US budget passed by congress states that $33 million aid will be given to Pakistan until Dr. Shakeel Afridi is freed. Afridi helped US find Osama Bin Laden.

US to Pakistan: Release Dr Shakeel Afridi or we withhold aid

Terror trouble for Shehbaz Sharif government, as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan order its fighters to carry out nationwide attacks. Catch this week's #SouthAsiaDiary with Molly Gambhir for more on the story.

South Asia Diary: TTP announces nationwide attacks in Pakistan

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has named Lieutenant General Asim Munir as the new army chief. Pakistan Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb took to Twitter to make this announcement. Now, Pakistan's President gives a nod after consulting former PM Imran Khan.

Pak President gives nod to former ISI boss as next Army Chief after consulting former PM Imran Khan

The Spin Boldak-Chaman port, a major border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan has closed for trade and Transit. This happened after a clash between security force personnel from both sides.

Taliban, Pak forces clash: Key Afghan-Pak border closed after clash

US President Joe Biden called Pakistan "one of the most dangerous nations" in the world with "nuclear weapons without any cohesion" in what was arguably his most direct criticism of the country.&nbsp;

Pakistan has summoned the US ambassador and issued a demarche on the statement by POTUS. 
 
Pakistan's minister of foreign affairs Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that due to the "failure of Imran Khan's policy - we are hurt in all front - we are trying to rectify and strengthen relationship".&nbsp;

Bilawal said Biden's remark was apparently in a private event as it was not an address to the nation or any official event. "We have summoned the US Ambassador to know and to get an explanation," he said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-paks-finance-minister-ishaq-dar-called-thief-faces-heckling-at-washington-airport-525518">Watch: Pak’s finance minister Ishaq Dar called 'thief', faces heckling at Washington airport</a>&nbsp;

The US President criticised both China and Russia during his&nbsp;remarks at a Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Reception in Los Angeles, California.&nbsp;

Biden mentioned Pakistan while discussing US foreign policy on China and Russia. In his final statement, Biden termed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-overhaul-in-pakistans-top-military-brass-12-major-generals-promoted-524990">Pakistan</a>&nbsp;as one of the most dangerous nations on earth.

"This is a guy (Xi Jinping) who understands what he wants but has an enormous, enormous array of problems. How do we handle that? How do we handle that relative to what's going on in Russia? And what I think is maybe one of the most dangerous nations in the world: Pakistan. Nuclear weapons without any cohesion," said Biden, as quoted in a White House press release of&nbsp;his remarks at the Democratic party event.

The Shehbaz Sharif administration's continued efforts to strengthen relations with the US may have suffered a setback as a result of Biden's comments.

Speaking on the occasion, Biden stated that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-saudi-arabia-announce-monetary-aid-to-ukraine-following-russias-missile-strikes-525561">US</a> has a tremendous opportunity to alter the situation in the second decade of the 21st century.

"So, folks, there's a lot going on. A lot going on. But there're&nbsp;also enormous opportunities for the United States to change the dynamic in the second quarter of the 21st century," the US President said.

The United States National Security Strategy was released two days prior to these remarks. Pakistan is not discussed in the 48-page report.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden called Pakistan "one of the most dangerous nations" in the world with "nuclear weapons without any cohesion" in what was arguably his most direct criticism of the country.

US President Joe Biden called Pakistan "one of the most dangerous nations" in the world with "nuclear weapons without any cohesion" in what was arguably his most direct criticism of the country. Pakistan has summoned the US ambassador and issued a demarche on the statement by POTUS. Pakistan's minister of foreign affairs Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that due to the "failure of Imran Khan's policy - we are hurt in all front - we are trying to rectify and strengthen relationship". Bilawal said Biden's remark was apparently in a private event as it was not an address to the nation or any official event. "We have summoned the US Ambassador to know and to get an explanation," he said. Also read | Watch: Pak’s finance minister Ishaq Dar called 'thief', faces heckling at Washington airport The US President criticised both China and Russia during his remarks at a Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Reception in Los Angeles, California. Biden mentioned Pakistan while discussing US foreign policy on China and Russia. In his final statement, Biden termed Pakistan as one of the most dangerous nations on earth. "This is a guy (Xi Jinping) who understands what he wants but has an enormous, enormous array of problems. How do we handle that? How do we handle that relative to what's going on in Russia? And what I think is maybe one of the most dangerous nations in the world: Pakistan. Nuclear weapons without any cohesion," said Biden, as quoted in a White House press release of his remarks at the Democratic party event. The Shehbaz Sharif administration's continued efforts to strengthen relations with the US may have suffered a setback as a result of Biden's comments. Speaking on the occasion, Biden stated that the US has a tremendous opportunity to alter the situation in the second decade of the 21st century. "So, folks, there's a lot going on. A lot going on. But there're also enormous opportunities for the United States to change the dynamic in the second quarter of the 21st century," the US President said. The United States National Security Strategy was released two days prior to these remarks. Pakistan is not discussed in the 48-page report. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan summons US envoy over Biden's 'one of most dangerous nations' remark

After approving an F16 equipment sale & calling Pak a partner with 'shared interests', America now plans to accord the 'honour cordon' to Pak's Army Chief. Have U.S-Pak relations rekindled?

Gravitas: Have U.S-Pak relations rekindled?

The power struggle between the Shehbaz Sharif led government and ousted prime minister Imran Khan is escalating. Pakistan senate witnessed a heated exchange between the treasury benches and the PTI senators for allegedly running a campaign against the country's army.

WION Dispatch: Pak senators spar over anti-army campaign

A speeding bus collided with an oil tanker in <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-nawaz-sharif-to-return-to-pakistan-in-september-pml-n-507286">Pakistan</a>, killing 20 people in a violent collision&nbsp;overnight, police and rescue officials said on Tuesday.

"The three buses were competing. One of them struck a tanker carrying crude oil "Imran Shaukat, a police official, described the incident on a highway near Multan, Pakistan's capital, to Reuters.

The tanker and the bus were both destroyed by fire that was started by the collision, he claimed. He claimed that it was impossible to identify the oil tanker and ascertain the firm it belonged to.

The driver of the tanker allegedly fled the scene, according to a highway police official.

The <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-killed-several-injured-as-bus-carrying-itbp-soldiers-falls-into-roadside-riverbed-in-jk-507342">bus</a>, according to representatives of a government-run rescue organisation, was headed for Karachi, a port city in the south. The Daewoo bus firm was the operator, according to the rescue agency, and at least 20 people died, some of them were fully burned.

Daewoo's Lahore office employee who answered the phone acknowledged that the company's bus was involved in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anne-heche-passes-away-actress-taken-off-life-support-after-horrific-car-crash-506953">accident</a>&nbsp;and that the driver was among those killed. Senior company representatives were unavailable for comment.

Also read |&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ex-pm-imran-khan-admits-hindu-girls-being-forcefully-converted-to-islam-in-pakistan-506413">Ex-PM Imran Khan admits Hindu girls being forcefully converted to Islam in Pakistan</a>

<meta charset="utf-8" />

A rescue agency representative told Dunya TV that six people made it out alive.

He added that the most of the passengers were killed by the fire while they were asleep and that it was burning when they arrived.

Speeding and inadequate road infrastructure are the main causes of the deadly traffic accidents that frequently occur in Pakistan. Over a hundred people perished in the area in 2017 when an oil tanker flipped and caught fire.

(With inputs from agencies)

A speeding bus collided with an oil tanker in Pakistan, killing 20 people in a violent collision overnight, police and rescue officials said on Tuesday. "The three buses were competing.

A speeding bus collided with an oil tanker in Pakistan, killing 20 people in a violent collision overnight, police and rescue officials said on Tuesday. "The three buses were competing. One of them struck a tanker carrying crude oil "Imran Shaukat, a police official, described the incident on a highway near Multan, Pakistan's capital, to Reuters. The tanker and the bus were both destroyed by fire that was started by the collision, he claimed. He claimed that it was impossible to identify the oil tanker and ascertain the firm it belonged to. The driver of the tanker allegedly fled the scene, according to a highway police official. The bus, according to representatives of a government-run rescue organisation, was headed for Karachi, a port city in the south. The Daewoo bus firm was the operator, according to the rescue agency, and at least 20 people died, some of them were fully burned. Daewoo's Lahore office employee who answered the phone acknowledged that the company's bus was involved in the accident and that the driver was among those killed. Senior company representatives were unavailable for comment. Also read | Ex-PM Imran Khan admits Hindu girls being forcefully converted to Islam in Pakistan A rescue agency representative told Dunya TV that six people made it out alive. He added that the most of the passengers were killed by the fire while they were asleep and that it was burning when they arrived. Speeding and inadequate road infrastructure are the main causes of the deadly traffic accidents that frequently occur in Pakistan. Over a hundred people perished in the area in 2017 when an oil tanker flipped and caught fire. (With inputs from agencies)

20 die in bus-oil tanker crash in Pakistan

China has delayed a proposal by the United States and India to sanction Pakistan-based terrorist Abdul Rauf Azhar at UNSC meeting. Indian authorities said, 'China's actions expose its double speak'.

WION Dispatch: China blocks proposal to sanction Pak Terrorist

India is hosting the 44th edition of Chess Olympiad in Chennai. Meanwhile, Pakistan has withdrawn from the Olympiad over India's torch relay through Kashmir on July 21.

WION Dispatch: First-ever Chess Olympiad in 'Home of Chess' | Pak backs out at the last minute

As foreign ministers of SCO meet in Tashkent, Iran & Belarus wait to join the group. S Jaishankar & Bilawal Bhutto come face-to-face but unlikely to hold bilateral. How is SCO maintaining balance? What will change with Iran's accession? Mohammed Saleh decodes on Full Context.

The Full Context: Will China, Russia & India change the global order through SCO

In a shocking case of negligence, the employees of a rural health centre (RHC) in Sindh province of Pakistan put a 32-year-old Hindu woman in a life-threatening situation by severing the head of her newborn baby and leaving it inside her womb, media reports said. She was also allegedly filmed while lying on a stretcher.&nbsp;On getting apprised, the government of Sindh initiated a medical inquiry into the tragic incident to nab the culprits. "The Bheel Hindu woman, who belongs to a far-flung village in Tharparkar district, had first gone to a Rural Health Centre in her area but with no female gynaecologist was available, the inexperienced staff caused her immense trauma," said Professor Raheel Sikander, head, gynaecology unit, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS) in Jamshoro. &nbsp;

In a botched-up surgery conducted on Sunday, the staff of RHC cut off the head of the newborn baby in the womb of the mother and left it inside, Sikander added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/biological-men-may-be-able-to-get-pregnant-soon-find-out-how-478121" hreflang="en">Biological men may be able to get pregnant soon. Find out how</a>

As the woman faced a life-threatening situation, she was taken to a nearby hospital in Mithi but to no avail as they did not have facilities to treat her. Finally, she was brought to the LUMHS. The doctors at the facility took out the newborn’s rest of the body from the womb of the mother to save her life, he added. &nbsp;

As the head of the baby had got entrapped inside, the uterus of the mother had ruptured. To take out the head, the healthcare professionals opened the abdomen surgically, Sikandar added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | Superfetation: Can a woman get pregnant again while already being pregnant?

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In the horrific case, Director General of Sindh Health Services Dr Juman Bahoto has ordered separate inquiries. The committees will find out how this blunder happened. It will probe the absence of a gynaecologist and female staffers at the RHC in Chachro. They will also look into the reports that some staff members also filmed the woman when she was lying on a stretcher. &nbsp;

"Apparently, some members of the staff took her photos on a mobile phone in the gynaecology ward and shared those pictures on different WhatsApp groups," Juman added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In a shocking case of negligence, the employees of a rural health centre (RHC) in Sindh province of Pakistan put a 32-year-old Hindu woman in a life-threatening situation by severing the head of her newborn baby and leaving it inside her womb, media reports said.

In a shocking case of negligence, the employees of a rural health centre (RHC) in Sindh province of Pakistan put a 32-year-old Hindu woman in a life-threatening situation by severing the head of her newborn baby and leaving it inside her womb, media reports said. She was also allegedly filmed while lying on a stretcher. On getting apprised, the government of Sindh initiated a medical inquiry into the tragic incident to nab the culprits. "The Bheel Hindu woman, who belongs to a far-flung village in Tharparkar district, had first gone to a Rural Health Centre in her area but with no female gynaecologist was available, the inexperienced staff caused her immense trauma," said Professor Raheel Sikander, head, gynaecology unit, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS) in Jamshoro. In a botched-up surgery conducted on Sunday, the staff of RHC cut off the head of the newborn baby in the womb of the mother and left it inside, Sikander added. Also Read: Biological men may be able to get pregnant soon. Find out how As the woman faced a life-threatening situation, she was taken to a nearby hospital in Mithi but to no avail as they did not have facilities to treat her. Finally, she was brought to the LUMHS. The doctors at the facility took out the newborn’s rest of the body from the womb of the mother to save her life, he added. As the head of the baby had got entrapped inside, the uterus of the mother had ruptured. To take out the head, the healthcare professionals opened the abdomen surgically, Sikandar added. Watch | Superfetation: Can a woman get pregnant again while already being pregnant? In the horrific case, Director General of Sindh Health Services Dr Juman Bahoto has ordered separate inquiries. The committees will find out how this blunder happened. It will probe the absence of a gynaecologist and female staffers at the RHC in Chachro. They will also look into the reports that some staff members also filmed the woman when she was lying on a stretcher. "Apparently, some members of the staff took her photos on a mobile phone in the gynaecology ward and shared those pictures on different WhatsApp groups," Juman added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Pak's healthcare staff endanger Hindu woman’s life by severing newborn’s head, leaving it inside womb

Arish Fatima, a four-year-old prodigy from Karachi, made history by becoming the youngest Microsoft professional.&nbsp;

At the age of four, Arish Fatima has set a unique example by scoring 831 marks in the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam, the Government of Pakistan announced via Twitter on Friday.&nbsp;

The minimum score for passing the MCP exam is 700 while Arish broke the world record to achieve great success and made Pakistan proud around the world, the Geo TV reported.&nbsp;

Arish's father, who also accomplished the milestone at a very young age, said that while working from home during the coronavirus lockdown, he saw his daughter's interest in IT and helped her in this test.&nbsp;

Arish's father Osama is also an IT expert and sees his daughter doing wonders in this field.&nbsp;

Arish's parents say that their daughter is "extremely capable and has extraordinary abilities."&nbsp;

Arish Fatima, a four-year-old prodigy from Karachi, made history by becoming the youngest Microsoft professional. At the age of four, Arish Fatima has set a unique example by scoring 831 marks in the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam, the Government of Pakistan announced via Twitter on Friday.

Arish Fatima, a four-year-old prodigy from Karachi, made history by becoming the youngest Microsoft professional. At the age of four, Arish Fatima has set a unique example by scoring 831 marks in the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam, the Government of Pakistan announced via Twitter on Friday. The minimum score for passing the MCP exam is 700 while Arish broke the world record to achieve great success and made Pakistan proud around the world, the Geo TV reported. Arish's father, who also accomplished the milestone at a very young age, said that while working from home during the coronavirus lockdown, he saw his daughter's interest in IT and helped her in this test. Arish's father Osama is also an IT expert and sees his daughter doing wonders in this field. Arish's parents say that their daughter is "extremely capable and has extraordinary abilities."

Four-year-old Pak girl becomes youngest Microsoft professional 

Pakistan’s financial troubles seem to be far from over. The government of Pakistan has again hiked the prices of several petroleum products by another Rs 30. Not just this, the prices of electricity have also been raised by Rs 7.9 per unit. This comes as Chinese banks seems to have agreed to refinance Pakistan with $2.3 billion. The funds are expected to shore up foreign exchange reserves of Pakistan.&nbsp;After the hike in fuel prices, petrol will now cost Rs 209.86 per litre, diesel has reached Rs 204.15 per litre and kerosene oil is sold at Rs 181.94 per litre. On Thursday, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail announced the hike in a press conference in Islamabad. The new prices will come into effect from midnight, the minister said. The government had made a similar raise a week ago. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The government is still facing a loss of around Rs 9 in petrol despite a hike of Rs 30 as we are not collecting any tax on the fuel," the minister added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-will-break-into-pieces-ex-pm-khan-warns-of-civil-war-if-polls-not-announced-484372" hreflang="en">Pak could split into 3 parts &amp; also lose nuclear deterrent capabilities: Khan</a>

For next fiscal year 2022-23, Pakistan’s National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has increased the basic power tariff by Rs 7.9078 per kWh. The basic power tariff currently in Pakistan is Rs 16.91 per unit. Now, it will be over Rs 24 per unit. &nbsp;

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The government will look to ensure stability in prices of sugar and wheat at Rs 70 per kg and Rs 40 per kg, respectively at stores in country, Ismail said.&nbsp;"Irrespective of what the IMF says, the government cannot sell petrol and diesel at a loss," he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Pakistan’s financial troubles seem to be far from over. The government of Pakistan has again hiked the prices of several petroleum products by another Rs 30. Not just this, the prices of electricity have also been raised by Rs 7.

Pakistan’s financial troubles seem to be far from over. The government of Pakistan has again hiked the prices of several petroleum products by another Rs 30. Not just this, the prices of electricity have also been raised by Rs 7.9 per unit. This comes as Chinese banks seems to have agreed to refinance Pakistan with $2.3 billion. The funds are expected to shore up foreign exchange reserves of Pakistan. After the hike in fuel prices, petrol will now cost Rs 209.86 per litre, diesel has reached Rs 204.15 per litre and kerosene oil is sold at Rs 181.94 per litre. On Thursday, Finance Minister Miftah Ismail announced the hike in a press conference in Islamabad. The new prices will come into effect from midnight, the minister said. The government had made a similar raise a week ago. "The government is still facing a loss of around Rs 9 in petrol despite a hike of Rs 30 as we are not collecting any tax on the fuel," the minister added. Also Read: Pak could split into 3 parts & also lose nuclear deterrent capabilities: Khan For next fiscal year 2022-23, Pakistan’s National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has increased the basic power tariff by Rs 7.9078 per kWh. The basic power tariff currently in Pakistan is Rs 16.91 per unit. Now, it will be over Rs 24 per unit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE The government will look to ensure stability in prices of sugar and wheat at Rs 70 per kg and Rs 40 per kg, respectively at stores in country, Ismail said. "Irrespective of what the IMF says, the government cannot sell petrol and diesel at a loss," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Pak hikes prices of petroleum products, power massively as Chinese banks agree to refinance with $2.3 bn

Pakistan’s new Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi's meeting was held in Guangzhou city. Bilawal Bhutto discussed economic coordination, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with Wang Yi on Sunday.

Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi

At a time when Pakistan is facing turmoil at home for various political, economic and security reasons, Jammu and Kashmir issue seems to have come to the mind of new Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari while meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday, media reports said. The minister said that Pakistan desires peace with all its neighbours, including India. But it remains elusive unless the Kashmir issue gets resolved, he added. &nbsp;

This comes as Pakistan has been accused of sponsoring terrorism in Kashmir for years by India. The repercussions of the alleged act have also been seen by Islamabad as there has been a constant rise in terror activities in the country for various reasons. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-fm-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-to-visit-us-china-and-switzerland-in-a-week-479104" hreflang="en">Pakistan FM Bhutto Zardari to visit US, China and Switzerland in a week</a>

In a statement, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the minister, in his meeting with the UN chief, "underscored that Pakistan desires peace with all its neighbours, including India, which will continue to remain elusive" unless the Jammu and Kashmir issue is "resolved in accordance with the UN Security resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people." &nbsp;

The abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir was also brought up in the meeting. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pak PM Sharif chairs allies meeting, coalition govt to stay in power till August 2023

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During the discussion, the new foreign minister also "appreciated" the role of Guterres in "mobilising humanitarian and economic assistance for the Afghan people”. &nbsp;

The foreign minister also met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the UN headquarters on Wednesday. The leaders discussed strengthening their economic and commercial ties.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

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At a time when Pakistan is facing turmoil at home for various political, economic and security reasons, Jammu and Kashmir issue seems to have come to the mind of new Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari while meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday, media reports said.

At a time when Pakistan is facing turmoil at home for various political, economic and security reasons, Jammu and Kashmir issue seems to have come to the mind of new Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari while meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday, media reports said. The minister said that Pakistan desires peace with all its neighbours, including India. But it remains elusive unless the Kashmir issue gets resolved, he added. This comes as Pakistan has been accused of sponsoring terrorism in Kashmir for years by India. The repercussions of the alleged act have also been seen by Islamabad as there has been a constant rise in terror activities in the country for various reasons. Also Read: Pakistan FM Bhutto Zardari to visit US, China and Switzerland in a week In a statement, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the minister, in his meeting with the UN chief, "underscored that Pakistan desires peace with all its neighbours, including India, which will continue to remain elusive" unless the Jammu and Kashmir issue is "resolved in accordance with the UN Security resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people." The abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir was also brought up in the meeting. Watch: Pak PM Sharif chairs allies meeting, coalition govt to stay in power till August 2023 × During the discussion, the new foreign minister also "appreciated" the role of Guterres in "mobilising humanitarian and economic assistance for the Afghan people”. The foreign minister also met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the UN headquarters on Wednesday. The leaders discussed strengthening their economic and commercial ties. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Diverting attention? As Pak faces turmoil at home, FM Bilawal rakes up J&K issue in meet with UN chief

Even as Pakistan is facing a huge economic crisis, it could also go powerless soon. &nbsp;

This comes as more than two dozen Chinese firms or Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have threatened to cease operations at power plants on Monday if payments are not made upfront, media reports said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan has to pay more than Rs 300 billion Pakistani rupees (US $1.59 billion) in dues to several Chinese firms, who are operating in Pakistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-former-prime-minister-imran-khan-compare-himself-to-a-donkey-watch-video-476933" hreflang="en">Watch: Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan compare himself to a donkey</a>

If plants are closed, a severe power crisis will unfold at a time when the government is battling economic crisis and protests held by former PM Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). &nbsp;

The crucial matter was raised at a meeting, which was presided over by Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal. &nbsp;

In it, more than 30 Chinese companies, which are operating under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in several areas like energy, communication, railways, etc, raised their issues. &nbsp;

Several other complaints like complex visa procedures for Chinese executives, taxation, etc were made by these firms. Pakistani side also complained of delayed responses to communications, a Dawn report said citing sources. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Another crisis in Pakistan

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One after another, around 25 representatives of these Chinese firms complained about the dues. They said the plants&nbsp;will shut down within days if upfront payments are not made. &nbsp;&nbsp;

They also complained of high prices of fuel, especially coal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chinese were assured by Iqbal that the PM Shehbaz Sharif has taken notice of the situation. The relevant authorities have been asked to brief him about the issue and arrangements will be made for early payments. The financial difficulties of these firms will be solved within this month, he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as Pakistan is facing a huge economic crisis, it could also go powerless soon. This comes as more than two dozen Chinese firms or Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have threatened to cease operations at power plants on Monday if payments are not made upfront, media reports said.

Even as Pakistan is facing a huge economic crisis, it could also go powerless soon. This comes as more than two dozen Chinese firms or Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have threatened to cease operations at power plants on Monday if payments are not made upfront, media reports said. Pakistan has to pay more than Rs 300 billion Pakistani rupees (US $1.59 billion) in dues to several Chinese firms, who are operating in Pakistan. Also Read | Watch: Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan compare himself to a donkey If plants are closed, a severe power crisis will unfold at a time when the government is battling economic crisis and protests held by former PM Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The crucial matter was raised at a meeting, which was presided over by Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal. In it, more than 30 Chinese companies, which are operating under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), in several areas like energy, communication, railways, etc, raised their issues. Several other complaints like complex visa procedures for Chinese executives, taxation, etc were made by these firms. Pakistani side also complained of delayed responses to communications, a Dawn report said citing sources. Watch: Gravitas: Another crisis in Pakistan × One after another, around 25 representatives of these Chinese firms complained about the dues. They said the plants will shut down within days if upfront payments are not made. They also complained of high prices of fuel, especially coal. The Chinese were assured by Iqbal that the PM Shehbaz Sharif has taken notice of the situation. The relevant authorities have been asked to brief him about the issue and arrangements will be made for early payments. The financial difficulties of these firms will be solved within this month, he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

On footsteps of Lanka? Chinese firms threaten to close power plants unless Pak pays US $1.59 billion dues

Pakistan’s closeness to Russia seems to be increasing as new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have recently exchanged letters quietly, as per a media report. &nbsp;

The letters were shared to strengthen bilateral relations after former PM Imran Khan alleged that his maiden visit to Moscow had led to his departure from the top post. He had accused the US of making conditions for his ouster. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-nawaz-sharif-of-conspiring-to-dislodge-his-government-473299" hreflang="en">Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of conspiring to dislodge his government</a>

The exchange was carried out after the election of Shehbaz as the PM. The news of the exchange of letters was kept under wraps by both sides to avoid any kind of public attention, The Express Tribune newspaper said in the report. &nbsp;

The development was confirmed to the newspaper by a senior Pakistan foreign office official on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Desire was also expressed by Putin to deepen cooperation between the two nations, the official said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch | Pakistan: 150 names including PM Shehbaz Sharif removed from ECL

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"Our countries share friendly and constructive relations. I hope that as Prime Minister you will seek to further promote closer multifaceted cooperation between Russia and Pakistan, as well as partnership in the Afghan settlement and countering international terrorism," the report had cited Putin as saying on April 12. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the reply, Shehbaz thanked Putin for his felicitation message and expressed similar feelings on bilateral ties between the two nations, the paper reported. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pakistan’s closeness to Russia seems to be increasing as new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have recently exchanged letters quietly, as per a media report.

Pakistan’s closeness to Russia seems to be increasing as new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have recently exchanged letters quietly, as per a media report. The letters were shared to strengthen bilateral relations after former PM Imran Khan alleged that his maiden visit to Moscow had led to his departure from the top post. He had accused the US of making conditions for his ouster. Also Read: Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of conspiring to dislodge his government The exchange was carried out after the election of Shehbaz as the PM. The news of the exchange of letters was kept under wraps by both sides to avoid any kind of public attention, The Express Tribune newspaper said in the report. The development was confirmed to the newspaper by a senior Pakistan foreign office official on condition of anonymity. Desire was also expressed by Putin to deepen cooperation between the two nations, the official said. Watch | Pakistan: 150 names including PM Shehbaz Sharif removed from ECL × "Our countries share friendly and constructive relations. I hope that as Prime Minister you will seek to further promote closer multifaceted cooperation between Russia and Pakistan, as well as partnership in the Afghan settlement and countering international terrorism," the report had cited Putin as saying on April 12. In the reply, Shehbaz thanked Putin for his felicitation message and expressed similar feelings on bilateral ties between the two nations, the paper reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Pak getting closer to Russia? PM Shehbaz, President Putin share letters quietly, says report  

Pakistan National Assembly's deputy speaker Qasim Khan Suri has now resigned. In a statement PTI member has said that Suri's decision to resign symbolizes his party's vision. This latest resignation means that the National Assembly of Pakistan has no speaker

Pakistan National Assembly left without speaker, Qasim Suri releases lengthy statement

No end to Pak political crisis? Pak National assembly deputy speaker resigns

Pakistan's political drama has turned into a constitutional crisis. The country is set to come under a care-taker PM. Amid the chaos, the Pakistan Army has sprung a surprise. It has praised the West & condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine. Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: Pak Army Chief slams Russia, praises West

After the dramatic turn of events at Pakistan National Assembly, the combined opposition on Sunday chose its own speaker and held a parallel session as the no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was dismissed earlier.

Ayaz Sadiq has taken the chair of speaker. This is an unprecedented situation in Pakistan. 
 
The opposition had earlier&nbsp;announced to challenge the ruling of the speaker in the Supreme Court.&nbsp;It was also&nbsp;looking to organise a sit-in protest inside the parliament premises until the issue is resolved.

This comes as the deputy speaker rejected a no-confidence motion against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, citing Article 5 of Constitution. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition, parliament, said, "We are going to challenge the ruling by the deputy speaker and advice by the prime minister to dissolve parliament in the Supreme Court." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/im-the-dim-how-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-turned-out-to-be-a-terrible-caricature-of-the-champion-cricketer-467848" hreflang="en">Im the dim: How Imran turned out to be terrible caricature of great cricketer</a>

On Sunday, Khan also said that he has advised President Arif Alvi to dissolve National Assembly and call for fresh elections. &nbsp;

"What Imran Khan has done is against the laws. We're approaching our layers. The speaker has also done undemocratic work. Imran Khan has exposed himself through this move. We will be present inside the National Assembly until this decision is reversed. He is fleeing against the no-trust motion seeing defeat," Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan Political Crisis: Key Opposition meet ahead of no-trust vote

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"Our lawyers are on their way to Supreme Court. We call on ALL institutions to protect, uphold, defend &amp; implement the constitution of Pakistan," Zardari later tweeted. &nbsp;

As per several leaders, the opposition was also looking to hold a sit-in protest inside the parliament. The leaders may not leave its premises, said Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, a Pakistan People’s Party leader. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Marriyum Aurangzeb said, "Imran Khan is a traitor (gaddar). He has taken an unconstitutional step and we are now protesting in National Assembly and will not go anywhere until this decision is cancelled". &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After the dramatic turn of events at Pakistan National Assembly, the combined opposition on Sunday chose its own speaker and held a parallel session as the no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was dismissed earlier.

After the dramatic turn of events at Pakistan National Assembly, the combined opposition on Sunday chose its own speaker and held a parallel session as the no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was dismissed earlier. Ayaz Sadiq has taken the chair of speaker. This is an unprecedented situation in Pakistan. The opposition had earlier announced to challenge the ruling of the speaker in the Supreme Court. It was also looking to organise a sit-in protest inside the parliament premises until the issue is resolved. This comes as the deputy speaker rejected a no-confidence motion against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, citing Article 5 of Constitution. Shehbaz Sharif, Leader of the Opposition, parliament, said, "We are going to challenge the ruling by the deputy speaker and advice by the prime minister to dissolve parliament in the Supreme Court." Also Read: Im the dim: How Imran turned out to be terrible caricature of great cricketer On Sunday, Khan also said that he has advised President Arif Alvi to dissolve National Assembly and call for fresh elections. "What Imran Khan has done is against the laws. We're approaching our layers. The speaker has also done undemocratic work. Imran Khan has exposed himself through this move. We will be present inside the National Assembly until this decision is reversed. He is fleeing against the no-trust motion seeing defeat," Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said. Watch: Pakistan Political Crisis: Key Opposition meet ahead of no-trust vote × "Our lawyers are on their way to Supreme Court. We call on ALL institutions to protect, uphold, defend & implement the constitution of Pakistan," Zardari later tweeted. As per several leaders, the opposition was also looking to hold a sit-in protest inside the parliament. The leaders may not leave its premises, said Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, a Pakistan People’s Party leader. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Marriyum Aurangzeb said, "Imran Khan is a traitor (gaddar). He has taken an unconstitutional step and we are now protesting in National Assembly and will not go anywhere until this decision is cancelled". (With inputs from agencies)

Now, Pak's opposition chooses own speaker, holds parallel session in parliament

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday.&nbsp;

Almost simultaneously, Khan sent advice to president to dissolve the National Assembly, asking countrymen to prepare for a new election, which will decide who will stay in power.&nbsp;

"Dear citizens, it's you, who decide the faith of the nation. Please be prepared for the next election. I have sent president the advice to dissolve the assembly. The conspiracy against our country has failed today," Khan said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-parliament-no-confidence-procedure-voting-bells-open-counting-and-final-verdict-467852">Pak no-confidence procedure: Voting bells, open counting and final verdict</a>

His move came after Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it against Article 5 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

Suri was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day, in another surprise move.&nbsp;

Soon after the adjournment, opposition members shouted slogans in the parliament.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;'Opposition destabilizing nation for greed,' Pakistan's foreign minister urges people to protest

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Earlier, several supporters of Khan were arrested by police and removed from outside the parliament house.&nbsp;

Security has been tightened around the capital and other cities.&nbsp;

Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of Pakistan People’s Party said the opposition will challenge in court the move by Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and hold protest in parliament.&nbsp;

The ball is in the top court of Pakistan, which will have to decide whether it can dissolve parliament without the no-confidence motion, and allow for a fresh national election, which would be the second in three and a half years.&nbsp;

This has essentially plunged the country into another constitutional crisis.&nbsp;

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday.

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday. Almost simultaneously, Khan sent advice to president to dissolve the National Assembly, asking countrymen to prepare for a new election, which will decide who will stay in power. "Dear citizens, it's you, who decide the faith of the nation. Please be prepared for the next election. I have sent president the advice to dissolve the assembly. The conspiracy against our country has failed today," Khan said. Also Read: Pak no-confidence procedure: Voting bells, open counting and final verdict His move came after Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it against Article 5 of the Constitution. Suri was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day, in another surprise move. Soon after the adjournment, opposition members shouted slogans in the parliament. Watch: 'Opposition destabilizing nation for greed,' Pakistan's foreign minister urges people to protest × Earlier, several supporters of Khan were arrested by police and removed from outside the parliament house. Security has been tightened around the capital and other cities. Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of Pakistan People’s Party said the opposition will challenge in court the move by Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and hold protest in parliament. The ball is in the top court of Pakistan, which will have to decide whether it can dissolve parliament without the no-confidence motion, and allow for a fresh national election, which would be the second in three and a half years. This has essentially plunged the country into another constitutional crisis.

Breaking: No-trust session dispersed, Pak PM Imran Khan asks to dissolve parliament, seeks fresh election 

An unknown number of J-10C multi-role fighter jets have been formally inducted by Pakistan into its air force on Friday. &nbsp;

The planes, which have been acquired from all-weather ally China, will bolster the country's combat capabilities. &nbsp;

The ceremony of the induction was held at Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Base Minhas Kamra in Attock district, Punjab province. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/slip-of-tongue-pak-pm-discloses-his-conversations-with-gen-bajwa-while-slamming-opposition-461410" hreflang="en">Slip of tongue: Pak PM discloses his conversations with Gen Bajwa</a>

Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Imran Khan, said, “When F-16s were inducted 40 years ago, the whole nation was jubilant and now that time has come again as Pakistan is strengthening itself.” &nbsp;

Pakistan seems to have inducted the new fighter jets in reply to India's acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France, feel experts. &nbsp;

The landing of five J-10C aircraft was witnessed by the prime minister, the Dawn newspaper reported. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The PM also thanked China for providing the aircraft in just eight months. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-interior-minister-apologises-after-police-conduct-raid-at-north-korean-embassy-461240" hreflang="en">Pak's interior minister sorry after police conduct raid at N. Korean embassy</a>

The JC-10 is a fully integrated weapon, avionic and combat system. Its induction into the PAF would further strengthen its capabilities, said Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff. &nbsp;

Pakistan seems to be looking to display the new jet at the annual Defence Day Parade on March 23. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An unknown number of J-10C multi-role fighter jets have been formally inducted by Pakistan into its air force on Friday. The planes, which have been acquired from all-weather ally China, will bolster the country's combat capabilities.

An unknown number of J-10C multi-role fighter jets have been formally inducted by Pakistan into its air force on Friday. The planes, which have been acquired from all-weather ally China, will bolster the country's combat capabilities. The ceremony of the induction was held at Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Base Minhas Kamra in Attock district, Punjab province. Also Read | Slip of tongue: Pak PM discloses his conversations with Gen Bajwa Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Imran Khan, said, “When F-16s were inducted 40 years ago, the whole nation was jubilant and now that time has come again as Pakistan is strengthening itself.” Pakistan seems to have inducted the new fighter jets in reply to India's acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France, feel experts. The landing of five J-10C aircraft was witnessed by the prime minister, the Dawn newspaper reported. The PM also thanked China for providing the aircraft in just eight months. Also Read: Pak's interior minister sorry after police conduct raid at N. Korean embassy The JC-10 is a fully integrated weapon, avionic and combat system. Its induction into the PAF would further strengthen its capabilities, said Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff. Pakistan seems to be looking to display the new jet at the annual Defence Day Parade on March 23. (With inputs from agencies)

To counter India’s Rafale, Pak inducts Chinese J-10C fighter jets into air force

A Member of Parliament (MP) of West Bengal state of India has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday after the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Covid dashboard showed Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) and Arunachal Pradesh as parts of Pakistan and China. &nbsp;

The issue was raised by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Santanu Sen, who informed the PM, that when he was navigating through the dashboard he came across the discrepancy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-budget-2022-economic-survey-projects-8-85-gdp-growth-for-2022-23-449130" hreflang="en">India Budget 2022: Economic Survey projects 8-8.5% GDP growth for 2022-23</a>

“When I clicked the blue portion, it was showing the COVID-19 data of our country. But to my utter surprise, when I clicked over the differently coloured portions, given to our state of J&amp;K, the larger portion was showing the data of Pakistan and the smaller one was showing the data of China,” Sen wrote. &nbsp;

Sen called it a “serious International issue” that the government should get it corrected. The lawmaker added that it is “grievous for the citizens of our country” and urged the PM to probe into this matter and intimate the right people about the “major mistake”. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-madras-hc-orders-cbi-probe-into-alleged-forced-conversion-suicide-of-minor-girl-in-tamil-nadu-449128" hreflang="en">India: Madras HC orders CBI probe into alleged 'forced-conversion', suicide of minor girl in Tamil Nadu</a>

He has also sent copies of the letter to the Indian government’s ministries of home, external affairs and health. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Member of Parliament (MP) of West Bengal state of India has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday after the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Covid dashboard showed Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Arunachal Pradesh as parts of Pakistan and China.

A Member of Parliament (MP) of West Bengal state of India has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday after the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Covid dashboard showed Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Arunachal Pradesh as parts of Pakistan and China. The issue was raised by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Santanu Sen, who informed the PM, that when he was navigating through the dashboard he came across the discrepancy. Also Read | India Budget 2022: Economic Survey projects 8-8.5% GDP growth for 2022-23 “When I clicked the blue portion, it was showing the COVID-19 data of our country. But to my utter surprise, when I clicked over the differently coloured portions, given to our state of J&K, the larger portion was showing the data of Pakistan and the smaller one was showing the data of China,” Sen wrote. Sen called it a “serious International issue” that the government should get it corrected. The lawmaker added that it is “grievous for the citizens of our country” and urged the PM to probe into this matter and intimate the right people about the “major mistake”. Also Read | India: Madras HC orders CBI probe into alleged 'forced-conversion', suicide of minor girl in Tamil Nadu He has also sent copies of the letter to the Indian government’s ministries of home, external affairs and health. (With inputs from agencies)

After WHO depicts J&K, Arunachal as parts of Pak, China, Indian MP writes to PM Modi

As Pakistan is still reeling under crisis due to heavy snowfall, Prime Minister Imran Khan seems to have caught in a different storm. &nbsp;

Khan has been slammed by the Opposition and citizens of the country over comments in the Murree incident. &nbsp;

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Shocked &amp; upset at tragic deaths of tourists on road to Murree. Unprecedented snowfall &amp; rush of ppl proceeding without checking weather conditions caught district admin unprepared. Have ordered inquiry &amp; putting in place strong regulation to ensure prevention of such tragedies.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1479752168768999429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In the hill station, over 22 people were killed after heavy snowfall. These people froze to death after getting stuck on roads. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-heavy-snowfall-over-16-get-killed-but-not-due-to-cold-claims-official-govt-deploys-army-443145" hreflang="en">Pak heavy snowfall: Over 16 get killed, but not due to 'cold', claims official; govt deploys army</a>

The Opposition has said the ruling PTI government has got used to blaming others for their own mistakes, reported Geo News. &nbsp;

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Number of time Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> was shocked during his tenure.., 
<a href="https://t.co/9rUfWjvqiu">pic.twitter.com/9rUfWjvqiu</a>
— Waseem Abbasi (@Wabbasi007) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wabbasi007/status/1479882885666533378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In a tweet on Saturday, the PM said, "Shocked (and) upset at tragic deaths of tourists on road to Murree. Unprecedented snowfall (and) rush of (people) proceeding without checking weather conditions caught district admin unprepared." &nbsp;

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The reaction did not go down well with the Opposition and people in general. They called it "insensitive and shocking response". &nbsp;

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PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said, "This statement is the height of (your) indifference, cruelty, and incompetence." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-in-crackdown-pakistan-sets-ablaze-huge-quantity-of-illicit-drugs-liquor-443119" hreflang="en">Watch: In crackdown, Pakistan sets ablaze huge quantity of illicit drugs, liquor</a>

PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal called Khan a "callous person" and said the Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) had issued a warning on December 31 over heavy snowfall and "everyone in the government was sleeping". &nbsp;

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The Armed Forces of Pakistan are the last hope of the people in every difficult hour. 
Please Appreciate Pak Army for rescue services at Murree. 
We Salute To Pak Army!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakArmy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Murree?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Murree</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nathiagali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nathiagali</a> <a href="https://t.co/8JZpYITRtw">pic.twitter.com/8JZpYITRtw</a>
— Asad Malik (@asad_malik333) <a href="https://twitter.com/asad_malik333/status/1479851706154426369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, all major highways in Murree have been cleared for traffic. About 600 to 700 vehicles were evacuated from Murree last night, as per spokesperson of Punjab Police. &nbsp;

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Lots of love for these heroes ❤ 
The Pakistan Army, as always, has come to the rescue of its people. 
As always, the Pakistan Army has helped the people without caring for their lives. 
That is why every Pakistani is proud of our forces.❤💞<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nathiagali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nathiagali</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Murree?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Murree</a> 
Carbon monoxide <a href="https://t.co/AyN6EC3YZR">pic.twitter.com/AyN6EC3YZR</a>
— Waqas Akhter 🗨 (@waqasakhter077) <a href="https://twitter.com/waqasakhter077/status/1479816056990584835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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All the tourists have been rescued before nightfall and taken to safe places. Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Bazdar will visit Murree on Sunday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As Pakistan is still reeling under crisis due to heavy snowfall, Prime Minister Imran Khan seems to have caught in a different storm. Khan has been slammed by the Opposition and citizens of the country over comments in the Murree incident.

As Pakistan is still reeling under crisis due to heavy snowfall, Prime Minister Imran Khan seems to have caught in a different storm. Khan has been slammed by the Opposition and citizens of the country over comments in the Murree incident. Shocked & upset at tragic deaths of tourists on road to Murree. Unprecedented snowfall & rush of ppl proceeding without checking weather conditions caught district admin unprepared. Have ordered inquiry & putting in place strong regulation to ensure prevention of such tragedies. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 8, 2022 × In the hill station, over 22 people were killed after heavy snowfall. These people froze to death after getting stuck on roads. Also Read: Pak heavy snowfall: Over 16 get killed, but not due to 'cold', claims official; govt deploys army The Opposition has said the ruling PTI government has got used to blaming others for their own mistakes, reported Geo News. Number of time Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI was shocked during his tenure.., pic.twitter.com/9rUfWjvqiu — Waseem Abbasi (@Wabbasi007) January 8, 2022 × In a tweet on Saturday, the PM said, "Shocked (and) upset at tragic deaths of tourists on road to Murree. Unprecedented snowfall (and) rush of (people) proceeding without checking weather conditions caught district admin unprepared." The reaction did not go down well with the Opposition and people in general. They called it "insensitive and shocking response". PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said, "This statement is the height of (your) indifference, cruelty, and incompetence." Also Read: Watch: In crackdown, Pakistan sets ablaze huge quantity of illicit drugs, liquor PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal called Khan a "callous person" and said the Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) had issued a warning on December 31 over heavy snowfall and "everyone in the government was sleeping". The Armed Forces of Pakistan are the last hope of the people in every difficult hour. Please Appreciate Pak Army for rescue services at Murree. We Salute To Pak Army!! #PakArmy#Murree #Nathiagali pic.twitter.com/8JZpYITRtw — Asad Malik (@asad_malik333) January 8, 2022 × Meanwhile, all major highways in Murree have been cleared for traffic. About 600 to 700 vehicles were evacuated from Murree last night, as per spokesperson of Punjab Police. Lots of love for these heroes ❤ The Pakistan Army, as always, has come to the rescue of its people. As always, the Pakistan Army has helped the people without caring for their lives. That is why every Pakistani is proud of our forces.❤💞#Nathiagali#Murree Carbon monoxide pic.twitter.com/AyN6EC3YZR — Waqas Akhter 🗨 (@waqasakhter077) January 8, 2022 × All the tourists have been rescued before nightfall and taken to safe places. Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Bazdar will visit Murree on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak heavy snowfall deaths: PM Imran Khan faces flak over 'callous' remarks

More than 16 tourists have been killed in their vehicles after heavy snowfall in Murree, Pakistan. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The federal government of the country has called in the army and other civil-armed forces for rescue operations. &nbsp;

In a striking claim over the incident, SHO Murree police station Raja Rasheed told Geo.tv that most people, who were killed in Murree, did not die of the cold. They died as they left heaters on in the car and went to sleep. The fumes from the heater killed them, claimed SHO.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After thousands of vehicles entered the city, all the routes got blocked in Murree, which left the tourists helpless on the roads. &nbsp;

On Saturday, Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed, in a video message, said that Murree had "seen a huge number of tourists after 15-20 years", and due to that, a crisis took place. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-in-crackdown-pakistan-sets-ablaze-huge-quantity-of-illicit-drugs-liquor-443119" hreflang="en">Watch: In crackdown, Pakistan sets ablaze huge quantity of illicit drugs, liquor</a>

The government had to close the road between Islamabad and Murree. "Islamabad and Rawalpindi's commissioners, deputy commissioners, police, are carrying out rescue operations," Rasheed said. &nbsp;

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Sheikh Rasheed filmed giving directions to drivers to move on a jammed murree road <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/murree?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#murree</a> <a href="https://t.co/lZZim8Va2F">pic.twitter.com/lZZim8Va2F</a>
— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) <a href="https://twitter.com/MurtazaViews/status/1479733464849076226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Army’s five platoons have been deployed for rescue efforts, while Rangers and Frontier Corps will also be positioned on an emergency basis. &nbsp;

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⛔️ MURREE: 
Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed confirms atleast 16-19 deaths of tourists stuck in snow/snowstorm 
•Roads: Isbd-Murree closed till Sunday night 
•Civil Armed Forces called-in to help <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Murree?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Murree</a> 
🎥:Stranded Tourists, esp. women+children directed to nearby <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakArmy</a> camp <a href="https://t.co/RnOpRg2CAr">pic.twitter.com/RnOpRg2CAr</a>
— Developing Pakistan (@developingpak) <a href="https://twitter.com/developingpak/status/1479726797881167872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"As many as 1,000 vehicles have been stuck since night [...] some have been evacuated; 16-19 deaths took place in cars. The locals provided food and blankets to the stranded people," the interior minister said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-nsa-to-visit-kabul-amid-simmering-tensions-on-durand-line-over-border-fencing-443033" hreflang="en">Pakistan’s NSA to visit Kabul amid simmering tensions on Durand Line over border fencing</a>

The authorities would evacuate 1,000 vehicles by Saturday evening, while the roads would remain closed to Murree till 9 pm on Sunday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

More than 16 tourists have been killed in their vehicles after heavy snowfall in Murree, Pakistan. The federal government of the country has called in the army and other civil-armed forces for rescue operations.

More than 16 tourists have been killed in their vehicles after heavy snowfall in Murree, Pakistan. The federal government of the country has called in the army and other civil-armed forces for rescue operations. In a striking claim over the incident, SHO Murree police station Raja Rasheed told Geo.tv that most people, who were killed in Murree, did not die of the cold. They died as they left heaters on in the car and went to sleep. The fumes from the heater killed them, claimed SHO. After thousands of vehicles entered the city, all the routes got blocked in Murree, which left the tourists helpless on the roads. On Saturday, Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed, in a video message, said that Murree had "seen a huge number of tourists after 15-20 years", and due to that, a crisis took place. Also Read | Watch: In crackdown, Pakistan sets ablaze huge quantity of illicit drugs, liquor The government had to close the road between Islamabad and Murree. "Islamabad and Rawalpindi's commissioners, deputy commissioners, police, are carrying out rescue operations," Rasheed said. Sheikh Rasheed filmed giving directions to drivers to move on a jammed murree road #murree pic.twitter.com/lZZim8Va2F — Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) January 8, 2022 × Pakistan Army’s five platoons have been deployed for rescue efforts, while Rangers and Frontier Corps will also be positioned on an emergency basis. ⛔️ MURREE: Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed confirms atleast 16-19 deaths of tourists stuck in snow/snowstorm •Roads: Isbd-Murree closed till Sunday night •Civil Armed Forces called-in to help #Murree 🎥:Stranded Tourists, esp. women+children directed to nearby #PakArmy camp pic.twitter.com/RnOpRg2CAr — Developing Pakistan (@developingpak) January 8, 2022 × "As many as 1,000 vehicles have been stuck since night [...] some have been evacuated; 16-19 deaths took place in cars. The locals provided food and blankets to the stranded people," the interior minister said. Also Read: Pakistan’s NSA to visit Kabul amid simmering tensions on Durand Line over border fencing The authorities would evacuate 1,000 vehicles by Saturday evening, while the roads would remain closed to Murree till 9 pm on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak heavy snowfall: Over 16 get killed, but not due to 'cold', claims official; govt deploys army

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Sunday took a dig at former PM Nawaz Sharif by offering to buy an air ticket if he wants to return to the country. &nbsp;

The 71-year-old PML-N chief is currently living in London since he went to the UK for medical treatment in 2019.&nbsp;

"If Nawaz Sharif is returning, I offer him a ticket out of my own pocket," he said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-backs-tablighi-jamaat-after-saudi-ban-439723" hreflang="en">Pakistan backs Tablighi Jamaat after Saudi ban</a>

The remarks come amidst rumours and statements that Sharif may stage a comeback sooner than expected. &nbsp;

In a recent statement, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former National Assembly speaker Ayaz Sadiq had hinted Sharif’s return. &nbsp;

The PML-N's current president and younger brother of Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, and the Pakistan People's Party leader and former president Asif Ali Zardari "are the most corrupt people of this country," said Rashid. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pms-party-hits-reset-to-undergo-major-overhaul-says-report-439749" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM's party hits reset, to undergo major overhaul, says report</a>

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government will surely complete its tenure until 2023, stressed the minister. &nbsp;

Maryam Nawaz, daughter of the former PM, last week said that Sharif may come back soon. She, however, refused to share any timeline for it. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Sunday took a dig at former PM Nawaz Sharif by offering to buy an air ticket if he wants to return to the country.

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Sunday took a dig at former PM Nawaz Sharif by offering to buy an air ticket if he wants to return to the country. The 71-year-old PML-N chief is currently living in London since he went to the UK for medical treatment in 2019. "If Nawaz Sharif is returning, I offer him a ticket out of my own pocket," he said. Also Read: Pakistan backs Tablighi Jamaat after Saudi ban The remarks come amidst rumours and statements that Sharif may stage a comeback sooner than expected. In a recent statement, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former National Assembly speaker Ayaz Sadiq had hinted Sharif’s return. The PML-N's current president and younger brother of Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, and the Pakistan People's Party leader and former president Asif Ali Zardari "are the most corrupt people of this country," said Rashid. Also Read: Pakistan PM's party hits reset, to undergo major overhaul, says report Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government will surely complete its tenure until 2023, stressed the minister. Maryam Nawaz, daughter of the former PM, last week said that Sharif may come back soon. She, however, refused to share any timeline for it. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak interior minister takes a dig at Nawaz Sharif, says will buy air ticket if he comes back

In a bizarre incident, a driver and his assistant in Pakistan have been suspended for stopping the train to buy yogurt near a railway station in Lahore, a media report said on Wednesday. &nbsp;

A video, which showed the driver halting the train near Kahna Kacha railway station to buy yogurt, went viral on social media. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-pak-pm-imran-khan-led-govts-tenure-rupee-fell-by-305-says-report-434805" hreflang="en">In Pak PM Imran Khan-led govt's tenure, rupee fell by 30.5%, says report</a>

The clip attracted immense criticism for the railways department. Acting on the issue, Pakistan's Minister for Railways Azam Khan Swati suspended the driver and his assistant on Tuesday, a report by the Dawn newspaper said. &nbsp;

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Inter-city train driver in Lahore gets suspended after making unscheduled stop to pick up some yoghurt.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Railway?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Railway</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViralVideo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViralVideo</a> <a href="https://t.co/n6csvNXksQ">pic.twitter.com/n6csvNXksQ</a>
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The railways department has been in doldrums for some time due to issues like passenger safety, accidents and declining revenue. &nbsp;

Pakistan Railways’ Lahore administration was ordered by the minister to suspend driver Rana Mohammad Shehzad and his assistant Iftikhar Hussain, it said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-women-assaulted-paraded-naked-and-filmed-in-pakistan-over-theft-suspicion-435021" hreflang="en">4 women assaulted, paraded naked and filmed in Pakistan over theft suspicion</a>

In a statement, the minister warned, "I will not tolerate such events in the future and allow anyone to use national assets for personal use." &nbsp;

“When you stop a train in the middle (of the tracks) it becomes a safety issue. Safety is our priority. We cannot tolerate anything, which compromises safety,” Syed Ijaz ul-Hassan Shah, spokesman, railway ministry told AFP on Wednesday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a bizarre incident, a driver and his assistant in Pakistan have been suspended for stopping the train to buy yogurt near a railway station in Lahore, a media report said on Wednesday.

In a bizarre incident, a driver and his assistant in Pakistan have been suspended for stopping the train to buy yogurt near a railway station in Lahore, a media report said on Wednesday. A video, which showed the driver halting the train near Kahna Kacha railway station to buy yogurt, went viral on social media. Also Read: In Pak PM Imran Khan-led govt's tenure, rupee fell by 30.5%, says report The clip attracted immense criticism for the railways department. Acting on the issue, Pakistan's Minister for Railways Azam Khan Swati suspended the driver and his assistant on Tuesday, a report by the Dawn newspaper said. Inter-city train driver in Lahore gets suspended after making unscheduled stop to pick up some yoghurt.#pakistan #Railway #ViralVideo pic.twitter.com/n6csvNXksQ — Naila Tanveer🦋 (@nailatanveer) December 8, 2021 × The railways department has been in doldrums for some time due to issues like passenger safety, accidents and declining revenue. Pakistan Railways’ Lahore administration was ordered by the minister to suspend driver Rana Mohammad Shehzad and his assistant Iftikhar Hussain, it said. Also Read: 4 women assaulted, paraded naked and filmed in Pakistan over theft suspicion In a statement, the minister warned, "I will not tolerate such events in the future and allow anyone to use national assets for personal use." “When you stop a train in the middle (of the tracks) it becomes a safety issue. Safety is our priority. We cannot tolerate anything, which compromises safety,” Syed Ijaz ul-Hassan Shah, spokesman, railway ministry told AFP on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

To buy yogurt, Pak driver, assistant halt train near railway station, get suspended  

If a report is to be believed, Pakistan government is coming up with a policy through which foreigners, who have been living in the country for seven consecutive years, may get citizenship. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The policy in this regard seems to be on the cards and will come out soon, said a report by newspaper ‘Daily Times’ in Pakistan. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/schools-offices-in-pakistans-lahore-to-remain-shut-three-days-a-week-as-air-turns-toxic-431960" hreflang="en">Schools, offices in Lahore to remain shut three days a week as air turns toxic</a>

This remark came from National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) Chairman Tariq Malik while he was addressing the 8th annual National Data Privacy Conference, which was organised by Digital Rights Foundation (DRF) in Islamabad. &nbsp;

Malik said that a policy is under formulation to grant citizenship to foreigners, who have been living in Pakistan for over seven years consecutively. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-petroleum-dealers-launch-nationwide-strike-against-lower-profit-margins-431887" hreflang="en">Pakistan petrol dealers launch nationwide strike against lower profit margins</a>

The chairman also said that another policy, where citizens will get the right to check their data, is being made. When this comes into effect, the citizens will be able to check whether a bank or FBR has checked their data in one year or not. &nbsp;

NADRA Chairman, while addressing the conference, also claimed that the data of the agency is completely secure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a report is to be believed, Pakistan government is coming up with a policy through which foreigners, who have been living in the country for seven consecutive years, may get citizenship.

If a report is to be believed, Pakistan government is coming up with a policy through which foreigners, who have been living in the country for seven consecutive years, may get citizenship. The policy in this regard seems to be on the cards and will come out soon, said a report by newspaper ‘Daily Times’ in Pakistan. Also Read: Schools, offices in Lahore to remain shut three days a week as air turns toxic This remark came from National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) Chairman Tariq Malik while he was addressing the 8th annual National Data Privacy Conference, which was organised by Digital Rights Foundation (DRF) in Islamabad. Malik said that a policy is under formulation to grant citizenship to foreigners, who have been living in Pakistan for over seven years consecutively. Also Read: Pakistan petrol dealers launch nationwide strike against lower profit margins The chairman also said that another policy, where citizens will get the right to check their data, is being made. When this comes into effect, the citizens will be able to check whether a bank or FBR has checked their data in one year or not. NADRA Chairman, while addressing the conference, also claimed that the data of the agency is completely secure. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak may give citizenship to foreigners living for 7 consecutive years, says report

In a striking revelation, Information and Broadcasting Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Thursday said that extremism was not rooted in madrasas, but schools and colleges in Pakistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the minister, the teachers were hired in the 80s and 90s as part of a plot to "basically teach extremism".&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-lahore-declared-worlds-most-polluted-city-people-choking-on-acrid-smog-430090" hreflang="en">Lahore declared world's most polluted city, people choking on acrid smog</a>

Chaudhry, who was addressing a consultative conference on terrorism in Islamabad, said that the students of "ordinary schools and colleges" had been involved in incidents of extremism in Pakistan and not of madrasas. &nbsp;

Chaudhry added, "You closed their (school and college students') minds. If you cultivate a society where an opposing view is immediately declared kufr (heresy) ... how can you present an opposing view?" &nbsp;

"And if no opposing views are tolerated, how will you bring a soft change (in society)?" the minister asked.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-frees-hardline-islamist-under-a-deal-to-end-violence-430353" hreflang="en">Pakistan frees hardline Islamist under a deal to end violence</a>&nbsp;

Scholars in Pakistan are afraid of speaking up. The society itself has to rectify the narrative of extremism, claimed the minister. &nbsp;

"We don't have any potential threat from India. We have the sixth largest army in the world, we are an atomic power, and India cannot compete with us. We face no danger from America. We face no danger from Europe. The biggest danger we face [today] is from within [Pakistan]," added Chaudhry. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a striking revelation, Information and Broadcasting Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Thursday said that extremism was not rooted in madrasas, but schools and colleges in Pakistan.

In a striking revelation, Information and Broadcasting Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Thursday said that extremism was not rooted in madrasas, but schools and colleges in Pakistan. According to the minister, the teachers were hired in the 80s and 90s as part of a plot to "basically teach extremism". Also Read: Lahore declared world's most polluted city, people choking on acrid smog Chaudhry, who was addressing a consultative conference on terrorism in Islamabad, said that the students of "ordinary schools and colleges" had been involved in incidents of extremism in Pakistan and not of madrasas. Chaudhry added, "You closed their (school and college students') minds. If you cultivate a society where an opposing view is immediately declared kufr (heresy) ... how can you present an opposing view?" "And if no opposing views are tolerated, how will you bring a soft change (in society)?" the minister asked. Also Read: Pakistan frees hardline Islamist under a deal to end violence Scholars in Pakistan are afraid of speaking up. The society itself has to rectify the narrative of extremism, claimed the minister. "We don't have any potential threat from India. We have the sixth largest army in the world, we are an atomic power, and India cannot compete with us. We face no danger from America. We face no danger from Europe. The biggest danger we face [today] is from within [Pakistan]," added Chaudhry. (With inputs from agencies)

Extremism in Pak not rooted in madrasas, but schools, colleges, says Minister

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