Former Pakistani Prime Minister regretted the fact that none of the country's head of state have been able to complete their terms, underscoring the martial laws and assault on democracy time and again.&nbsp;

"Until now, none of the (elected) prime ministers have been allowed to complete their constitutional term. Every few years, democracy is attacked and martial law is imposed," Sharif was quoted as saying by Dawn news. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-opposition-warns-imran-khan-govt-of-retaliation-if-it-uses-force-to-disrupt-lahore-rally-347992">Pak opposition warns Imran Khan govt of retaliation if it uses force to disrupt Lahore rally</a>

"Tell me, hand on your heart, is this Quaid-i-Azam's Pakistan?," he asked referring to Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-christian-girl-killed-for-turning-down-muslim-mans-marriage-proposal-347920">Pakistan: Christian girl killed for turning down Muslim man's marriage proposal</a>

Speaking to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) social media convention, he also said that continually constitution was violated and the founders of the country are regarded as traitors, "popular leaders jailed and leaders were made out to be robbers," in a veiled attack on Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Sharif has been living in London since November 2019 when he was given permission to travel abroad as his health declined while serving a corruption sentence.&nbsp;

Pakistani Army that has always had its dubious role in country's politics and favours ruling party has come under sharp criticism from Sharif and other major opposition parties for rigging the last general election and installing Khan as the prime minister.&nbsp;

Speaking on his speeches criticism for slamming the nation's army, Sharif asked if it was "treason to expose those who have formed a state above a state".

Former Pakistani Prime Minister regretted the fact that none of the country's head of state have been able to complete their terms, underscoring the martial laws and assault on democracy time and again.

Former Pakistani Prime Minister regretted the fact that none of the country's head of state have been able to complete their terms, underscoring the martial laws and assault on democracy time and again. "Until now, none of the (elected) prime ministers have been allowed to complete their constitutional term. Every few years, democracy is attacked and martial law is imposed," Sharif was quoted as saying by Dawn news. Also read | Pak opposition warns Imran Khan govt of retaliation if it uses force to disrupt Lahore rally "Tell me, hand on your heart, is this Quaid-i-Azam's Pakistan?," he asked referring to Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Also read | Pakistan: Christian girl killed for turning down Muslim man's marriage proposal Speaking to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz's (PML-N) social media convention, he also said that continually constitution was violated and the founders of the country are regarded as traitors, "popular leaders jailed and leaders were made out to be robbers," in a veiled attack on Prime Minister Imran Khan. Sharif has been living in London since November 2019 when he was given permission to travel abroad as his health declined while serving a corruption sentence. Pakistani Army that has always had its dubious role in country's politics and favours ruling party has come under sharp criticism from Sharif and other major opposition parties for rigging the last general election and installing Khan as the prime minister. Speaking on his speeches criticism for slamming the nation's army, Sharif asked if it was "treason to expose those who have formed a state above a state".

'State above a state': Sharif regrets that no Pak PM able to complete full term ever

The Indian Mission in Canada has asked for additional security as Khalistani and Pakistani elements have joined the protests near the High Commission and Indian Consulates in the country.

India-Canada Diplomatic Row: Indian mission in Canada seeks additional security

British airline Virgin Atlantic will commence its flight operation for the country from December 13 as the nation's aviation regulatory body has approved its flight operation to and from Pakistan, a media report said on Sunday.

The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) granted approval to Virgin Atlantic to start its flight operation in response to its request made on December 2, the Dawn reported.

Virgin Atlantic is scheduled to start its flight operations for Islamabad and Lahore and will use Airbus A-332 aircraft to continue a weekly eight-flight operation to the two cities.

According to the schedule approved by PCAA, the first passenger flight VS365 will take off from London on December 13 and land at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on December 14 in the morning.

The airline will operate four weekly flights between London and Lahore and three flights between London and Islamabad, the report said.

Before starting its flight operation to Pakistan, Virgin Atlantic will operate a cargo flight VS364 from England to Pakistan on December 7.

The airline had reportedly sought permission to operate flights from Manchester and London.

The airline had earlier announced three routes to Pakistan from the UK ? London-Lahore, London-Islamabad and Manchester-Islamabad.

The federal cabinet had given approval to the airline to operate direct flights between Pakistan and London, the report said.

The decision of Virgin Atlantic to operate its flight comes following the decision of European Commission to retain the ban on Pakistan International Airlines operations in its member countries, saying it is dissatisfied over the steps taken by the country's civil aviation authority to address licensing and safety concerns.&nbsp;

British airline Virgin Atlantic will commence its flight operation for the country from December 13 as the nation's aviation regulatory body has approved its flight operation to and from Pakistan, a media report said on Sunday.

British airline Virgin Atlantic will commence its flight operation for the country from December 13 as the nation's aviation regulatory body has approved its flight operation to and from Pakistan, a media report said on Sunday. The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) granted approval to Virgin Atlantic to start its flight operation in response to its request made on December 2, the Dawn reported. Virgin Atlantic is scheduled to start its flight operations for Islamabad and Lahore and will use Airbus A-332 aircraft to continue a weekly eight-flight operation to the two cities. According to the schedule approved by PCAA, the first passenger flight VS365 will take off from London on December 13 and land at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport on December 14 in the morning. The airline will operate four weekly flights between London and Lahore and three flights between London and Islamabad, the report said. Before starting its flight operation to Pakistan, Virgin Atlantic will operate a cargo flight VS364 from England to Pakistan on December 7. The airline had reportedly sought permission to operate flights from Manchester and London. The airline had earlier announced three routes to Pakistan from the UK ? London-Lahore, London-Islamabad and Manchester-Islamabad. The federal cabinet had given approval to the airline to operate direct flights between Pakistan and London, the report said. The decision of Virgin Atlantic to operate its flight comes following the decision of European Commission to retain the ban on Pakistan International Airlines operations in its member countries, saying it is dissatisfied over the steps taken by the country's civil aviation authority to address licensing and safety concerns.

British airlines Virgin Atlantic to commence flight operations to Pak from Dec 13

A probe is underway after a woman faked her death and claimed two insurance policies worth USD 1.5 million in Pakistan.

Seema Kharbay visited the US in 2008 and 2009, and bought two expensive life insurance policies for herself, an official of the Federal Investigating Agency (FIA) said, as reported by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/major-embarrassment-for-pakistan-at-un-over-100-countries-decline-to-extend-support-to-resolution-backed-by-it-347332">Major embarrassment for Pakistan at UN: Over 100 countries decline to extend support to resolution backed by it</a>

She then bribed some local government officials, including a doctor to get a fake death certificate in her name, the official added.&nbsp;

The certificate also mentioned that she had been buried.&nbsp;

Kharbay's children then used the death certificate to claim the amount of two life insurance policy worth USD 1.5 million (approximately 23 crore Pakistani Rupees), the FIA official said.&nbsp;

Post the declaration of her death, the woman travelled to foreign countries at least 10 times from the Karachi International Airport, apparently under fake identities which went unnoticed.

The FIA official said that the American authorities had alerted them about the woman following which investigation of this fraud was carried out.&nbsp;

The woman her son and daughter and some government officials, including a doctor have been booked by the FIA human trafficking cell for involvement in criminal acts.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A probe is underway after a woman faked her death and claimed two insurance policies worth USD 1.5 million in Pakistan. Seema Kharbay visited the US in 2008 and 2009, and bought two expensive life insurance policies for herself, an official of the Federal Investigating Agency (FIA) said, as reported by news agency PTI.

A probe is underway after a woman faked her death and claimed two insurance policies worth USD 1.5 million in Pakistan. Seema Kharbay visited the US in 2008 and 2009, and bought two expensive life insurance policies for herself, an official of the Federal Investigating Agency (FIA) said, as reported by news agency PTI. Also read | Major embarrassment for Pakistan at UN: Over 100 countries decline to extend support to resolution backed by it She then bribed some local government officials, including a doctor to get a fake death certificate in her name, the official added. The certificate also mentioned that she had been buried. Kharbay's children then used the death certificate to claim the amount of two life insurance policy worth USD 1.5 million (approximately 23 crore Pakistani Rupees), the FIA official said. Post the declaration of her death, the woman travelled to foreign countries at least 10 times from the Karachi International Airport, apparently under fake identities which went unnoticed. The FIA official said that the American authorities had alerted them about the woman following which investigation of this fraud was carried out. The woman her son and daughter and some government officials, including a doctor have been booked by the FIA human trafficking cell for involvement in criminal acts.

Pakistan: Woman fakes death to claim insurance worth $1.5 million

India's external ministry on Thursday slammed Pakistan for linking Kulbhushan Jadhav's case with that of another Indian, who has completed his jail term and hearing was ongoing for his repatriation.&nbsp;

Earlier Pakistani media reports claimed that counsel for the Indian High Commission, Shahnawaz Noon, had conveyed to the Islamabad High Court that Deputy Indian High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia wants to explain India's stance over the appointment of a lawyer for Jadhav.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/raised-demand-on-unconditional-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-mea-326647">Raised demand on unconditional access to Kulbhushan Jadhav: MEA</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that Noon had no authorisation over Jadhav's case and he appears to have acted under pressure from the Pakistani establishment.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/islamabad-high-court-to-hear-demand-on-indian-lawyer-for-kulbhushan-jadhav-today-324913">Islamabad High Court to hear demand on Indian lawyer for Kulbhushan Jadhav today</a>

"Pakistan is trying to link the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav with another prisoner's case," said Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava, as quoted by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

He added that Noon was selected for the release and repatriation of Mohammad Ismail, an Indian prisoner who has completed his sentence.&nbsp;

"However, during proceedings of the case regarding Ismail, Pakistan Attorney General raised the matter pertaining to Jadhav, though the two cases are not connected in any way," the spokesperson said. &nbsp;

"Mr. Noon is reported to have made those statements which are not true and are in contravention of our stand in the case. He appears to have acted under pressure from the Pakistani establishment to make such statements for which he has no authorisation." &nbsp;

He also said Indian Mission in Islamabad has written to Noon to reiterate that he has no authority in Jadhav's case and to suggest that the Indian Cd'A would appear in the court.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's external ministry on Thursday slammed Pakistan for linking Kulbhushan Jadhav's case with that of another Indian, who has completed his jail term and hearing was ongoing for his repatriation.

India's external ministry on Thursday slammed Pakistan for linking Kulbhushan Jadhav's case with that of another Indian, who has completed his jail term and hearing was ongoing for his repatriation. Earlier Pakistani media reports claimed that counsel for the Indian High Commission, Shahnawaz Noon, had conveyed to the Islamabad High Court that Deputy Indian High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia wants to explain India's stance over the appointment of a lawyer for Jadhav. Also read | Raised demand on unconditional access to Kulbhushan Jadhav: MEA The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that Noon had no authorisation over Jadhav's case and he appears to have acted under pressure from the Pakistani establishment. Also read | Islamabad High Court to hear demand on Indian lawyer for Kulbhushan Jadhav today "Pakistan is trying to link the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav with another prisoner's case," said Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava, as quoted by news agency PTI. He added that Noon was selected for the release and repatriation of Mohammad Ismail, an Indian prisoner who has completed his sentence. "However, during proceedings of the case regarding Ismail, Pakistan Attorney General raised the matter pertaining to Jadhav, though the two cases are not connected in any way," the spokesperson said. "Mr. Noon is reported to have made those statements which are not true and are in contravention of our stand in the case. He appears to have acted under pressure from the Pakistani establishment to make such statements for which he has no authorisation." He also said Indian Mission in Islamabad has written to Noon to reiterate that he has no authority in Jadhav's case and to suggest that the Indian Cd'A would appear in the court.

Pakistan wants to link Kulbhushan Jadhav's case with that of another Indian prisoner: India

Pakistan faces another rejection. Over 100 nations at UN declined to support the Pakistan resolution. Pakistan's resolution on Islamophobia get's rejected due to its poor track record of safeguarding minorities.

Pakistan resolution on Islamophobia gets rejected by 100 Nations

Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/imran-khan">Imran Khan </a>has requested the international community for debt suspension till the end of the coronavirus pandemic for low-income and most affected countries as well as cancellation of debt of least developed nations, according to a media report on Friday.

Cash-strapped Pakistan's economic woes have further worsened due to the coronavirus pandemic and Khan's government is arranging finances from world bodies, including the International Monetary Fund, to tide over the crisis.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-embarrassment-for-pak-at-un-as-100-nations-reject-its-resolution-347386/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Presenting a 10-point agenda for urgent action before the UN General Assembly special session on COVID-19 on Thursday, Khan underlined the measures the international community needs to take to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dawn newspaper reported.

The first item on his list is a request for debt suspension till the end of the pandemic for low-income and most affected countries. The second one is "cancellation of debt of least developed countries" that are no longer in a position to repay their loans, it said.

Other items on the agenda include restructuring of the public sector debt of other developing countries under an agreed inclusive multilateral framework; a general allocation of special drawing rights of USD 500 billion; expanded concessional financing to lower income countries through multilateral development banks; and creation of a new 'liquidity and sustainability facility', which should provide short-term loans at lower costs.

The novel coronavirus has so far infected 410,072 people and claimed 8,260 lives in Pakistan.

Addressing the session, Khan said the coronavirus pandemic is the most serious global crisis since the Second World War.

Nearly 100 world leaders and several dozen ministers are participating in the two-day virtual UNGA special session that began on Thursday.

Pakistan's agenda also includes a reminder to rich nations to fulfil 0.7 per cent of their official development assistance commitments and mobilising the required USD 1.5 trillion annual investment in sustainable infrastructure.

The prime minister also urged the international community to help meet the agreed target of mobilising USD 100 billion per year for climate action in developing countries, the report said.

Khan also called for immediate action to stop the massive illicit financial outflows from developing countries to rich countries, to offshore tax havens. He also suggested immediate return of assets stolen by corrupt politicians and criminals back to these countries.

Earlier in his opening remarks at the special session, UNGA President Volkan Bozkir said, "Today marks an overdue and much-needed moment of reckoning. None of us could have imagined, this time last year, what was to come."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said "it is time to reset"&nbsp;the global response to crises like this. "As we build a strong recovery, we must seize the opportunity for change,"&nbsp;he added.

The deadly virus has infected nearly 65 million people across the world and killed close to 1.5 million.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has requested the international community for debt suspension till the end of the coronavirus pandemic for low-income and most affected countries as well as cancellation of debt of least developed nations, according to a media report on Friday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has requested the international community for debt suspension till the end of the coronavirus pandemic for low-income and most affected countries as well as cancellation of debt of least developed nations, according to a media report on Friday. Cash-strapped Pakistan's economic woes have further worsened due to the coronavirus pandemic and Khan's government is arranging finances from world bodies, including the International Monetary Fund, to tide over the crisis. Watch | Presenting a 10-point agenda for urgent action before the UN General Assembly special session on COVID-19 on Thursday, Khan underlined the measures the international community needs to take to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dawn newspaper reported. The first item on his list is a request for debt suspension till the end of the pandemic for low-income and most affected countries. The second one is "cancellation of debt of least developed countries" that are no longer in a position to repay their loans, it said. Other items on the agenda include restructuring of the public sector debt of other developing countries under an agreed inclusive multilateral framework; a general allocation of special drawing rights of USD 500 billion; expanded concessional financing to lower income countries through multilateral development banks; and creation of a new 'liquidity and sustainability facility', which should provide short-term loans at lower costs. The novel coronavirus has so far infected 410,072 people and claimed 8,260 lives in Pakistan. Addressing the session, Khan said the coronavirus pandemic is the most serious global crisis since the Second World War. Nearly 100 world leaders and several dozen ministers are participating in the two-day virtual UNGA special session that began on Thursday. Pakistan's agenda also includes a reminder to rich nations to fulfil 0.7 per cent of their official development assistance commitments and mobilising the required USD 1.5 trillion annual investment in sustainable infrastructure. The prime minister also urged the international community to help meet the agreed target of mobilising USD 100 billion per year for climate action in developing countries, the report said. Khan also called for immediate action to stop the massive illicit financial outflows from developing countries to rich countries, to offshore tax havens. He also suggested immediate return of assets stolen by corrupt politicians and criminals back to these countries. Earlier in his opening remarks at the special session, UNGA President Volkan Bozkir said, "Today marks an overdue and much-needed moment of reckoning. None of us could have imagined, this time last year, what was to come." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said "it is time to reset" the global response to crises like this. "As we build a strong recovery, we must seize the opportunity for change," he added. The deadly virus has infected nearly 65 million people across the world and killed close to 1.5 million.

Cash-strapped Pakistan seeks debt suspension for some nations till Covid-19 crisis gets over

In a first, a Pakistan back UN resolution saw over half the members of the New York headquarter body not voting for. The resolution "Promotion of interreligious & intercultural dialogue", saw 52 abstentions, and 51 countries not voting for

Major embarrassment for Pak at U.N as 100 nations reject its resolution

Pakistan's former prime minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali died on Wednesday after recently suffering from a heart attack, his family confirmed on Wednesday

The 76-year-old, who became the prime minister under military dictator Pervez Musharraf, died in Rawalpindi, his son Mir Muhammad Khan Jamali said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-another-rally-tussle-between-imran-khan-govt-and-opposition-intensifies-346571">With another rally, tussle between Imran Khan-govt and opposition intensifies</a>

Jamali took office in November 2002 when Musharraf allowed holding parliamentary elections after coming into power via a military coup.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/musharraf-pleas-pakistans-president-for-mercy-276378">Musharraf seeks mercy from Pakistan President Alvi over death penalty</a>

He stepped down in 2004 due to differences with the party leadership and Musharraf and was succeeded by his cabinet minister Shaukat Aziz who held the post until the next election was held in 2008.

Coming from an influential political family, Jamali was the first and only PM from the province of Balochistan, which has seen a lot of unrest due to several separatist and Islamist insurgencies.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed his condolences via a tweet.&nbsp;

"Saddened to hear of the passing of Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. My condolences and prayers go to his family," Khan wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

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Saddened to hear of the passing of Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. My condolences and prayers go to his family.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1334194066515439616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa also his condolences on the former PM's demise.&nbsp;

“May Allah bless his soul &amp; give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss," tweeted an Inter-Services Public Relations quoting him as saying.

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General Qamar Javed Bajwa, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a>, expresses heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. “May Allah bless his soul &amp; give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss, Ameen”, COAS.
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1334190322918825984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The former PM will be buried on Thursday in his ancestral town of Rojhan Jamali.

Pakistan's former prime minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali died on Wednesday after recently suffering from a heart attack, his family confirmed on Wednesday The 76-year-old, who became the prime minister under military dictator Pervez Musharraf, died in Rawalpindi, his son Mir Muhammad Khan Jamali said.

Pakistan's former prime minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali died on Wednesday after recently suffering from a heart attack, his family confirmed on Wednesday The 76-year-old, who became the prime minister under military dictator Pervez Musharraf, died in Rawalpindi, his son Mir Muhammad Khan Jamali said. Also read | With another rally, tussle between Imran Khan-govt and opposition intensifies Jamali took office in November 2002 when Musharraf allowed holding parliamentary elections after coming into power via a military coup. Also read | Musharraf seeks mercy from Pakistan President Alvi over death penalty He stepped down in 2004 due to differences with the party leadership and Musharraf and was succeeded by his cabinet minister Shaukat Aziz who held the post until the next election was held in 2008. Coming from an influential political family, Jamali was the first and only PM from the province of Balochistan, which has seen a lot of unrest due to several separatist and Islamist insurgencies. Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed his condolences via a tweet. "Saddened to hear of the passing of Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. My condolences and prayers go to his family," Khan wrote on Twitter. Saddened to hear of the passing of Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. My condolences and prayers go to his family. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 2, 2020 × Army Chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa also his condolences on the former PM's demise. “May Allah bless his soul & give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss," tweeted an Inter-Services Public Relations quoting him as saying. General Qamar Javed Bajwa, #COAS, expresses heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali. “May Allah bless his soul & give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss, Ameen”, COAS. — DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) December 2, 2020 × The former PM will be buried on Thursday in his ancestral town of Rojhan Jamali.

Former Pakistan PM Jamali, who held office under Musharraf, dies

In Pakistan, the tussle between opposition and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/imran-khan">Imran Khan</a>-government is showing no signs of ending.&nbsp;

After a major show of strength in Peshawar on Sunday, another massive rally was organised in Multan. This was the fifth such demonstration held by the Pakistan Democratic Movement, an alliance of several opposition parties.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-no-end-to-pak-oppns-tussle-with-imran-khan-346558/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Top leaders including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam's Maulana Fazlur Rehman to Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the sister of Bilawal Bhutto and a member of the Pakistan Peoples Party were present.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-pm-imran-khan-lost-control-of-anti-france-campaign-in-pakistan-345947">How PM Imran Khan lost control of anti-France campaign in Pakistan</a>

But the show-stopper was Maryam Nawaz, the vice president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).&nbsp;

Maryam called out the Pak government's backdoor efforts to stop the rally from being organised.&nbsp;

Earlier, Pakistan's Punjab government and the local administration in Multan had denied permission to the opposition for this rally.&nbsp;

The reason cited was the second wave of the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

The Multan authorities blocked most routes to the stadium where the demonstration was scheduled and removed tents, chairs and detained several rival party leaders.&nbsp;

Kasim Gillani, son of Pakistan's former PM Yousaf Raza Gillani was also detained.&nbsp;

In a series of tweets, the Pakistani PM justified the crackdown.&nbsp;

"Problem confronting us in Pak during COVID 19 is of a political leadership that has never gone through any democratic struggle, nor worked with ordinary citizens to understand the problems they confront, nor contributed in any substantive way for betterment of ordinary citizens," he wrote.&nbsp;

"They think this is their last means of pressuring us for NRO - which will never happen. Having never worked a day in their lives, their "shahi" lifestyles are directly dependent on saving their families ill-gotten, illegally acquired wealth through robbing &amp; impoverish the nation," Khan said in another tweet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, political debutante Aseefa Bhutto slammed Khan's crackdown in Multan rally.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old leader said if men from their parties are arrested, thousands of women will take to the streets. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In Pakistan, the tussle between opposition and Imran Khan-government is showing no signs of ending. After a major show of strength in Peshawar on Sunday, another massive rally was organised in Multan.

In Pakistan, the tussle between opposition and Imran Khan-government is showing no signs of ending. After a major show of strength in Peshawar on Sunday, another massive rally was organised in Multan. This was the fifth such demonstration held by the Pakistan Democratic Movement, an alliance of several opposition parties. Watch | Top leaders including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam's Maulana Fazlur Rehman to Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the sister of Bilawal Bhutto and a member of the Pakistan Peoples Party were present. Also read | How PM Imran Khan lost control of anti-France campaign in Pakistan But the show-stopper was Maryam Nawaz, the vice president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). Maryam called out the Pak government's backdoor efforts to stop the rally from being organised. Earlier, Pakistan's Punjab government and the local administration in Multan had denied permission to the opposition for this rally. The reason cited was the second wave of the novel coronavirus. The Multan authorities blocked most routes to the stadium where the demonstration was scheduled and removed tents, chairs and detained several rival party leaders. Kasim Gillani, son of Pakistan's former PM Yousaf Raza Gillani was also detained. In a series of tweets, the Pakistani PM justified the crackdown. "Problem confronting us in Pak during COVID 19 is of a political leadership that has never gone through any democratic struggle, nor worked with ordinary citizens to understand the problems they confront, nor contributed in any substantive way for betterment of ordinary citizens," he wrote. "They think this is their last means of pressuring us for NRO - which will never happen. Having never worked a day in their lives, their "shahi" lifestyles are directly dependent on saving their families ill-gotten, illegally acquired wealth through robbing & impoverish the nation," Khan said in another tweet. Meanwhile, political debutante Aseefa Bhutto slammed Khan's crackdown in Multan rally. The 27-year-old leader said if men from their parties are arrested, thousands of women will take to the streets.

With another rally, tussle between Imran Khan-govt and opposition intensifies

Thousands attended Pakistan Democratic Movement's 5th rally in #Multan. Maryam Nawaz Sharif called out Imran Khan backdoor efforts to block opposition rallies. Meanwhile, the Pak PM has attacked the 'royal lifestyle' of opposition leaders

Gravitas: No end to Pak oppn's tussle with Imran Khan

Pakistan's lonely elephant Kaavan arrived in Cambodia by cargo plane on Monday (November 30) to start a new life with 600 fellow pachyderms at a local sanctuary, the result of years of campaigning for his relocation by American singer Cher.

Pakistan's lonesome elephant, Kaavan, starts new life in Cambodia

In a scoff at Pakistan Founding Father Muhammad Ali Jinnah, an alcoholic drink seems to have been named after him suggesting that he had "enjoyed" activities that are forbidden in Islam like pool billiards, cigars, pork sausages as well as fine scotch, whiskey and gin.

A Twitter user posted photos of a bottle of gin named `Ginnah` after Jinnah. The label on the bottle reads, "In the memory of the man of pleasure who he was: Ginnah".

ANI could not confirm the veracity of the bottle. However, several Twitter users have been posting about it with `#Ginnah`. Mohammed Ali Jinnah was born on December 25, 1876, in Karachi, now in Pakistan, but then part of British-controlled India.

He campaigned for an independent Pakistan and became its first leader. He is known there as `Quaid-I Azam` or `Great Leader` in Pakistan.

"Mohammed Ali Jinnah was the founder of Pakistan that came into being in 1947 as a secular state," the back label of the bottle read.In an apparent reference to Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, a Pakistani four-star general, who had deposed then Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1977 coup d`etat, the label of the bottle read that the "country was pushed over the cliff by a military dictator aided by supported in Washington DC and converted into a troubled place where he and some of the religious clergy pursued their sinister designs".

"MA Jinnah would never approve of that for he much enjoyed pool billiard, cigars, pork sausages as well as fine scotch whiskey and gin," the label further quipped.Intoxicants and betting are considered as `haram` or forbidden in Islam. Haram is an Arabic term meaning "forbidden".

Acts that are haram are prohibited in the religious texts of the Quran and the Sunnah. If something is considered haram, it remains prohibited no matter how good the intention is, or how honourable the purpose is.Pakistani Twitter users took to social media to react on the matter. "Needs to be made the national drink #Ginnah," a user quipped. "Damn! We have gin named after our founding father," another tweeted.&nbsp;

In a scoff at Pakistan Founding Father Muhammad Ali Jinnah, an alcoholic drink seems to have been named after him suggesting that he had "enjoyed" activities that are forbidden in Islam like pool billiards, cigars, pork sausages as well as fine scotch, whiskey and gin.

In a scoff at Pakistan Founding Father Muhammad Ali Jinnah, an alcoholic drink seems to have been named after him suggesting that he had "enjoyed" activities that are forbidden in Islam like pool billiards, cigars, pork sausages as well as fine scotch, whiskey and gin. A Twitter user posted photos of a bottle of gin named `Ginnah` after Jinnah. The label on the bottle reads, "In the memory of the man of pleasure who he was: Ginnah". ANI could not confirm the veracity of the bottle. However, several Twitter users have been posting about it with `#Ginnah`. Mohammed Ali Jinnah was born on December 25, 1876, in Karachi, now in Pakistan, but then part of British-controlled India. He campaigned for an independent Pakistan and became its first leader. He is known there as `Quaid-I Azam` or `Great Leader` in Pakistan. "Mohammed Ali Jinnah was the founder of Pakistan that came into being in 1947 as a secular state," the back label of the bottle read.In an apparent reference to Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, a Pakistani four-star general, who had deposed then Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in 1977 coup d`etat, the label of the bottle read that the "country was pushed over the cliff by a military dictator aided by supported in Washington DC and converted into a troubled place where he and some of the religious clergy pursued their sinister designs". "MA Jinnah would never approve of that for he much enjoyed pool billiard, cigars, pork sausages as well as fine scotch whiskey and gin," the label further quipped.Intoxicants and betting are considered as `haram` or forbidden in Islam. Haram is an Arabic term meaning "forbidden". Acts that are haram are prohibited in the religious texts of the Quran and the Sunnah. If something is considered haram, it remains prohibited no matter how good the intention is, or how honourable the purpose is.Pakistani Twitter users took to social media to react on the matter. "Needs to be made the national drink #Ginnah," a user quipped. "Damn! We have gin named after our founding father," another tweeted.

'In the memory of the man of pleasure': Alcoholic drink named after Pakistan founder Jinnah

The US government has told a federal court that Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India, not only wanted a "top-class" medal for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks but also demanded the nine LeT attackers who were killed in the carnage be given Pakistan's highest military honour.

The 59-year-old Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Rana, a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, was re-arrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed.

US District Court Judge in Los Angeles Jacqueline Chelonian said in her order on November 13 that the extradition hearing, in this case, is scheduled for February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.

US attorney Nicola T Hanna in his submission before the court in Los Angeles in support of Rana's extradition to India said that Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators'' plans came to fruition between November 26 and 29, 2008, when ten members of LeT carried out a series of twelve coordinated shooting and bombing attacks.

Indian law enforcement apprehended one of the terrorists, who ultimately stood trial, Hanna said.

Headley discussed the Mumbai attacks with Rana in the months following the attacks, he said.

In December 2008, Headley shared what he had learned from their co-conspirators in Pakistan and told Rana about the different places that had been attacked, reminding him that Headley had made videos of those places.

"Referring to a 1971 attack on his school in Pakistan, Headley told Rana, that he believed he was ''even with the Indians now''. In response, Rana said that they (the Indian people) deserved it. Also, in September 2009, the FBI intercepted Rana telling Headley that the nine LeT attackers who had been killed during the attacks should be given Pakistan's highest military honour," Hanna said in his court papers.

''Rana also asked Headley to tell another co-conspirator in Pakistan - a member of LeT and one of the planners of the Mumbai attacks - that Rana thought that he should get a medal ''for top class''. When Rana learned that Headley already had conveyed this compliment to their co-conspirator, he was pleased," he wrote.

The Mumbai bombings, however, did not end the conspiracy between Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators. In particular, in 2009, Headley conducted surveillance activities for an intended, but ultimately foiled, terrorist plot in Denmark, again using Rana''s business as a cover, Hanna said.

Headley also conducted surveillance for potential future terrorist attacks in other parts of India. As he did with his surveillance in Mumbai, Headley kept Rana apprised of these surveillance activities. Starting 2009, Rana communicated directly with some of Headley''s contacts in Pakistan, he alleged.

Headley was arrested on October 3, 2009, in Chicago. Six months later, Headley pleaded guilty to 12 charges relating to his activities on behalf of LeT and agreed to cooperate with the United States. The Illinois Court ultimately sentenced Headley to a 35-year term of imprisonment.

Hanna told the court that Rana let Headley use his business as a cover to travel to India and conduct surveillance.

Headley informed his co-conspirators in Pakistan including LeT members that Rana had agreed to use the Immigration Law Center as a cover for his activities. He also showed them the visa that he obtained with Rana's assistance, the US attorney said.

In September 2006, Headley travelled to India, using the opening and operation of Rana''s immigration business as a cover for his travel and an extended stay in Mumbai, the US attorney said. While in India, Headley conducted extensive video surveillance of various locations, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.

Headley later travelled to Pakistan and met with LeT members and others, provided them with the video recordings he had made, and discussed the video and surveillance he had conducted in India. At the directions of co-conspirators in Pakistan, Headley returned to Mumbai in February 2007 and conducted more surveillance of various locations, he said.

The US government has told a federal court that Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India, not only wanted a "top-class" medal for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks but also demanded the nine LeT attackers who were killed in the carnage be given Pakistan's highest military honour.

The US government has told a federal court that Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India, not only wanted a "top-class" medal for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks but also demanded the nine LeT attackers who were killed in the carnage be given Pakistan's highest military honour. The 59-year-old Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Rana, a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, was re-arrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed. US District Court Judge in Los Angeles Jacqueline Chelonian said in her order on November 13 that the extradition hearing, in this case, is scheduled for February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. US attorney Nicola T Hanna in his submission before the court in Los Angeles in support of Rana's extradition to India said that Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators'' plans came to fruition between November 26 and 29, 2008, when ten members of LeT carried out a series of twelve coordinated shooting and bombing attacks. Indian law enforcement apprehended one of the terrorists, who ultimately stood trial, Hanna said. Headley discussed the Mumbai attacks with Rana in the months following the attacks, he said. In December 2008, Headley shared what he had learned from their co-conspirators in Pakistan and told Rana about the different places that had been attacked, reminding him that Headley had made videos of those places. "Referring to a 1971 attack on his school in Pakistan, Headley told Rana, that he believed he was ''even with the Indians now''. In response, Rana said that they (the Indian people) deserved it. Also, in September 2009, the FBI intercepted Rana telling Headley that the nine LeT attackers who had been killed during the attacks should be given Pakistan's highest military honour," Hanna said in his court papers. ''Rana also asked Headley to tell another co-conspirator in Pakistan - a member of LeT and one of the planners of the Mumbai attacks - that Rana thought that he should get a medal ''for top class''. When Rana learned that Headley already had conveyed this compliment to their co-conspirator, he was pleased," he wrote. The Mumbai bombings, however, did not end the conspiracy between Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators. In particular, in 2009, Headley conducted surveillance activities for an intended, but ultimately foiled, terrorist plot in Denmark, again using Rana''s business as a cover, Hanna said. Headley also conducted surveillance for potential future terrorist attacks in other parts of India. As he did with his surveillance in Mumbai, Headley kept Rana apprised of these surveillance activities. Starting 2009, Rana communicated directly with some of Headley''s contacts in Pakistan, he alleged. Headley was arrested on October 3, 2009, in Chicago. Six months later, Headley pleaded guilty to 12 charges relating to his activities on behalf of LeT and agreed to cooperate with the United States. The Illinois Court ultimately sentenced Headley to a 35-year term of imprisonment. Hanna told the court that Rana let Headley use his business as a cover to travel to India and conduct surveillance. Headley informed his co-conspirators in Pakistan including LeT members that Rana had agreed to use the Immigration Law Center as a cover for his activities. He also showed them the visa that he obtained with Rana's assistance, the US attorney said. In September 2006, Headley travelled to India, using the opening and operation of Rana''s immigration business as a cover for his travel and an extended stay in Mumbai, the US attorney said. While in India, Headley conducted extensive video surveillance of various locations, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Headley later travelled to Pakistan and met with LeT members and others, provided them with the video recordings he had made, and discussed the video and surveillance he had conducted in India. At the directions of co-conspirators in Pakistan, Headley returned to Mumbai in February 2007 and conducted more surveillance of various locations, he said.

'Pakistan's military honour for terror attack': Tahawwur Rana wanted a medal for 26/11

Earlier today, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Ali Qasim Gilani along with 30 opposition members were arrested.

Pak govt cracks down on opposition ahead of PDM rally in Multan

Foreign investors have pulled out USD 471.7 million from Pakistan`s debt market in the past five months due to lower interest rate and a fresh wave of coronavirus in the country, according to data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

Citing analysts, The News International has reported that the continued hot money outflows from the local fixed income market have indicated that the low-yielding government debt has become less attractive for foreigners with the SBP having slashed policy rates by 625 basis points to 7 per cent since mid-March.

"The withdrawal could be because rates are close to all-time lows and are not lucrative enough for investors," said Saad Hashemy, executive director at BMA Capital.

"Increase in rates will result in losses and maturing investment is not being rolled over as foreign investment in the local bond market started late last year," Hashemy added.However, the government securities such as market treasury bills and Pakistan investment bonds received a combined total inflow of USD 205.6 million during July 1 to November 25, The News International said quoting the SBP.

The data has further stated that the foreigners became net sellers of USD 266.1 million worth of treasury bills and investment bonds during the period under review, The News International said.According to the analysts, SBP seems to be hesitant towards tightening monetary policy till the first quarter of 2021 as a move to revive the pandemic-hit economy.

"They said average 7 per cent yields on the treasury bills and 8-10 per cent on the investment bonds are still attractive for the foreign investors when compared with negative and near-zero interest rates in the United States and Europe. The stability in the exchange rate, after appreciation in rupee value versus the US dollar, has not propelled the foreign investors to buy Pakistan`s debt," the Pakistan daily said.

Foreigners had bought USD 90.9 million worth local currency bonds between July 1 and November 25, and disposed of USD 36 million from the short-term instruments, the SBP data said.

"We saw outflows only from the treasury bills in November, but foreigners invested both in treasury-bills and the investment bonds during the month," said another analyst.

"This trend shows foreign investors can step up buying of the rupee-denominated bonds and such inflows to the country should resume once the interest rates are started going up. It also depends on a faster economic recovery in the world and in the country following the positive news on the vaccine progress," the analyst added.

Quoting the SBP, The News International said, activities in the local currency debt securities largely drove the portfolio investment, with net portfolio inflows surging to USD 2.1 billion during July-February, and then reversing to a net outflow of USD 2.7 billion in the March-June period.

"It is important to highlight that the reversal in capital flows in this latter period was not unique to Pakistan. The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, specifically in advanced economies, led to a global flight of capital from emerging and developing economies," it said in the latest report.

While Pakistan could not bring in foreign exchange inflows into the local currency debt market, the SBP`s foreign exchange reserves reached USD 13.4 billion by November 20 as compared to USD 12.1 billion by June-end. The News International has reported that this increase in the reserves is due to a surplus in the current account, higher remittances, and increased inflows from the international financial institutions.

Foreign investors have pulled out USD 471.7 million from Pakistan`s debt market in the past five months due to lower interest rate and a fresh wave of coronavirus in the country, according to data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

Foreign investors have pulled out USD 471.7 million from Pakistan`s debt market in the past five months due to lower interest rate and a fresh wave of coronavirus in the country, according to data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). Citing analysts, The News International has reported that the continued hot money outflows from the local fixed income market have indicated that the low-yielding government debt has become less attractive for foreigners with the SBP having slashed policy rates by 625 basis points to 7 per cent since mid-March. "The withdrawal could be because rates are close to all-time lows and are not lucrative enough for investors," said Saad Hashemy, executive director at BMA Capital. "Increase in rates will result in losses and maturing investment is not being rolled over as foreign investment in the local bond market started late last year," Hashemy added.However, the government securities such as market treasury bills and Pakistan investment bonds received a combined total inflow of USD 205.6 million during July 1 to November 25, The News International said quoting the SBP. The data has further stated that the foreigners became net sellers of USD 266.1 million worth of treasury bills and investment bonds during the period under review, The News International said.According to the analysts, SBP seems to be hesitant towards tightening monetary policy till the first quarter of 2021 as a move to revive the pandemic-hit economy. "They said average 7 per cent yields on the treasury bills and 8-10 per cent on the investment bonds are still attractive for the foreign investors when compared with negative and near-zero interest rates in the United States and Europe. The stability in the exchange rate, after appreciation in rupee value versus the US dollar, has not propelled the foreign investors to buy Pakistan`s debt," the Pakistan daily said. Foreigners had bought USD 90.9 million worth local currency bonds between July 1 and November 25, and disposed of USD 36 million from the short-term instruments, the SBP data said. "We saw outflows only from the treasury bills in November, but foreigners invested both in treasury-bills and the investment bonds during the month," said another analyst. "This trend shows foreign investors can step up buying of the rupee-denominated bonds and such inflows to the country should resume once the interest rates are started going up. It also depends on a faster economic recovery in the world and in the country following the positive news on the vaccine progress," the analyst added. Quoting the SBP, The News International said, activities in the local currency debt securities largely drove the portfolio investment, with net portfolio inflows surging to USD 2.1 billion during July-February, and then reversing to a net outflow of USD 2.7 billion in the March-June period. "It is important to highlight that the reversal in capital flows in this latter period was not unique to Pakistan. The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, specifically in advanced economies, led to a global flight of capital from emerging and developing economies," it said in the latest report. While Pakistan could not bring in foreign exchange inflows into the local currency debt market, the SBP`s foreign exchange reserves reached USD 13.4 billion by November 20 as compared to USD 12.1 billion by June-end. The News International has reported that this increase in the reserves is due to a surplus in the current account, higher remittances, and increased inflows from the international financial institutions.

Foreign investors withdraw $471.7 million from Pakistan's debt market

Imran Khan's campaign against French President Emmanuel Macron has led to a major diplomatic fallout for Pakistan. Reportedly, France has declined Pakistan's requests to upgrade its Mirage fighter jets and more.

Gravitas: France tightens the screws on Pakistan

In a major snub to Pakistan, Kashmir is not on the agenda of a meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This is not the first time that Pakistan has suffered a setback at the OIC.

Major Snub To Pakistan: OIC agenda fails to mention Kashmir

For years, Islamabad has enjoyed a privileged status at the OIC (Organisation of Islamic co-operation). It was a go-to platform for Pakistan whenever it wanted to make a statement against India. But despite being the second-largest member of the OIC, Now, Pakistan is losing its voice at this forum .

How Pakistan fell out of favour with O.I.C

Gravitas: Pakistan gets a major snub from the Islamic world

For years, Pakistan has enjoyed a privileged status at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). But Islamabad is now losing its voice within the forum.

Gravitas: How Pakistan lost the trust of Islamic powers

There's been a reset in the Arab World. The Gulf countries have distanced themselves from Pakistan, and they are now leaning towards India. What do you think led to this?

Gravitas: Gulf distances itself from Pak, leans towards India

Life has not been easy for Nisha Rao, a lawyer in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old transgender, who once used to beg in streets to earn a livelihood, now aspires to become Pakistan's first transgender judge.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-continues-to-ravage-pakistan-south-asia-345651">Coronavirus continues to ravage Pakistan &amp; South Asia</a>

"My goal, my vision, my dream is to become Pakistan's first transgender judge," said Nisha to news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-snubs-pakistan-on-kashmir-again-345655">Organisation of Islamic Cooperation snubs Pakistan on Kashmir again</a>

In Pakistan, a law was approved in 2018 that recognised transgenders as equal people and legalised punishment for discrimination and violence against them.&nbsp;

However, little changed in the reality.&nbsp;

Most transgender people in this South Asian country face inequality and injustice and beg on the streets or dance at weddings to earn a living.&nbsp;

The story of this ambitious lawyer also began just like that.&nbsp;

Rao tells that she comes from an educated middle-income family in the eastern city of Lahore.&nbsp;

She ran away from her house when she was 18 after realising that she was different from others.&nbsp;

She was advised by elder people from her community who gave her shelter to either beg or becomer a sex worker to survive in this city.&nbsp;

Rao also started off by begging at traffic signals but was determined that her fate will be changed one day.&nbsp;

She used to spend the money she made by begging to pay for her law classes.&nbsp;

The years of hard work resulted in Rao becoming a lawyer and earlier this year, she received the license to practise and became a member of the Karachi Bar Association.&nbsp;

Rao has already fought 50 cases and is associated with a trans-rights non-governmental organisation that works for the rights of transgenders.&nbsp;

Life has not been easy for Nisha Rao, a lawyer in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi. The 28-year-old transgender, who once used to beg in streets to earn a livelihood, now aspires to become Pakistan's first transgender judge.

Life has not been easy for Nisha Rao, a lawyer in the southern Pakistani city of Karachi. The 28-year-old transgender, who once used to beg in streets to earn a livelihood, now aspires to become Pakistan's first transgender judge. Also read | Coronavirus continues to ravage Pakistan & South Asia "My goal, my vision, my dream is to become Pakistan's first transgender judge," said Nisha to news agency Reuters. Also read | Organisation of Islamic Cooperation snubs Pakistan on Kashmir again In Pakistan, a law was approved in 2018 that recognised transgenders as equal people and legalised punishment for discrimination and violence against them. However, little changed in the reality. Most transgender people in this South Asian country face inequality and injustice and beg on the streets or dance at weddings to earn a living. The story of this ambitious lawyer also began just like that. Rao tells that she comes from an educated middle-income family in the eastern city of Lahore. She ran away from her house when she was 18 after realising that she was different from others. She was advised by elder people from her community who gave her shelter to either beg or becomer a sex worker to survive in this city. Rao also started off by begging at traffic signals but was determined that her fate will be changed one day. She used to spend the money she made by begging to pay for her law classes. The years of hard work resulted in Rao becoming a lawyer and earlier this year, she received the license to practise and became a member of the Karachi Bar Association. Rao has already fought 50 cases and is associated with a trans-rights non-governmental organisation that works for the rights of transgenders.

From beggar to lawyer, this transgender now aims to become Pakistan's first such judge

Pakistan's Christian transgender people, often mocked, abused and bullied, say they have found peace and solace in a church of their own. Shunned by other churches, they can raise their voices high here. The church, called the First Church For Eunuchs, is the only one for transgender Christians in Pakistan.

First Church of Eunuchs; transgender Christians unite at new Karachi church - only one in Pakistan

After India handed a dossier against Pakistan to the UNSC, Islamabad has retaliated with a dossier of its own. India's Permanent Representative to UN PR Tirumurti has called it a 'dossier of lies'. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: India-Pakistan dossier war

India on Tuesday lambasted Islamabad for presenting a "dossier of lies" against New Delhi at the United Nations, saying "concocting documents and peddling false narratives" is not new to Pakistan, which hosts the worlds largest number of UN proscribed terrorists.

Pakistan has given to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of `stoking` terrorism in Pakistan, just a day after New Delhi provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members over a last week terror attempt by four terrorists belonged to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), a terrorist organisation proscribed by the UN, in Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gives-un-a-dossier-on-india-after-india-submits-one-on-it-345185" hreflang="en">Pakistan gives UN a dossier on India after India submits one on it</a>

Responding to Pakistan`s move at the UN, India`s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador, TS Tirumurti, took to Twitter and said, "The `dossier of lies` presented by Pakistan enjoys zero credibility. Concocting documents and peddling false narratives is not new to Pakistan. The top Indian envoy further added that "Pakistan is a host to the world`s largest number of UN proscribed terrorists and entities.

"Remember Abbottabad!" - Osama Bin Laden, the founder of the militant terrorist organisation al-Qaeda, was killed by US security forces in Abbottabad on May 2, 2011. He was shot in the head, during the firefight in the compound in Pakistan, where he was taking shelter.

Pakistan had long denied his presence in the country.The presentation of the dossiers comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021.

On November 19, four terrorists were killed and two policemen were injured in a gun battle in Jammu and Kashmir`s Nagrota.

The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted in the morning during a routine check. Inspector-General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible that they were planning a big attack and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union territory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistans-refusal-to-act-against-2611-culprits-shows-insincere-approach-ex-pentagon-official-345084" hreflang="en">Pakistan's refusal to act against 26/11 culprits shows 'insincere approach': Ex-Pentagon official</a>

The terrorists were infiltrated in India using a 150-metre long tunnel.Meanwhile, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla briefed a select group of head of missions in New Delhi about Pakistan`s direct role in planning the terror attack which was foiled by Indian security forces.

ANI learned that heads of missions were provided a detailed information docket giving details of the incident as it transpired as well as list of items and ammunition that was recovered from terrorists clearly indicating their Pakistani origins.

Sources said they were also briefed on how terrorists got into India, which is now clear as an underground tunnel has been found in the Samba sector.They said envoys were told how preliminary investigations by police and intelligence authorities and markings on the recovered AK-47 rifles and other items brought it out that terrorists belonged to JeM.

India on Tuesday lambasted Islamabad for presenting a "dossier of lies" against New Delhi at the United Nations, saying "concocting documents and peddling false narratives" is not new to Pakistan, which hosts the worlds largest number of UN proscribed terrorists.

India on Tuesday lambasted Islamabad for presenting a "dossier of lies" against New Delhi at the United Nations, saying "concocting documents and peddling false narratives" is not new to Pakistan, which hosts the worlds largest number of UN proscribed terrorists. Pakistan has given to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of `stoking` terrorism in Pakistan, just a day after New Delhi provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members over a last week terror attempt by four terrorists belonged to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), a terrorist organisation proscribed by the UN, in Jammu and Kashmir. Also read: Pakistan gives UN a dossier on India after India submits one on it Responding to Pakistan`s move at the UN, India`s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador, TS Tirumurti, took to Twitter and said, "The `dossier of lies` presented by Pakistan enjoys zero credibility. Concocting documents and peddling false narratives is not new to Pakistan. The top Indian envoy further added that "Pakistan is a host to the world`s largest number of UN proscribed terrorists and entities. "Remember Abbottabad!" - Osama Bin Laden, the founder of the militant terrorist organisation al-Qaeda, was killed by US security forces in Abbottabad on May 2, 2011. He was shot in the head, during the firefight in the compound in Pakistan, where he was taking shelter. Pakistan had long denied his presence in the country.The presentation of the dossiers comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021. On November 19, four terrorists were killed and two policemen were injured in a gun battle in Jammu and Kashmir`s Nagrota. The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted in the morning during a routine check. Inspector-General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible that they were planning a big attack and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union territory. Also read: Pakistan's refusal to act against 26/11 culprits shows 'insincere approach': Ex-Pentagon official The terrorists were infiltrated in India using a 150-metre long tunnel.Meanwhile, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla briefed a select group of head of missions in New Delhi about Pakistan`s direct role in planning the terror attack which was foiled by Indian security forces. ANI learned that heads of missions were provided a detailed information docket giving details of the incident as it transpired as well as list of items and ammunition that was recovered from terrorists clearly indicating their Pakistani origins. Sources said they were also briefed on how terrorists got into India, which is now clear as an underground tunnel has been found in the Samba sector.They said envoys were told how preliminary investigations by police and intelligence authorities and markings on the recovered AK-47 rifles and other items brought it out that terrorists belonged to JeM.

'Remember Abbottabad!' India slams Pakistan for presenting 'dossier of lies' at UN

Pakistan has given UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of stoking terrorism on its soil.

This came a day after India provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members accusing militants from Pakistan of attempting an attack in the disputed Indian territory Kashmir.

The tit-for-tat move comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021.

Pakistan's UN Ambassador Munir Akram accused India of violating international law, the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions by sponsoring terrorism.

He said Pakistan called on Guterres and the international community "to take note of Indian terrorism and subversion against Pakistan and to prevail on India to desist from these illegal and aggressive activities."

A spokesperson for India's mission to the United Nations in New York denied the charges.

"Pakistan can cry hoarse from the rooftops. But they cannot change the fact that they are the epicenter of terrorism," the spokesperson said. "Their lies have no takers."

The Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, with both claiming Kashmir in full but ruling it in part.&nbsp; 
UN peacekeepers have been deployed since 1949 to observe a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir.

India said on Monday that four militants, belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, made their way into Indian Kashmir through a tunnel last week and opened fire when their truck was stopped for a routine inspection.

Pakistan has rejected allegations of any involvement in the alleged attack and said they were aimed at diverting attention from India's repression of the people of Kashmir.

The UN Security Council blacklisted the head of the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed in May last year after China dropped its objection to the move, ending a decade-long diplomatic impasse.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan has given UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of stoking terrorism on its soil. This came a day after India provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members accusing militants from Pakistan of attempting an attack in the disputed Indian territory Kashmir.

Pakistan has given UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a dossier accusing India of stoking terrorism on its soil. This came a day after India provided a dossier to some UN Security Council members accusing militants from Pakistan of attempting an attack in the disputed Indian territory Kashmir. The tit-for-tat move comes ahead of India joining the 15-member council for a two-year term starting January 1, 2021. Pakistan's UN Ambassador Munir Akram accused India of violating international law, the UN Charter and Security Council resolutions by sponsoring terrorism. He said Pakistan called on Guterres and the international community "to take note of Indian terrorism and subversion against Pakistan and to prevail on India to desist from these illegal and aggressive activities." A spokesperson for India's mission to the United Nations in New York denied the charges. "Pakistan can cry hoarse from the rooftops. But they cannot change the fact that they are the epicenter of terrorism," the spokesperson said. "Their lies have no takers." The Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan, with both claiming Kashmir in full but ruling it in part. UN peacekeepers have been deployed since 1949 to observe a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. India said on Monday that four militants, belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad, made their way into Indian Kashmir through a tunnel last week and opened fire when their truck was stopped for a routine inspection. Pakistan has rejected allegations of any involvement in the alleged attack and said they were aimed at diverting attention from India's repression of the people of Kashmir. The UN Security Council blacklisted the head of the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed in May last year after China dropped its objection to the move, ending a decade-long diplomatic impasse. (with inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan gives UN a dossier on India after India submits one on it

Officials and well-wishers gathered at Islamabad Zoo on Monday (November 23) for a farewell party for Pakistan's lonely elephant Kaavan before he sets off for a new life in Cambodia this week.

Pakistan's lonely elephant set for new life with herd in Cambodia

Almost after eight months, 221 people who were stranded in Pakistan due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown returned to India on Monday.

"Out of the total passengers, 135 are NORI (No Obligation to Return to India) visa holders, 11 are Pakistan nationals and 75 Indians. These people were stranded due to the lockdown," an officer at the Attari border told ANI.

He added that a medical team from a local hospital would conduct COVID-19 test of all the people arriving here.A returnee, who had gone to Pakistan to attend the last rights of her mother, said that she was unable to return home because of the lockdown.

"I had gone to Pakistan because my mother had passed away, but due to the lockdown, we could not return home. With great difficulty, after eight months, I have come back home," Heena said.

Another returnee, who had gone to visit his wife and child in Pakistan, was elated when asked how he felt to finally coming back to India after eight months.

"It feels good to finally come back home," he said.The Indian High Commission in Pakistan last week announced that it will be facilitating the return of 221 people, including 75 stranded Indian nationals, to India on November 23.

In a Twitter post, the High Commission of India in Pakistan said that a total of 135 NORI (No Objection to Return to India) visa holders, 75 Indian nationals and 11 spouses of NORI visa holders will be repatriated to India.

Almost after eight months, 221 people who were stranded in Pakistan due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown returned to India on Monday. "Out of the total passengers, 135 are NORI (No Obligation to Return to India) visa holders, 11 are Pakistan nationals and 75 Indians.

Almost after eight months, 221 people who were stranded in Pakistan due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown returned to India on Monday. "Out of the total passengers, 135 are NORI (No Obligation to Return to India) visa holders, 11 are Pakistan nationals and 75 Indians. These people were stranded due to the lockdown," an officer at the Attari border told ANI. He added that a medical team from a local hospital would conduct COVID-19 test of all the people arriving here.A returnee, who had gone to Pakistan to attend the last rights of her mother, said that she was unable to return home because of the lockdown. "I had gone to Pakistan because my mother had passed away, but due to the lockdown, we could not return home. With great difficulty, after eight months, I have come back home," Heena said. Another returnee, who had gone to visit his wife and child in Pakistan, was elated when asked how he felt to finally coming back to India after eight months. "It feels good to finally come back home," he said.The Indian High Commission in Pakistan last week announced that it will be facilitating the return of 221 people, including 75 stranded Indian nationals, to India on November 23. In a Twitter post, the High Commission of India in Pakistan said that a total of 135 NORI (No Objection to Return to India) visa holders, 75 Indian nationals and 11 spouses of NORI visa holders will be repatriated to India.

221 people stranded in Pakistan amid COVID lockdown return to India

Khadim Hussain Rizvi might be dead, but deep-rooted extremism in Pakistan is far from getting any weak.&nbsp;

The hardliners may have failed to make a dent in the last election, but they do have the power to influence the outcome.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-extremists-found-a-place-in-pakistans-mainstream-politics-344967/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rizvi, was one of the most controversial clerics in Pakistan, and his massive support base helped him become a national figure in a year of launching its own political party.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-military-and-china-imran-khan-government-now-surrenders-to-extremists-344981">After military and China, Imran Khan government now surrenders to extremists</a>

His Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) lost all 566 contested seats in the 2018 election but still managed to win 2.2 million votes, thereby becoming the fifth-largest party by votes.&nbsp;

On 13 seats, the hardliners got enough votes to ensure a loss for one of the main opposition parties: Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N)

It was able to win three seats in the provisional assembly of Sindh in 2018 to project itself as the guardian of Prophet Muhammad's honour.&nbsp;

TLP is not the only extremist party that has come into the mainstream in Pakistan.

Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, also launched his political party Milli Muslim League, and when its registration got rejected, the authorities bent the rules.&nbsp;

Saeed was allowed to field candidates through a dormant political entity, the Allah-u-Akbar Tehreek.

More than 260 candidates contested under this banner, all of them lost but a door was opened for Saeed to enter mainstream politics.&nbsp;

The same loopholes were used to field more hardliners like the members of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat, a banned anti-Shia sectarian organisation.&nbsp;

Its head Ahmed Ludhianvi was allowed to contest with his assets being unfrozen and travel restrictions removed.&nbsp;

In the 2018 election, religious parties fielded more than 1,500 candidates in Pakistan, a major spike from just a few hundred in 2013.&nbsp;

It is believed that the hardliners were pushed by Pakistan's military to allow radicals to gain political space.&nbsp;

They are yet to find any seat in Pakistan's National Assembly, but they are coming out in streets to influence decisions made in Islamabad.&nbsp;

Khadim Hussain Rizvi might be dead, but deep-rooted extremism in Pakistan is far from getting any weak. The hardliners may have failed to make a dent in the last election, but they do have the power to influence the outcome.

Khadim Hussain Rizvi might be dead, but deep-rooted extremism in Pakistan is far from getting any weak. The hardliners may have failed to make a dent in the last election, but they do have the power to influence the outcome. Watch | Rizvi, was one of the most controversial clerics in Pakistan, and his massive support base helped him become a national figure in a year of launching its own political party. Also read | After military and China, Imran Khan government now surrenders to extremists His Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) lost all 566 contested seats in the 2018 election but still managed to win 2.2 million votes, thereby becoming the fifth-largest party by votes. On 13 seats, the hardliners got enough votes to ensure a loss for one of the main opposition parties: Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) It was able to win three seats in the provisional assembly of Sindh in 2018 to project itself as the guardian of Prophet Muhammad's honour. TLP is not the only extremist party that has come into the mainstream in Pakistan. Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, also launched his political party Milli Muslim League, and when its registration got rejected, the authorities bent the rules. Saeed was allowed to field candidates through a dormant political entity, the Allah-u-Akbar Tehreek. More than 260 candidates contested under this banner, all of them lost but a door was opened for Saeed to enter mainstream politics. The same loopholes were used to field more hardliners like the members of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat, a banned anti-Shia sectarian organisation. Its head Ahmed Ludhianvi was allowed to contest with his assets being unfrozen and travel restrictions removed. In the 2018 election, religious parties fielded more than 1,500 candidates in Pakistan, a major spike from just a few hundred in 2013. It is believed that the hardliners were pushed by Pakistan's military to allow radicals to gain political space. They are yet to find any seat in Pakistan's National Assembly, but they are coming out in streets to influence decisions made in Islamabad.

Khadim Rizvi is dead, but extremism in Pakistan is getting stronger

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