Thousands of mourners gathered in Pakistan Saturday for the burial of 10 miners who were killed in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

Pakistani officials have notably long denied the presence of Islamic State in the country, but the group has claimed a number of attacks including a bombing at a market in 2019.

These deaths had then sparked an outcry over the lack of protection for workers, leading to countrywide blockade.

A six-day protest by the Shiite Hazara community over the killings in the country's restive southwest was finally called off late Friday after they reached an agreement with the provincial government of Balochistan. Authorities on Friday promised the arrest of the attackers, payment of compensation to the bereaved families and better security for the Hazaras.

This also comes in the wake of reports that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to travel to Quetta on Saturday.

More than 4,000 people attended the last rites of the dead miners whose bodies were laid to rest amid tight security six days after their deaths. According to AFP, mourners chanted slogans of "down with terrorism and arrest the culprits".

Shiite protesters numbering up to 3,000 had blocked a road on the outskirts of Quetta demanding personal assurances by Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The said 10 miners from the minority community were kidnapped by gunmen from a remote colliery on Sunday before being taken to nearby hills where most were shot dead, while some were beheaded.

Ethnic Hazaras make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan -- the country's largest and poorest region, rife with ethnic, sectarian and separatist insurgencies. They are sometimes considered easy targets for Sunni militants who consider them heretics.

The community's refusal to bury the bodies was a symbolic protest in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where according to Islamic culture people should be buried within 24 hours, before the next sunset.

The deal also called for setting up a high-level commission headed by Balochistan's home minister to investigate attacks against the Hazara community in the past 22 years.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Pakistan Saturday for the burial of 10 miners who were killed in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. Pakistani officials have notably long denied the presence of Islamic State in the country, but the group has claimed a number of attacks including a bombing at a market in 2019.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Pakistan Saturday for the burial of 10 miners who were killed in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. Pakistani officials have notably long denied the presence of Islamic State in the country, but the group has claimed a number of attacks including a bombing at a market in 2019. These deaths had then sparked an outcry over the lack of protection for workers, leading to countrywide blockade. A six-day protest by the Shiite Hazara community over the killings in the country's restive southwest was finally called off late Friday after they reached an agreement with the provincial government of Balochistan. Authorities on Friday promised the arrest of the attackers, payment of compensation to the bereaved families and better security for the Hazaras. This also comes in the wake of reports that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is expected to travel to Quetta on Saturday. More than 4,000 people attended the last rites of the dead miners whose bodies were laid to rest amid tight security six days after their deaths. According to AFP, mourners chanted slogans of "down with terrorism and arrest the culprits". Shiite protesters numbering up to 3,000 had blocked a road on the outskirts of Quetta demanding personal assurances by Prime Minister Imran Khan. The said 10 miners from the minority community were kidnapped by gunmen from a remote colliery on Sunday before being taken to nearby hills where most were shot dead, while some were beheaded. Ethnic Hazaras make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan -- the country's largest and poorest region, rife with ethnic, sectarian and separatist insurgencies. They are sometimes considered easy targets for Sunni militants who consider them heretics. The community's refusal to bury the bodies was a symbolic protest in Muslim-majority Pakistan, where according to Islamic culture people should be buried within 24 hours, before the next sunset. The deal also called for setting up a high-level commission headed by Balochistan's home minister to investigate attacks against the Hazara community in the past 22 years.

Pakistani Shia Hazara community ends blockade over deaths of miners

Main accused in the vandalisation of the Hindu temple in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been apprehended by the police in Pakistan. He has been identified as Faizullah.

Pakistan: Main accused in Hindu temple vandalism arrested

'Don't blackmail me' is Imran Khan response to families of terror victims who want him to meet them. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has sought an apology from Pak for the 1971 genocide. Will the Pak PM call this blackmail too

Gravitas: Imran Khan's inhumane response to Hazara protesters

5 days since the #HazaraKillings, the families are still refusing to bury the dead. Imran Khan hasn't showed up in Quetta yet, but Maryam Nawaz Sharif & Bilawal Bhutto Zardari did. They asked the Pak PM to show some humanity for the sake of his children.

Gravitas: Why are Pakistan's Hazaras protesting?

The protesters have asked Prime Minister Imran Khan to visit Quetta, where demonstrators have kept up a five-day long vigil alongside coffins carrying the victims' bodies

Protests over killing of Hazara miners spread to Karachi

India has termed Pakistani actions of the sentencing of Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and an arrest warrant against Masood Azhar as "routine farcical actions" done just ahead of the FATF meeting due next month. It has been more than 2 years that Pakistan remains at the FATF greylist due to non-fulfilment of its anti-terror financing commitments.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "the timing of these actions clearly suggests the intention of conveying a sense of compliance ahead of the APJG meeting and next FATF plenary meeting in February 2021".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-terror-attack-mastermind-zaki-ur-rehman-lakhvi-sentenced-by-pakistan-court-for-15-years-355381">Mumbai terror attack mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi sentenced by Pakistan court for 15 years</a>

Highlighting," It has become routine for Pakistan to come up with such farcical actions prior to important meetings."

Lakhvi was sentenced on Friday by a Pakistani court for 15 years for terror financing. He was one of the key masterminds of 26/11, but no action has been taken by Islamabad. Last year, another 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed was sentenced many times by Pakistani court for terror financing, and the warrant for Azhar comes even as at FATF Islamabad claimed no knowledge on his location.

The MEA spokesperson said, "UN proscribed entities and designated terrorists act as proxies for Pakistani establishment to fulfill its anti-India agenda."

Adding," It is for the international community to hold Pakistan to account and ensure that it takes credible action against terror groups, terror infrastructure and individual terrorists."

It is interesting to point out, Pakistan had gone to United Nations Security Council to get "basic expense for both Saeed and Lakhvi. Both are United Nations listed international terrorist. Islamabad had defended the move saying the "exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee".&nbsp;

Asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called basic expenses for provisions such as payment for foodstuff, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment etc. What is shocking is that the basic expense stands at around Pak 1,50,000 rupees a month, an amount that has raised eyebrows in many global capitals including New Delhi.

 
&nbsp;

India has termed Pakistani actions of the sentencing of Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and an arrest warrant against Masood Azhar as "routine farcical actions" done just ahead of the FATF meeting due next month.

India has termed Pakistani actions of the sentencing of Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and an arrest warrant against Masood Azhar as "routine farcical actions" done just ahead of the FATF meeting due next month. It has been more than 2 years that Pakistan remains at the FATF greylist due to non-fulfilment of its anti-terror financing commitments. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "the timing of these actions clearly suggests the intention of conveying a sense of compliance ahead of the APJG meeting and next FATF plenary meeting in February 2021". Also read | Mumbai terror attack mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi sentenced by Pakistan court for 15 years Highlighting," It has become routine for Pakistan to come up with such farcical actions prior to important meetings." Lakhvi was sentenced on Friday by a Pakistani court for 15 years for terror financing. He was one of the key masterminds of 26/11, but no action has been taken by Islamabad. Last year, another 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed was sentenced many times by Pakistani court for terror financing, and the warrant for Azhar comes even as at FATF Islamabad claimed no knowledge on his location. The MEA spokesperson said, "UN proscribed entities and designated terrorists act as proxies for Pakistani establishment to fulfill its anti-India agenda." Adding," It is for the international community to hold Pakistan to account and ensure that it takes credible action against terror groups, terror infrastructure and individual terrorists." It is interesting to point out, Pakistan had gone to United Nations Security Council to get "basic expense for both Saeed and Lakhvi. Both are United Nations listed international terrorist. Islamabad had defended the move saying the "exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee". Asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called basic expenses for provisions such as payment for foodstuff, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment etc. What is shocking is that the basic expense stands at around Pak 1,50,000 rupees a month, an amount that has raised eyebrows in many global capitals including New Delhi.

India terms Lakhvi sentencing, Masood Azhar arrest warrant 'farcical actions'

Pakistani Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/imran-khan">Imran Khan </a>on Friday once again urged the Hazara community to bury the miners who were killed in Balochistan and asked them to stop "blackmailing" him.&nbsp;

Khan said that the government has accepted all the demands of the minority community, except one that the prime minister must visit before the dead are buried.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"One of their demands is that the dead will be buried when the premier visits. I have sent them a message that when all of your demands have been accepted ... you don't blackmail the prime minister of any country like this," Khan was quoted as saying by Dawn during the launching ceremony of the Special Technology Zones Authority in Islamabad.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-fails-to-protect-hazara-community-354939">Pakistan government fails to protect Hazara community</a>

"Anyone will blackmail the prime minister then," he added and included a "band of cooks" which was apparently directed towards the opposition alliance of Pakistan Democratic Movement.&nbsp;

He said that once the deceased were buried, he will meet the families of the deceased.&nbsp;

"This should be clear. All of your demands have been met but you can't impose a condition which has (no logic). So first, bury the dead. If you do it today then I guarantee you that I will come to Quetta today," said Khan.&nbsp;

Khan's comments came as the minority Hazara community continued their protests for the sixth day on Friday refusing to bury those killed over the weekend.&nbsp;

Armed men slit throats of 11 miners on Sunday in a residential compound in Balochistan's Mach coalfield area.

The entire incident was filmed and later posted online and was the Islamic State claimed the responsibility of the attack.&nbsp;

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday once again urged the Hazara community to bury the miners who were killed in Balochistan and asked them to stop "blackmailing" him.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday once again urged the Hazara community to bury the miners who were killed in Balochistan and asked them to stop "blackmailing" him. Khan said that the government has accepted all the demands of the minority community, except one that the prime minister must visit before the dead are buried. Watch | "One of their demands is that the dead will be buried when the premier visits. I have sent them a message that when all of your demands have been accepted ... you don't blackmail the prime minister of any country like this," Khan was quoted as saying by Dawn during the launching ceremony of the Special Technology Zones Authority in Islamabad. Also read | Pakistan government fails to protect Hazara community "Anyone will blackmail the prime minister then," he added and included a "band of cooks" which was apparently directed towards the opposition alliance of Pakistan Democratic Movement. He said that once the deceased were buried, he will meet the families of the deceased. "This should be clear. All of your demands have been met but you can't impose a condition which has (no logic). So first, bury the dead. If you do it today then I guarantee you that I will come to Quetta today," said Khan. Khan's comments came as the minority Hazara community continued their protests for the sixth day on Friday refusing to bury those killed over the weekend. Armed men slit throats of 11 miners on Sunday in a residential compound in Balochistan's Mach coalfield area. The entire incident was filmed and later posted online and was the Islamic State claimed the responsibility of the attack.

Don't blackmail me: PM Imran Khan to Hazara protesters

Bangladesh has asked Pakistan to apologise for the 1971 genocide in the country. The message was conveyed by the country's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md. Shahriar Alam to the Pakistani envoy to Dhaka, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui.&nbsp;

A release from the Bangladeshi government said that minister Alam, "reiterated the importance of resolving outstanding bilateral issues with Pakistan, including offering of an official apology from Pakistan for the genocide committed in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971". He also called for settling the issue of the division of assets between the 2 countries.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladesh-significant-pillar-of-indias-neighbourhood-first-policy-pm-modi-350402">Bangladesh significant pillar of India’s neighbourhood first policy: PM Modi</a>

The development comes in the year in which Bangladesh celebrates 50 years of Independence. 1971 saw Pakistani troops committing atrocities in the then East Pakistan leading to an international humanitarian crisis. Several million died due to the actions of the Pakistani army but ultimately Bangladesh gained its independence.

Not for the first time Bangladesh has raised the 1971 genocide with Islamabad. During Pakistan's envoy meets with Bangladeshi PM Shiekh Hasina in December, the latter had sternly reminded him that atrocities committed by the Pakistani army against her country can neither be forgotten nor forgiven

Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi minister during his meet with envoy said Dhaka is keen to enhancing ties with all neighbouring countries and, “in line with that spirit, we look forward to engaging with Pakistan”. He urged Pakistan to grant access to more Bangladeshi products by utilizing the existing SAFTA provisions, relaxing the negative list and removing trade barriers.

Bangladesh has asked Pakistan to apologise for the 1971 genocide in the country. The message was conveyed by the country's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md.

Bangladesh has asked Pakistan to apologise for the 1971 genocide in the country. The message was conveyed by the country's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md. Shahriar Alam to the Pakistani envoy to Dhaka, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui. A release from the Bangladeshi government said that minister Alam, "reiterated the importance of resolving outstanding bilateral issues with Pakistan, including offering of an official apology from Pakistan for the genocide committed in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971". He also called for settling the issue of the division of assets between the 2 countries. Also read | Bangladesh significant pillar of India’s neighbourhood first policy: PM Modi The development comes in the year in which Bangladesh celebrates 50 years of Independence. 1971 saw Pakistani troops committing atrocities in the then East Pakistan leading to an international humanitarian crisis. Several million died due to the actions of the Pakistani army but ultimately Bangladesh gained its independence. Not for the first time Bangladesh has raised the 1971 genocide with Islamabad. During Pakistan's envoy meets with Bangladeshi PM Shiekh Hasina in December, the latter had sternly reminded him that atrocities committed by the Pakistani army against her country can neither be forgotten nor forgiven Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi minister during his meet with envoy said Dhaka is keen to enhancing ties with all neighbouring countries and, “in line with that spirit, we look forward to engaging with Pakistan”. He urged Pakistan to grant access to more Bangladeshi products by utilizing the existing SAFTA provisions, relaxing the negative list and removing trade barriers.

Bangladesh demands apology from Pakistan for 1971 genocide

The January 4 grotesque killings of ten innocent Hazara coal miners in Pakistan have taken a sharp turn as the Imran Khan government is under immense pressure to tighten security.

On the other hand, the minority Hazaras are refusing to bury those murdered, wanting to have their prime minister to visit the scene of occurrence of this heinous crime.&nbsp;

And the criticism over the entire situation is mounting every hour.

Politicians and anti-government forces are&nbsp;continuing&nbsp;with scathing attacks on the government for its abject failure to protect the minorities -- especially in the matter of&nbsp;a sensitive province like Balochistan.

The province is already reeling under spate of repressions and stifling of freedom of expression. The minorities are also being suppressed for their ongoing protests against the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through their province.&nbsp;

In an apparent bid to draw mileage from this ghastly act, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Vice-President, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) Maryam Nawaz reached Quetta, contacted the kith and kin of the slain miners and stepped up their rhetoric against Imran Khan.&nbsp;

As is known, these two opposition leaders and their political parties are part of the anti-government alliance which of late has been campaigning for ouster of the present government and the fresh Hazara killings have further fuelled their tirade.&nbsp;

Launching a blistering attack against the government, Bilawal told the audience in Quetta that when in Quetta in 2013, Hazaras were killed by bombings, the PPP government had dismissed the provincial government for its laxity and lapses.

As many as 2000 Hazaras have been killed since 1998 in Pakistan and blatant discrimination against them in government jobs or societal standings continue to inflict them.

On her part, Maryam Nawaz conveyed her sympathy to the families on behalf of her father, Nawaz Sharif, who is currently in exile in the UK. The opposition, therefore, is losing no opportunity to capitalise on this burning issue -- thereby, putting Imran Khan on the backfoot.&nbsp;

The garrulous and pompous minister for interior, Sheikh Rashed Ahmed, &nbsp;had air dashed to Quetta to calm down the protesters but his assurances were of no help at all and in fact, proved counter-productive.&nbsp;

Now, the affected are demanding the presence of Imran Khan to come and provide succour to the families. The dead bodies remain unburied despite calls by him to do so.&nbsp;

There is complete defiance by the Hazaras, and their supporters and sympathisers.

Meanwhile, condemning the incident in the strongest possible language.

Nobel Laureate Malala Yusafzai also called upon Prime Minister Imran Khan to visit Quetta and share the grief of the Hazaras. This particular outburst is likely to draw international attention as the global community sees Pakistan with suspicion for the country’s terror-linked activities as well as abetment to acts of crossborder terrorism in India and Afghanistan.

Pakistan will hence be seen in a dim light, bringing into sharp focus for its repeated failure to protect the minority. As it is, the recent vandalism in a Hindu temple in Pakistan has already exposed its hollow claims of ensuring security of the minorities.

In view of the increasing pressure on the federal government, Imran Khan, in all likelihood, will not be able to resist the pressure and will visit Quetta sooner than later to placate the aggrieved.&nbsp;

In his wisdom, he should do it fast -- as his platter is already full with compliance of FATF guidelines, political opposition within, and numerous other insurmountable challenges including on the economic front, which do not seem to leave him soon.

(The writer is a retired IPS officer, a security analyst and a former national security advisor to the prime minister of Mauritius. Views expressed are personal.)

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The January 4 grotesque killings of ten innocent Hazara coal miners in Pakistan have taken a sharp turn as the Imran Khan government is under immense pressure to tighten security.

The January 4 grotesque killings of ten innocent Hazara coal miners in Pakistan have taken a sharp turn as the Imran Khan government is under immense pressure to tighten security. On the other hand, the minority Hazaras are refusing to bury those murdered, wanting to have their prime minister to visit the scene of occurrence of this heinous crime. And the criticism over the entire situation is mounting every hour. Politicians and anti-government forces are continuing with scathing attacks on the government for its abject failure to protect the minorities -- especially in the matter of a sensitive province like Balochistan. The province is already reeling under spate of repressions and stifling of freedom of expression. The minorities are also being suppressed for their ongoing protests against the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through their province. In an apparent bid to draw mileage from this ghastly act, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Vice-President, Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) Maryam Nawaz reached Quetta, contacted the kith and kin of the slain miners and stepped up their rhetoric against Imran Khan. As is known, these two opposition leaders and their political parties are part of the anti-government alliance which of late has been campaigning for ouster of the present government and the fresh Hazara killings have further fuelled their tirade. Launching a blistering attack against the government, Bilawal told the audience in Quetta that when in Quetta in 2013, Hazaras were killed by bombings, the PPP government had dismissed the provincial government for its laxity and lapses. As many as 2000 Hazaras have been killed since 1998 in Pakistan and blatant discrimination against them in government jobs or societal standings continue to inflict them. On her part, Maryam Nawaz conveyed her sympathy to the families on behalf of her father, Nawaz Sharif, who is currently in exile in the UK. The opposition, therefore, is losing no opportunity to capitalise on this burning issue -- thereby, putting Imran Khan on the backfoot. The garrulous and pompous minister for interior, Sheikh Rashed Ahmed, had air dashed to Quetta to calm down the protesters but his assurances were of no help at all and in fact, proved counter-productive. Now, the affected are demanding the presence of Imran Khan to come and provide succour to the families. The dead bodies remain unburied despite calls by him to do so. There is complete defiance by the Hazaras, and their supporters and sympathisers. Meanwhile, condemning the incident in the strongest possible language. Nobel Laureate Malala Yusafzai also called upon Prime Minister Imran Khan to visit Quetta and share the grief of the Hazaras. This particular outburst is likely to draw international attention as the global community sees Pakistan with suspicion for the country’s terror-linked activities as well as abetment to acts of crossborder terrorism in India and Afghanistan. Pakistan will hence be seen in a dim light, bringing into sharp focus for its repeated failure to protect the minority. As it is, the recent vandalism in a Hindu temple in Pakistan has already exposed its hollow claims of ensuring security of the minorities. In view of the increasing pressure on the federal government, Imran Khan, in all likelihood, will not be able to resist the pressure and will visit Quetta sooner than later to placate the aggrieved. In his wisdom, he should do it fast -- as his platter is already full with compliance of FATF guidelines, political opposition within, and numerous other insurmountable challenges including on the economic front, which do not seem to leave him soon. (The writer is a retired IPS officer, a security analyst and a former national security advisor to the prime minister of Mauritius. Views expressed are personal.) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Hazara killings in Pakistan: Crisis deepens

It's been 3 days since the Hazarakillings but the families of the victims are refusing to bury them. They want Imran Khan himself to come to Quetta. Who are the Hazaras? Why are they persecuted in Pakistan?

Gravitas: The plight of Pakistan's Hazara Community

French President's top diplomatic advisor has said Paris's ties with Pakistan are at a "historic low" in the backdrop of comments by its leadership against the country amid the terror attacks last year.

Emmanuel Bonne who is in Delhi for India France Strategic dialogue said: "During this crisis, after the campaign against us, our relations with Pakistan probably are at a historic low. This is not exactly what we want, we assume it because our priorities and language are clear."

Watch |&nbsp;

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Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan criticised French President Emmanuel Macron last year after the latter called for upholding his country's right to expression over terror attacks involving beheading after caricatures of Prophet Muhammad were shown. Later widespread protests were seen in Pakistan against France by hardline groups and calls by lawmakers to recall the country's envoy to Paris.

Bonne, who was speaking at Vivekananda Foundation thanked India for support amid Islamabad's criticism. He said, "We very much appreciate the support we got not only from your authorities but also from Indian civil society, when our country was under attack by some leaders in Turkey and Pakistan and in other countries".

Adding how they were trying to "create distance between us and the Muslim world and this was certainly not what we were doing, certainly what we don't want, this is for the simple reason that we have a long history with the Muslim world. We have affinities with countries in the Muslim world. It was critical for us to able to say, India is reverse in this, which means you are countering disinformation, fighting terrorism."

India had issued a strong statement, deploring the "personal attacks in unacceptable language" on President Macron which the Ministry of external affairs said was "in violation of the most basic standards of international discourse". What stood out was the spontaneous support by Indian society for France, with the Twitter trend #StandWithFrance also seen.

French President's top diplomatic advisor has said Paris's ties with Pakistan are at a "historic low" in the backdrop of comments by its leadership against the country amid the terror attacks last year.

French President's top diplomatic advisor has said Paris's ties with Pakistan are at a "historic low" in the backdrop of comments by its leadership against the country amid the terror attacks last year. Emmanuel Bonne who is in Delhi for India France Strategic dialogue said: "During this crisis, after the campaign against us, our relations with Pakistan probably are at a historic low. This is not exactly what we want, we assume it because our priorities and language are clear." Watch | Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan criticised French President Emmanuel Macron last year after the latter called for upholding his country's right to expression over terror attacks involving beheading after caricatures of Prophet Muhammad were shown. Later widespread protests were seen in Pakistan against France by hardline groups and calls by lawmakers to recall the country's envoy to Paris. Bonne, who was speaking at Vivekananda Foundation thanked India for support amid Islamabad's criticism. He said, "We very much appreciate the support we got not only from your authorities but also from Indian civil society, when our country was under attack by some leaders in Turkey and Pakistan and in other countries". Adding how they were trying to "create distance between us and the Muslim world and this was certainly not what we were doing, certainly what we don't want, this is for the simple reason that we have a long history with the Muslim world. We have affinities with countries in the Muslim world. It was critical for us to able to say, India is reverse in this, which means you are countering disinformation, fighting terrorism." India had issued a strong statement, deploring the "personal attacks in unacceptable language" on President Macron which the Ministry of external affairs said was "in violation of the most basic standards of international discourse". What stood out was the spontaneous support by Indian society for France, with the Twitter trend #StandWithFrance also seen.

Ties with Pakistan at 'historic low', says French President's top diplomatic advisor

Days after the 11 miners belonging to the Shia Hazara community were killed, members of the community continue to protest in Pakistan. The protesters have now blocked the highway in Quetta, demanding to meet PM Imran Khan.

Balochistan massacre: Protest as terrorists kill Shia miners

Pakistan: Thousands of Hazaras have since staged a protest, arranging the coffins across a highway in the provincial capital Quetta.

WION Dispatch: Hazaras continues to protest and refuse to end sit-in until Pak PM meet them

The police chief told the court that a protest by the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) was going on near the site on the day of the incident which was sponsored by Maulana Faizullah.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan Supreme Court orders reconstruction of vandalised hindu temple

Pakistan's Hazaras community has refused to end its protest until Prime Minister Imran Khan visits the Balochistan. The minority Shia community has rejected the federal minister's request to end the sit-in.

Pakistan: Hazaras community refuses to end its protest until Pak PM meets them

People mourn the deceased after gunmen in southwestern Pakistan killed at least 11 workers at a remote coal mine. The victims of the attack in Baluchistan province were from the minority Shiite Hazara community.

Pakistan: Members of Hazara community protest against attack

Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Pakistan's Hazara miners

People mourn the deceased after gunmen in southwestern Pakistan killed at least 11 workers at a remote coal mine.

Gunmen kill 11 Hazara miners in southwest Pakistan

Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's ancestral homes in the walled city of Peshawar, Pakistan will be sold at approximately PKR 23.56 million&nbsp;(approx $143000). The value has been set by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister.&nbsp; 
 
Local reports state that the two houses will be bought by the government and the payments will be done soon to the landowners.&nbsp; 
Raj Kapoor`s ancestral haveli at Ander Shaher Bazaar will be bought for Rs 15 million and Dilip Kumar`s house in Mohalla Khudadad will be acquired for Rs 8.56 million. 
 
To turn the Havelis into museums to attract tourism, the government has planned to acquire the properties and renovate them, as both are in bad shape. 
 
Once a magnificent haveli, the Kapoor family home is now in ruins and has not been inhabited for a long time due to the depleted condition. The locals of that area had demanded the acquisition of both houses for a long time. 
 
According to a report in The Express Tribune, the present owners were not willing to sell these houses as the government was reportedly not willing to pay the market prices. 
 
On the other hand, the government claimed that the owners were demanding exorbitantly higher prices and blackmailing the authorities due to the importance of these houses in the eyes of local residents. 
 
Now, the government has fixed a price on its own and it remains to be seen whether it will be acceptable for the owners as the landlord of the Kapoor`s haveli was planning to build a shopping mall and demolish the building when he failed to reach a consensus with the authorities over the pricing. 
 
In fact, for a long time, the prices of the houses remained a bone of contention as the landowners were also demanding billions and a far higher price than that of the market average. 
 
Director Archaeology Department Dr Abdul Sumad said they were trying to estimate the cost of renovation of both the buildings as the department has declared these houses national assets. 
 
Philanthropist and veteran actor Dilip Kumar also known as `The Tragedy King` has been credited for bringing the Method acting technique to Indian cinema. Kumar, whose career spans over five decades, has worked in over 65 films. The legendary star is known for roles in films such as the romantic `Andaz`, the swashbuckling `Aan`, the social drama `Daag`, the dramatic `Devdas`, ` Azaad`, the epic historical `Mughal-e-Azam`, `Gunga Jamuna` and the comedy `Ram Aur Shyam`. 
 
Actor, producer and director of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor is widely regarded as the greatest showman in the history of Indian cinema and entertainment. During his lifetime, the actor was two-time nominee for the Palme d`Or grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his films Awaara and `Boot Polish`.&nbsp; 
 
His hit films including `Awaara`, `Shree 420`,`Jagte Raho`, `Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai` and `Mera Naam Joker` are loved by audience till date.&nbsp; 
 
Kapoor's father, Prithviraj Kapoor too was a veteran actor in Bollywood and the Kapoor family is often considered the 'first family of Bollywood. Raj Kapoor's grandchildren Karisma, Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor are popular stars in Hindi cinema at present.&nbsp;

Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's ancestral homes in the walled city of Peshawar, Pakistan will be sold at approximately PKR 23.56 million (approx $143000).

Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's ancestral homes in the walled city of Peshawar, Pakistan will be sold at approximately PKR 23.56 million (approx $143000). The value has been set by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister. Local reports state that the two houses will be bought by the government and the payments will be done soon to the landowners. Raj Kapoor`s ancestral haveli at Ander Shaher Bazaar will be bought for Rs 15 million and Dilip Kumar`s house in Mohalla Khudadad will be acquired for Rs 8.56 million. To turn the Havelis into museums to attract tourism, the government has planned to acquire the properties and renovate them, as both are in bad shape. Once a magnificent haveli, the Kapoor family home is now in ruins and has not been inhabited for a long time due to the depleted condition. The locals of that area had demanded the acquisition of both houses for a long time. According to a report in The Express Tribune, the present owners were not willing to sell these houses as the government was reportedly not willing to pay the market prices. On the other hand, the government claimed that the owners were demanding exorbitantly higher prices and blackmailing the authorities due to the importance of these houses in the eyes of local residents. Now, the government has fixed a price on its own and it remains to be seen whether it will be acceptable for the owners as the landlord of the Kapoor`s haveli was planning to build a shopping mall and demolish the building when he failed to reach a consensus with the authorities over the pricing. In fact, for a long time, the prices of the houses remained a bone of contention as the landowners were also demanding billions and a far higher price than that of the market average. Director Archaeology Department Dr Abdul Sumad said they were trying to estimate the cost of renovation of both the buildings as the department has declared these houses national assets. Philanthropist and veteran actor Dilip Kumar also known as `The Tragedy King` has been credited for bringing the Method acting technique to Indian cinema. Kumar, whose career spans over five decades, has worked in over 65 films. The legendary star is known for roles in films such as the romantic `Andaz`, the swashbuckling `Aan`, the social drama `Daag`, the dramatic `Devdas`, ` Azaad`, the epic historical `Mughal-e-Azam`, `Gunga Jamuna` and the comedy `Ram Aur Shyam`. Actor, producer and director of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor is widely regarded as the greatest showman in the history of Indian cinema and entertainment. During his lifetime, the actor was two-time nominee for the Palme d`Or grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his films Awaara and `Boot Polish`. His hit films including `Awaara`, `Shree 420`,`Jagte Raho`, `Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai` and `Mera Naam Joker` are loved by audience till date. Kapoor's father, Prithviraj Kapoor too was a veteran actor in Bollywood and the Kapoor family is often considered the 'first family of Bollywood. Raj Kapoor's grandchildren Karisma, Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor are popular stars in Hindi cinema at present.

Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor's ancestral houses in Pakistan estimated to be sold for $ 143000 

Pakistan stands at the nexus of the illegal falcon trade, in which the birds of prey - including some endangered species - are trapped and trafficked for wealthy Gulf Arabs, for whom falconry is a treasured tradition.

Poachers' paradise: Gulf hunts fuel falcon trafficking surge in Pakistan

Pakistan's minority Shia Hazara community protests killing of 11 coal miners by ISIS

Pak, China continued tumult in 2020, still world reposed faith in India

Pakistani police have arrested 45 more people for their alleged involvement in the vandalisation of a Hindu temple by a mob led by members of a radical Islamist party in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Over 350 people were named in the FIR after the temple in Terri village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak district was vandalised and set on fire on Wednesday by a mob protesting against its expansion work. With the latest arrests, the number of accused arrested in the case has risen to 100.&nbsp;

The arrested people were produced in the anti-terrorist court (ATC) where the police secured three days remand of the accused.

The temple, which also has a samadhi of a Hindu religious leader, was attacked by the mob after members of the Hindu community received permission from local authorities to renovate its decades-old building.

The mob, led by some local clerics and supporters of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party (Fazal ur Rehman group), demolished the newly constructed work alongside the old structure.

The attack on the temple drew strong condemnation from human rights activists and the minority Hindu community leaders.

India had also lodged a protest with Pakistan over the vandalisation of the temple and sought strict action against those responsible for the incident.

The protest was conveyed to Pakistan through diplomatic channels, sources in New Delhi said on Friday.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Mahmood Khan assured that his government would reconstruct the damaged temple and the Samadhi at the shortest possible time.

According to a notification issued by the Chief Minister's Secretariat on late Saturday night, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government constituted a four-member committee to assess the damages caused to the temple and develop its reconstruction plan in consultation with the Hindu community.

The committee has been asked to complete the work in 10 days.

(with inputs from agencies)

Pakistani police have arrested 45 more people for their alleged involvement in the vandalisation of a Hindu temple by a mob led by members of a radical Islamist party in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Pakistani police have arrested 45 more people for their alleged involvement in the vandalisation of a Hindu temple by a mob led by members of a radical Islamist party in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Over 350 people were named in the FIR after the temple in Terri village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak district was vandalised and set on fire on Wednesday by a mob protesting against its expansion work. With the latest arrests, the number of accused arrested in the case has risen to 100. The arrested people were produced in the anti-terrorist court (ATC) where the police secured three days remand of the accused. The temple, which also has a samadhi of a Hindu religious leader, was attacked by the mob after members of the Hindu community received permission from local authorities to renovate its decades-old building. The mob, led by some local clerics and supporters of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party (Fazal ur Rehman group), demolished the newly constructed work alongside the old structure. The attack on the temple drew strong condemnation from human rights activists and the minority Hindu community leaders. India had also lodged a protest with Pakistan over the vandalisation of the temple and sought strict action against those responsible for the incident. The protest was conveyed to Pakistan through diplomatic channels, sources in New Delhi said on Friday. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Mahmood Khan assured that his government would reconstruct the damaged temple and the Samadhi at the shortest possible time. According to a notification issued by the Chief Minister's Secretariat on late Saturday night, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government constituted a four-member committee to assess the damages caused to the temple and develop its reconstruction plan in consultation with the Hindu community. The committee has been asked to complete the work in 10 days. (with inputs from agencies)

Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan

Pakistan is ringing in the new year with the same old story. A temple has been demolished. Pak High Commission in London has been fined. The opposition movement is gaining strength & even clerics are slamming Imran Khan. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: How is Pakistan ringing in the New Year?

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Friday that the opposition's movement would no longer be directed only at the Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government but also "his backers".

The opposition alliance chief said that rifts within the PDM are a campaign run by the media and added that the PDM is more determined to rid the country of Imran Khan and his illegitimate government.

Dawn reported that the opposition after a meeting of the PDM leaders in Raiwind, Rehman said it was decided after detailed discussions that the opposition will participate in the upcoming by-elections but there had been no decision on contesting in the Senate elections.

"In principle, we are not opposed to the elections of any institution but there is some time until [Senate polls]," he said, adding that the final decision will be taken in future PDM meetings while keeping in view the prevailing conditions, as quoted by Dawn.

"PDM has come out stronger than before and is more determined than before to rid the nation of this illegitimate government," said the PDM chief and added that all PDM constituent parties had reported to the meeting today that the resignations of "all" opposition lawmakers had reached their party leaderships, in accordance with the Dec 31 date given for this purpose by the alliance, as reported by Dawn.

"So one of the targets has been achieved today," he said, reiterating that the government had one month to resign.

Rehman said if the premier refused to step down by January 31, the PDM leadership will announce the long march to Islamabad and decide its date.

"It will also decide whether the long march should be staged towards Islamabad or to Rawalpindi," Rehman added. Rawalpindi is a metonym for the headquarters of the Pakistan Army.

"We agree that the establishment has held the entire system hostage by turning Pakistan into a deep state. Imran Khan is a pawn [and] the people who did rigging and imposed him upon the nation, we want to make it clear [to them that] we blame the establishment and army leadership for this," the PDM chief said.

He continued: "The direction of our criticism will now be manifestly aimed at them (establishment). Now it is for them to decide whether they will further sink their claws on Pakistan's politics or retreat and move towards their constitutional responsibilities."

The PDM chief said that the alliance considered the army "as our army" and it respected all generals. "But when this defence power interferes in politics forgoing its professional duties, it creates confusions".

"All parties are unanimous that the movement's direction should not be turned only towards the pawn but also against his backers," he said further.

He announced that the alliance would stage a demonstration in front of the Election Commission of Pakistan offices in Islamabad on January 19, while a similar protest was being planned to be held in front of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) headquarters as well.

According to Dawn, Rehman said that all opposition members summoned by NAB had appeared before it but said that "it has been proven that this is not accountability but revenge".

PDM has demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan till January 31 and in case of denial for this demand, the front has announced a rally against the government.

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Friday that the opposition's movement would no longer be directed only at the Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government but also "his backers".

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said on Friday that the opposition's movement would no longer be directed only at the Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government but also "his backers". The opposition alliance chief said that rifts within the PDM are a campaign run by the media and added that the PDM is more determined to rid the country of Imran Khan and his illegitimate government. Dawn reported that the opposition after a meeting of the PDM leaders in Raiwind, Rehman said it was decided after detailed discussions that the opposition will participate in the upcoming by-elections but there had been no decision on contesting in the Senate elections. "In principle, we are not opposed to the elections of any institution but there is some time until [Senate polls]," he said, adding that the final decision will be taken in future PDM meetings while keeping in view the prevailing conditions, as quoted by Dawn. "PDM has come out stronger than before and is more determined than before to rid the nation of this illegitimate government," said the PDM chief and added that all PDM constituent parties had reported to the meeting today that the resignations of "all" opposition lawmakers had reached their party leaderships, in accordance with the Dec 31 date given for this purpose by the alliance, as reported by Dawn. "So one of the targets has been achieved today," he said, reiterating that the government had one month to resign. Rehman said if the premier refused to step down by January 31, the PDM leadership will announce the long march to Islamabad and decide its date. "It will also decide whether the long march should be staged towards Islamabad or to Rawalpindi," Rehman added. Rawalpindi is a metonym for the headquarters of the Pakistan Army. "We agree that the establishment has held the entire system hostage by turning Pakistan into a deep state. Imran Khan is a pawn [and] the people who did rigging and imposed him upon the nation, we want to make it clear [to them that] we blame the establishment and army leadership for this," the PDM chief said. He continued: "The direction of our criticism will now be manifestly aimed at them (establishment). Now it is for them to decide whether they will further sink their claws on Pakistan's politics or retreat and move towards their constitutional responsibilities." The PDM chief said that the alliance considered the army "as our army" and it respected all generals. "But when this defence power interferes in politics forgoing its professional duties, it creates confusions". "All parties are unanimous that the movement's direction should not be turned only towards the pawn but also against his backers," he said further. He announced that the alliance would stage a demonstration in front of the Election Commission of Pakistan offices in Islamabad on January 19, while a similar protest was being planned to be held in front of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) headquarters as well. According to Dawn, Rehman said that all opposition members summoned by NAB had appeared before it but said that "it has been proven that this is not accountability but revenge". PDM has demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Imran Khan till January 31 and in case of denial for this demand, the front has announced a rally against the government.

Party determined to rid Pak of illegitimate Imran Khan govt: PDM chief

It's a new year but same story for India's neighbour Pakistan. A temple has been desecrated and demolished, the Pakistan High Commission in London has been forced to pay a hefty fine and Pakistani Opposition's movement is gaining strength. And as if all of this wasn't enough. Pakistani clerics too have launched an anti-govt movement.

On Wednesday, an angry mob demolished a Hindu temple in Karak District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The mob ripped the bricks from the walls and set them on fire. The Chief Justice of Pakistan has promised to take up the matter.

On Friday there were protests in India in solidarity with the minorities of Pakistan. Protesters in Jammu took out a march and burnt Pakistani flags. New Delhi too has lodged a strong protest. It has asked Islamabad to investigate the matter and take strict action against those responsible for the demolition.

This message was conveyed to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.

Meanwhile, Pak high commission in London has also received a message. It's an enormous bill of USD 28.7 million. A UK court has ordered this amount to be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission.

The action has been taken due to non-payment of penalty by National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-is-pakistan-ringing-in-the-new-year-353932">WATCH|</a>

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A British firm once helped Parvez Musharraf government track down foreign assets purchased through ill-gotten wealth.

The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan or (NAB) was tasked to assist the firm.

It ended up owing 22 million dollars to the firm for its operations. The NAB failed to pay this amount. Then in 2018 a UK court set 31st December 2020 as the deadline for this payment. Pakistan failed to meet the deadline again.

It has now been asked to pay the amount plus a fine of 6.7 million dollars. A total of 28.7 million dollars will be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission. That is if they have such money in their account.

Meanwhile back in Pakistan, the Opposition has gone into a huddle to come up with a united stance.

Pakistan Democratic Movement, the Opposition alliance held a meeting in Lahore. Mass resignation was discussed in the meet. All PDM legislators are planning to tender their resignations in first week of February.

Their resignations will paralyse the government and force Imran Khan to call early elections. PDM rallies have been attracting huge crowds despite hurdles by the Imran Khan govt.

They want to make the most of the rising anti-govt sentiment during this pandemic. So do some influential Pakistani clerics like Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman. He has announced a campaign against the FATF legislation passed by the Pakistan 
Parliament in august 2020.

It's a legislation designed to hoodwink the FATF and stay on its grey list. This legislation is aimed at freezing &amp; seizing the assets of individuals, organisations or madrassas that are on the sanctions list of the United Nations.

This law also requires all religious institutions to be registered with the govt. Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman says the law is a conspiracy against Islamic institutions.

He says its a garb to impose religious restrictions. Which according to him are not acceptable in an Islamic republic like Pakistan.

So we have Religious intolerance, non-payment of dues, a united Opposition and angry clerics in Pakistan as it starts a new year.

It is a new year yes, but certainly not Naya Pakistan

It's a new year but same story for India's neighbour Pakistan. A temple has been desecrated and demolished, the Pakistan High Commission in London has been forced to pay a hefty fine and Pakistani Opposition's movement is gaining strength.

It's a new year but same story for India's neighbour Pakistan. A temple has been desecrated and demolished, the Pakistan High Commission in London has been forced to pay a hefty fine and Pakistani Opposition's movement is gaining strength. And as if all of this wasn't enough. Pakistani clerics too have launched an anti-govt movement. On Wednesday, an angry mob demolished a Hindu temple in Karak District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The mob ripped the bricks from the walls and set them on fire. The Chief Justice of Pakistan has promised to take up the matter. On Friday there were protests in India in solidarity with the minorities of Pakistan. Protesters in Jammu took out a march and burnt Pakistani flags. New Delhi too has lodged a strong protest. It has asked Islamabad to investigate the matter and take strict action against those responsible for the demolition. This message was conveyed to the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. Meanwhile, Pak high commission in London has also received a message. It's an enormous bill of USD 28.7 million. A UK court has ordered this amount to be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission. The action has been taken due to non-payment of penalty by National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan. WATCH| × A British firm once helped Parvez Musharraf government track down foreign assets purchased through ill-gotten wealth. The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan or (NAB) was tasked to assist the firm. It ended up owing 22 million dollars to the firm for its operations. The NAB failed to pay this amount. Then in 2018 a UK court set 31st December 2020 as the deadline for this payment. Pakistan failed to meet the deadline again. It has now been asked to pay the amount plus a fine of 6.7 million dollars. A total of 28.7 million dollars will be debited from the accounts of the Pak high commission. That is if they have such money in their account. Meanwhile back in Pakistan, the Opposition has gone into a huddle to come up with a united stance. Pakistan Democratic Movement, the Opposition alliance held a meeting in Lahore. Mass resignation was discussed in the meet. All PDM legislators are planning to tender their resignations in first week of February. Their resignations will paralyse the government and force Imran Khan to call early elections. PDM rallies have been attracting huge crowds despite hurdles by the Imran Khan govt. They want to make the most of the rising anti-govt sentiment during this pandemic. So do some influential Pakistani clerics like Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman. He has announced a campaign against the FATF legislation passed by the Pakistan Parliament in august 2020. It's a legislation designed to hoodwink the FATF and stay on its grey list. This legislation is aimed at freezing & seizing the assets of individuals, organisations or madrassas that are on the sanctions list of the United Nations. This law also requires all religious institutions to be registered with the govt. Maulana Mufti Muneebur Rehman says the law is a conspiracy against Islamic institutions. He says its a garb to impose religious restrictions. Which according to him are not acceptable in an Islamic republic like Pakistan. So we have Religious intolerance, non-payment of dues, a united Opposition and angry clerics in Pakistan as it starts a new year. It is a new year yes, but certainly not Naya Pakistan

A new year, but no 'Naya Pakistan'

An alliance of Pakistani opposition parties the PDM has reiterated its ultimatum to the Imran Khan-led government and said that the puppet regime has only 30 days to step down. The alliance, however, has decided to participate in the by-polls although they have deferred the decision on contesting the Senate elections to a later date.

Pakistan: PDM defers decision on Senate elections

A Pakistani religious leader has been arrested on Friday for collecting "obscene" images of a minor girl and blackmailing the family.&nbsp;

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) crime cell arrested the suspect following a successful raid, Faizullah Korejo, the agency's additional director at its Cybercrime Reporting Centre in Karachi said as reported by Dawn.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Korejo said a "brave mother" informed them that they have appointed a Qari (religious teacher) to teach Quran to her children at home.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/provincial-govt-to-pay-for-pakistan-hindu-temple-destroyed-by-mob-353834">Provincial govt to pay for Pakistan Hindu temple destroyed by mob</a>

Later, the 13-year-old child complained that the teacher is "physically abusing" her while teaching and was even in possession of "obscene" images of her for blackmailing.&nbsp;

The accused also sent the photographs to the girl's mother via Whatsapp for blackmailing.&nbsp;

"The accused was threatening the family that if his unethical demands were not met, he would make the pictures viral on social media," said Korejo.

The FIA official said that then one of their teams conducted a raid to nab the suspect.&nbsp;

The suspect was arrested and his mobile phone was confiscated that showed "obscene" image of the minor, Korejo said.

The religious leader has been booked under various sections of Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 and Pakistan Penal Code.&nbsp;

The FIA took service of a stress counsellor for the minor victim to give her professional counselling.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Pakistani religious leader has been arrested on Friday for collecting "obscene" images of a minor girl and blackmailing the family. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) crime cell arrested the suspect following a successful raid, Faizullah Korejo, the agency's additional director at its Cybercrime Reporting Centre in Karachi said as reported by Dawn.

A Pakistani religious leader has been arrested on Friday for collecting "obscene" images of a minor girl and blackmailing the family. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) crime cell arrested the suspect following a successful raid, Faizullah Korejo, the agency's additional director at its Cybercrime Reporting Centre in Karachi said as reported by Dawn. Watch | Korejo said a "brave mother" informed them that they have appointed a Qari (religious teacher) to teach Quran to her children at home. Also read | Provincial govt to pay for Pakistan Hindu temple destroyed by mob Later, the 13-year-old child complained that the teacher is "physically abusing" her while teaching and was even in possession of "obscene" images of her for blackmailing. The accused also sent the photographs to the girl's mother via Whatsapp for blackmailing. "The accused was threatening the family that if his unethical demands were not met, he would make the pictures viral on social media," said Korejo. The FIA official said that then one of their teams conducted a raid to nab the suspect. The suspect was arrested and his mobile phone was confiscated that showed "obscene" image of the minor, Korejo said. The religious leader has been booked under various sections of Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 and Pakistan Penal Code. The FIA took service of a stress counsellor for the minor victim to give her professional counselling.

Pakistan: Religious leader arrested for abusing, blackmailing minor girl

Pakistan and India on Friday conducted the annual practice of exchanging the list of their nuclear installations under a bilateral arrangement that prohibits them from attacking each other's atomic facilities.

The exchange was made in accordance with Article-II of the Agreement on Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between Pakistan and India, signed on December 31, 1988, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement here.

It said that 'the list of nuclear installations and facilities in Pakistan was officially handed over to a representative of the Indian High Commission at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, at 1100 hrs (PST).'

"The Indian Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi handed over the list of Indian Nuclear installations and facilities to a representative of the Pakistan High Commission at 1130 hrs (IST)," it added.

The agreement contains the provision that both countries inform each other of their nuclear installations and facilities on January 1 every year.

This has been done consecutively since January 1, 1992, according to the FO.

The exchange of information comes despite the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.

The relationship dipped after India's war planes pounded a terrorist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26, 2019 in response to the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed.

Tensions between the two nations spiked further after New Delhi abrogated provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution to withdraw Jammu and Kashmir's special status and bifurcated it into two Union Territories.

Pakistan downgraded its diplomatic relations with India and expelled the Indian high commissioner following the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2019.

Asserting that the abrogation of Article 370 was its "internal matter", India has defended the imposition of restrictions in the Kashmir Valley on the grounds that they were put to prevent Pakistan from creating more mischief through proxies and terrorists.

Pakistan and India on Friday conducted the annual practice of exchanging the list of their nuclear installations under a bilateral arrangement that prohibits them from attacking each other's atomic facilities.

Pakistan and India on Friday conducted the annual practice of exchanging the list of their nuclear installations under a bilateral arrangement that prohibits them from attacking each other's atomic facilities. The exchange was made in accordance with Article-II of the Agreement on Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations and Facilities between Pakistan and India, signed on December 31, 1988, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement here. It said that 'the list of nuclear installations and facilities in Pakistan was officially handed over to a representative of the Indian High Commission at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, at 1100 hrs (PST).' "The Indian Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi handed over the list of Indian Nuclear installations and facilities to a representative of the Pakistan High Commission at 1130 hrs (IST)," it added. The agreement contains the provision that both countries inform each other of their nuclear installations and facilities on January 1 every year. This has been done consecutively since January 1, 1992, according to the FO. The exchange of information comes despite the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The relationship dipped after India's war planes pounded a terrorist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26, 2019 in response to the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. Tensions between the two nations spiked further after New Delhi abrogated provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution to withdraw Jammu and Kashmir's special status and bifurcated it into two Union Territories. Pakistan downgraded its diplomatic relations with India and expelled the Indian high commissioner following the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2019. Asserting that the abrogation of Article 370 was its "internal matter", India has defended the imposition of restrictions in the Kashmir Valley on the grounds that they were put to prevent Pakistan from creating more mischief through proxies and terrorists.

India, Pakistan exchange list of nuclear installations

Increasingly and mostly as an outcome of China's One-Child policy, more and more Chinese are looking for a bride, and Beijing's all-weather friend--Pakistan has a role to play. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC has increased engagement in all spheres of society including people to people spurring many marriages, many times a pure outcome of economics.

It has emerged that agents in China and Pakistan have used the garb of CPEC to literally kidnap girls from lower socio-economic backgrounds, especially from minority communities such as Christians, and marry them off to Chinese men.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-at-least-30-arrested-for-vandalising-hindu-temple-353664">Pakistan: At least 30 arrested for vandalising Hindu temple</a>

Many of these marriages have taken place in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, and Faisalabad. For a prospect of a better life in China, many of the unsuspecting women take the bait, and much to the shock life hasn't been easy in the foreign land.&nbsp;

One of the biggest fall out of these marriages has been, many times women who have been to China are unable to accept the Chinese way of life. A number of reports and complaints have been received from the families of these women and the women themselves about mistreatment by their husbands and in-laws.

An obvious reason for the existence of the current situation is a continuing gap in demographics in China, combined with abject poverty in many places in Pakistan. Most of the Pakistani brides are from minority communities, and many times the Chinese side has been giving inflated information about their socio-economic status which turns out to be false.

It has been decades since China adopted One Child policy, with a preference for a male child leading to a skewed gender ratio that continues even today. The number of marriageable Chinese men outnumber women in the country by more than 30 million, as per the most recent estimates of Dec 2020. While logically increased Pakistan-China partnership has played a role in societal engagement, many times at the detriment of the lower strata of society.

Increasingly and mostly as an outcome of China's One-Child policy, more and more Chinese are looking for a bride, and Beijing's all-weather friend--Pakistan has a role to play.

Increasingly and mostly as an outcome of China's One-Child policy, more and more Chinese are looking for a bride, and Beijing's all-weather friend--Pakistan has a role to play. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC has increased engagement in all spheres of society including people to people spurring many marriages, many times a pure outcome of economics. It has emerged that agents in China and Pakistan have used the garb of CPEC to literally kidnap girls from lower socio-economic backgrounds, especially from minority communities such as Christians, and marry them off to Chinese men. Also read | Pakistan: At least 30 arrested for vandalising Hindu temple Many of these marriages have taken place in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, and Faisalabad. For a prospect of a better life in China, many of the unsuspecting women take the bait, and much to the shock life hasn't been easy in the foreign land. One of the biggest fall out of these marriages has been, many times women who have been to China are unable to accept the Chinese way of life. A number of reports and complaints have been received from the families of these women and the women themselves about mistreatment by their husbands and in-laws. An obvious reason for the existence of the current situation is a continuing gap in demographics in China, combined with abject poverty in many places in Pakistan. Most of the Pakistani brides are from minority communities, and many times the Chinese side has been giving inflated information about their socio-economic status which turns out to be false. It has been decades since China adopted One Child policy, with a preference for a male child leading to a skewed gender ratio that continues even today. The number of marriageable Chinese men outnumber women in the country by more than 30 million, as per the most recent estimates of Dec 2020. While logically increased Pakistan-China partnership has played a role in societal engagement, many times at the detriment of the lower strata of society.

Chinese in search for Pakistani bride as skewed gender ratio impacts the country

More than 30 people, who largely are affiliated with a radical Islamist party, were arrested after a mob set on fire and damaged&nbsp;a Hindu temple in northwest Pakistan, officials on Thursday said.&nbsp;

The vandalisation of the temple in Terri village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's (KP) Karak district on Wednesday caused strong criticism from human rights groups and minority Hindu community leaders.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-mob-led-by-muslim-cleric-attacks-sets-hindu-temple-ablaze-in-pakistan-353500">Mob led by Muslim cleric attacks, sets Hindu temple ablaze in Pakistan</a>

Local police said that over 30 people have been arrested so far, including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam leader Rehmat Salam Khattak, in overnight raids, as reported by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Provincial Police Chief KPK Sanaullah Abbasi said that more than 350 people have been named in the FIR.&nbsp;

Abbasi also said that all sections of law related to terrorism against the accused have been included in the FIR.&nbsp;

Led by a local cleric and supporters of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party (Fazal ur Rehman group) and angered over local officials who gave permission to renovate the structure, the mob demolished the temple that was undergoing construction. &nbsp;

Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq Qadri described the act "a conspiracy against sectarian harmony" on Twitter on Thursday, and said, "protection of religious freedom of minorities is our religious, constitutional, moral and national responsibility".

Taking cognizance, the Supreme Court on Thursday asked the local officials to appear before it on January 5.&nbsp;

More than 30 people, who largely are affiliated with a radical Islamist party, were arrested after a mob set on fire and damaged a Hindu temple in northwest Pakistan, officials on Thursday said.

More than 30 people, who largely are affiliated with a radical Islamist party, were arrested after a mob set on fire and damaged a Hindu temple in northwest Pakistan, officials on Thursday said. The vandalisation of the temple in Terri village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's (KP) Karak district on Wednesday caused strong criticism from human rights groups and minority Hindu community leaders. Watch | Mob led by Muslim cleric attacks, sets Hindu temple ablaze in Pakistan Local police said that over 30 people have been arrested so far, including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam leader Rehmat Salam Khattak, in overnight raids, as reported by news agency PTI. Provincial Police Chief KPK Sanaullah Abbasi said that more than 350 people have been named in the FIR. Abbasi also said that all sections of law related to terrorism against the accused have been included in the FIR. Led by a local cleric and supporters of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party (Fazal ur Rehman group) and angered over local officials who gave permission to renovate the structure, the mob demolished the temple that was undergoing construction. Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq Qadri described the act "a conspiracy against sectarian harmony" on Twitter on Thursday, and said, "protection of religious freedom of minorities is our religious, constitutional, moral and national responsibility". Taking cognizance, the Supreme Court on Thursday asked the local officials to appear before it on January 5.

Pakistan: At least 30 arrested for vandalising Hindu temple

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