&nbsp;As many as 4,688 new cases of coronavirus have been reported in Pakistan, taking the tally of COVID-19 cases to 85,264, the country's health ministry said on Thursday.

On Wednesday, Pakistan had reported 4,065 new COVID-19 cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/when-india-asked-president-kennedy-for-us-air-force-to-help-fight-china-in-1962-303317#momentous-decision-58402">Have a look:&nbsp;When India asked President Kennedy for US Air Force to help fight China in 1962</a>

The coronavirus-related death toll has increased by 82 to 1,770, and the number of recoveries reached 30,128, according to the authorities.

The Sindh province, with nearly 33,000 cases, is the most affected and is followed by the Punjab province, which registered over 31,000 cases.

Despite the rising toll, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced on Monday that his government would lift the coronavirus lockdown to save the national economy from a meltdown.

As many as 4,688 new cases of coronavirus have been reported in Pakistan, taking the tally of COVID-19 cases to 85,264, the country's health ministry said on Thursday.

As many as 4,688 new cases of coronavirus have been reported in Pakistan, taking the tally of COVID-19 cases to 85,264, the country's health ministry said on Thursday. On Wednesday, Pakistan had reported 4,065 new COVID-19 cases. Have a look: When India asked President Kennedy for US Air Force to help fight China in 1962 The coronavirus-related death toll has increased by 82 to 1,770, and the number of recoveries reached 30,128, according to the authorities. The Sindh province, with nearly 33,000 cases, is the most affected and is followed by the Punjab province, which registered over 31,000 cases. Despite the rising toll, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced on Monday that his government would lift the coronavirus lockdown to save the national economy from a meltdown.

COVID 19: Pakistan records 4,688 new cases; government reopens economy

Four weeks ago, with its most important festival coming up and millions of people facing starvation as economic activity dwindled, Pakistan lifted a two-month-long coronavirus lockdown. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan has said despite rising infections and deaths, the country would need to learn to "live with" the virus to avert pushing tens of millions living on daily wages into destitution.

Now, a Reuters review of government data shows over 20,000 cases of the virus were identified in the three weeks before the lockdown was lifted, and more than double that figure were identified in the three weeks since. 
To be sure, testing rates have also increased. But of those tested, the daily average of positive results climbed from on average 11.5% in the three weeks before the lockdown was lifted, to 15.4% on average in the subsequent three weeks. The ratio is around 23% this week, according to the data.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/covid-19-pakistan-records-4688-new-cases-government-reopens-economy-303472">Also read:&nbsp;COVID 19: Pakistan records 4,688 new cases; government reopens economy</a>

Pakistan has officially identified over 80,000 cases of COVID-19, with 1,770 confirmed deaths.

"Those numbers are concerning, since they do suggest there may still be widespread transmission in certain parts of the country," said Claire Standley, assistant research professor at the Department of International Health at Georgetown University.

Experts say measures that could curb cases – like limits on religious gatherings and crowded shopping areas and emphasising social distancing – should be reinstated and some doctors are raising the alarm.

According to a letter seen by Reuters, a committee of experts backed by the local health department in Pakistan's most populous province, Punjab, told the provincial government the lockdown needed to continue. The letter said random testing suggested more than 670,000 people in the provincial capital Lahore had likely contracted the virus, many of them asymptomatic.

The Punjab Health Minister Yasmeen Rashid said the letter had not been disregarded, but set aside in light of a Supreme Court decision that lockdowns should be lifted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/road-side-bomb-blast-kills-2-school-teachers-in-pakistan-303557">Also read:&nbsp;Road side bomb blast kills 2 school teachers in Pakistan</a>

Most hospitals in Lahore are now full and are sending cases to Mayo Hospital, a public facility with more than 400 beds dedicated to COVID-19 cases, said Salman Kazmi, general secretary of the Young Doctor’s Association, who is treating coronavirus patients there.

Asad Aslam, the CEO of Mayo, however disputed claims that Lahore hospitals were saturated. "We can handle further burden of patients," he said.

Herd immunity 
Pakistan lifted its lockdown on May 9, about two weeks before the Eid al-Fitr festival that marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with family gatherings and feasting. Transport and most businesses have re-opened but cinemas, theatres and schools remain closed.

There has been growing debate among experts globally on whether populous developing nations can afford comprehensive social distancing measures to contain the coronavirus while avoiding economic ruin.

Some officials have suggested "herd immunity" could contain the virus, a situation where enough people in a population have developed immunity to an infection to be able to effectively stop that disease from spreading.

However, the World Health Organization has warned countries that have "lax measures" in place against counting on herd immunity to halt the spread of COVID-19.

"The Pakistan government is setting itself up for a huge gamble but it's also a test case for herd immunity because South Asia has no other choice," a senior European Union official who oversees South Asia told Reuters.

Yet even those advocating rolling back strict lockdowns in developing nations are alarmed at the teeming crowds in Pakistan's streets, shopping malls and mosques, the ramping up of domestic flights, and the movement of millions of people for the Eid holiday.

"It's not about this dichotomy between complete lockdown and fully open," Ahmed Mushfiq Mobarak, a professor of economics at Yale University, told Reuters.

He said a smarter strategy would be to allow people out for core economic and public health activities, rather than a total relaxation of rules.

"There should still be complete bans on religious gatherings and social gatherings...those are things for which we need to see much better leadership," he said.

Four weeks ago, with its most important festival coming up and millions of people facing starvation as economic activity dwindled, Pakistan lifted a two-month-long coronavirus lockdown.

Four weeks ago, with its most important festival coming up and millions of people facing starvation as economic activity dwindled, Pakistan lifted a two-month-long coronavirus lockdown. Prime Minister Imran Khan has said despite rising infections and deaths, the country would need to learn to "live with" the virus to avert pushing tens of millions living on daily wages into destitution. Now, a Reuters review of government data shows over 20,000 cases of the virus were identified in the three weeks before the lockdown was lifted, and more than double that figure were identified in the three weeks since. To be sure, testing rates have also increased. But of those tested, the daily average of positive results climbed from on average 11.5% in the three weeks before the lockdown was lifted, to 15.4% on average in the subsequent three weeks. The ratio is around 23% this week, according to the data. Also read: COVID 19: Pakistan records 4,688 new cases; government reopens economy Pakistan has officially identified over 80,000 cases of COVID-19, with 1,770 confirmed deaths. "Those numbers are concerning, since they do suggest there may still be widespread transmission in certain parts of the country," said Claire Standley, assistant research professor at the Department of International Health at Georgetown University. Experts say measures that could curb cases – like limits on religious gatherings and crowded shopping areas and emphasising social distancing – should be reinstated and some doctors are raising the alarm. According to a letter seen by Reuters, a committee of experts backed by the local health department in Pakistan's most populous province, Punjab, told the provincial government the lockdown needed to continue. The letter said random testing suggested more than 670,000 people in the provincial capital Lahore had likely contracted the virus, many of them asymptomatic. The Punjab Health Minister Yasmeen Rashid said the letter had not been disregarded, but set aside in light of a Supreme Court decision that lockdowns should be lifted. Also read: Road side bomb blast kills 2 school teachers in Pakistan Most hospitals in Lahore are now full and are sending cases to Mayo Hospital, a public facility with more than 400 beds dedicated to COVID-19 cases, said Salman Kazmi, general secretary of the Young Doctor’s Association, who is treating coronavirus patients there. Asad Aslam, the CEO of Mayo, however disputed claims that Lahore hospitals were saturated. "We can handle further burden of patients," he said. Herd immunity Pakistan lifted its lockdown on May 9, about two weeks before the Eid al-Fitr festival that marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with family gatherings and feasting. Transport and most businesses have re-opened but cinemas, theatres and schools remain closed. There has been growing debate among experts globally on whether populous developing nations can afford comprehensive social distancing measures to contain the coronavirus while avoiding economic ruin. Some officials have suggested "herd immunity" could contain the virus, a situation where enough people in a population have developed immunity to an infection to be able to effectively stop that disease from spreading. However, the World Health Organization has warned countries that have "lax measures" in place against counting on herd immunity to halt the spread of COVID-19. "The Pakistan government is setting itself up for a huge gamble but it's also a test case for herd immunity because South Asia has no other choice," a senior European Union official who oversees South Asia told Reuters. Yet even those advocating rolling back strict lockdowns in developing nations are alarmed at the teeming crowds in Pakistan's streets, shopping malls and mosques, the ramping up of domestic flights, and the movement of millions of people for the Eid holiday. "It's not about this dichotomy between complete lockdown and fully open," Ahmed Mushfiq Mobarak, a professor of economics at Yale University, told Reuters. He said a smarter strategy would be to allow people out for core economic and public health activities, rather than a total relaxation of rules. "There should still be complete bans on religious gatherings and social gatherings...those are things for which we need to see much better leadership," he said.

Live with virus: Pakistan PM says after lockdown gamble; COVID-19 cases surge

Pakistan on Thursday surpassed China, the first epicentre of the coronavirus, after a record 4,688 new cases were registered during the last 24 hours to take the tally to 85,246.

China with 84,160 patients has been placed at 18th position, one step lower than Pakistan, according to the data of Johns Hopkins University.

On Thursday, the Ministry of National Health Services said till now Pakistan has witnessed the deaths of 1,770 patients with COVID-19, including 82 in the last 24 hours.

The country registered 4,688 new COVID-19 cases during the period, the highest in a single day, the ministry said. 
Another 30,128 had recovered.

Sindh so far reported 32,910 patients of coronavirus, Punjab 31,104, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 11,373, Balochistan 5,224, Islamabad 3,544, Gilgit-Baltistan 824 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir reported 285 cases of the viral disease.

On the positive side a record 20,167 tests were done in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of tests conducted so far to 615,511.

As the number of infections continue to go up, Minister for Planning Asad Umar said an effective media campaign is being launched across the country to create awareness and to educate the masses for voluntary compliance of Standard Operating Procedures.

Chairing a meeting of the National Command and Operation Centre, Umar said there should be a clear message conveyed to the masses that the government is going to spearhead stringent actions to ensure social distancing and compliance of safety guidelines in public places and high risk areas, Radio Pakistan reported.

He said administrative actions would be initiated across the country against the violators of standard operating procedure put at place to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The coronavirus epidemic, which originated in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last year, has infected over 6,511,000 people and killed over 3,86,000 across the world.

Pakistan on Thursday surpassed China, the first epicentre of the coronavirus, after a record 4,688 new cases were registered during the last 24 hours to take the tally to 85,246.

Pakistan on Thursday surpassed China, the first epicentre of the coronavirus, after a record 4,688 new cases were registered during the last 24 hours to take the tally to 85,246. China with 84,160 patients has been placed at 18th position, one step lower than Pakistan, according to the data of Johns Hopkins University. On Thursday, the Ministry of National Health Services said till now Pakistan has witnessed the deaths of 1,770 patients with COVID-19, including 82 in the last 24 hours. The country registered 4,688 new COVID-19 cases during the period, the highest in a single day, the ministry said. Another 30,128 had recovered. Sindh so far reported 32,910 patients of coronavirus, Punjab 31,104, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 11,373, Balochistan 5,224, Islamabad 3,544, Gilgit-Baltistan 824 and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir reported 285 cases of the viral disease. On the positive side a record 20,167 tests were done in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of tests conducted so far to 615,511. As the number of infections continue to go up, Minister for Planning Asad Umar said an effective media campaign is being launched across the country to create awareness and to educate the masses for voluntary compliance of Standard Operating Procedures. Chairing a meeting of the National Command and Operation Centre, Umar said there should be a clear message conveyed to the masses that the government is going to spearhead stringent actions to ensure social distancing and compliance of safety guidelines in public places and high risk areas, Radio Pakistan reported. He said administrative actions would be initiated across the country against the violators of standard operating procedure put at place to contain the spread of COVID-19. The coronavirus epidemic, which originated in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last year, has infected over 6,511,000 people and killed over 3,86,000 across the world.

Pakistan surpasses China in COVID-19 cases; infections surges to 85,246

Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI has attempted to chase the vehicle of India's Chargé d'affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia on June 4. The Pakistani intelligence service has also stationed multiple persons in cars and bikes outside the Indian diplomat's residence in an attempt to harass and intimidate him. Watch report.

ISI member chases Indian Diplomat's vehicle in Pakistan

A long-drawn battle is underway within the banned terror group Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) more than 4 months after the suspicious death of its leader Harmeet Singh alias Happy PhD. Happy PHD died in mysterious circumstances in Lahore in January of 2020.

In the fray for the leadership of KLF radical elements from Pakistan, UK and even Italy and Switzerland. Pakistan- based Lakhbir Singh Rode also Chief of International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), Paramjeet Singh Panjwar, the UK based Paramjeet Singh Panjwar, Gursharanvir Singh Wahiwala, KLF spokesperson Dhanna Singh, Italy- based Gurjinder Singh Shastri and Switzerland based Pappu Singh are trying to take the mantle of the group.&nbsp;

While KLF has its separatist Khalistani agenda, the mainstay of its existence is by drug trafficking especially in Indian Punjab and Pakistan’s notorious Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has used the terror group for smuggling illegal weapons and drugs into India. The ministry of home affairs had banned KLF in 2018 under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

And without Pakistan's backing, unlikely a major call can be taken. ISI has been backing Lakhbir Singh Rode and Paramjeet Singh Panjwar. Both trying to get support from cadre based in Italy, Germany, Canada and the UK to become next KLF chief. Wahiwala and Shastri do not seem to have the support of the ISI, which can make things difficult for them.

KLF now is heading towards a schism with a new faction emerging led by UK based Gursharanvir Singh Wahiwala. Wahiwala is getting support from cadres from Canada, US and Italy. What has increased the infighting is Wahiwala alleging that Dhanna Singh, the spokesperson of KLF is responsible for the killing of Happy PhD.&nbsp;

Interestingly Dhanna was in Pakistan in the second week of January, just days before the killing of Happy PHD in mysterious circumstances. It was followed by a letter by him on February 12, 2020, to the cadre in which he called Happy PhD as a "self-styled leader".&nbsp;

Taking a dig at him he and other KLF leaders, he wrote in the letter that advises given by veteran leaders such as Devenderpal Singh Bhullar, Daya Singh Lahoriya, Lal Singh and Harnek Singh Bhap were ignored. He also called ex KLF chief Harminder Singh Mintoo as “devil and agent of Indian agencies” and both Mintoo and Happy PhD do not deserve the "honour of Jathedar bestowed upon them". &nbsp;The remarks and letter have drawn furious reactions from the hardcore KLF cadre who have warned him of serious consequences.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, house of Gursharanvir Singh was raided by Mid Westland Police in the UK on February 19 on the complaint made by Dhanna Singh fueling the acrimony.

UK based KLF militants had assembled on February 23 to discuss the future course of the group after the death of Happy PhD. A total of 8 people--Gursharanvir Singh, Amritveer Singh, Avtar Singh Khandaand Amanveer Singh attended the meeting. Gursharanvir vouched for himself citing his close ties with former KLF chiefs —Happy Phd, Mintoo. While asking to avoid Italian and swiss contender he called for the continuation of violent activities.

A long-drawn battle is underway within the banned terror group Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) more than 4 months after the suspicious death of its leader Harmeet Singh alias Happy PhD.

A long-drawn battle is underway within the banned terror group Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) more than 4 months after the suspicious death of its leader Harmeet Singh alias Happy PhD. Happy PHD died in mysterious circumstances in Lahore in January of 2020. In the fray for the leadership of KLF radical elements from Pakistan, UK and even Italy and Switzerland. Pakistan- based Lakhbir Singh Rode also Chief of International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), Paramjeet Singh Panjwar, the UK based Paramjeet Singh Panjwar, Gursharanvir Singh Wahiwala, KLF spokesperson Dhanna Singh, Italy- based Gurjinder Singh Shastri and Switzerland based Pappu Singh are trying to take the mantle of the group. While KLF has its separatist Khalistani agenda, the mainstay of its existence is by drug trafficking especially in Indian Punjab and Pakistan’s notorious Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has used the terror group for smuggling illegal weapons and drugs into India. The ministry of home affairs had banned KLF in 2018 under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). And without Pakistan's backing, unlikely a major call can be taken. ISI has been backing Lakhbir Singh Rode and Paramjeet Singh Panjwar. Both trying to get support from cadre based in Italy, Germany, Canada and the UK to become next KLF chief. Wahiwala and Shastri do not seem to have the support of the ISI, which can make things difficult for them. KLF now is heading towards a schism with a new faction emerging led by UK based Gursharanvir Singh Wahiwala. Wahiwala is getting support from cadres from Canada, US and Italy. What has increased the infighting is Wahiwala alleging that Dhanna Singh, the spokesperson of KLF is responsible for the killing of Happy PhD. Interestingly Dhanna was in Pakistan in the second week of January, just days before the killing of Happy PHD in mysterious circumstances. It was followed by a letter by him on February 12, 2020, to the cadre in which he called Happy PhD as a "self-styled leader". Taking a dig at him he and other KLF leaders, he wrote in the letter that advises given by veteran leaders such as Devenderpal Singh Bhullar, Daya Singh Lahoriya, Lal Singh and Harnek Singh Bhap were ignored. He also called ex KLF chief Harminder Singh Mintoo as “devil and agent of Indian agencies” and both Mintoo and Happy PhD do not deserve the "honour of Jathedar bestowed upon them". The remarks and letter have drawn furious reactions from the hardcore KLF cadre who have warned him of serious consequences. Meanwhile, house of Gursharanvir Singh was raided by Mid Westland Police in the UK on February 19 on the complaint made by Dhanna Singh fueling the acrimony. UK based KLF militants had assembled on February 23 to discuss the future course of the group after the death of Happy PhD. A total of 8 people--Gursharanvir Singh, Amritveer Singh, Avtar Singh Khandaand Amanveer Singh attended the meeting. Gursharanvir vouched for himself citing his close ties with former KLF chiefs —Happy Phd, Mintoo. While asking to avoid Italian and swiss contender he called for the continuation of violent activities.

Infighting within terror group Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) for the top post; contenders from Pakistan, UK, Italy and Switzerland, ISI is the kingmaker

A Pakistani rights body on Wednesday said it registered 189 per cent increase in cyber harassment complaints during the countrywide lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

The Digital Rights Foundation said the complaints were registered with its Cyber Harassment Helpline.

The helpline reported a combined 136 complaints of cyber harassment in March and April during the lockdown compared to 47 such complaints, an increase of 189 per cent, before the lockdown in January and February.

Seventy-four per cent of the complaints registered in March and April were reported by women, whereas men and non-binary persons registered 19 per cent and 5 per cent complaints, respectively, the not-for-profit organisation said in a press release.

"As Pakistan entered its lockdown in response to the Covid-19 outbreak, we feared there would be an increase in cyber harassment cases as well as cyber-attacks in general," it said.

A majority of the cases that the organisation's cyber harassment helpline received during the lockdown months "pertained to blackmailing through non-consensual sharing of information, intimate pictures and videos".

Complaints of hate speech, phishing, fake profiles and defamation were also reported.

Women in Pakistan often face different kind gender-based violence in the digital sphere but the most common is sexual harassment and the Digital Rights Foundation suggested measures for the government to tackle this issue.

It asked Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) accessibility for the people facing cyber threats and using technology to deal with digital harassment cases, like allowing for video testimonies.

The Digital Rights Foundation works to ensure digital freedoms in the country to ensure unhindered access to internet.

A Pakistani rights body on Wednesday said it registered 189 per cent increase in cyber harassment complaints during the countrywide lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

A Pakistani rights body on Wednesday said it registered 189 per cent increase in cyber harassment complaints during the countrywide lockdown to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The Digital Rights Foundation said the complaints were registered with its Cyber Harassment Helpline. The helpline reported a combined 136 complaints of cyber harassment in March and April during the lockdown compared to 47 such complaints, an increase of 189 per cent, before the lockdown in January and February. Seventy-four per cent of the complaints registered in March and April were reported by women, whereas men and non-binary persons registered 19 per cent and 5 per cent complaints, respectively, the not-for-profit organisation said in a press release. "As Pakistan entered its lockdown in response to the Covid-19 outbreak, we feared there would be an increase in cyber harassment cases as well as cyber-attacks in general," it said. A majority of the cases that the organisation's cyber harassment helpline received during the lockdown months "pertained to blackmailing through non-consensual sharing of information, intimate pictures and videos". Complaints of hate speech, phishing, fake profiles and defamation were also reported. Women in Pakistan often face different kind gender-based violence in the digital sphere but the most common is sexual harassment and the Digital Rights Foundation suggested measures for the government to tackle this issue. It asked Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) accessibility for the people facing cyber threats and using technology to deal with digital harassment cases, like allowing for video testimonies. The Digital Rights Foundation works to ensure digital freedoms in the country to ensure unhindered access to internet.

Pakistan registers 189% increase in cyber harassment complaints during COVID-19 lockdown

Following a report submitted to the United Nations that says that there are 6,500 Pakistanis among other foreign terrorist fighters in Afghanistan

Pakistan Remains An Epicentre Of Global Terrorism

At least six children were killed and 10 others injured when the roof of a seminary collapsed in Pakistan's North Waziristan tribal district. 
&nbsp; 
The children, all aged under 10 years, were sitting in the classroom of the seminary and were reciting holy Quran when its roof collapsed in Zer Jan Kot area on Tuesday, officials said. 
&nbsp; 
Local people rushed to the site to retrieve survivors from debris. 
&nbsp; 
A man, who was rushing the injured children to a nearby hospital, died of a heart attack.&nbsp;

At least six children were killed and 10 others injured when the roof of a seminary collapsed in Pakistan's North Waziristan tribal district. The children, all aged under 10 years, were sitting in the classroom of the seminary and were reciting holy Quran when its roof collapsed in Zer Jan Kot area on Tuesday, officials said.

At least six children were killed and 10 others injured when the roof of a seminary collapsed in Pakistan's North Waziristan tribal district. The children, all aged under 10 years, were sitting in the classroom of the seminary and were reciting holy Quran when its roof collapsed in Zer Jan Kot area on Tuesday, officials said. Local people rushed to the site to retrieve survivors from debris. A man, who was rushing the injured children to a nearby hospital, died of a heart attack.

Six children killed, 10 injured as roof of seminary collapses in Pakistan

2 officials of the Pak High Commission in New Delhi have been expelled for spying on Indian security installations. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the details of the operation.

Gravitas: Pak's 'Spy diplomats' caught red-handed

Two officials at Pakistan High Commission in Delhi were caught spying by Indian authorities on Sunday.&nbsp;

Abid Hussain and Tahir Hussain, working in the visa section of the Pakistan High Commission, were nabbed while they were engaged in a unwanted anti-India activity. They used to roam around assuming fake Indian identities.

India has declared them persona non grata and has asked them to leave the country within 24 hours.

Explaining how the two officials were apprehended by "Indian law enforcement authorities for indulging in espionage activities", the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a release said, "The Government has declared both these officials persona non grata for indulging in activities incompatible with their status as members of a diplomatic mission and asked them to leave the country within 24 hours."

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The Pakistani Charge de Affaires was issued a demarche in which India strongly protested "with regard to the activities of these officials" and "asked to ensure that no member of its diplomatic mission should indulge in activities inimical to India or behave in a manner incompatible with their diplomatic status."

The last time such an incident happened was in 2016.

India had then declared one Pakistan High Commission official Mehmood Akhtar as persona non grata after he was apprehended by Indian law enforcement authorities while receiving sensitive documents.

During his interrogation, Akhtar revealed that he belonged to Baloch Regiment of Pakistan Army and joined Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) on deputation. He had been posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi since September 2013.&nbsp;

The Pakistan High Commissioner was then summoned by the Foreign Secretary with India registering a strong protest on the activities of Mehmood Akhtar.&nbsp;

That day itself, in an apparent tit-for-tat, Pakistan declared an Assistant Personnel and Welfare Officer in the Indian High Commission in Islamabad Surjeet Singh as persona non grata.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-espionage-case-spies-used-fake-aadhar-card-caught-red-handed-in-karol-bagh-302225">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan espionage case: Spies used fake Aadhar card, caught red-handed in Karol Bagh</a>

(The story has been updated.)

Two officials at Pakistan High Commission in Delhi were caught spying by Indian authorities on Sunday. Abid Hussain and Tahir Hussain, working in the visa section of the Pakistan High Commission, were nabbed while they were engaged in a unwanted anti-India activity.

Two officials at Pakistan High Commission in Delhi were caught spying by Indian authorities on Sunday. Abid Hussain and Tahir Hussain, working in the visa section of the Pakistan High Commission, were nabbed while they were engaged in a unwanted anti-India activity. They used to roam around assuming fake Indian identities. India has declared them persona non grata and has asked them to leave the country within 24 hours. Explaining how the two officials were apprehended by "Indian law enforcement authorities for indulging in espionage activities", the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a release said, "The Government has declared both these officials persona non grata for indulging in activities incompatible with their status as members of a diplomatic mission and asked them to leave the country within 24 hours." The Pakistani Charge de Affaires was issued a demarche in which India strongly protested "with regard to the activities of these officials" and "asked to ensure that no member of its diplomatic mission should indulge in activities inimical to India or behave in a manner incompatible with their diplomatic status." The last time such an incident happened was in 2016. India had then declared one Pakistan High Commission official Mehmood Akhtar as persona non grata after he was apprehended by Indian law enforcement authorities while receiving sensitive documents. During his interrogation, Akhtar revealed that he belonged to Baloch Regiment of Pakistan Army and joined Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) on deputation. He had been posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi since September 2013. The Pakistan High Commissioner was then summoned by the Foreign Secretary with India registering a strong protest on the activities of Mehmood Akhtar. That day itself, in an apparent tit-for-tat, Pakistan declared an Assistant Personnel and Welfare Officer in the Indian High Commission in Islamabad Surjeet Singh as persona non grata. Also read | Pakistan espionage case: Spies used fake Aadhar card, caught red-handed in Karol Bagh (The story has been updated.)

Two Pak High Commision officials caught spying; declared persona non grata by India

Indian authorities on Sunday nabbed two Pakistan High Commission officials, working in the visa section, red-handed in Delhi's Karol Bagh while trying to source sensitive document in an act of espionage. This resulted in India declaring them persona non grata.&nbsp;

The authorities&nbsp;also recovered a fake Aadhar card by the name of Nazir Gotam, resident of Geeta colony, and two Apple iPhone mobile phones and Rs 15,000 in cash.

On specific inputs that said Pakistan High Commission officials were involved in espionage, a trap was laid. The accused officials then reached a restaurant in Karol Bagh where they were apprehended.&nbsp;

"The Delhi Police have detained two Pakistan High Commission staff members for espionage-related activities. Two visa assistants Abid Hussain and Tahir Khan work as visa assistants and are ISI operatives," officials said.

Abid Hussain Abid, 42, and Tahir Khan, 44, had arrived in a Pakistani diplomatic car.&nbsp;

The car in fact had its windshield broken during the operation. Details that emerged later showed that the Pakistan High Commission was in the process of selling the car.

WION was the first portal to break the story on Sunday evening and had also reported how they had roamed around with fake Indian identities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-pak-high-commision-officials-caught-spying-declared-persona-non-grata-by-india-302208">Also read |&nbsp;Two Pak High Commision officials caught spying; declared persona non grata by India</a>

Indian authorities on Sunday nabbed two Pakistan High Commission officials, working in the visa section, red-handed in Delhi's Karol Bagh while trying to source sensitive document in an act of espionage.

Indian authorities on Sunday nabbed two Pakistan High Commission officials, working in the visa section, red-handed in Delhi's Karol Bagh while trying to source sensitive document in an act of espionage. This resulted in India declaring them persona non grata. The authorities also recovered a fake Aadhar card by the name of Nazir Gotam, resident of Geeta colony, and two Apple iPhone mobile phones and Rs 15,000 in cash. On specific inputs that said Pakistan High Commission officials were involved in espionage, a trap was laid. The accused officials then reached a restaurant in Karol Bagh where they were apprehended. "The Delhi Police have detained two Pakistan High Commission staff members for espionage-related activities. Two visa assistants Abid Hussain and Tahir Khan work as visa assistants and are ISI operatives," officials said. Abid Hussain Abid, 42, and Tahir Khan, 44, had arrived in a Pakistani diplomatic car. The car in fact had its windshield broken during the operation. Details that emerged later showed that the Pakistan High Commission was in the process of selling the car. WION was the first portal to break the story on Sunday evening and had also reported how they had roamed around with fake Indian identities. Also read | Two Pak High Commision officials caught spying; declared persona non grata by India

Pakistan espionage case: Spies used fake Aadhar card, caught red-handed in Karol Bagh

A fresh picture of Pakistan's 'ailing' former prime minister Nawaz Sharif taking tea at a London cafe&nbsp;along with some members of his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on his health with the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf members demanding his return to face corruption cases.

In the picture, the 70-year-old three-time premier is seen sitting at a roadside cafe with his granddaughters. He sported a blue shalwar kameez and a cap and apparently looked in better health.

Some ministers got skeptical about the serious nature of his health, saying Sharif is roaming on London streets and he even did not bother to wear mask in this COVID-19 testing time.

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ہمارے نظام انصاف، قانون، انتظامیہ اور عدالتی نظام کا منہ چڑاتی یہ تصویریں بتاتی ہیں کہ آخر عوام احتساب کے نظام پر کتنا اعتماد کر سکتے ہیں ؟ <a href="https://t.co/dZxJ0VpM4q">pic.twitter.com/dZxJ0VpM4q</a>
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) <a href="https://twitter.com/fawadchaudhry/status/1266636679458238464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This picture of Sharif having tea in cafe is exposing our law, justice and judicial system. This picture also tells how much people can trust on the accountability system in the country," Science Minister Fawad Chaudhry said.

Prime Minister's adviser Shahbaz Gill said that Sharif had gone abroad after lying in the court. "The Sharifs think the people are fool," Gill said and asked Mr Sharif to return Pakistan to face corruption cases against him.

Punjab Information Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan questioned about Sharif roaming on London's streets without a mask. He should be brought back to face corruption cases against him.

As the picture went viral on social media on Saturday it became top trend, sparking a debate about Sharif's health with his detractors asking why he does not return to Pakistan if he is well while his supporters expressed joy at seeing their leader in good health and spirits.

Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz claimed that the picture of the PML-N supreme leader was released by 'some elements' with an intention to humiliate him.

"Like in the past practice they (an apparent reference to the establishment) wanted to humiliate him by leaking his picture. But the response to it was otherwise. The supporters of him got happy to see him. His detractors must learn from this," she said.

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میاں صاحب کافی پیتے ہیں اور وہ بھی double espresso 
ہمیں یہ بھی پتہ ہے کہ میری طرح آپ بھی چائے پیتی ہیں ☺️ <a href="https://t.co/zPEUmcAqVe">https://t.co/zPEUmcAqVe</a>
— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryamNSharif/status/1266740488935260160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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She said when her mother was in the ICU in a London hospital, such elements even tried to take her picture forcibly'. "For them to take Nawaz Sharif and his family's women's pictures is not difficult,"&nbsp;she said in a tweet.

Shahbaz Gill, however, claimed that the PML-N itself had leaked this picture of Sharif to tell its workers that he is fine and "very much in-charge of the party". He said the PML-N workers were looking up to Sharif's younger brother Shahbaz Sharif that is why the party had to leak this picture.

Earlier in January, a picture of Sharif having tea at a London restaurant had gone viral, inviting a lot of criticism and raising suspicion that he might have gone out of Pakistan ?under some deal'.

Defending this and previous "leaked" pictures, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Auranzeb said: "Mr Sharif had gone out to have a walk as per doctors' advice."

Sharif in November last had left for London after the Lahore High Court granted him a four-week permission allowing him to go abroad for his treatment.

He had given an undertaking to the Lahore High Court to return to Pakistan citing his record to face the process of law and justice within four weeks or as soon as he is declared healthy and fit to travel by doctors.

Sharif was also given bail in the Al-Azizia Mills corruption case in which he was serving seven-year imprisonment in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail.

Sharif, who was diagnosed with an immune system disorder, has been advised by a PTI government's panel of doctors to go abroad for treatment. He had been diagnosed with a complicated coronary disease.

In London, he underwent comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation and investigations at Royal Brompton &amp; Harefield Hospital.

According to his daughter, Sharif's cardiac surgery had been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

A fresh picture of Pakistan's 'ailing' former prime minister Nawaz Sharif taking tea at a London cafe along with some members of his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on his health with the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf members demanding his return to face corruption cases.

A fresh picture of Pakistan's 'ailing' former prime minister Nawaz Sharif taking tea at a London cafe along with some members of his family went viral on social media, sparking a debate on his health with the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf members demanding his return to face corruption cases. In the picture, the 70-year-old three-time premier is seen sitting at a roadside cafe with his granddaughters. He sported a blue shalwar kameez and a cap and apparently looked in better health. Some ministers got skeptical about the serious nature of his health, saying Sharif is roaming on London streets and he even did not bother to wear mask in this COVID-19 testing time. ہمارے نظام انصاف، قانون، انتظامیہ اور عدالتی نظام کا منہ چڑاتی یہ تصویریں بتاتی ہیں کہ آخر عوام احتساب کے نظام پر کتنا اعتماد کر سکتے ہیں ؟ pic.twitter.com/dZxJ0VpM4q — Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) May 30, 2020 × "This picture of Sharif having tea in cafe is exposing our law, justice and judicial system. This picture also tells how much people can trust on the accountability system in the country," Science Minister Fawad Chaudhry said. Prime Minister's adviser Shahbaz Gill said that Sharif had gone abroad after lying in the court. "The Sharifs think the people are fool," Gill said and asked Mr Sharif to return Pakistan to face corruption cases against him. Punjab Information Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan questioned about Sharif roaming on London's streets without a mask. He should be brought back to face corruption cases against him. As the picture went viral on social media on Saturday it became top trend, sparking a debate about Sharif's health with his detractors asking why he does not return to Pakistan if he is well while his supporters expressed joy at seeing their leader in good health and spirits. Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz claimed that the picture of the PML-N supreme leader was released by 'some elements' with an intention to humiliate him. "Like in the past practice they (an apparent reference to the establishment) wanted to humiliate him by leaking his picture. But the response to it was otherwise. The supporters of him got happy to see him. His detractors must learn from this," she said. میاں صاحب کافی پیتے ہیں اور وہ بھی double espresso ہمیں یہ بھی پتہ ہے کہ میری طرح آپ بھی چائے پیتی ہیں ☺️ https://t.co/zPEUmcAqVe — Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) May 30, 2020 × She said when her mother was in the ICU in a London hospital, such elements even tried to take her picture forcibly'. "For them to take Nawaz Sharif and his family's women's pictures is not difficult," she said in a tweet. Shahbaz Gill, however, claimed that the PML-N itself had leaked this picture of Sharif to tell its workers that he is fine and "very much in-charge of the party". He said the PML-N workers were looking up to Sharif's younger brother Shahbaz Sharif that is why the party had to leak this picture. Earlier in January, a picture of Sharif having tea at a London restaurant had gone viral, inviting a lot of criticism and raising suspicion that he might have gone out of Pakistan ?under some deal'. Defending this and previous "leaked" pictures, PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Auranzeb said: "Mr Sharif had gone out to have a walk as per doctors' advice." Sharif in November last had left for London after the Lahore High Court granted him a four-week permission allowing him to go abroad for his treatment. He had given an undertaking to the Lahore High Court to return to Pakistan citing his record to face the process of law and justice within four weeks or as soon as he is declared healthy and fit to travel by doctors. Sharif was also given bail in the Al-Azizia Mills corruption case in which he was serving seven-year imprisonment in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail. Sharif, who was diagnosed with an immune system disorder, has been advised by a PTI government's panel of doctors to go abroad for treatment. He had been diagnosed with a complicated coronary disease. In London, he underwent comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation and investigations at Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospital. According to his daughter, Sharif's cardiac surgery had been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Nawaz Sharif's leaked photo sparks debate over his health

Indian authorities have caught two Pakistani High Commission officials spying in India. Their officials named Abid Hussain and Muhammad Tahir were using fake Aadhaar cards. Watch report.

Pak officials caught spying: Using fake Aadhaar cards

Pakistan's coronavirus cases on Monday crossed 72,000-mark with 2,964 new patients while the death toll climbed to 1,543 after 60 people lost their lives in the last 24 hours, health officials said.

According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 2,964 new infections surfaced over the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally of coronavirus to 72,460.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-espionage-case-spies-used-fake-aadhar-card-caught-red-handed-in-karol-bagh-302225">Pakistan espionage case: Spies used fake Aadhar card, caught red-handed in Karol Bagh</a>

The death toll reached 1,543 after 60 more deaths were reported during the last 24 hours.

According to the ministry, 28,245 cases have been diagnosed in Sindh, 26,240 in Punjab, 10,027 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 4,393 in Balochistan, 2,589 in Islamabad, 711 in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 255 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The ministry showed that 26,083 patients have been recovered so far from the virus. The authorities have conducted 561,136 tests, including 14,398 in the last 24 hours.

The month of May registered nearly 52,000 new coronavirus cases as the tally surged from 69,474 to 17,699 cases, while the death toll rose from 408 to 1,483.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan will chair a crucial meeting of the National Coordination Committee (NCC) which is expected to decide the future strategy to deal with the increasing threat of the pandemic on Monday.

The meeting will discuss different options, including lockdown which was eased about two weeks ago. However, a minister said that increasing restrictions on people was not under active consideration.

"Lockdown option is always on the table, but it is not under active consideration,"&nbsp;Minister for Planning Asad Umar said on Sunday.

Umar heads the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) which recommends measures for consideration of NCC and also implements its decisions.

On May 9, Pakistan began easing the month-long lockdown despite a steady rise in the number of the coronavirus cases.

Prime Minister Khan had said that Pakistan would begin easing its nationwide lockdown in a phase-wise manner by allowing various businesses to open up, citing the economic crisis due to the shutdown, which was enforced in the country in March end.

Pakistan on Friday announced the resumption of outbound international flights from Saturday, over two months after the services were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan's coronavirus cases on Monday crossed 72,000-mark with 2,964 new patients while the death toll climbed to 1,543 after 60 people lost their lives in the last 24 hours, health officials said.

Pakistan's coronavirus cases on Monday crossed 72,000-mark with 2,964 new patients while the death toll climbed to 1,543 after 60 people lost their lives in the last 24 hours, health officials said. According to the Ministry of National Health Services, 2,964 new infections surfaced over the last 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally of coronavirus to 72,460. Also read | Pakistan espionage case: Spies used fake Aadhar card, caught red-handed in Karol Bagh The death toll reached 1,543 after 60 more deaths were reported during the last 24 hours. According to the ministry, 28,245 cases have been diagnosed in Sindh, 26,240 in Punjab, 10,027 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 4,393 in Balochistan, 2,589 in Islamabad, 711 in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 255 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The ministry showed that 26,083 patients have been recovered so far from the virus. The authorities have conducted 561,136 tests, including 14,398 in the last 24 hours. The month of May registered nearly 52,000 new coronavirus cases as the tally surged from 69,474 to 17,699 cases, while the death toll rose from 408 to 1,483. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan will chair a crucial meeting of the National Coordination Committee (NCC) which is expected to decide the future strategy to deal with the increasing threat of the pandemic on Monday. The meeting will discuss different options, including lockdown which was eased about two weeks ago. However, a minister said that increasing restrictions on people was not under active consideration. "Lockdown option is always on the table, but it is not under active consideration," Minister for Planning Asad Umar said on Sunday. Umar heads the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) which recommends measures for consideration of NCC and also implements its decisions. On May 9, Pakistan began easing the month-long lockdown despite a steady rise in the number of the coronavirus cases. Prime Minister Khan had said that Pakistan would begin easing its nationwide lockdown in a phase-wise manner by allowing various businesses to open up, citing the economic crisis due to the shutdown, which was enforced in the country in March end. Pakistan on Friday announced the resumption of outbound international flights from Saturday, over two months after the services were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Pakistan records nearly 3,000 coronavirus infections in last 24 hours, total cases over 72,000

The coronavirus pandemic turned grimmer in Pakistan with 78 more fatalities in the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 1,395, while the total cases crossed the 68,000-mark, the health ministry said on Saturday.

According to health officials, 532,037 COVID-19 tests, including 12,020 on Friday, were conducted so far in the country. The total tally now stands at 68,177, the ministry said.

Sindh reported the maximum number of 26,113 coronavirus cases, followed by 24,104 in Punjab, 9,067 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 4,087 in Balochistan, 2,192 in Islamabad, 660 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 234 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). On the positive side, 24,131 patients have recovered, the ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/afghanistan-transit-trade-begins-through-pakistans-gwadar-port-301989">Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan transit trade begins through Pakistan's Gwadar port</a>

Minister of State for Frontier Regions and Narcotics Control Shehryar Afridi on late Friday night tweeted that he was tested positive for the virus. "I have isolated myself in home as directed by the doctors," he said.

Meanwhile, the UK has announced to provide an additional assistance of 4.39 million pounds to cash-strapped Pakistan to tide over the coronavirus crisis. In April, the UK has provided a fund of 2.67 million pounds to Pakistan to combat COVID-19 pandemic.

"Pakistan is showing international leadership in its Coronavirus response; Great Britain announces 4.39 million pounds of further support," British High Commissioner to Pakistan Christian Turner tweeted on Friday.

He said the package will support emergency response systems and provide assistance to food security, sanitation and hygiene, mental health and psychological issues.

Special Assistant on Health Dr Zafar Mirza on Saturday said that presently only "25 per cent of the total hospital assets" were occupied.He told reporters that the overall situation was under control.

"I'm sure some hospitals are full in some cities. But that does not mean hospitals in the entire country are full," he said.

It was mandatory for people to wear masks while visiting crowded places like mosques, markets, shops, malls and public transport, he said, adding that people can also use masks inside their homes if there was a lot of people around.

Mirza said that the country's local transmission rate was 92 per cent as the disease was spreading. "Cases are increasing as the disease is spreading," he said.

The coronavirus pandemic turned grimmer in Pakistan with 78 more fatalities in the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 1,395, while the total cases crossed the 68,000-mark, the health ministry said on Saturday.

The coronavirus pandemic turned grimmer in Pakistan with 78 more fatalities in the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 1,395, while the total cases crossed the 68,000-mark, the health ministry said on Saturday. According to health officials, 532,037 COVID-19 tests, including 12,020 on Friday, were conducted so far in the country. The total tally now stands at 68,177, the ministry said. Sindh reported the maximum number of 26,113 coronavirus cases, followed by 24,104 in Punjab, 9,067 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 4,087 in Balochistan, 2,192 in Islamabad, 660 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 234 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). On the positive side, 24,131 patients have recovered, the ministry said. Also read: Afghanistan transit trade begins through Pakistan's Gwadar port Minister of State for Frontier Regions and Narcotics Control Shehryar Afridi on late Friday night tweeted that he was tested positive for the virus. "I have isolated myself in home as directed by the doctors," he said. Meanwhile, the UK has announced to provide an additional assistance of 4.39 million pounds to cash-strapped Pakistan to tide over the coronavirus crisis. In April, the UK has provided a fund of 2.67 million pounds to Pakistan to combat COVID-19 pandemic. "Pakistan is showing international leadership in its Coronavirus response; Great Britain announces 4.39 million pounds of further support," British High Commissioner to Pakistan Christian Turner tweeted on Friday. He said the package will support emergency response systems and provide assistance to food security, sanitation and hygiene, mental health and psychological issues. Special Assistant on Health Dr Zafar Mirza on Saturday said that presently only "25 per cent of the total hospital assets" were occupied.He told reporters that the overall situation was under control. "I'm sure some hospitals are full in some cities. But that does not mean hospitals in the entire country are full," he said. It was mandatory for people to wear masks while visiting crowded places like mosques, markets, shops, malls and public transport, he said, adding that people can also use masks inside their homes if there was a lot of people around. Mirza said that the country's local transmission rate was 92 per cent as the disease was spreading. "Cases are increasing as the disease is spreading," he said.

COVID 19: Pakistan crosses 68,000 mark; UK lends financial support

The Pakistan govt has authorised its secret intel agency I.S.I to locate and track Coronavirus patients. Is Pakistan using the Coronavirus as a reason to trace political dissidents?

Gravitas: Pak ropes in I.S.I to track Coronavirus patients

After creating havoc in Africa, locusts have entered South Asia and now threatening to cause massive crop loss and food shortages in the region.&nbsp;

Locusts, which move in swarms of up to 50 million, have led to the worst plague in Pakistan in recent history, with damages costing billions of dollars and causing fears of long-term food shortages.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/indian-authorities-help-farmers-to-fight-desert-locusts-drones-used-301299">Indian authorities help farmers to fight desert locusts; drones used</a>

Chairman of Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Lt. General Muhammad Afzal also warned on Tuesday that besides COVID 19, Pakistan was experiencing two more looming disasters, locusts and floods, in the next month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-declares-national-emergency-to-fight-locusts-278140">Pakistan PM Imran Khan declares national emergency to fight locusts</a>

Pakistan administration has set up a National Locust Control Centre (NLCC) to monitor and coordinate the anti-locust operation across the country, he added.

Afzal also said the Agriculture Department, Food Security Department, and Pakistan Army are actively helping in carrying out the anti-locust operation in 50 districts hit by the attack.&nbsp;

Pakistan Army also committed to deploying 5,000 of its personnel in different regions to help tackle the crisis.

Army choppers are also helping in carrying out aerial spray, Afzal added.&nbsp;

Since December 2019, severe locust attacks were seen across the Horn of Africa and the Middle East before entering South Asia.&nbsp;

The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimates losses as high as $2.2 billion to agriculture from locusts this year to winter crops and nearly $2.89 billion for summer crops. 
&nbsp;

After creating havoc in Africa, locusts have entered South Asia and now threatening to cause massive crop loss and food shortages in the region. Locusts, which move in swarms of up to 50 million, have led to the worst plague in Pakistan in recent history, with damages costing billions of dollars and causing fears of long-term food shortages.

After creating havoc in Africa, locusts have entered South Asia and now threatening to cause massive crop loss and food shortages in the region. Locusts, which move in swarms of up to 50 million, have led to the worst plague in Pakistan in recent history, with damages costing billions of dollars and causing fears of long-term food shortages. Also read | Indian authorities help farmers to fight desert locusts; drones used Chairman of Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Lt. General Muhammad Afzal also warned on Tuesday that besides COVID 19, Pakistan was experiencing two more looming disasters, locusts and floods, in the next month. Also read | Pakistan PM Imran Khan declares national emergency to fight locusts Pakistan administration has set up a National Locust Control Centre (NLCC) to monitor and coordinate the anti-locust operation across the country, he added. Afzal also said the Agriculture Department, Food Security Department, and Pakistan Army are actively helping in carrying out the anti-locust operation in 50 districts hit by the attack. Pakistan Army also committed to deploying 5,000 of its personnel in different regions to help tackle the crisis. Army choppers are also helping in carrying out aerial spray, Afzal added. Since December 2019, severe locust attacks were seen across the Horn of Africa and the Middle East before entering South Asia. The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimates losses as high as $2.2 billion to agriculture from locusts this year to winter crops and nearly $2.89 billion for summer crops.

Locust attacks in Pakistan raise fear of massive food shortages

A week after the unfortunate plane crash in Pakistan's Karachi, investigators and rescue officials have found around 30 MN rupees in cash along with the plane residue at the accident site. Watch report.

Karachi plane crash: Pakistan to make initial report public

Pakistan is set to allow international flights to resume, after largely closing its airspace to commercial flights since March to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

"Both national and foreign airlines shall be allowed to operate from all international airports of Pakistan with exception of Gwadar and Turbat," said Abdul Sattar Khokhar, Senior Joint Secretary at the Civil Aviation Authority in a statement.

The flights will be allowed from Saturday.

Pakistan has rolled back its lockdown measures in a phased manner. It resumed domestic flights this month despite a rise in the rate of coronavirus infections.

Pakistan is set to allow international flights to resume, after largely closing its airspace to commercial flights since March to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Pakistan is set to allow international flights to resume, after largely closing its airspace to commercial flights since March to curb the spread of the coronavirus. "Both national and foreign airlines shall be allowed to operate from all international airports of Pakistan with exception of Gwadar and Turbat," said Abdul Sattar Khokhar, Senior Joint Secretary at the Civil Aviation Authority in a statement. The flights will be allowed from Saturday. Pakistan has rolled back its lockdown measures in a phased manner. It resumed domestic flights this month despite a rise in the rate of coronavirus infections.

Pakistan to resume international flight operations on Saturday

The investigations have found nearly Rs 30 million in cash in the wreckage of the Pakistan International Airlines' aircraft that crashed near Karachi International Airport and killed 99 people on board. &nbsp;

An official on Thursday said that probe and rescue officials have found currencies of various countries and denominations worth around Rs 30 million from the wreckage.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-search-team-retrieves-cockpit-voice-recorder-from-wreckage-of-crashed-airliner-301581">Pakistan's search team retrieves cockpit voice recorder from wreckage of crashed airliner</a>

"An investigation has been ordered into how such a huge amount of cash got through airport security and baggage scanners and found its way into the ill-fated flight," reported PTI quoting the official.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/crashed-pia-planes-pilot-ignored-3-warnings-to-lower-altitude-report-300877">Crashed PIA plane's pilot ignored 3 warnings to lower altitude: Report</a>

He added that the said amount was recovered from only two bags.&nbsp;

A government official on Thursday said that 47 bodies had been identified and 43 others were sent for burial.&nbsp;

As many as 97 people including the crew died in what is seen as one of the worst aviation disasters in Pakistan's history.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Flight PK-8303, which took&nbsp;off from Lahore for Karachi crashed in a residential area near the international airport on Friday, with only two flyers miraculously surviving the crash.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan said on Thursday that the preliminary report of the plane crash would be presented before the parliament on June 22.

The investigations have found nearly Rs 30 million in cash in the wreckage of the Pakistan International Airlines' aircraft that crashed near Karachi International Airport and killed 99 people on board.

The investigations have found nearly Rs 30 million in cash in the wreckage of the Pakistan International Airlines' aircraft that crashed near Karachi International Airport and killed 99 people on board. An official on Thursday said that probe and rescue officials have found currencies of various countries and denominations worth around Rs 30 million from the wreckage. Also read | Pakistan's search team retrieves cockpit voice recorder from wreckage of crashed airliner "An investigation has been ordered into how such a huge amount of cash got through airport security and baggage scanners and found its way into the ill-fated flight," reported PTI quoting the official. Also read | Crashed PIA plane's pilot ignored 3 warnings to lower altitude: Report He added that the said amount was recovered from only two bags. A government official on Thursday said that 47 bodies had been identified and 43 others were sent for burial. As many as 97 people including the crew died in what is seen as one of the worst aviation disasters in Pakistan's history. Flight PK-8303, which took off from Lahore for Karachi crashed in a residential area near the international airport on Friday, with only two flyers miraculously surviving the crash. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan said on Thursday that the preliminary report of the plane crash would be presented before the parliament on June 22.

Pakistan: Rs 30 million cash found from wreckage of crashed aircraft

An arrest warrant was issued against former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former President Asif Ali Zardari was asked to appear on June 11 by an accountability court in Toshakhana (national depository) case, a report claimed.&nbsp;

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor, during the hearing, asked the court to issue an arrest warrant against Sharif, Zardari, former PM Yousaf Raza Gillani, and Omni Group Director Abdul Ghani Majeed, Pakistan-based BOL News reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-anti-graft-body-issues-arrest-warrant-against-nawaz-sharif-in-land-related-corruption-case-294992">Pakistan anti-graft body issues arrest warrant against Nawaz Sharif in land related corruption case</a>

The NAB has accused Sharif and Zardari of using cars gifted to Pakistan by the UAE and Libya during the tenure of Gillani instead of returning them to Toshakhana. It claimed that the laws were relaxed to give cars to these leaders, saying that the duty was paid using fake accounts.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/is-nawaz-sharif-victim-of-a-political-witch-hunt-283820">Is Nawaz Sharif victim of a political witch-hunt?</a>

NAB prosecutor also said that Zardari paid 15 per cent of the cost of the cars by using bogus accounts.&nbsp;

Asad Abbasi, who was representing Zardari, in the proceedings, said that an exemption request would be registered in the court. He added that Zardari is critically ill and hospitalized, and therefore be permitted immunity from a court appearance.&nbsp;

The next hearing of the matter is scheduled for June 11.

Sharif is in London since November last year after his health deteriorated, following which he was granted bail in Al-Azizia Mills corruption case.&nbsp;

An arrest warrant was issued against former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former President Asif Ali Zardari was asked to appear on June 11 by an accountability court in Toshakhana (national depository) case, a report claimed.

An arrest warrant was issued against former Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former President Asif Ali Zardari was asked to appear on June 11 by an accountability court in Toshakhana (national depository) case, a report claimed. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor, during the hearing, asked the court to issue an arrest warrant against Sharif, Zardari, former PM Yousaf Raza Gillani, and Omni Group Director Abdul Ghani Majeed, Pakistan-based BOL News reported. Also read | Pakistan anti-graft body issues arrest warrant against Nawaz Sharif in land related corruption case The NAB has accused Sharif and Zardari of using cars gifted to Pakistan by the UAE and Libya during the tenure of Gillani instead of returning them to Toshakhana. It claimed that the laws were relaxed to give cars to these leaders, saying that the duty was paid using fake accounts. Also read | Is Nawaz Sharif victim of a political witch-hunt? NAB prosecutor also said that Zardari paid 15 per cent of the cost of the cars by using bogus accounts. Asad Abbasi, who was representing Zardari, in the proceedings, said that an exemption request would be registered in the court. He added that Zardari is critically ill and hospitalized, and therefore be permitted immunity from a court appearance. The next hearing of the matter is scheduled for June 11. Sharif is in London since November last year after his health deteriorated, following which he was granted bail in Al-Azizia Mills corruption case.

Arrest warrant issued against Nawaz Sharif in national depository case

Intelligence sources have warned of several attacks in Jammu and Kashmir by terrorists trained by Pakistan.&nbsp;

According to sources, 20 members of the Taliban are being trained by Pakistan's SSG in a location in Jalalabad, Afghanistan to plan attacks in the union territory.&nbsp;

Infiltration is being planned by these terrorist groups. Two groups of unidentified terrorists have been seen concentrated at Pakistan Post and Sardari and another two groups of Jaish-e-Mohammad and unidentified terrorists at Kel and Tejian, opposite Machhal Sector.

Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists have been concentrated at Pakistan Occupied Kashmir village Nattar and at Pakistan Army post-Badmash Complex.

This comes even as a team of security forces in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district foiled a Pulwama-style attack by intercepting a vehicle carrying improvised explosive device or IED to target security forces earlier on Thursday.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has said that security agencies had inputs about the possible suicide attack by the militants and by intercepting it timely, a major tragedy has been averted.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the inspector general of police Kashmir range, Vijay Kumar, said, "Security forces stopped the suicide attacker at two checkpoints and fired warning shots but the vehicle kept moving jumped both points but he (attacker) left behind the vehicle late night yesterday at Ayegund area of Rajpora, Pulwama."

Police say the attack was planned on the 17th of the Ramzan month -- the holy Islamic day of Jang-e-Badr, but due to an alert, the plan was foiled.

Intel sources told WION that a group of unidentified terrorists has been planning for an attempt of weapon snatching at Bijhbehara in Anantnag, and are likely to carry out an attack on the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Yaripora, Kulgam and Qazigund.&nbsp;

From the chatter across the LOC, it has also emerged that attempts might be carried out to attempt an suicide attack along the stretch near Pantha Chowk, Srinagar.

Intelligence sources have warned of several attacks in Jammu and Kashmir by terrorists trained by Pakistan. According to sources, 20 members of the Taliban are being trained by Pakistan's SSG in a location in Jalalabad, Afghanistan to plan attacks in the union territory.

Intelligence sources have warned of several attacks in Jammu and Kashmir by terrorists trained by Pakistan. According to sources, 20 members of the Taliban are being trained by Pakistan's SSG in a location in Jalalabad, Afghanistan to plan attacks in the union territory. Infiltration is being planned by these terrorist groups. Two groups of unidentified terrorists have been seen concentrated at Pakistan Post and Sardari and another two groups of Jaish-e-Mohammad and unidentified terrorists at Kel and Tejian, opposite Machhal Sector. Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists have been concentrated at Pakistan Occupied Kashmir village Nattar and at Pakistan Army post-Badmash Complex. This comes even as a team of security forces in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district foiled a Pulwama-style attack by intercepting a vehicle carrying improvised explosive device or IED to target security forces earlier on Thursday. The Jammu and Kashmir Police has said that security agencies had inputs about the possible suicide attack by the militants and by intercepting it timely, a major tragedy has been averted. Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the inspector general of police Kashmir range, Vijay Kumar, said, "Security forces stopped the suicide attacker at two checkpoints and fired warning shots but the vehicle kept moving jumped both points but he (attacker) left behind the vehicle late night yesterday at Ayegund area of Rajpora, Pulwama." Police say the attack was planned on the 17th of the Ramzan month -- the holy Islamic day of Jang-e-Badr, but due to an alert, the plan was foiled. Intel sources told WION that a group of unidentified terrorists has been planning for an attempt of weapon snatching at Bijhbehara in Anantnag, and are likely to carry out an attack on the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Yaripora, Kulgam and Qazigund. From the chatter across the LOC, it has also emerged that attempts might be carried out to attempt an suicide attack along the stretch near Pantha Chowk, Srinagar.

Intel sources warn of attack in Jammu and Kashmir by Pak-trained terrorists

A team of investigators probing the PIA plane crash in Karachi have raised questions about the pilot's handling of the aircraft. Is Pakistan trying to cover up the facts and pin blame on the pilot?

Gravitas: PIA plane crash probe: Pilot error or technical glitch?

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday alleged that the Indian government's "arrogant expansionist policies" is becoming "a threat" to its neighbours as he tried to curry favour with Islamabad's all-weather ally, China.

The Indian government "with its arrogant expansionist policies, akin to Nazi's Lebensraum (Living Space), is becoming a threat to India's neighbours. Bangladesh through Citizenship Act, border disputes with Nepal &amp; China, &amp; Pak threatened with false flag operation,"&nbsp;Khan said in a series of tweets.

Several areas along the 3,500-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh and North Sikkim have witnessed major military build-up by both the Indian and Chinese armies recently, in a clear signal of escalating tension and hardening of respective positions by the two sides even two weeks after they were engaged in two separate face-offs.

The LAC is the de-facto border between India and China.

Pakistan and China consider their relations as all-weather friends and their leaders often express support to each other on matters of core interests. Khan further alleged that India had "illegally annexed" Kashmir and dubbed it as "a war crime".

Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories.

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.

Khan in his tweet said that the Indian government is "not only a threat to the country's minorities, but also a threat to regional peace." 
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi also alleged that India's "aggressive policy towards its neighbours is putting at stake the regional peace and security."

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday alleged that the Indian government's "arrogant expansionist policies" is becoming "a threat" to its neighbours as he tried to curry favour with Islamabad's all-weather ally, China.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday alleged that the Indian government's "arrogant expansionist policies" is becoming "a threat" to its neighbours as he tried to curry favour with Islamabad's all-weather ally, China. The Indian government "with its arrogant expansionist policies, akin to Nazi's Lebensraum (Living Space), is becoming a threat to India's neighbours. Bangladesh through Citizenship Act, border disputes with Nepal & China, & Pak threatened with false flag operation," Khan said in a series of tweets. Several areas along the 3,500-km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh and North Sikkim have witnessed major military build-up by both the Indian and Chinese armies recently, in a clear signal of escalating tension and hardening of respective positions by the two sides even two weeks after they were engaged in two separate face-offs. The LAC is the de-facto border between India and China. Pakistan and China consider their relations as all-weather friends and their leaders often express support to each other on matters of core interests. Khan further alleged that India had "illegally annexed" Kashmir and dubbed it as "a war crime". Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcating it into two Union territories. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda. Khan in his tweet said that the Indian government is "not only a threat to the country's minorities, but also a threat to regional peace." Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi also alleged that India's "aggressive policy towards its neighbours is putting at stake the regional peace and security."

Pak PM Imran Khan tries to fuel tension between India and China, passes offensive remark

US President Donald Trump and ultra-conservative Pakistani religious scholars may have more in common than either would want to admit: a belief that the congregation is an essential pillar of prayer irrespective of public health concerns.

Trump, however, may wish that he had the kind of less polarised and/or more compliant audience that Pakistani clerics address.

Scores of religious leaders and groups in the United States have sought to protect their communities by advocating virtual rather than physical congregation at the time of a pandemic in which the coronavirus has yet to be brought under control.

Religious authorities in much of the Muslim world, Pakistan being the exception that proves the rule, have heeded government instructions and medical and public health advice.

That advice ranged from the closure of mosques to bans on social gatherings that precluded traditional iftar meals breaking the Ramadan fast and celebrations of this week’s end of the holy month to Saudi Arabia’s suspension of the umrah, the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca and possibly the haj too.

Leaving aside the question, whether he has the legal power to do so, Trump vowed to overrule governors who refused to open houses of worship, noting that the Center for Disease Control (CDC) had issued guidelines that included physical distancing.

The move designed to play to Trump’s Evangelist voter base received a mixed reception among American faith communities.

It appealed to those segments of the community with an unqualified belief in God’s ability and will to protect and that often are steeped in notions of Christian manhood that have deep roots in American Evangelism and were boosted by the 9/11 attacks on New York’s World Trade Towers and the Pentagon in Washington.

Trump’s recognition of prayer as an “essential” societal activity further drew a line intended to give houses of worship autonomy in an environment in which state intrusion into people’s lives has expanded greatly in a bid to fight the pandemic.

In that sense, the president was fighting a battle similar to that of Pakistani Sunni and Shia Muslim leaders who rejected a total closure of mosques but were willing to accept guidance on issues such as physical distancing.

The leaders see mosques “as spaces where you cultivate and express a communal religious identity that is very central to…their vision of the Pakistani state,” said a Pakistani Islamic scholar.

The clerics’ determination to retain control of religious spaces was reinforced by Prime Minister Imran Khan’s flip flops that resembled Trump’s zig-zags.

Khan initially sought to appeal to religious circles by meeting in the early days of the pandemic with Maulana Tariq Jameel, a leader of Tablighi Jamaat, who initially denied the contagious aspect of the virus.

Jameel reversed course and embraced physical distancing after his movement’s mass gatherings in Pakistan, Malaysia, India, and Indonesia turned into super-spreaders of the coronavirus.&nbsp;

Khan’s government further complicated issues by initially agreeing with religious leaders on a division of labour that would have empowered the clerics to advise their followers to stay at home, avoid congregational prayer and maintain physical distancing and then jumping the gun to announce the measures without coordination.

Mosques in major Pakistani cities were packed in recent days, despite religious leaders paying lip service to physical distancing, in a reflection of the degree to which ultra-conservatism has woven itself into the fabric of Pakistani society and in stark contrast to Saudi Arabia’s pre-emptive response to the health crisis.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court ruled against government lockdowns, suggesting that the coronavirus was not a pandemic. Religious leaders have since backed away from their acceptance of physical distancing, demanding that the advice be abandoned.

Trump’s recognition of prayer as essential aligned itself with notions of concepts of religious freedom promoted by his administration, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the lead, that in effect serves to legitimize discrimination against minorities of various stripes.

Few doubt that Trump made his move with an eye on the US presidential election in November. Trump was embarking on a road on which mainstream ultra-conservative Pakistani clerics were also travelling.

The clerics remained silent when Ahmadis, a sect viewed as a heretic by mainstream Muslims, were excluded from a national commission created by the government earlier this month to promote religious tolerance and counter persecution of minorities.

Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry barred the inclusion of Ahmadis, who are among Pakistan’s most discriminated minorities, on grounds that they did not qualify as a minority and refuse to recognize the country’s constitution.

A 1974 amendment of the constitution bars Ahmadis from identifying themselves as Muslims because they do not recognize Mohammed as the last prophet.

Compared to the polarising environment that Trump operates in and likes to entrench, Pakistani clerics have it a lot easier. Except for liberals and human rights activists, few in Pakistan are willing to stand up for Ahmadi rights.

Moreover, the government shied away from imposing its will on the religious establishment during the pandemic as did the military, which built quarantine centres in various cities and helped local authorities implement a lockdown.

Pakistan lacks truly influential, more liberal religious voices in the mould of for example Reverend Curtiss DeYoung, CEO of the Minnesota Council of Churches that groups African-American denominations, the mainline church and the Greek Orthodox Church.

“We listen to communities of colour, and many of our congregations’ people are engaged in representing refugees and immigrants, African-Americans, Latinos, even seniors, they're saying, why the urgency?” DeYoung said in response to Trump’s push.

“They're…directly affected. They're actually afraid in many cases to go into group gatherings...We feel that we need to make our decisions based on good science and the recommendations of our health department,” the reverend added.

DeYoung was joined by his Muslim counterparts in contrast to their Pakistani brethren.

"American Muslim scholars and community leaders have already determined that mosques will not be open in the near future because of the health concerns brought on by the pandemic. That's a determination for them to make not for the president to make,” said Ibrahim Hooper, communications director of the Council on American–Islamic Relations, the largest US Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization.

To be sure, the United States and Pakistan are vastly different countries. Pakistan has been hard hit by the pandemic with 55,657 cases of infection to date and 1,155 deaths. Yet, that is a far cry from the United States’ 1,613,324 cases and 96,659 deaths.

Pakistan, nonetheless, saw its number of cases quadruple during the month of Ramadan and the rate of new infections jump by 30 per cent in the last week as the holy month neared its end.

Yet, when it comes to employing religion to entrench power at the cost of striking a balance between faith and science, Trump and Pakistani religious scholars share the kind of opportunism and worldview that serve their short-term interests irrespective of the cost to human life and potentially to already battered economies.

(The article is co-authored by Tehmina Qureshi. Tehmina is a multi-platform journalist and editorial writer at Dawn, Pakistan’s leading English-language newspaper)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump and ultra-conservative Pakistani religious scholars may have more in common than either would want to admit: a belief that the congregation is an essential pillar of prayer irrespective of public health concerns.

US President Donald Trump and ultra-conservative Pakistani religious scholars may have more in common than either would want to admit: a belief that the congregation is an essential pillar of prayer irrespective of public health concerns. Trump, however, may wish that he had the kind of less polarised and/or more compliant audience that Pakistani clerics address. Scores of religious leaders and groups in the United States have sought to protect their communities by advocating virtual rather than physical congregation at the time of a pandemic in which the coronavirus has yet to be brought under control. Religious authorities in much of the Muslim world, Pakistan being the exception that proves the rule, have heeded government instructions and medical and public health advice. That advice ranged from the closure of mosques to bans on social gatherings that precluded traditional iftar meals breaking the Ramadan fast and celebrations of this week’s end of the holy month to Saudi Arabia’s suspension of the umrah, the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca and possibly the haj too. Leaving aside the question, whether he has the legal power to do so, Trump vowed to overrule governors who refused to open houses of worship, noting that the Center for Disease Control (CDC) had issued guidelines that included physical distancing. The move designed to play to Trump’s Evangelist voter base received a mixed reception among American faith communities. It appealed to those segments of the community with an unqualified belief in God’s ability and will to protect and that often are steeped in notions of Christian manhood that have deep roots in American Evangelism and were boosted by the 9/11 attacks on New York’s World Trade Towers and the Pentagon in Washington. Trump’s recognition of prayer as an “essential” societal activity further drew a line intended to give houses of worship autonomy in an environment in which state intrusion into people’s lives has expanded greatly in a bid to fight the pandemic. In that sense, the president was fighting a battle similar to that of Pakistani Sunni and Shia Muslim leaders who rejected a total closure of mosques but were willing to accept guidance on issues such as physical distancing. The leaders see mosques “as spaces where you cultivate and express a communal religious identity that is very central to…their vision of the Pakistani state,” said a Pakistani Islamic scholar. The clerics’ determination to retain control of religious spaces was reinforced by Prime Minister Imran Khan’s flip flops that resembled Trump’s zig-zags. Khan initially sought to appeal to religious circles by meeting in the early days of the pandemic with Maulana Tariq Jameel, a leader of Tablighi Jamaat, who initially denied the contagious aspect of the virus. Jameel reversed course and embraced physical distancing after his movement’s mass gatherings in Pakistan, Malaysia, India, and Indonesia turned into super-spreaders of the coronavirus. Khan’s government further complicated issues by initially agreeing with religious leaders on a division of labour that would have empowered the clerics to advise their followers to stay at home, avoid congregational prayer and maintain physical distancing and then jumping the gun to announce the measures without coordination. Mosques in major Pakistani cities were packed in recent days, despite religious leaders paying lip service to physical distancing, in a reflection of the degree to which ultra-conservatism has woven itself into the fabric of Pakistani society and in stark contrast to Saudi Arabia’s pre-emptive response to the health crisis. Pakistan’s Supreme Court ruled against government lockdowns, suggesting that the coronavirus was not a pandemic. Religious leaders have since backed away from their acceptance of physical distancing, demanding that the advice be abandoned. Trump’s recognition of prayer as essential aligned itself with notions of concepts of religious freedom promoted by his administration, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the lead, that in effect serves to legitimize discrimination against minorities of various stripes. Few doubt that Trump made his move with an eye on the US presidential election in November. Trump was embarking on a road on which mainstream ultra-conservative Pakistani clerics were also travelling. The clerics remained silent when Ahmadis, a sect viewed as a heretic by mainstream Muslims, were excluded from a national commission created by the government earlier this month to promote religious tolerance and counter persecution of minorities. Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry barred the inclusion of Ahmadis, who are among Pakistan’s most discriminated minorities, on grounds that they did not qualify as a minority and refuse to recognize the country’s constitution. A 1974 amendment of the constitution bars Ahmadis from identifying themselves as Muslims because they do not recognize Mohammed as the last prophet. Compared to the polarising environment that Trump operates in and likes to entrench, Pakistani clerics have it a lot easier. Except for liberals and human rights activists, few in Pakistan are willing to stand up for Ahmadi rights. Moreover, the government shied away from imposing its will on the religious establishment during the pandemic as did the military, which built quarantine centres in various cities and helped local authorities implement a lockdown. Pakistan lacks truly influential, more liberal religious voices in the mould of for example Reverend Curtiss DeYoung, CEO of the Minnesota Council of Churches that groups African-American denominations, the mainline church and the Greek Orthodox Church. “We listen to communities of colour, and many of our congregations’ people are engaged in representing refugees and immigrants, African-Americans, Latinos, even seniors, they're saying, why the urgency?” DeYoung said in response to Trump’s push. “They're…directly affected. They're actually afraid in many cases to go into group gatherings...We feel that we need to make our decisions based on good science and the recommendations of our health department,” the reverend added. DeYoung was joined by his Muslim counterparts in contrast to their Pakistani brethren. "American Muslim scholars and community leaders have already determined that mosques will not be open in the near future because of the health concerns brought on by the pandemic. That's a determination for them to make not for the president to make,” said Ibrahim Hooper, communications director of the Council on American–Islamic Relations, the largest US Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. To be sure, the United States and Pakistan are vastly different countries. Pakistan has been hard hit by the pandemic with 55,657 cases of infection to date and 1,155 deaths. Yet, that is a far cry from the United States’ 1,613,324 cases and 96,659 deaths. Pakistan, nonetheless, saw its number of cases quadruple during the month of Ramadan and the rate of new infections jump by 30 per cent in the last week as the holy month neared its end. Yet, when it comes to employing religion to entrench power at the cost of striking a balance between faith and science, Trump and Pakistani religious scholars share the kind of opportunism and worldview that serve their short-term interests irrespective of the cost to human life and potentially to already battered economies. (The article is co-authored by Tehmina Qureshi. Tehmina is a multi-platform journalist and editorial writer at Dawn, Pakistan’s leading English-language newspaper) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What do Donald Trump and ultra-conservative Pakistani clerics have in common?

Pakistan on Tuesday morning reported 1,356 new infections of the novel coronavirus, raising confirmed cases to 57,705.&nbsp;

In the same time, 34 new deaths raised the overall fatalities to 1,197 while recoveries rose to 18,314. Nationwide, there are currently more than 34,000 active cases of COVID-19.

Of the total number of 57,705 cases, 22,934 have so far been detected in Sindh, 20,654 in Punjab, 8,080 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 3,468 in Balochistan, 1,728 in Islamabad, 630 in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 211 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Officials have so far conducted 490,908 tests, including 7,252 done on Monday.

Recovered patients

The national database for coronavirus shows that 832 more people have recovered from coronavirus in the last 24 hours in Pakistan.

This takes Pakistan's total number of recoveries to 18,314.

Pakistan on Tuesday morning reported 1,356 new infections of the novel coronavirus, raising confirmed cases to 57,705. In the same time, 34 new deaths raised the overall fatalities to 1,197 while recoveries rose to 18,314.

Pakistan on Tuesday morning reported 1,356 new infections of the novel coronavirus, raising confirmed cases to 57,705. In the same time, 34 new deaths raised the overall fatalities to 1,197 while recoveries rose to 18,314. Nationwide, there are currently more than 34,000 active cases of COVID-19. Of the total number of 57,705 cases, 22,934 have so far been detected in Sindh, 20,654 in Punjab, 8,080 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 3,468 in Balochistan, 1,728 in Islamabad, 630 in Gilgit-Baltistan, and 211 in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Officials have so far conducted 490,908 tests, including 7,252 done on Monday. Recovered patients The national database for coronavirus shows that 832 more people have recovered from coronavirus in the last 24 hours in Pakistan. This takes Pakistan's total number of recoveries to 18,314.

Pakistan soars past 57,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases

Pak PM Imran Khan secured billions of dollars in funds to fight this pandemic. But a report claims that the Pak govt is misusing relief money to pay electricity bills. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the story.

Gravitas:  Pakistan using relief money to pay bills?

A Pakistani foreign service official in Ukraine was charged with sexual harassment earlier this month. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how Pakistani diplomats have a history of embarrassing Islamabad.

Gravitas: Pakistani diplomats: A national embarrassment

50 lives have been lost after a Pak International Airlines flight crashed in Karachi. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a Gravitas report from ground zero.

Gravitas: Karachi plane crash: A Gravitas ground report

An aircraft owned by Pakistan International Airlines has crashed in a residential area near the Karachi Airport. The plane was flying from Karachi to Lahore and had over 90 people aboard. According to reports, the flight captain had informed about a "technical snag". All hospitals in the area have been pressed into service.

Pakistan plane crash: Breaking down last conversation between ATC & pilots | Fineprint

As per the PIA spokesperson, ninety-seven people were killed and two passengers survived the deadly plane crash in Pakistan. The plane took off from Lahore and was en route Karachi.

97 dead, 2 survived in Pakistan plane crash, official says

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