, India has time and again proved to be a close and reliable friend of the Afghan people and stood by us at a difficult time. The generous act of helping us with 50,000 MT of wheat with lifesaving medicines and half a million covid vaccines is something that is greatly needed in times of crisis and we are grateful for this assistance and support. WION: But there are certain challenges, given it as to use Pakistani territory, and do you expect more such humanitarian support? Farid Mamundzay: Yes, that was something that was greatly discussed by the Afghan embassy and the Indian government, and the quickest route we found was Pakistan that will take a short period of time to send much-needed assistance to Afghanistan quite quickly. So I hope Pakistan would continue to assist us as they have indicated that they will allow this convey to transit through Pakistan. I hope that spirit will continue in Islamabad to allow the lifesaving drugs and wheat to flow into Afghanistan. The need is dire. The world food program estimates that around 9 million people require urgent food assistance. by end of next year, there will be 3 million malnutritional children. The need is huge and I hope more countries in the region and the globe will come in and elevate the suffering of Afghan people. There were billions of dollars and euros pledged by the international community in Europe last month. I hope more and more assistance would come to help our people at this difficult time. Also read | Afghanistan's economic collapse is happening 'before our eyes': UN WION: How difficult the situation is in Afghanistan, especially with the onset of the winter Farid Mamundzay: The winter is approaching rather fast; most banks are not operating as they were doing in the past. People are leaving in large number for many countries in the region and for western countries and capitals. People are not getting paid on time, there is little business activity. Teachers, Doctors are not being paid. There is a humanitarian crisis, an unfolding economic crisis, it's a catastrophic situation right across the country. The New Taliban regime hasn't been recognized by any country, even after 4 months. It's a difficult situation ordinary Afghans are facing; a lot of challenges and it is time for the international community to rescue and support Afghan people who are facing a difficult time after 20 years of a rather stable period in their lives. WION: What more do you expect from New Delhi, especially on the issue of visas, visas for Afghan students. Farid Mamundzay: We require a lot of assistance from India in terms of humanitarian assistance at this stage. Together with humanitarian assistance we also need visa support. India so far has been kind to issue Afghans 200 visas but for a nation of 40 million people, it is five visas per million people that is certainly not enough and we expect India to help us during this difficult time. There are more than 2500 students stranded in Afghanistan who are in the middle of their studies, some of them in their second and third years. So if they don't come here, resume, and continue their studies they will lose whatever they have done in the past--those 2-3 years are going to be wasted. So, I request the Indian government to consider granting those students visas and consider them bringing them to India. Also, 50,000 people who came here for medical treatment annually, are people with fatal medical conditions. Those people are willing to here for medical treatment. So, people who have a long history of travel to India should be considered. We consider India our historic friend and a strategically and in this difficult hour that hand of cooperation is expected from millions of Afghans to be extended. We hope that policy will be continued to evolve and change and our needs will be considered. WION: How has been the situation in Afghanistan, politically since the Taliban takeover. Farid Mamundzay: Well past four months we are going through an economic, political, and social freefall. The gains of the last 20 years have sadly been reversed or being reversed as we go into the future. So there is not any positive development on many fronts on political, social, and other fronts. The hope of the Afghan people is that we the Afghans reach a stage where we form an inclusive government, where the Taliban will allow shape a government that will be inclusive, where we would have true and fair representation of the entire country. And women would be given due rights, their rightful position in the Afghan society. They make up half of our population and they should be treated with rights, and they deserve dignity and respect. Women should be allowed to go to school and do their jobs. So there are expectations and we hope the international community will continue to engage the Taliban in order to encourage them to take appropriate steps required to put Afghanistan back on a trajectory where people of that country deserve to live a dignified life and not put Afghanistan through a stage where it will become a safe haven and a hub for regional and international terrorism. I hope that would not be repeated and there would be steps taken in order to avoid that. WION: What is the status of the Afghan embassy, globally, and this one and financial crisis they have been facing... Farid Mamundzay: Well for the past four months has been difficult, emotionally and administratively, and financially. Most of the missions including here in India have not been receiving assistance that we used to get in the past from Kabul. But the spirit of our staff is high and they continue to serve the Afghan community and consular service have been running normally. Our focus in India has been on 3 main elements-- we focus greatly on humanitarian and relief assistance, wheat, covid vaccines, medicines and warm clothes, and things that are greatly needed in Afghanistan. So we are largely focused on working on humanitarian assistance to be challenged from India to Afghanistan in close coordination with relevant UN agencies like the world food progamme, world health organisations, and other relevant authorities. The second focus has been to provide consular services. There are 100,000 Afghan citizens living in India who require regular consular services and support. So, our focus is not to hinder, hamper or delay those services. services provisions for our community. The third is educational support for our students. Still, over 15000 Afghan students in India require ongoing support. These three areas are areas of main engagement, along with other diplomatic engagement with the host country here in India and other diplomatic missions. Life has been somewhat different, challenging. We can't pack up and leave. We have moral obligations and responsibility towards our people and country to continue serving them.

Catastrophic situation right across the country says Farid Mamundzay, Afghanistan’s envoy to India

On the occasion of the 37th Charter Day of the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Wednesday called for the early convening of the 19th summit while emphasising the need to revitalise the South Asian grouping.&nbsp;

The SAARC observes December 8 each year as the establishment day of the regional body.

The 19th Summit was scheduled to be held in Islamabad on November 15-16, 2016, but it was cancelled due to "political reasons".&nbsp;

Issuing a statement as the SAARC chair, the Nepal Prime Minister called for all nations to recommit to promote a stronger, “more effective and result-oriented SAARC grounded in cooperation, trust and understanding”.&nbsp;

Referring to the challenges and vulnerabilities posed by COVID-19, Deuba said, “With new COVID-l9 variants still marching across the world, the current pandemic continues to intensify the pre-existing challenges and pose new vulnerabilities in our region. This has made the need to reembrace regional understanding and solidarity more critical now than ever before. We must strive towards deeper regional integration with a focus on resilient recovery and building back better.”

Deuba underlined the need to drive the regional process with a forward-looking perspective.&nbsp;“We must revitalize the SAARC process through an early convening of the 19th Summit.”

The prime minister stated that the SAARC charter was a blueprint of regional cooperation and partnership and that some notable progress was made towards promoting the welfare of the people in South Asia.&nbsp;

“As the current Chair and founding member of SAARC, Nepal is fully committed to the vision, principles and objectives of its Charter. We will continue to play a constructive role to enable the Organization to deliver wider benefits for the peoples of the region,” the statement said.&nbsp;

Earlier in September, Nepal Foreign Ministry issued a statement, announcing that due to lack of concurrence from all the member states, the informal meeting of the SAARC Council of Ministers proposed to be held in person on September 25 on the sidelines of 76th UNGA will not take place.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On the occasion of the 37th Charter Day of the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Wednesday called for the early convening of the 19th summit while emphasising the need to revitalise the South Asian grouping.

On the occasion of the 37th Charter Day of the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Wednesday called for the early convening of the 19th summit while emphasising the need to revitalise the South Asian grouping. The SAARC observes December 8 each year as the establishment day of the regional body. The 19th Summit was scheduled to be held in Islamabad on November 15-16, 2016, but it was cancelled due to "political reasons". Issuing a statement as the SAARC chair, the Nepal Prime Minister called for all nations to recommit to promote a stronger, “more effective and result-oriented SAARC grounded in cooperation, trust and understanding”. Referring to the challenges and vulnerabilities posed by COVID-19, Deuba said, “With new COVID-l9 variants still marching across the world, the current pandemic continues to intensify the pre-existing challenges and pose new vulnerabilities in our region. This has made the need to reembrace regional understanding and solidarity more critical now than ever before. We must strive towards deeper regional integration with a focus on resilient recovery and building back better.” Deuba underlined the need to drive the regional process with a forward-looking perspective. “We must revitalize the SAARC process through an early convening of the 19th Summit.” The prime minister stated that the SAARC charter was a blueprint of regional cooperation and partnership and that some notable progress was made towards promoting the welfare of the people in South Asia. “As the current Chair and founding member of SAARC, Nepal is fully committed to the vision, principles and objectives of its Charter. We will continue to play a constructive role to enable the Organization to deliver wider benefits for the peoples of the region,” the statement said. Earlier in September, Nepal Foreign Ministry issued a statement, announcing that due to lack of concurrence from all the member states, the informal meeting of the SAARC Council of Ministers proposed to be held in person on September 25 on the sidelines of 76th UNGA will not take place.

On Charter Day, Nepal PM calls for early restart of 19th SAARC summit

Pakistan owes more than $200 billion to its creditors. Islamabad has borrowed from the world's leading lenders. Why are global lenders keeping Pakistan afloat? Palki Sharma tells you how a nuclear nightmare scenario allows Pakistan to extract concessions from world powers.

Gravitas: How a nuclear nightmare scenario is keeping Pakistan afloat

On Sunday, a mob assaulted and set fire to a police station in the Charsadda region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demanding the release of a man imprisoned for allegedly desecrating the Holy Quran.&nbsp;

To disperse an angry throng that vandalised a police station, authorities resorted to firing into the air and teargas shelling, injuring at least one individual.

Witnesses say the outraged protestors broke into the Mandani police station property, set fire to at least 17 parked cars and motorbikes, and destroyed official records.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mob outside Mandni police station in Tehsil Mangi, Charsadda, baying for blood of a man who has a MENTAL ILLNESS and allegedly tore off pages of Islamic holy scripture. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Charsadda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Charsadda</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/blasphemy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#blasphemy</a> 
[Videos via <a href="https://twitter.com/AbdullahMomandJ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbdullahMomandJ</a> ] <a href="https://t.co/zRod6iurNL">pic.twitter.com/zRod6iurNL</a>
— Rabia Mehmood - رابعہ (@Rabail26) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rabail26/status/1464990756997791749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2021</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>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A violent mob setting fire to Mandni Police station in reaction to an alleged blasphemy in Tehsil Tangi of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Charsadda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Charsadda</a>. 
 
A mentally unwell man allegedly tore off pages of Islamic holy scripture. 
 
The blasphemy law will burn down the sanity of this country.<a href="https://t.co/CUoKmzK6Zn">pic.twitter.com/CUoKmzK6Zn</a>
— Mona Farooq Ahmad (@MFChaudhryy) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFChaudhryy/status/1464997012420579337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2021</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 officers left the station and fled.&nbsp;

Local leaders of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl held a protest march at Mandani market later that day, demanding that the accused be punished.

Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in deeply conservative Pakistan, where mere allegations have led to extrajudicial killings and mob violence.

Human rights campaigners have long sought the repeal of blasphemy laws, arguing they are used to victimise religious minorities or settle personal scores.

From 1987 to December 2020, at least 1,855 persons have been alleged under the offences related to religion, mostly under Sections 295B, C to 298C, of the Pakistan Penal Code known as Blasphemy laws.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Sunday, a mob assaulted and set fire to a police station in the Charsadda region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demanding the release of a man imprisoned for allegedly desecrating the Holy Quran.

On Sunday, a mob assaulted and set fire to a police station in the Charsadda region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demanding the release of a man imprisoned for allegedly desecrating the Holy Quran. To disperse an angry throng that vandalised a police station, authorities resorted to firing into the air and teargas shelling, injuring at least one individual. Witnesses say the outraged protestors broke into the Mandani police station property, set fire to at least 17 parked cars and motorbikes, and destroyed official records. Mob outside Mandni police station in Tehsil Mangi, Charsadda, baying for blood of a man who has a MENTAL ILLNESS and allegedly tore off pages of Islamic holy scripture. #Charsadda #blasphemy [Videos via @AbdullahMomandJ ] pic.twitter.com/zRod6iurNL — Rabia Mehmood - رابعہ (@Rabail26) November 28, 2021 × A violent mob setting fire to Mandni Police station in reaction to an alleged blasphemy in Tehsil Tangi of #Charsadda. A mentally unwell man allegedly tore off pages of Islamic holy scripture. The blasphemy law will burn down the sanity of this country.pic.twitter.com/CUoKmzK6Zn — Mona Farooq Ahmad (@MFChaudhryy) November 28, 2021 × The officers left the station and fled. Local leaders of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl held a protest march at Mandani market later that day, demanding that the accused be punished. Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in deeply conservative Pakistan, where mere allegations have led to extrajudicial killings and mob violence. Human rights campaigners have long sought the repeal of blasphemy laws, arguing they are used to victimise religious minorities or settle personal scores. From 1987 to December 2020, at least 1,855 persons have been alleged under the offences related to religion, mostly under Sections 295B, C to 298C, of the Pakistan Penal Code known as Blasphemy laws. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Mob sets police station on fire in search for man accused of Quran desecration

Pakistan has issued a terror alert that Al-Qaeda has planned to carry out terrorist activities in the big cities of Islamabad, Rawalpindi. The high-level advisory also warned that the attack might come in the form of an improvised explosive device in a vehicle or suicide bomber.

Pakistan deems threat from Al Qaeda, terror alert issued for Islamabad, Rawalpindi

After facing backlash, officials in Pakistan’s Islamabad city have restored a land for the construction of a temple for the minority Hindu community.

Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) was severely criticised after it told Islamabad high court, during a hearing, that the allotment for the construction of capital’s first Hindu temple has been cancelled, the Dawn newspaper reported on Tuesday.

Four kanals (0.5 acres) of land was allotted to the community in 2016 for the construction of the first-ever Hindu temple, cremation and community centre.

The CDA said it had to cancel its order following an outcry from the public.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hindu-temple-vandalised-again-india-summons-top-pak-diplomat-403200">Pakistan: Hindu temple vandalised again; India summons top Pak diplomat</a>

CDA’s counsel Javed Iqbal told the court that the civic agency had already cancelled the plot for the Hindu community in February this year for not starting construction on it.

According to officials, they were following a decision of the government which directed that the allotments of all lands issued to various offices, universities and other institutions on which no construction work had been started to be cancelled.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hindus-pardon-mob-accused-of-vandalising-temple-in-pakistan-370419">Hindus 'pardon' mob accused of vandalising temple in Pakistan&nbsp;</a>

The officials claimed that they misinterpreted the government’s order and that they ordered to restore the land after it was apprised of the matter.

“We hope this clarifies the confusion the land alloted (sic) to the temple stands valid,” the CDA said in a tweet, along with a notice that showed the notification was withdrawn by the agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-india-lodges-protest-pm-imran-khan-condemns-attack-on-hindu-temple-in-pakistan-403413">After India lodges protest, PM Imran Khan condemns attack on Hindu temple in Pakistan</a>

In July last year, radical Islamist groups had criticised the government for its intention to build a Hindu temple with government funding, following which the CDA had stopped the community from constructing the boundary wall around the plot.

However, the matter was resolved in December when the city managers issued permission to the community to raise the boundary wall around the proposed site.

There is no temple and cremation centre in Islamabad for the Hindu community. After a lot&nbsp;of effort&nbsp;by the Hindu community and on the direction of the Human Right Commission of Pakistan, the CDA allotted the four kanals to the community in 2016.

(With inputs from agencies)

After facing backlash, officials in Pakistan’s Islamabad city have restored a land for the construction of a temple for the minority Hindu community. Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) was severely criticised after it told Islamabad high court, during a hearing, that the allotment for the construction of capital’s first Hindu temple has been cancelled, the Dawn newspaper reported on Tuesday.

After facing backlash, officials in Pakistan’s Islamabad city have restored a land for the construction of a temple for the minority Hindu community. Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) was severely criticised after it told Islamabad high court, during a hearing, that the allotment for the construction of capital’s first Hindu temple has been cancelled, the Dawn newspaper reported on Tuesday. Four kanals (0.5 acres) of land was allotted to the community in 2016 for the construction of the first-ever Hindu temple, cremation and community centre. The CDA said it had to cancel its order following an outcry from the public. Also read | Pakistan: Hindu temple vandalised again; India summons top Pak diplomat CDA’s counsel Javed Iqbal told the court that the civic agency had already cancelled the plot for the Hindu community in February this year for not starting construction on it. According to officials, they were following a decision of the government which directed that the allotments of all lands issued to various offices, universities and other institutions on which no construction work had been started to be cancelled. Also read | Hindus 'pardon' mob accused of vandalising temple in Pakistan The officials claimed that they misinterpreted the government’s order and that they ordered to restore the land after it was apprised of the matter. “We hope this clarifies the confusion the land alloted (sic) to the temple stands valid,” the CDA said in a tweet, along with a notice that showed the notification was withdrawn by the agency. Also read | After India lodges protest, PM Imran Khan condemns attack on Hindu temple in Pakistan In July last year, radical Islamist groups had criticised the government for its intention to build a Hindu temple with government funding, following which the CDA had stopped the community from constructing the boundary wall around the plot. However, the matter was resolved in December when the city managers issued permission to the community to raise the boundary wall around the proposed site. There is no temple and cremation centre in Islamabad for the Hindu community. After a lot of effort by the Hindu community and on the direction of the Human Right Commission of Pakistan, the CDA allotted the four kanals to the community in 2016. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan officials restore land for Islamabad's first Hindu temple following backlash

According to sources, a fisherman has been killed as Pakistan's Maritime Security Agency opened fire upon an Indian fishing boat off the Gujarat coast. India has strongly condemned the killing and will raise the issue strongly with Islamabad.

Sources: Indian fisherman shot dead by Pakistan maritime forces

India will be raising the killing of an Indian fisherman&nbsp;with Islamabad. The incident took place off&nbsp;the coast in Gujarat. Pakistani Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) on Saturday&nbsp;opened firing on Indian boats, killing one fisherman and injuring another.&nbsp;

The injured fisherman is being treated at a hospital in Okha, Gujarat. According to reports, the deceased fisherman was from Thane, Maharashtra.

Sources told WION that India has taken "serious note of the incident" and will be raising the matter with Islamabad diplomatically. Sources pointed out that the firing by Pakistan was "unprovoked."&nbsp;An investigation is underway.

The current incident comes at a time when relation between India and Pakistan remain&nbsp;tense.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strongly-condemn-assassination-attempt-on-iraqi-pm-india-427477">Also read |&nbsp;Strongly condemn assassination attempt on Iraqi PM: India</a>

New Delhi has reached out to Pakistan for an Afghanistan conference, which will take place later this week. However, the invite was rejected by Islamabad.&nbsp;

Recently, Pakistan also withdrew clearance for the Srinagar-Sharjah flight. While Pakistani authorities had granted overflight clearance for the Go First flights to operate at the Srinagar-Sharjah sector on October 23, 24, 26 and 28, the country had put clearance for the same flight on hold from October 31 to November 30.&nbsp;

Earlier, PMSA has been involved in attacking Indian fishing boats. In April 2020, there was an attack on the Indian fishing boats from the agency. Back then, the Ministry of external affairs termed the incident as a "deplorable and unprofessional act". PMSA is a branch of the Pakistani Navy.

India will be raising the killing of an Indian fisherman with Islamabad. The incident took place off the coast in Gujarat. Pakistani Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) on Saturday opened firing on Indian boats, killing one fisherman and injuring another.

India will be raising the killing of an Indian fisherman with Islamabad. The incident took place off the coast in Gujarat. Pakistani Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) on Saturday opened firing on Indian boats, killing one fisherman and injuring another. The injured fisherman is being treated at a hospital in Okha, Gujarat. According to reports, the deceased fisherman was from Thane, Maharashtra. Sources told WION that India has taken "serious note of the incident" and will be raising the matter with Islamabad diplomatically. Sources pointed out that the firing by Pakistan was "unprovoked." An investigation is underway. The current incident comes at a time when relation between India and Pakistan remain tense. Also read | Strongly condemn assassination attempt on Iraqi PM: India New Delhi has reached out to Pakistan for an Afghanistan conference, which will take place later this week. However, the invite was rejected by Islamabad. Recently, Pakistan also withdrew clearance for the Srinagar-Sharjah flight. While Pakistani authorities had granted overflight clearance for the Go First flights to operate at the Srinagar-Sharjah sector on October 23, 24, 26 and 28, the country had put clearance for the same flight on hold from October 31 to November 30. Earlier, PMSA has been involved in attacking Indian fishing boats. In April 2020, there was an attack on the Indian fishing boats from the agency. Back then, the Ministry of external affairs termed the incident as a "deplorable and unprofessional act". PMSA is a branch of the Pakistani Navy.

New Delhi to raise the killing of Indian fisherman with Islamabad

As the Taliban government is looking to get formal recognition by the international community after they&nbsp;seized power in Afghanistan, its 'diplomats' have started work in the Afghan embassy in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad and at Afghan consulates in other cities.&nbsp;

Pakistan's ambassador to Afghanistan Mansoor Ahmad Khan said that visas to the Taliban diplomats have also been issued. But he added that issuance of the visas does not mean recognition but "facilitation".&nbsp;

"These visas have been issued for facilitating consular work and visa facilities for Pakistanis visiting Afghanistan for humanitarian work and providing assistance to Afghan citizens in Pakistan, Issuance of the visas does not mean recognition but facilitation," said Mansoor Ahmad Khan, Pakistan's ambassador to Afghanistan.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-iran-drone-program-ahead-of-nuclear-talks-425096">US slaps sanctions on Iran drone program ahead of nuclear talks</a>

Sardar Muhammad Shokaib, who is also known as Mosa Farhad, has taken charge as the first secretary in the Afghan embassy in Islamabad. On the other hand, the Taliban have also appointed diplomats at Afghan consulates in Pakistan's three provincial capitals, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta.&nbsp;

Hafiz Mohibullah, who is the official deployed in Peshawar, was formally introduced to the staff. He also assumed his duties Wednesday and would deal with consular affairs in lieu of the consul general.&nbsp;

Mullah Ghulam Rasool has been posted at Quetta, the capital of southwestern Balochistan province, while another senior Taliban leader, Mullah Muhammad Abbas, has been assigned to the Karachi consulate.&nbsp;

It is also important to note that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan's government has called on the world to engage with the Taliban and provide economic support to the aid-dependent country which has seen funding frozen by Western donors since the takeover.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-committed-to-help-taiwan-defend-itself-us-official-425020">US committed to help Taiwan defend itself: US official</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-taliban-tries-its-hand-at-diplomacy-425150/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the Taliban&nbsp;government is asking&nbsp;for the release of billions of dollars of central bank reserves as the nation faces a cash crunch, mass starvation and a new migration crisis.

Afghanistan parked billions of dollars in assets overseas with the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve and other central banks in Europe, but that money has been frozen since the they&nbsp;ousted the government in August and came into power.&nbsp;

A spokesman for the finance ministry said the government would respect human rights, including the education of women, as he sought fresh funds on top of humanitarian aid that he said offered only "small relief"

"The money belongs to the Afghan nation. Just give us our own money. Freezing this money is unethical and is against all international laws and values," ministry spokesman Ahmad Wali Haqmal told Reuters.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Taliban government is looking to get formal recognition by the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan, its 'diplomats' have started work in the Afghan embassy in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad and at Afghan consulates in other cities.

As the Taliban government is looking to get formal recognition by the international community after they seized power in Afghanistan, its 'diplomats' have started work in the Afghan embassy in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad and at Afghan consulates in other cities. Pakistan's ambassador to Afghanistan Mansoor Ahmad Khan said that visas to the Taliban diplomats have also been issued. But he added that issuance of the visas does not mean recognition but "facilitation". "These visas have been issued for facilitating consular work and visa facilities for Pakistanis visiting Afghanistan for humanitarian work and providing assistance to Afghan citizens in Pakistan, Issuance of the visas does not mean recognition but facilitation," said Mansoor Ahmad Khan, Pakistan's ambassador to Afghanistan. ALSO READ | US slaps sanctions on Iran drone program ahead of nuclear talks Sardar Muhammad Shokaib, who is also known as Mosa Farhad, has taken charge as the first secretary in the Afghan embassy in Islamabad. On the other hand, the Taliban have also appointed diplomats at Afghan consulates in Pakistan's three provincial capitals, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta. Hafiz Mohibullah, who is the official deployed in Peshawar, was formally introduced to the staff. He also assumed his duties Wednesday and would deal with consular affairs in lieu of the consul general. Mullah Ghulam Rasool has been posted at Quetta, the capital of southwestern Balochistan province, while another senior Taliban leader, Mullah Muhammad Abbas, has been assigned to the Karachi consulate. It is also important to note that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan's government has called on the world to engage with the Taliban and provide economic support to the aid-dependent country which has seen funding frozen by Western donors since the takeover. ALSO READ | US committed to help Taiwan defend itself: US official × Meanwhile, the Taliban government is asking for the release of billions of dollars of central bank reserves as the nation faces a cash crunch, mass starvation and a new migration crisis. Afghanistan parked billions of dollars in assets overseas with the US Federal Reserve and other central banks in Europe, but that money has been frozen since the they ousted the government in August and came into power. A spokesman for the finance ministry said the government would respect human rights, including the education of women, as he sought fresh funds on top of humanitarian aid that he said offered only "small relief" "The money belongs to the Afghan nation. Just give us our own money. Freezing this money is unethical and is against all international laws and values," ministry spokesman Ahmad Wali Haqmal told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban send envoy to Pakistan as 'diplomats' start work in capital city Islamabad

Supporters of Pakistan's banned Islamist outfit Tehreek-i-Labbaik marched to Islamabad, demanding the release of their top leader. At least 3 police officers were killed & many injured in the clashes that followed. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Violence at rally by Pakistani Islamists

At least 3 policemen were killed in clashes with members of the banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan activists in Lahore. The violent clashes erupted between Pakistan's security forces and islamists early on friday. Several demonstrators were injured. The incident happened after thousands of islamists launched their "Long march" from the city toward Islamabad. They are demanding that their leader be released. The protesters plan to go to islamabad to pressure the government to release saad rizvi, the head of the Tehreek-e-Labiak Pakistan party. Rizvi was arrested last year amid demonstrations against france.

At least 3 policemen killed in clashes with banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan activists in Lahore

On the heels of the crucial Moscow format talks on Afghanistan, Pakistan has invited Taliban to Islamabad to iron out a range of issues which includes the refugee crisis and border issues. The formal invite comes after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi made his first trip to Kabul since the taliban takeover in August.

Pakistan invites Taliban to Islamabad to iron out issues inclusing refugee crisis

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington DC, Beijing ad Islamabad were all set to meet, however, United States decided to skip it citing logistical reasons.

Afghanistan | 'We're not in a position take part,' US cites issues for skipping Moscow talks

At least 9 lawmakers cutting across party lines want the Joe Biden administration to take action against Pakistan. They want him to reassess ties with Islamabad over its support to the Taliban. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: U.S. lawmakers pressure Biden to 'punish' Pakistan

Pakistan wants to make Afghanistan its sixth province. The plan is to use the Taliban to take Kashmir. On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma tells you why Islamabad's Kashmir obsession will be its undoing.

Gravitas Plus: Why Pakistan supports the Taliban

Pakistan is paying the price for helping the Taliban. An unprecedented number of refugees are crossing the Pak border. Islamabad has shut most border-crossings because it doesn't have the appetite to take more refugees. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Pakistan pays the price for helping the Taliban

A Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) worker desecrated Maharaja Ranjit Singh's monument at Pakistan's Lahore Fort.

This is the third time the Maharaja's monument has been vandalised at the high-security Lahore Fort complex.&nbsp;

The accused could be seen screaming slogans, breaking the arm of the statue, and removing Singh's bust from the horse and tossing it on the ground before being dragged by another guy, as per the video that has gone viral.&nbsp;

The TLP activist has been arrested by the Punjab police, the Express Tribune newspaper reported. The Lahore Fort’s administration said that strict action would be taken against the accused.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh again vandalised in Lahore, Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/GoUC0oMg5w">pic.twitter.com/GoUC0oMg5w</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1427533470432071680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2021</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>

Pakistan's information &amp; Broadcasting minister tweeted the video and said "Shameful this bunch of illiterates are really dangerous for Pakistan image in the world".

“These are symptoms of a sick mindset. This is an attempt to undermine Pakistan’s assessment," he was quoted as saying in the report. The nine-feet tall statue, made of cold bronze, shows the Sikh emperor sitting on a horse with a sword in hand in complete Sikh attire.

In June of this year, the statue was revealed. This isn't the first time the statue has been vandalised.

Last year, the statue's arm was shattered in Lahore. According to Geo News, it was also harmed in August 2019 by two young guys.

In the early part of the nineteenth century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh founded the Sikh Empire, which controlled the northwest Indian subcontinent.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) worker desecrated Maharaja Ranjit Singh's monument at Pakistan's Lahore Fort. This is the third time the Maharaja's monument has been vandalised at the high-security Lahore Fort complex.

A Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) worker desecrated Maharaja Ranjit Singh's monument at Pakistan's Lahore Fort. This is the third time the Maharaja's monument has been vandalised at the high-security Lahore Fort complex. The accused could be seen screaming slogans, breaking the arm of the statue, and removing Singh's bust from the horse and tossing it on the ground before being dragged by another guy, as per the video that has gone viral. The TLP activist has been arrested by the Punjab police, the Express Tribune newspaper reported. The Lahore Fort’s administration said that strict action would be taken against the accused. Statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh again vandalised in Lahore, Pakistan pic.twitter.com/GoUC0oMg5w — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 17, 2021 × Pakistan's information & Broadcasting minister tweeted the video and said "Shameful this bunch of illiterates are really dangerous for Pakistan image in the world". “These are symptoms of a sick mindset. This is an attempt to undermine Pakistan’s assessment," he was quoted as saying in the report. The nine-feet tall statue, made of cold bronze, shows the Sikh emperor sitting on a horse with a sword in hand in complete Sikh attire. In June of this year, the statue was revealed. This isn't the first time the statue has been vandalised. Last year, the statue's arm was shattered in Lahore. According to Geo News, it was also harmed in August 2019 by two young guys. In the early part of the nineteenth century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh founded the Sikh Empire, which controlled the northwest Indian subcontinent. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharaja Ranjit Singh's statue vandalised in Pakistan's Lahore

&nbsp;As Pakistan has been facing an energy crisis, the Imran Khan government has procured liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes for September at the rates of 15.19-15.49 dollars per mm Btu which are the highest since 2015.

According to The News International, Pakistan is most likely to encounter another LNG crisis in September and October. The state-owned Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) first cancelled the tender of eight cargoes for September and October, arguing that the rates were higher at 13.78 dollars per mmBtu, but now it has procured four cargoes at the highest-ever rates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-drives-sea-freight-prices-to-record-high-395649">Pandemic drives sea freight prices to record high</a>

The PLL went for a closed tender for the month of September and managed to get the rates for four LNG cargoes at over 15 dollars per mmBtu, which are the highest-ever rates since it started buying LNG in 2015. The government will procure three LNG cargoes from Gunvor and one from PetroChina.The government is under tremendous pressure and compelled to buy the cargoes at the highest prices to avoid power load shedding in September.

Earlier, a gas-cum-electricity crisis had hit the country because of dry docking of FSRU at Engro LNG Terminal, Annual Turn Around of a gas field in Sindh province and low hydel generation from Tarbela Dam.

According to Petroleum Division officials, the global LNG market right now is too bullish driving the LNG prices to the higher side. However, the official said the government would continue to monitor the market trends and if the prices start tumbling the PLL will retender LNG cargoes for September and October, reported The News International.

In case there is no respite in LNG prices in the international market, the official said then the government would be left with no option but to procure more furnace oil and diesel to run power plants to generate the costly electricity to scale down the power crisis likely to emerge in September and October.

As Pakistan has been facing an energy crisis, the Imran Khan government has procured liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes for September at the rates of 15.19-15.49 dollars per mm Btu which are the highest since 2015.

As Pakistan has been facing an energy crisis, the Imran Khan government has procured liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes for September at the rates of 15.19-15.49 dollars per mm Btu which are the highest since 2015. According to The News International, Pakistan is most likely to encounter another LNG crisis in September and October. The state-owned Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) first cancelled the tender of eight cargoes for September and October, arguing that the rates were higher at 13.78 dollars per mmBtu, but now it has procured four cargoes at the highest-ever rates. Also read | Pandemic drives sea freight prices to record high The PLL went for a closed tender for the month of September and managed to get the rates for four LNG cargoes at over 15 dollars per mmBtu, which are the highest-ever rates since it started buying LNG in 2015. The government will procure three LNG cargoes from Gunvor and one from PetroChina.The government is under tremendous pressure and compelled to buy the cargoes at the highest prices to avoid power load shedding in September. Earlier, a gas-cum-electricity crisis had hit the country because of dry docking of FSRU at Engro LNG Terminal, Annual Turn Around of a gas field in Sindh province and low hydel generation from Tarbela Dam. According to Petroleum Division officials, the global LNG market right now is too bullish driving the LNG prices to the higher side. However, the official said the government would continue to monitor the market trends and if the prices start tumbling the PLL will retender LNG cargoes for September and October, reported The News International. In case there is no respite in LNG prices in the international market, the official said then the government would be left with no option but to procure more furnace oil and diesel to run power plants to generate the costly electricity to scale down the power crisis likely to emerge in September and October.

Faced with energy crunch, Pakistan buys LNG cargoes at highest rates since 2015

Is the Chinese military planning to enter Afghanistan? Beijing says it wants to 'drive out terrorists'and conduct joint operations with Islamabad. Is this another recipe for disaster? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Is the Chinese military planning to enter Afghanistan?

In a shocking development,&nbsp;daughter of Afghanistan Ambassador to Pakistan Najibullah Alikhil, was kidnapped in Pakistani capital Islamabad on Friday.

The 27-year-old went missing at around 2.30 pm&nbsp;(local time) near Rana Market in Islamabad. Her shoes and&nbsp;mobile phone are missing.&nbsp;

Just hours after the incident, Afghanistan summoned Pakistan's Ambassador to Kabul Mansoor Ahmad Khan and lodged a "strong protest" apart from expressing "deep concerns" over the incident.

In a statement after the summoning, Afghan foreign ministry said that it "explicitly called on the Pakistani government to take immediate action to identify and punish the perpetrators of this crime and ensure the full security and immunity of Afghan diplomats and their families in accordance with international conventions."

Ambassador Alikhil's daughter is currently in a hospital and according to a report by the Pakistan Institute of Medical Science in Islamabad,&nbsp;she has swelling in various parts of her body.&nbsp;

Earlier, in a strongly worded statement, the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its "deep regret" &amp; it said that it "strongly condemns this heinous act". The Afghan foreign ministry expressed its "deep concern over the safety and security of diplomats, their families, and staff members of the Afghan political and consular missions in Pakistan."

Ambassador Alikhil's daughter was assaulted in a taxi which she had taken while returning from market. Her hands and feet were tied when she regained consciousness. Her dupatta had tissue paper and rupees 50 note with message “your turn is next“ and “communist”.

Pakistan has reacted to the development.&nbsp;Its foreign ministry has said&nbsp;it had&nbsp;increased&nbsp;the security of the Afghan envoy and his family.

"Law&nbsp;enforcement agencies are trying to trace and apprehend the culprits to be brought to justice," the ministry said in a statement&nbsp;

Pakistani PM Imran Khan has directed the country's Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed to utilize all resources to apprehend the persons involved in the incident. A deadline of 48 hours has been given for law enforcement agencies to apprehend the culprits.

This is not the first time diplomats and their families have met danger. Indian diplomats have been in the past faced harassment in&nbsp;Islamabad. This has included&nbsp;power supply&nbsp;being cut, internet connection being slowed down.

In response to a question on the safety of Indian diplomats in Islamabad in aftermath of the abduction of Afghan envoy's daughter, Indian sources said, "we have been issuing alerts to our High Commission personnel on regular basis"

In a shocking development, daughter of Afghanistan Ambassador to Pakistan Najibullah Alikhil, was kidnapped in Pakistani capital Islamabad on Friday. The 27-year-old went missing at around 2.

In a shocking development, daughter of Afghanistan Ambassador to Pakistan Najibullah Alikhil, was kidnapped in Pakistani capital Islamabad on Friday. The 27-year-old went missing at around 2.30 pm (local time) near Rana Market in Islamabad. Her shoes and mobile phone are missing. Just hours after the incident, Afghanistan summoned Pakistan's Ambassador to Kabul Mansoor Ahmad Khan and lodged a "strong protest" apart from expressing "deep concerns" over the incident. In a statement after the summoning, Afghan foreign ministry said that it "explicitly called on the Pakistani government to take immediate action to identify and punish the perpetrators of this crime and ensure the full security and immunity of Afghan diplomats and their families in accordance with international conventions." Ambassador Alikhil's daughter is currently in a hospital and according to a report by the Pakistan Institute of Medical Science in Islamabad, she has swelling in various parts of her body. Earlier, in a strongly worded statement, the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its "deep regret" & it said that it "strongly condemns this heinous act". The Afghan foreign ministry expressed its "deep concern over the safety and security of diplomats, their families, and staff members of the Afghan political and consular missions in Pakistan." Ambassador Alikhil's daughter was assaulted in a taxi which she had taken while returning from market. Her hands and feet were tied when she regained consciousness. Her dupatta had tissue paper and rupees 50 note with message “your turn is next“ and “communist”. Pakistan has reacted to the development. Its foreign ministry has said it had increased the security of the Afghan envoy and his family. "Law enforcement agencies are trying to trace and apprehend the culprits to be brought to justice," the ministry said in a statement Pakistani PM Imran Khan has directed the country's Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed to utilize all resources to apprehend the persons involved in the incident. A deadline of 48 hours has been given for law enforcement agencies to apprehend the culprits. This is not the first time diplomats and their families have met danger. Indian diplomats have been in the past faced harassment in Islamabad. This has included power supply being cut, internet connection being slowed down. In response to a question on the safety of Indian diplomats in Islamabad in aftermath of the abduction of Afghan envoy's daughter, Indian sources said, "we have been issuing alerts to our High Commission personnel on regular basis"

Daughter of Afghanistan envoy to Pakistan kidnapped in Islamabad

A Pakistani journalist has been brutally assaulted by three masked men at his home in Islamabad. Journalist Asad Ali Toor claimed that three men wearing masks broke into his house, tied him up and assaulted him, and were from the Pakistani spy agency.

Pakistan journalist Asad Ali Toor attacked by masked men at home in Islamabad

Three unidentified masked men assaulted journalist Asad Toor at his home here, Geo News reported. 
 
Toor was later shifted to the hospital. The Islamabad police are investigating the incident.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-probe-opened-after-senior-journalist-critical-of-military-attacked-379077">Pakistan: Probe opened after senior journalist critical of military attacked</a>&nbsp; 
 
Closed-circuit television camera footage obtained by Geo News shows the suspects fleeing after assaulting the journalist. In the video, three suspects wearing masks can be seen leaving Toor`s apartment. 
 
The video also showed an injured Toor walking out of the apartment with his hands and feet tied, calling for help.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan">Pakistan's</a>&nbsp;Federal Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry took notice of the incident and instructed the Islamabad SSP to investigate the attack.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-female-journalist-shaheena-shaheen-shot-dead-in-balochistan-325445">Pakistani female journalist Shaheena Shaheen shot dead in Balochistan</a> 
 
Attorney-General Khalid Javed Khan spoke to Geo News about the attack on Toor, saying that the federal capital is not a forest. 
 
"We are bringing a bill for the protection of journalists. Such incidents are intolerable," he said. 
 
He said the issue has been discussed with the home secretary and Islamabad IG. 
 
"Anyone involved in violence against journalists should be punished," Khan said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/another-journalist-goes-missing-in-pakistan-337596">Another journalist goes missing in Pakistan</a> 
 
The attack on journalist Asad Toor is reprehensible, said PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb. 
 
She said the government should ensure security for journalists instead of giving lectures on the protection of journalists. 
 
The government has failed to bring the accused to justice, Aurangzeb said. 
 
PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz and PPP chairperson Bilawal Bhutto, too, condemned the attack on Toor.

Three unidentified masked men assaulted journalist Asad Toor at his home here, Geo News reported. Toor was later shifted to the hospital. The Islamabad police are investigating the incident.

Three unidentified masked men assaulted journalist Asad Toor at his home here, Geo News reported. Toor was later shifted to the hospital. The Islamabad police are investigating the incident. Also Read | Pakistan: Probe opened after senior journalist critical of military attacked Closed-circuit television camera footage obtained by Geo News shows the suspects fleeing after assaulting the journalist. In the video, three suspects wearing masks can be seen leaving Toor`s apartment. The video also showed an injured Toor walking out of the apartment with his hands and feet tied, calling for help. Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry took notice of the incident and instructed the Islamabad SSP to investigate the attack. Also Read | Pakistani female journalist Shaheena Shaheen shot dead in Balochistan Attorney-General Khalid Javed Khan spoke to Geo News about the attack on Toor, saying that the federal capital is not a forest. "We are bringing a bill for the protection of journalists. Such incidents are intolerable," he said. He said the issue has been discussed with the home secretary and Islamabad IG. "Anyone involved in violence against journalists should be punished," Khan said. Also Read | Another journalist goes missing in Pakistan The attack on journalist Asad Toor is reprehensible, said PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb. She said the government should ensure security for journalists instead of giving lectures on the protection of journalists. The government has failed to bring the accused to justice, Aurangzeb said. PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz and PPP chairperson Bilawal Bhutto, too, condemned the attack on Toor.

Unidentified men attack Pakistani journalist Asad Toor in Islamabad

Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in deeply conservative Pakistan where mere allegations have led to extrajudicial killings and mob violence.

In February 2021, Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), an NGO based out of Lahore, Pakistan, released data that showed the abuse of blasphemy laws had increased exponentially in Pakistan, reported Pentapostagma.

Human rights campaigners have long sought the repeal of blasphemy laws, arguing they are used to victimize religious minorities or settle personal scores.

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-pakistan-afghanistan-urge-taliban-to-agree-on-ceasefire-379775/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

From 1987 to December 2020, at least 1,855 persons have been alleged under the offences related to religion, mostly under Sections 295B, C to 298C, of the Pakistan Penal Code known as Blasphemy laws, said the advocacy group CSJ in its press release.

Christians, one of the largest religious minority groups in Pakistan with a population of around 2.8 million have faced the major burnt of blasphemy laws, reported Pentapostagma.

Pakistan was ranked as the world`s fifth-worst persecutor of Christians by Open Doors USA, a California-based non-profit organization, in its 2021 World Watch List.

In 1997, the twin villages of Shantinagar-Tibba colony under Multan Division, were looted and burnt by 20,000 Muslim citizens and 500 policemen acting together after an incident of desecration of the Quran was reported.

The police had first evacuated the Christian population of 15,000, and then helped the raiders use explosives to blow up their houses and property, reported Pentapostagma.

Several incidents of arson and loot of Christian properties have been reported ever since. In 2005, a mob of 3,000 led by a local politician and the police burnt down three churches, a missionary run-school, two hostels and several houses belonging to Christians in Sangla Hill in Nankana district in Punjab.

The false allegations of blasphemy are often rooted into personal grudges, conflicts in workplaces and in communities.

Recently, a board member of ACAT (the Action of Christians for the Abolition of Torture), Belgium-based organization working for the betterment of Christians worldwide, wrote a letter to Pakistan PM Imran Khan drawing attention to the case of Shafqat Emmanuel and Shagufta Kausar, a Christian couple convicted of "blasphemy" and sentenced to death in 2014 for allegedly sending "blasphemous" text messages to the Imam of a mosque, reported Pentapostagma.

According to the October 2019 report of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, at least 80 people have been convicted of blasphemy in Pakistan and many of them face death penalty.

In December 2020, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution calling the worldwide repeal of blasphemy, heresy and apostasy laws, some of which have resulted in the imprisonment and/or deaths of Christians accused of speaking against Islam.

Pakistan`s blasphemy laws, both in content and application, are contrary to Pakistan`s human rights obligations to respect and protect the right to life, freedom of thought, conscience and religion or belief, freedom of opinion and expression, equality before the law, prohibition of discrimination and the right to life.

These blasphemy laws violate Article 6(1) of the International covenant on Civil and Political Rights that states that the automatic and mandatory death penalty constitutes an arbitrary deprivation of life.

Therefore, these laws do not comply with human rights law and standards, nor do they contain basic safeguards to limit the risk of further human rights violations and abuses, and are emblematic of the dangers faced by religious minorities in the country, wrote Pentapostagma.

Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in deeply conservative Pakistan where mere allegations have led to extrajudicial killings and mob violence. In February 2021, Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), an NGO based out of Lahore, Pakistan, released data that showed the abuse of blasphemy laws had increased exponentially in Pakistan, reported Pentapostagma.

Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in deeply conservative Pakistan where mere allegations have led to extrajudicial killings and mob violence. In February 2021, Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), an NGO based out of Lahore, Pakistan, released data that showed the abuse of blasphemy laws had increased exponentially in Pakistan, reported Pentapostagma. Human rights campaigners have long sought the repeal of blasphemy laws, arguing they are used to victimize religious minorities or settle personal scores. Watch | From 1987 to December 2020, at least 1,855 persons have been alleged under the offences related to religion, mostly under Sections 295B, C to 298C, of the Pakistan Penal Code known as Blasphemy laws, said the advocacy group CSJ in its press release. Christians, one of the largest religious minority groups in Pakistan with a population of around 2.8 million have faced the major burnt of blasphemy laws, reported Pentapostagma. Pakistan was ranked as the world`s fifth-worst persecutor of Christians by Open Doors USA, a California-based non-profit organization, in its 2021 World Watch List. In 1997, the twin villages of Shantinagar-Tibba colony under Multan Division, were looted and burnt by 20,000 Muslim citizens and 500 policemen acting together after an incident of desecration of the Quran was reported. The police had first evacuated the Christian population of 15,000, and then helped the raiders use explosives to blow up their houses and property, reported Pentapostagma. Several incidents of arson and loot of Christian properties have been reported ever since. In 2005, a mob of 3,000 led by a local politician and the police burnt down three churches, a missionary run-school, two hostels and several houses belonging to Christians in Sangla Hill in Nankana district in Punjab. The false allegations of blasphemy are often rooted into personal grudges, conflicts in workplaces and in communities. Recently, a board member of ACAT (the Action of Christians for the Abolition of Torture), Belgium-based organization working for the betterment of Christians worldwide, wrote a letter to Pakistan PM Imran Khan drawing attention to the case of Shafqat Emmanuel and Shagufta Kausar, a Christian couple convicted of "blasphemy" and sentenced to death in 2014 for allegedly sending "blasphemous" text messages to the Imam of a mosque, reported Pentapostagma. According to the October 2019 report of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, at least 80 people have been convicted of blasphemy in Pakistan and many of them face death penalty. In December 2020, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution calling the worldwide repeal of blasphemy, heresy and apostasy laws, some of which have resulted in the imprisonment and/or deaths of Christians accused of speaking against Islam. Pakistan`s blasphemy laws, both in content and application, are contrary to Pakistan`s human rights obligations to respect and protect the right to life, freedom of thought, conscience and religion or belief, freedom of opinion and expression, equality before the law, prohibition of discrimination and the right to life. These blasphemy laws violate Article 6(1) of the International covenant on Civil and Political Rights that states that the automatic and mandatory death penalty constitutes an arbitrary deprivation of life. Therefore, these laws do not comply with human rights law and standards, nor do they contain basic safeguards to limit the risk of further human rights violations and abuses, and are emblematic of the dangers faced by religious minorities in the country, wrote Pentapostagma.

Pakistan's obsession with blasphemy laws leads to extrajudicial killings, mob violence

A senior diplomat confirmed that the UAE is mediating between India and Pakistan on a lasting Kashmir resolution. Are the Emirati royals behind Islamabad's softening approach to India? WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Did the UAE broker Indo-Pak talks?

The United Arab Emirates’ envoy to US confirmed that the Gulf state is mediating between India and Pakistan to help the nuclear-armed rivals reach a “healthy and functional” relationship. Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba said that the UAE played a role “in bringing Kashmir escalation down and created a ceasefire".

Emirates’ envoy to US confirmed UAE mediation between India and Pakistan

An anti-terrorism court judge has been shot dead by unknown assailants along with his family. The ATC Judge Aftab Afridi was travelling on the Peshawar motorway from Swat to Islamabad with his family.

Pakistan: Anti-terrorism court judge and family shot dead by gunmen

Shots were fired in Islamabad's diplomatic enclave after a man attempted to attack Pakistan's French embassy. The suspect snatched a weapon from the police but was detained by Pakistani security forces. He said he was "seeking revenge for blasphemy by France''.

WION EXCLUSIVE: Man held after attack bid on French embassy in Pakistan

islamabad

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