Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General&nbsp;Qamar Javed Bajwa&nbsp;left for Kabul to meet President&nbsp;Ashraf Ghani, on Tuesday.

As per Geo News, the invitation to Bajwa was extended by the Afghan president, DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted.

"Pakistan wishes to see the National Unity Government and US/&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;succeeding to bring peace in Afghanistan," Pak military spokesperson wrote on twitter.

Pakistan's President&nbsp;Mamnoon Hussain&nbsp;on Sunday said that Pakistan and Afghanistan will work together to draft a detailed strategy for establishing peace in Afghanistan.

Hussain said this at a session of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Qingdao.

"Pakistan and Afghanistan are working on a comprehensive strategy on a bilateral basis to establish peace in Afghanistan," Hussain said.

Pakistan's president appreciated Afghanistan for announcing a ceasefire with the&nbsp;Taliban, calling it a positive move.

Afghanistan President&nbsp;Ashraf Ghani&nbsp;had earlier announced a ceasefire with the&nbsp;Taliban starting from the 27th of Ramzan (June 12) to the fifth day of&nbsp;Eid-ul-Fitr (June 19).

In response to Ghani's announcement, the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;on Saturday declared a three-day ceasefire over the&nbsp;Eid&nbsp;holiday, two days after the Afghan government announced the ceasefire.

This is the first time the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;has agreed to a ceasefire since the US invasion in 2001.

Hussain concluded his speech by urging the leaders to take measures for capacity building and skill development of the youth in member states.

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan wishes to see the National Unity Government and US/ NATO succeeding to bring peace in Afghanistan

Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa left for Kabul to meet President Ashraf Ghani, on Tuesday. As per Geo News, the invitation to Bajwa was extended by the Afghan president, DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor tweeted. "Pakistan wishes to see the National Unity Government and US/ NATO succeeding to bring peace in Afghanistan," Pak military spokesperson wrote on twitter. Pakistan's President Mamnoon Hussain on Sunday said that Pakistan and Afghanistan will work together to draft a detailed strategy for establishing peace in Afghanistan. Hussain said this at a session of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Qingdao. "Pakistan and Afghanistan are working on a comprehensive strategy on a bilateral basis to establish peace in Afghanistan," Hussain said. Pakistan's president appreciated Afghanistan for announcing a ceasefire with the Taliban, calling it a positive move. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani had earlier announced a ceasefire with the Taliban starting from the 27th of Ramzan (June 12) to the fifth day of Eid-ul-Fitr (June 19). In response to Ghani's announcement, the Taliban on Saturday declared a three-day ceasefire over the Eid holiday, two days after the Afghan government announced the ceasefire. This is the first time the Taliban has agreed to a ceasefire since the US invasion in 2001. Hussain concluded his speech by urging the leaders to take measures for capacity building and skill development of the youth in member states.

Pak Chief of Army Staff  leaves for Kabul to meet Ghani

A district magistrate in South Waziristan, Suhail Khan has banned all gatherings, rallies and protests in the tribal region without the district administration's approval for a month.

This comes after reports were received about some alleged anti-state gatherings being held in the area.

An order dated June 9, which was issued by the DM said, "Reports have been received that certain elements are resorting to objectionable, prejudicial, hate speeches against the state institutions in public gatherings, assemblies and processions which are likely to disturb the public peace and law and order situation in the tribal district of South Waziristan," as per Dawn.

There are sufficient grounds to prevent such gatherings under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), it said.

Any person found violating the order, "shall render himself/themselves punishable under Section 188 of [the] Pakistan Penal Code", the order warned.

The order came after North Waziristan's political administration accused a leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) of "acting in a manner prejudicial to public peace and tranquillity".

The accused was later banished from the region for three months.

PTM members are now holding protests worldwide against the recent firing by Pakistani Army on a rally of Pashtun activists in South Waziristan.&nbsp

This comes after reports were received about some alleged anti-state gatherings being held in the area.

A district magistrate in South Waziristan, Suhail Khan has banned all gatherings, rallies and protests in the tribal region without the district administration's approval for a month. This comes after reports were received about some alleged anti-state gatherings being held in the area. An order dated June 9, which was issued by the DM said, "Reports have been received that certain elements are resorting to objectionable, prejudicial, hate speeches against the state institutions in public gatherings, assemblies and processions which are likely to disturb the public peace and law and order situation in the tribal district of South Waziristan," as per Dawn. There are sufficient grounds to prevent such gatherings under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), it said. Any person found violating the order, "shall render himself/themselves punishable under Section 188 of [the] Pakistan Penal Code", the order warned. The order came after North Waziristan's political administration accused a leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) of "acting in a manner prejudicial to public peace and tranquillity". The accused was later banished from the region for three months. PTM members are now holding protests worldwide against the recent firing by Pakistani Army on a rally of Pashtun activists in South Waziristan.

Public gatherings, rallies banned in South Waziristan

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif will file his nomination papers for three constituencies in Karachi. Former Punjab chief minister will submit his papers for three constituencies, as reported by the Express Tribune on Sunday.

Another PML-N leader Saleem Zia obtained the nomination papers on behalf of Shehbaz.

Later, while addressing the media, Zia accused Pakistan People's Party and Muttahida Qaumi Movement of failing to restore peace in Karachi. He further claimed if PML-N was voted to power, it would change the fortune of the residents of Karachi.

Earlier,&nbspPakistan's Supreme Cour summoned&nbspSharif in connection with the case pertaining to corruption in 56 public sector companies.

The Chief Justice of Pakistan ordered Shahbaz Sharif to appear before the court to clarify his position regarding appointments of Heads of these companies on hefty salaries.

"Shehbaz Sharif should appear in person and explain how government officials were hired on such high incomes," CJP Mian Saqib Nisar remarked.

The president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) then asked the top court to allow him a chance to submit his response in the case.

Pakistan will go to the polls on July 25.

Earlier, Pakistan's Supreme Cour summoned Sharif in connection with the case pertaining to corruption in 56 public sector companies

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif will file his nomination papers for three constituencies in Karachi. Former Punjab chief minister will submit his papers for three constituencies, as reported by the Express Tribune on Sunday. Another PML-N leader Saleem Zia obtained the nomination papers on behalf of Shehbaz. Later, while addressing the media, Zia accused Pakistan People's Party and Muttahida Qaumi Movement of failing to restore peace in Karachi. He further claimed if PML-N was voted to power, it would change the fortune of the residents of Karachi. Earlier,&nbspPakistan's Supreme Cour summoned&nbspSharif in connection with the case pertaining to corruption in 56 public sector companies. The Chief Justice of Pakistan ordered Shahbaz Sharif to appear before the court to clarify his position regarding appointments of Heads of these companies on hefty salaries. "Shehbaz Sharif should appear in person and explain how government officials were hired on such high incomes," CJP Mian Saqib Nisar remarked. The president of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) then asked the top court to allow him a chance to submit his response in the case. Pakistan will go to the polls on July 25.

Shehbaz Sharif will contest Pakistan general polls from Karachi

A mass movement has gripped Pakistan's Sindh province as demand for early release of missing persons has intensified.

Various political organisations and family members of the victims are holding hunger strike camps at various places including Karachi, Kotri, Mehrabpur, Moro, Badin, Bathoro and Pano Aqil demanding safe release of missing persons.

In an estimate, over 4,000 people have gone missing from Sindh province since 2011.

Accusing the security forces for the enforced disappearances, the family members of the victims are protesting in Sindh by holding the pictures of the dear ones. The prominent of those missing are Aaqib Chandio, Kaleem Tunio and Khadim Hussain Areejo.

The family members have asked the government to bring them in courts and prove their crime.

Voice for Missing Persons of Sindh's Convenor Soarath Lohar said at a hunger strike camp in Amarkot, "Now, we are going to other phase of struggle after Eid, which will be more effective and strengthened. We say it's better for security agencies that all abducted nationalist workers must be released before Eid."

In Kotri, the political activists pitch for 72 hours hunger strike camp for missing persons of Sindh outside the Press Club.

At many hunger strike camps, the Sindhi folk singers have also joined the movement to show their solidarity for the missing persons.

The Sindh Bar Council also announced black day and full day hunger strike by tasking seriously note on substantial increase of disappearances of the innocent citizens and inordinate delay in their recovery.

Salahuddin Khan Gandapur, Vice Chairman and Yasir Arfat Shah, Chairman, Executive of Sindh Bar Council requested the legal fertility as well as Bar Association of Sindh to wear black bands and condemn the act of involved authorities.

Despite massive protests and strikes, the federal and provincial governments are silent over the issue.

It is evident that Pakistan's security agencies are behind this heinous crime which needs international attention and condemnation.

Various political organisations and family members of the victims are holding hunger strike camps at various places including Karachi, Kotri, Mehrabpur, Moro, Badin, Bathoro and Pano Aqil demanding safe release of missing persons

A mass movement has gripped Pakistan's Sindh province as demand for early release of missing persons has intensified. Various political organisations and family members of the victims are holding hunger strike camps at various places including Karachi, Kotri, Mehrabpur, Moro, Badin, Bathoro and Pano Aqil demanding safe release of missing persons. In an estimate, over 4,000 people have gone missing from Sindh province since 2011. Accusing the security forces for the enforced disappearances, the family members of the victims are protesting in Sindh by holding the pictures of the dear ones. The prominent of those missing are Aaqib Chandio, Kaleem Tunio and Khadim Hussain Areejo. The family members have asked the government to bring them in courts and prove their crime. Voice for Missing Persons of Sindh's Convenor Soarath Lohar said at a hunger strike camp in Amarkot, "Now, we are going to other phase of struggle after Eid, which will be more effective and strengthened. We say it's better for security agencies that all abducted nationalist workers must be released before Eid." In Kotri, the political activists pitch for 72 hours hunger strike camp for missing persons of Sindh outside the Press Club. At many hunger strike camps, the Sindhi folk singers have also joined the movement to show their solidarity for the missing persons. The Sindh Bar Council also announced black day and full day hunger strike by tasking seriously note on substantial increase of disappearances of the innocent citizens and inordinate delay in their recovery. Salahuddin Khan Gandapur, Vice Chairman and Yasir Arfat Shah, Chairman, Executive of Sindh Bar Council requested the legal fertility as well as Bar Association of Sindh to wear black bands and condemn the act of involved authorities. Despite massive protests and strikes, the federal and provincial governments are silent over the issue. It is evident that Pakistan's security agencies are behind this heinous crime which needs international attention and condemnation.

Mass movement against enforced disappearances grips Pakistan's Sindh

An anti-Pakistan protest was held by the Pashtun Council Canada in Toronto against the recent firing by Pakistani security forces on a rally of Pashtun activists in South Waziristan.

The protests were also carried out against the state-sponsored Taliban, which is responsible for attacks on innocent Pashtuns. Pashtuns have long blamed that they have been victims of gross human rights violations by Pakistan's military in federally administered tribal areas.

Now, Pashtun community, is saying that the world has exposed the brutal face of the Pakistan Army. The protesters staged demonstrations to show their solidarity with the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) activists. Several PTM activists were allegedly killed as Pakistani security forces attacked a peaceful rally in South Waziristan earlier this week.

The protesters demanded an investigation into the attack and asked the international community to intervene.

Pashtun Protester, Dr Deedar said, "According to the constitution of Pakistan everybody has the right to exercise their peaceful protest but whenever Pashtuns did it, they have been defamed, tortured and ultimately killed. And this game is going on for so many years. So, now this blame game and Pashtun genocide should be stopped. I urge the human rights activists, civil society and politicians to raise their voice against this inhumane act in which they are killing innocent Pashtun."

Not only Pashtuns, Sindhis, Baloch, Mohajirs and Afghans - who are all victims of the Pakistan's atrocities, also took part in the protest. "We have gathered here to seek justice against those who have been carrying out atrocities on us," said a protestor. The Pashtuns are getting the support of communities like Baloch, Sindhi and others as they are also facing atrocities by state and non-state actors in Pakistan.

An activist of World Sindhi Congress said, "We have faced state atrocities for long, but we have no option but to unite and fight against it. We have faced violence for many years and now we have to join hands to fight against it."

Last month, the Pashtun Council of Canada staged a protest outside the Consulate General of Pakistan in Toronto to show their solidarity with the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) and urged the Government of Pakistan to release PTM workers.

They chanted anti-Pakistan&nbspslogans such as - "Yeh&nbspJo Dehsht Gardi&nbspHey, is ke piechey verdi hey."

The PTM was started by young Pashtun activists in 2014, who are demanding an end to what they say are human rights violations by authorities in the Pakistan's tribal regions.

The protests were also carried out against the state-sponsored Taliban, which is responsible for attacks on innocent Pashtuns

An anti-Pakistan protest was held by the Pashtun Council Canada in Toronto against the recent firing by Pakistani security forces on a rally of Pashtun activists in South Waziristan. The protests were also carried out against the state-sponsored Taliban, which is responsible for attacks on innocent Pashtuns. Pashtuns have long blamed that they have been victims of gross human rights violations by Pakistan's military in federally administered tribal areas. Now, Pashtun community, is saying that the world has exposed the brutal face of the Pakistan Army. The protesters staged demonstrations to show their solidarity with the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) activists. Several PTM activists were allegedly killed as Pakistani security forces attacked a peaceful rally in South Waziristan earlier this week. The protesters demanded an investigation into the attack and asked the international community to intervene. Pashtun Protester, Dr Deedar said, "According to the constitution of Pakistan everybody has the right to exercise their peaceful protest but whenever Pashtuns did it, they have been defamed, tortured and ultimately killed. And this game is going on for so many years. So, now this blame game and Pashtun genocide should be stopped. I urge the human rights activists, civil society and politicians to raise their voice against this inhumane act in which they are killing innocent Pashtun." Not only Pashtuns, Sindhis, Baloch, Mohajirs and Afghans - who are all victims of the Pakistan's atrocities, also took part in the protest. "We have gathered here to seek justice against those who have been carrying out atrocities on us," said a protestor. The Pashtuns are getting the support of communities like Baloch, Sindhi and others as they are also facing atrocities by state and non-state actors in Pakistan. An activist of World Sindhi Congress said, "We have faced state atrocities for long, but we have no option but to unite and fight against it. We have faced violence for many years and now we have to join hands to fight against it." Last month, the Pashtun Council of Canada staged a protest outside the Consulate General of Pakistan in Toronto to show their solidarity with the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) and urged the Government of Pakistan to release PTM workers. They chanted anti-Pakistan&nbspslogans such as - "Yeh&nbspJo Dehsht Gardi&nbspHey, is ke piechey verdi hey." The PTM was started by young Pashtun activists in 2014, who are demanding an end to what they say are human rights violations by authorities in the Pakistan's tribal regions.

Pashtun Council Canada protests against Pakistan atrocities

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has often asked what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done in four years in power.&nbsp;

His question was answered today by BJP President Amit Shah, who said Modi is not answerable to Rahul Gandhi. Shah added that the people had given them the "right to be in power".&nbsp;

And that while Rahul asks Modi about the last four year, the "people are asking you (Rahul) about last four generations".&nbsp;

Shah added that the Narendra Modi government had "secured our borders" &nbsp;against a Pakistan which used to attack us "day and night".&nbsp;

And that "this government has placed India in a more respectful position before the world".&nbsp;

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Rahul Gandhi asks Modi ji what did he do in 4 yrs. I would like to tell him we aren't answerable to you. People gave us right to be in power. You're asking us about last 4 yrs,people are asking you about last 4 generations. Why was there no development?:Amit Shah in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/p47eG4OWt4">pic.twitter.com/p47eG4OWt4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005736648913678338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Narendra Modi govt secured our borders. Pak used to attack us day&night. But under this govt our forces went there, executed surgical strike&returned chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. This govt has placed India in a more respectful position before the world: Amit Shah <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/GzbQaaLZmT">pic.twitter.com/GzbQaaLZmT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005739370324754432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shah was speaking at a "Vikas Yatra" (Development Rally) in Surguja in Chhatisgarh, which is one of three states going to the polls this year. The other two states are Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.&nbsp;

All three states are currently ruled by the BJP. Political commentators however say the BJP also faces massive anti-incumbency in all three states.&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh also spoke at the rally, saying his government — he has been in power now for 15 years — was providing proper road and rail connectivity to Surguja and that it would soon also have air connectivity.&nbsp;

"Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga," he said

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We're providing proper road & rail connectivity to Sarguja. The region already has internet connectivity. Soon Sarguja will also have air connectivity. Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja <a href="https://t.co/xv2NNNhHaY">pic.twitter.com/xv2NNNhHaY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005733463599734784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Congress is opposing Vikas Yatra. I would like to ask people of Surguja, did Congress ever provide you rice at Rs 1/kg? Did they ever provide you medical insurance? Did they ever do that in their 60 years of rule?: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja <a href="https://t.co/zpyW5uJrFT">pic.twitter.com/zpyW5uJrFT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005732030460465152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

'Rahul Gandhi asks Modiji what did he do in 4 years. I would like to tell him we aren't answerable to you. People gave us right to be in power. You're asking us about last 4 years, people are asking you about last 4 generations,' Shah said in Surguja in Chhattisgarh

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has often asked what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done in four years in power. His question was answered today by BJP President Amit Shah, who said Modi is not answerable to Rahul Gandhi. Shah added that the people had given them the "right to be in power". And that while Rahul asks Modi about the last four year, the "people are asking you (Rahul) about last four generations". Shah added that the Narendra Modi government had "secured our borders" against a Pakistan which used to attack us "day and night". And that "this government has placed India in a more respectful position before the world". Rahul Gandhi asks Modi ji what did he do in 4 yrs. I would like to tell him we aren't answerable to you. People gave us right to be in power. You're asking us about last 4 yrs,people are asking you about last 4 generations. Why was there no development?:Amit Shah in #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/p47eG4OWt4 — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Narendra Modi govt secured our borders. Pak used to attack us day&night. But under this govt our forces went there, executed surgical strike&returned chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. This govt has placed India in a more respectful position before the world: Amit Shah #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/GzbQaaLZmT — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Shah was speaking at a "Vikas Yatra" (Development Rally) in Surguja in Chhatisgarh, which is one of three states going to the polls this year. The other two states are Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. All three states are currently ruled by the BJP. Political commentators however say the BJP also faces massive anti-incumbency in all three states. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh also spoke at the rally, saying his government — he has been in power now for 15 years — was providing proper road and rail connectivity to Surguja and that it would soon also have air connectivity. "Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga," he said We're providing proper road & rail connectivity to Sarguja. The region already has internet connectivity. Soon Sarguja will also have air connectivity. Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga: #Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja pic.twitter.com/xv2NNNhHaY — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Congress is opposing Vikas Yatra. I would like to ask people of Surguja, did Congress ever provide you rice at Rs 1/kg? Did they ever provide you medical insurance? Did they ever do that in their 60 years of rule?: #Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja pic.twitter.com/zpyW5uJrFT — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 ×

'We aren't answerable to' Rahul Gandhi: Amit Shah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met&nbsp;with Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain in China's Qingdao at the&nbsp;Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit on Sunday.

The two leaders shook hands after signing of agreements between the SCO nations.

The meeting between the two leaders holds significance as the relations between India and Pakistan&nbsp;is in&nbsp;turmoil because of the continued ceasefire violation.

This is the first time when India&nbsp;and Pakistan participated in the SCO meeting as permanent members.

India's ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale had said earlier that India and Pakistan will not hold any formal meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit.

Bambawale had said that the leaders of the two countries may talk during the summit but there will be "no formal meeting" with Pakistan.

"Neither have we nor has Pakistan asked for a formal meeting but during such summits leaders may talk on the sidelines but there will be no formal meeting (with Pakistan)", Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale said. 
He had also said, "terror will certainly be a substantial part of the discussion".&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain shake hands after signing of agreements between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCO?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCO</a> nations, in China's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qingdao?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qingdao</a> <a href="https://t.co/bpGu7evVdC">pic.twitter.com/bpGu7evVdC</a>
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&nbsp;

India's ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale had said earlier that India and Pakistan will not hold any formal meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain in China's Qingdao at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit on Sunday. The two leaders shook hands after signing of agreements between the SCO nations. The meeting between the two leaders holds significance as the relations between India and Pakistan is in turmoil because of the continued ceasefire violation. This is the first time when India and Pakistan participated in the SCO meeting as permanent members. India's ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale had said earlier that India and Pakistan will not hold any formal meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit. Bambawale had said that the leaders of the two countries may talk during the summit but there will be "no formal meeting" with Pakistan. "Neither have we nor has Pakistan asked for a formal meeting but during such summits leaders may talk on the sidelines but there will be no formal meeting (with Pakistan)", Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale said. He had also said, "terror will certainly be a substantial part of the discussion". #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain shake hands after signing of agreements between #SCO nations, in China's #Qingdao pic.twitter.com/bpGu7evVdC — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 ×

Watch: PM Modi meets Pak President at SCO summit in China

India entered into the final of the women's Asia Cup Twenty20 tournament with a seven-wicket victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in their last round-robin match at the at the Kinrara Academy Oval in Malaysia

Electing to bat after winning the toss, Pakistan were restricted to 72 for seven in the allotted 20 overs.

Left-arm spinner Ekta Bisht was the most successful India bowler, claiming impressive figures of 3/14 in her four-over spell. She was also announced as the Player of the Match.

Chasing a meagre target, India completed the task with 23 balls to spare.

Opener Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 38 off 40 balls while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur made 34 in 49 deliveries.

Veteran Mithali Raj and Deepti Sharma failed to open their account as India lost the two with just five runs on the board in the third over.

Later, the duo of Mandhana and Harmanpreet added 65 runs for the third wicket to help the team recover from the early loses.&nbsp

Earlier, Pakistan's decision to bat did not yield the desired result as they lost wicket at regular intervals.&nbsp

Sana Mir top-scored for the side with 20, but she consumed as many as 38 balls.&nbsp

Opener Nahida Khan (18) was the only other Pakistan batswoman to reach the double-digit. 
&nbsp

Pakistan were restricted to 72 for seven in the allotted 20 overs

India entered into the final of the women's Asia Cup Twenty20 tournament with a seven-wicket victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in their last round-robin match at the at the Kinrara Academy Oval in Malaysia Electing to bat after winning the toss, Pakistan were restricted to 72 for seven in the allotted 20 overs. Left-arm spinner Ekta Bisht was the most successful India bowler, claiming impressive figures of 3/14 in her four-over spell. She was also announced as the Player of the Match. Chasing a meagre target, India completed the task with 23 balls to spare. Opener Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 38 off 40 balls while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur made 34 in 49 deliveries. Veteran Mithali Raj and Deepti Sharma failed to open their account as India lost the two with just five runs on the board in the third over. Later, the duo of Mandhana and Harmanpreet added 65 runs for the third wicket to help the team recover from the early loses. Earlier, Pakistan's decision to bat did not yield the desired result as they lost wicket at regular intervals. Sana Mir top-scored for the side with 20, but she consumed as many as 38 balls. Opener Nahida Khan (18) was the only other Pakistan batswoman to reach the double-digit.

Women's Asia Cup: India outclass Pakistan to reach finals

After the controversy&nbsp;over "Quantico"&nbsp;episode which featured "Indian nationalists" in a terror plot,&nbsp;ABC said it pulled the episode before it could air in India.

The episode aired in the US&nbsp;on June 1.

The Quantico episode received severe backlash in India and on social media even as the producers of the show apologized&nbsp;saying&nbsp;Priyanka Chopra wasn't involved&nbsp;in creating the show.

The network apologized to Indian fans of the show.

“ABC Studios and the executive producers of Quantico would like to extend an apology to our audience who were offended by the most recent episode, ‘The Blood of Romeo,’ ” the network said in a statement.

“The episode has stirred a lot of emotion, much of which is unfairly aimed at Priyanka Chopra, who didn’t create the show, nor does she write or direct it. She has no involvement in the casting of the show or the storylines depicted in the series.''

Priyanka Chopra has also&nbsp;been the subject of online attacks with calls to boycott her work and the brands she endorses.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/American?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#American</a> television show <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Quantico?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Quantico</a> features <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianTerrorists?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianTerrorists</a> who travel from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/US?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#US</a> to blow up an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/American?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#American</a> city and blame it on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>. 
<a href="https://t.co/Qy34Dc8eJK">pic.twitter.com/Qy34Dc8eJK</a>
— Ahmed Quraishi - TV Team (@Office_AQPk) <a href="https://twitter.com/Office_AQPk/status/1004653677616001024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">7 June 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Request <a href="https://twitter.com/Ra_THORe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ra_THORe</a> ji to immediately get this scene removed from Quantico’s latest episode & samsung to remove Priyanka Chopra as brand ambassador or else we pledge to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottSamsung?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottSamsung</a> nation-wide. 
 
RT if you agree & tweet if you Support this. <a href="https://t.co/PUI5K5QO3S">pic.twitter.com/PUI5K5QO3S</a>
— Bhaiyyaji (@bhaiyyajispeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaiyyajispeaks/status/1004268139817807872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">6 June 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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The myth of Hindu terror, by a fake story, enters American television with the help of Priyanka Chopra. Would any Pakistani actress betray Pakistan or Islam the way she betrays India and Hinduism? <a href="https://t.co/BbVJuClO0C">https://t.co/BbVJuClO0C</a>
— Dr David Frawley (@davidfrawleyved) <a href="https://twitter.com/davidfrawleyved/status/1004395837844099072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">6 June 2018</a></blockquote>
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I have already requested <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> to cancel her passport and let <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankachopra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankachopra</a> live anywhere in the world but should not be allowed to land in India. She no more deserve to be Indian citizen <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottPriyankaChopra?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottPriyankaChopra</a>
— Yogesh Kulkarni (@swamiyogeshji) <a href="https://twitter.com/swamiyogeshji/status/1004404734122446850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">6 June 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

ABC’s Quantico featuring a terror plot involving Indian nationalists has resulted in a backlash against the drama series star Priyanka Chopra

After the controversy over "Quantico" episode which featured "Indian nationalists" in a terror plot, ABC said it pulled the episode before it could air in India. The episode aired in the US on June 1. The Quantico episode received severe backlash in India and on social media even as the producers of the show apologized saying Priyanka Chopra wasn't involved in creating the show. The network apologized to Indian fans of the show. “ABC Studios and the executive producers of Quantico would like to extend an apology to our audience who were offended by the most recent episode, ‘The Blood of Romeo,’ ” the network said in a statement. “The episode has stirred a lot of emotion, much of which is unfairly aimed at Priyanka Chopra, who didn’t create the show, nor does she write or direct it. She has no involvement in the casting of the show or the storylines depicted in the series.'' Priyanka Chopra has also been the subject of online attacks with calls to boycott her work and the brands she endorses. #American television show #Quantico features #IndianTerrorists who travel from #India to #US to blow up an #American city and blame it on #Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/Qy34Dc8eJK — Ahmed Quraishi - TV Team (@Office_AQPk) 7 June 2018 × Request @Ra_THORe ji to immediately get this scene removed from Quantico’s latest episode & samsung to remove Priyanka Chopra as brand ambassador or else we pledge to #BoycottSamsung nation-wide. RT if you agree & tweet if you Support this. pic.twitter.com/PUI5K5QO3S — Bhaiyyaji (@bhaiyyajispeaks) 6 June 2018 × The myth of Hindu terror, by a fake story, enters American television with the help of Priyanka Chopra. Would any Pakistani actress betray Pakistan or Islam the way she betrays India and Hinduism? https://t.co/BbVJuClO0C — Dr David Frawley (@davidfrawleyved) 6 June 2018 × I have already requested @SushmaSwaraj to cancel her passport and let @priyankachopra live anywhere in the world but should not be allowed to land in India. She no more deserve to be Indian citizen #BoycottPriyankaChopra — Yogesh Kulkarni (@swamiyogeshji) 6 June 2018 ×

After airing in US, ABC pulled Priyanka Chopra's controversial Quantico episode in India

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/-europeans-nations-unanimously-oppose-president-trumps-call-to-admit-russia-into-g7-macron-143208">Europeans nations 'unanimously oppose' President Trump's call to admit Russia into G7: Macron</a>

As US President called G-7 countries to admit Russia, French president Emmanuel Macron said European members "unanimously oppose" Russia's entry.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/watch-macron-may-have-put-too-much-pressure-on-trump-at-the-g7-summit-leaves-thumb-imprint--143212">Watch: Macron may have put 'too much pressure' on Trump at G7, leaves thumb imprint</a>

French President Emmanuel Macron on&nbsp<a href="http://wionews.com/world/-europeans-nations-unanimously-oppose-president-trumps-call-to-admit-russia-into-g7-macron-143208">Friday met US President Donald Trump in&nbsp</a>Canada for the continued trade talks and put pressure on the US on its decision to impose tariffs&nbspon metals imports. But, he may have put a tad bit too much, which was evidently seen by the aftermath of the handshake - which left a prominent imprint on the US Presidents hand.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/despite-losing-unsc-seat-maldives-govt-thanks-india-for-support--143215">Despite losing UNSC seat, Maldives govt thanks India for support</a>

A day after Maldives failed to secure a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, losing to&nbspIndonesia, the government of Maldives thanked the Indian government for supporting its candidature in the UNSC.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-heads-to-china-for-sco-summit-143220">PM Modi heads to China for SCO Summit</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday morning departed for China's Qingdao to attend the two-day long 18th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pak-interim-pm-reviews-fatf-requirements-on-terror-financing-143210">Pak interim PM reviews FATF requirements on terror financing</a>

Pakistan's interim Prime Minister Nasir-ul-Mulk reviewed on Friday the measures taken by the country to meet the requirement of the global watchdog Financial Action Task Force over terrorism financing.

&nbsp

Europeans nations 'unanimously oppose' President Trump's call to admit Russia into G7: Macron As US President called G-7 countries to admit Russia, French president Emmanuel Macron said European members "unanimously oppose" Russia's entry. Watch: Macron may have put 'too much pressure' on Trump at G7, leaves thumb imprint French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met US President Donald Trump in Canada for the continued trade talks and put pressure on the US on its decision to impose tariffs&nbspon metals imports. But, he may have put a tad bit too much, which was evidently seen by the aftermath of the handshake - which left a prominent imprint on the US Presidents hand. Despite losing UNSC seat, Maldives govt thanks India for support A day after Maldives failed to secure a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, losing to&nbspIndonesia, the government of Maldives thanked the Indian government for supporting its candidature in the UNSC. PM Modi heads to China for SCO Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday morning departed for China's Qingdao to attend the two-day long 18th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Pak interim PM reviews FATF requirements on terror financing Pakistan's interim Prime Minister Nasir-ul-Mulk reviewed on Friday the measures taken by the country to meet the requirement of the global watchdog Financial Action Task Force over terrorism financing.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan's interim Prime Minister Nasir-ul-Mulk reviewed on Friday the measures taken by the country to meet the requirement of the global watchdog Financial Action Task Force over terrorism financing.

Based in Paris, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global watchdog on money laundering and terrorism financing. The FATF has placed Pakistan on the global terror financing watch-list.

Pakistan was listed as grey in 2012 but was removed in 2015 after strenuous efforts to address the concerns of the group.

Nasir chaired his first National Security Committee meeting at the Prime Minister's House.

Minister for Finance Shamshad Akhtar gave a detailed presentation to the meeting about the upcoming FATF in Paris and the administrative and legal measures taken so far to meet the global watchdog's requirements, said a statement by the PMO.&nbsp

"While reviewing various actions taken towards fulfilling country's international responsibilities under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) framework, the meeting expressed satisfaction over the progress made so far," it said.

Pakistan Foreign Office confirmed in February that the country would go on a 'grey-list' from June this year.

"Pakistan will be assigned to the 'grey-list' in June, once an Action Plan has been mutually negotiated," Foreign Office spokesperson Muhammad Faisal was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

He, however, said that it was not true that the country would be transferred from the 'grey' to 'black' list in June this year.

The National Security Committee noted that the progress should be shared with the FATF Secretariat in the upcoming meeting.

It reaffirmed the commitment of the country to work with FATF and other international organisations in achieving common goals and shared objectives.

The Prime Minister also shared with the Committee members contents of his telephonic discussion with US Vice President Mike Pence on June 7, the statement said.

The meeting reviewed overall security situation in the country, it said.

FATF was set up in 1989 with a primary aim to set standards to combat money laundering, but in 2001 its mandate was expanded to include countering terror financing.

It can take action against any country by including a country in black or grey lists.

Nasir was named as the caretaker prime minister last month until the general elections on July 25 to oversee the second-ever democratic transition of power in Pakistan ruled by the powerful army for much of its life since it gained independence 70 years ago.&nbsp

Based in Paris, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global watchdog on money laundering and terrorism financing. The FATF has placed Pakistan on the global terror financing watch-list

Pakistan's interim Prime Minister Nasir-ul-Mulk reviewed on Friday the measures taken by the country to meet the requirement of the global watchdog Financial Action Task Force over terrorism financing. Based in Paris, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is the global watchdog on money laundering and terrorism financing. The FATF has placed Pakistan on the global terror financing watch-list. Pakistan was listed as grey in 2012 but was removed in 2015 after strenuous efforts to address the concerns of the group. Nasir chaired his first National Security Committee meeting at the Prime Minister's House. Minister for Finance Shamshad Akhtar gave a detailed presentation to the meeting about the upcoming FATF in Paris and the administrative and legal measures taken so far to meet the global watchdog's requirements, said a statement by the PMO. "While reviewing various actions taken towards fulfilling country's international responsibilities under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) framework, the meeting expressed satisfaction over the progress made so far," it said. Pakistan Foreign Office confirmed in February that the country would go on a 'grey-list' from June this year. "Pakistan will be assigned to the 'grey-list' in June, once an Action Plan has been mutually negotiated," Foreign Office spokesperson Muhammad Faisal was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. He, however, said that it was not true that the country would be transferred from the 'grey' to 'black' list in June this year. The National Security Committee noted that the progress should be shared with the FATF Secretariat in the upcoming meeting. It reaffirmed the commitment of the country to work with FATF and other international organisations in achieving common goals and shared objectives. The Prime Minister also shared with the Committee members contents of his telephonic discussion with US Vice President Mike Pence on June 7, the statement said. The meeting reviewed overall security situation in the country, it said. FATF was set up in 1989 with a primary aim to set standards to combat money laundering, but in 2001 its mandate was expanded to include countering terror financing. It can take action against any country by including a country in black or grey lists. Nasir was named as the caretaker prime minister last month until the general elections on July 25 to oversee the second-ever democratic transition of power in Pakistan ruled by the powerful army for much of its life since it gained independence 70 years ago.

Pak interim PM reviews FATF requirements on terror financing

India and Pakistan will <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/uninterrupted-dialogue-with-india-only-way-to-resolve-all-disputes-pakistan-143008">not hold any formal meeting</a> on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit scheduled to begin tomorrow in China, India's ambassador to China&nbsp;Gautam Bambawale said.&nbsp;

Bambawale&nbsp;confirmed that the leaders of the two countries may talk during the summit but there will be "no formal meeting"&nbsp;with Pakistan.

"Neither have we nor has Pakistan asked for a formal meeting but during such summits leaders may talk on the sidelines but there will be no formal meeting (with Pakistan)", Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale said.

He further said, "This is the first summit wherein India is participating with complete membership & so will Pakistan, terror will certainly be a substantial part of the&nbsp;discussion".

The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the summit, where the two leaders are expected to take stock of the implementations of ideas that they had decided during their informal summit in Wuhan last month.

Indian ambassador to China has confirmed that the leaders of the two countries may talk during the summit but there will be no formal meeting with Pakistan

India and Pakistan will not hold any formal meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit scheduled to begin tomorrow in China, India's ambassador to China Gautam Bambawale said. Bambawale confirmed that the leaders of the two countries may talk during the summit but there will be "no formal meeting" with Pakistan. "Neither have we nor has Pakistan asked for a formal meeting but during such summits leaders may talk on the sidelines but there will be no formal meeting (with Pakistan)", Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale said. He further said, "This is the first summit wherein India is participating with complete membership & so will Pakistan, terror will certainly be a substantial part of the discussion". The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Prime Minister Modi is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the summit, where the two leaders are expected to take stock of the implementations of ideas that they had decided during their informal summit in Wuhan last month.

'India, Pak leaders may talk but no formal meeting during SCO summit,' says Indian Ambassador to China

In another move to resume ties with India, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/as-rajnath-singh-visits-jk-terrorists-attack-army-patrol-in-kupwara-twice-in-24-hours-142979">Pakistan said "uninterrupted dialogue"</a> was the only way forward for resolution of all disputes with India.

In a weekly briefing, Pakistan's foreign office spokesman<a href="http://wionews.com/videos/deal-with-terrorists-without-distinction-us-tells-pakistan-142923"> said Pakistan was in favour </a>of dialogue with India.

Echoing foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's feelings, India defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told reporters on Monday that "talks and terror can't go together", in reference to cross-border terror attacks.

Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a &nbsp;2003 ceasefire agreement, however, Pakistan troops have been firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control(LoC) in the past week leading the government to rethink its stand on the ceasefire agreement.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K on a two-day visit to review the security situation in the state where he will also talk with people in the border areas who have faced the brunt of Pakistani fire from across the LoC.

Even as India's home minister arrived in the state, terrorists ambushed an Army patrol in Kupwara and repeated it again on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Pakistan High Commissioner has decided to host an Iftar party in Delhi in which several separatists, lawyers and journalists from the Valley have been invited, raising eyebrows in the government.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y4B6dOf905g" width="560"></iframe>

Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a 2003 ceasefire agreement

In another move to resume ties with India, Pakistan said "uninterrupted dialogue" was the only way forward for resolution of all disputes with India. In a weekly briefing, Pakistan's foreign office spokesman said Pakistan was in favour of dialogue with India. Echoing foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's feelings, India defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told reporters on Monday that "talks and terror can't go together", in reference to cross-border terror attacks. Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a 2003 ceasefire agreement, however, Pakistan troops have been firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control(LoC) in the past week leading the government to rethink its stand on the ceasefire agreement. Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K on a two-day visit to review the security situation in the state where he will also talk with people in the border areas who have faced the brunt of Pakistani fire from across the LoC. Even as India's home minister arrived in the state, terrorists ambushed an Army patrol in Kupwara and repeated it again on Thursday. Meanwhile, Pakistan High Commissioner has decided to host an Iftar party in Delhi in which several separatists, lawyers and journalists from the Valley have been invited, raising eyebrows in the government.

Uninterrupted dialogue with India only way to resolve all disputes: Pakistan

Pakistani authorities have suspended the national identity card and passport of former military ruler Pervez Musharraf on the orders of a special court hearing a treason case against him, according to a media report.

Musharraf, 74, was indicted in March, 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in 2007 which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

On March 18, 2016, the former president travelled to Dubai for medical treatment.

A few months later, the special court had declared him a proclaimed offender and ordered the confiscation of his property owing to his no-show in the case.&nbsp;

The court in March ordered the federal government to suspend his Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) and passport.

The Express Tribune reported that the National Registration and Database Authority (NADRA) suspended Musharraf's CNIC which resulted in the default suspension of his passport.

It further reported that after his passport was blocked, Musharraf would not be able to travel in any country and even his stay in Dubai would be illegal.

Sources said that now he can either seek political asylum or have special documents arranged if he desires to return to Pakistan.

The special court in its order of March had stated that the ministry of interior and all other departments, divisions and agencies of the government of Pakistan must take positive steps to ensure his arrest.

Complying with these orders, the Minister of Interior by the end of May had asked the NADRA to suspend the CNIC of the former military ruler.

However, the media department of the NADRA, its spokesperson, and Chairman Usman Mobin were all unavailable for comment on the development.

A conviction for high treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Musharraf ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He is wanted in Pakistan in several criminal cases including in the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

Musharraf was indicted on treason charges for imposing emergency in 2007 which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses

Pakistani authorities have suspended the national identity card and passport of former military ruler Pervez Musharraf on the orders of a special court hearing a treason case against him, according to a media report. Musharraf, 74, was indicted in March, 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in 2007 which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. On March 18, 2016, the former president travelled to Dubai for medical treatment. A few months later, the special court had declared him a proclaimed offender and ordered the confiscation of his property owing to his no-show in the case. The court in March ordered the federal government to suspend his Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) and passport. The Express Tribune reported that the National Registration and Database Authority (NADRA) suspended Musharraf's CNIC which resulted in the default suspension of his passport. It further reported that after his passport was blocked, Musharraf would not be able to travel in any country and even his stay in Dubai would be illegal. Sources said that now he can either seek political asylum or have special documents arranged if he desires to return to Pakistan. The special court in its order of March had stated that the ministry of interior and all other departments, divisions and agencies of the government of Pakistan must take positive steps to ensure his arrest. Complying with these orders, the Minister of Interior by the end of May had asked the NADRA to suspend the CNIC of the former military ruler. However, the media department of the NADRA, its spokesperson, and Chairman Usman Mobin were all unavailable for comment on the development. A conviction for high treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. Musharraf ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He is wanted in Pakistan in several criminal cases including in the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

Musharraf's national identity card, passport suspended: Report

US secretary of state <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/stop-blaming-pakistan-for-failures-in-afghanistan-gen-bajwa-to-us-33273">Mike Pompeo called up Pakistan</a> Army chief General Qamar Bajwa and asked him to take action against terrorists "without any distinction".

The US has been constantly pushing the <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-can-achieve-peace-and-prosperity-through-military-talks-with-india-general-bajwa-134868">Pakistan government to go after terrorist </a>organizations which it says are on the loose especially the Haqqani Network.

Addressing a press conference state department spokesperson Heather Nauert said: "US-Pakistani bilateral relations, the need for political reconciliation in Afghanistan, and the importance of targeting all militant and terrorist groups in South Asia without distinction."

General Bajwa had earlier denied the existence of terrorist sanctuaries in Pakistan. In fact, the general claimed Pakistan was being attacked from terrorist hideouts on Afghan soil. &nbsp;

The Pakistan general speaking at a conference in Munich in February had said terrorists had established sanctuaries on the Afghan soil along the border with Pakistan.

US-Pakistan relations have hit rock bottom ever since the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on the government to fight terrorists in the country with President Trump in a series of tweets hitting out at the Pak government for not doing enough to bring terrorism to an end.&nbsp;

Trump later in a tweet categorically said Pakistan was a "safe haven" for terrorists as the US stopped economic aid to Pakistan linking any relief to its progress in bringing terrorism to an end. The Trump administration named the Haqqani Network as a major terrorist organization and told the Pak government and the Army to dismantle it.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CEDWLycw3O8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

US-Pakistan relations have hit rock bottom ever since the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on the government to fight terrorists

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo called up Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Bajwa and asked him to take action against terrorists "without any distinction". The US has been constantly pushing the Pakistan government to go after terrorist organizations which it says are on the loose especially the Haqqani Network. Addressing a press conference state department spokesperson Heather Nauert said: "US-Pakistani bilateral relations, the need for political reconciliation in Afghanistan, and the importance of targeting all militant and terrorist groups in South Asia without distinction." General Bajwa had earlier denied the existence of terrorist sanctuaries in Pakistan. In fact, the general claimed Pakistan was being attacked from terrorist hideouts on Afghan soil. The Pakistan general speaking at a conference in Munich in February had said terrorists had established sanctuaries on the Afghan soil along the border with Pakistan. US-Pakistan relations have hit rock bottom ever since the Trump administration ratcheted up pressure on the government to fight terrorists in the country with President Trump in a series of tweets hitting out at the Pak government for not doing enough to bring terrorism to an end. Trump later in a tweet categorically said Pakistan was a "safe haven" for terrorists as the US stopped economic aid to Pakistan linking any relief to its progress in bringing terrorism to an end. The Trump administration named the Haqqani Network as a major terrorist organization and told the Pak government and the Army to dismantle it.

Take action against terrorists without distinction: Pompeo to Pak Army chief General Bajwa

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/take-action-against-terrorists-without-distinction-pompeo-to-pak-army-chief-general-bajwa-142698">Take action against terrorists without distinction: Pompeo to Pak Army chief General Bajwa</a>

US secretary of state&nbsp<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/stop-blaming-pakistan-for-failures-in-afghanistan-gen-bajwa-to-us-33273">Mike Pompeo called up Pakistan</a>&nbspArmy chief General Qamar Bajwa and asked him to take action against terrorists "without any distinction".

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/major-fire-in-5-star-hotel-in-central-london-142696">Watch: Major fire in </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/major-fire-in-5-star-hotel-in-central-london-142696">5-star</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/major-fire-in-5-star-hotel-in-central-london-142696"> hotel in central London</a>

A major fire broke out in a hotel in central London with 25 fire tenders at the scene. The luxury hotel in Knightsbridge in central London had recently undergone extensive restoration.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-ipl-betting-scandal-filmmaker-sajid-khan-to-be-questioned-by-the-police-142706">IPL betting scandal: Filmmaker Sajid Khan to be questioned by police?</a>

After Arbaaz Khan, another Bollywood name has emerged in the IPL betting scandal. Filmmaker Sajid Khan's name has emerged in connection to the IPL betting racket.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/zardari-welcomed-osama-bin-ladens-killing-by-us-book-142715">Zardari welcomed Osama bin Laden's killing by </a><a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/zardari-welcomed-osama-bin-ladens-killing-by-us-book-142715">US</a><a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/zardari-welcomed-osama-bin-ladens-killing-by-us-book-142715">: Book</a>

When the then US President Barack Obama called his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari to inform him about the killing of Osama bin Laden by the US forces in a raid in Abbottabad, the latter, according to a book, told him that this was a "good news".

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/at-least-99-dead-as-guatemala-volcano-threatens-new-eruptions-142691">Death toll rises to 99 in Guatemala's volcanic eruption</a>

Explosions boomed from Guatemala's fearsome Fuego volcano Wednesday, unleashing fresh torrents of molten mud and ash down slopes, as the death toll from a previous eruption rose to at least 99.

Take action against terrorists without distinction: Pompeo to Pak Army chief General Bajwa US secretary of state Mike Pompeo called up Pakistan&nbspArmy chief General Qamar Bajwa and asked him to take action against terrorists "without any distinction". Watch: Major fire in 5-star hotel in central London A major fire broke out in a hotel in central London with 25 fire tenders at the scene. The luxury hotel in Knightsbridge in central London had recently undergone extensive restoration. IPL betting scandal: Filmmaker Sajid Khan to be questioned by police? After Arbaaz Khan, another Bollywood name has emerged in the IPL betting scandal. Filmmaker Sajid Khan's name has emerged in connection to the IPL betting racket. Zardari welcomed Osama bin Laden's killing by US: Book When the then US President Barack Obama called his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari to inform him about the killing of Osama bin Laden by the US forces in a raid in Abbottabad, the latter, according to a book, told him that this was a "good news". Death toll rises to 99 in Guatemala's volcanic eruption Explosions boomed from Guatemala's fearsome Fuego volcano Wednesday, unleashing fresh torrents of molten mud and ash down slopes, as the death toll from a previous eruption rose to at least 99.

Pakistan's anti-corruption agency has approved an inquiry into former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and his predecessor Nawaz Sharif over a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project, the agency said on Wednesday.

According to news agency Reuters, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) ordered the inquiry against Abbasi, Sharif and "others for granting a 15-year contract of LNG terminal to a company of their liking in violation of rules and by misuse of their powers, which caused national exchequer a loss of billions of rupees".

NAB did not identify which one of the two terminal projects in Pakistan it was referring to.

Abbasi was the mastermind behind Pakistan's push to embrace LNG after Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party swept to power in a 2013 election. Pakistan is now seen as one of the world's fastest-growing LNG markets.

Abbasi was the mastermind behind Pakistan's push to embrace LNG after Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party swept to power in a 2013 election

Pakistan's anti-corruption agency has approved an inquiry into former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and his predecessor Nawaz Sharif over a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal project, the agency said on Wednesday. According to news agency Reuters, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) ordered the inquiry against Abbasi, Sharif and "others for granting a 15-year contract of LNG terminal to a company of their liking in violation of rules and by misuse of their powers, which caused national exchequer a loss of billions of rupees". NAB did not identify which one of the two terminal projects in Pakistan it was referring to. Abbasi was the mastermind behind Pakistan's push to embrace LNG after Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party swept to power in a 2013 election. Pakistan is now seen as one of the world's fastest-growing LNG markets.

Pakistan anti-graft agency orders inquiry into ex-PMs over LNG project

Is Dr Shakil Afridi the man who actually helped the Americans identify Osama bin Laden or was he the fallguy for somebody else? Is Aafia Siddiqui an Al Qaeda terrorist or the victim of something she never understood? &nbsp;&nbsp;

These questions have come to the fore in Pakistan amid reports that both could be freed — Afridi from his Pakistani prison and Siddiqui from her 86-year prison sentence in the US.&nbsp;

Last week, Dr Shakil Afridi's 30-year prison sentence was commuted by the Pakistani government. &nbsp;

Afridi had been convicted of helping the Americans find bin Laden through a fake polio-eradication campaign in Abbotabad. &nbsp;According to investigative journalist Seymour Hersh, Afridi played no such role but was made the scapegoat to ensure the ex-ISI officer who spilled the beans on bin Laden's whereabouts to the Americans got out of the country. &nbsp;

The Americans appear to want to make amends and get Afridi out of prison. Reports have surfaced that he could be exchanged for Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani convicted of Al Qaeda links and jailed for 86 years in a Texas prison. &nbsp;Pakistan has denied the report but there's no doubt Aafia's release would be very popular in Pakistan. &nbsp;By all accounts, she is a mysterious figure.

Aafia Siddiqui is an MIT-trained neuroscientist who was influenced by radical Islamist ideas. &nbsp;

In 2002, she is alleged to have helped Al Qaeda operative Majid enter the US. in 2003, she married the nephew of 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammad. &nbsp;That same year she vanished with her children.

Her family believes she was kidnapped — by whom is left unsaid — flown to Kabul and held in Bagram prison where she was tortured. The Pakistanis have denied any role in her rendition to Afghanistan. So have the Americans. &nbsp;

Her ex-husband says she was on the run because of her Islamist connections, moving between Quetta, Iran and Karachi. Two of her children live with her sister in Karachi but have maintained silence. &nbsp;

International jurists say Aafia's Al Qaeda links do not justify her 86-year sentence. Others say Pakistani intelligence may not want her to return as she could reveal details of their involvement in the US programme of illegal renditions.&nbsp;

Is Aafia a cold-blooded terrorist or somebody who was drawn into the jihadi web without really understanding what she was getting into? &nbsp;The truth may never be known.&nbsp;

Pakistan sentenced Dr Shakil Afridi to 30 years in prison. Then, last week, his sentence was commuted

Is Dr Shakil Afridi the man who actually helped the Americans identify Osama bin Laden or was he the fallguy for somebody else? Is Aafia Siddiqui an Al Qaeda terrorist or the victim of something she never understood? These questions have come to the fore in Pakistan amid reports that both could be freed — Afridi from his Pakistani prison and Siddiqui from her 86-year prison sentence in the US. Last week, Dr Shakil Afridi's 30-year prison sentence was commuted by the Pakistani government. Afridi had been convicted of helping the Americans find bin Laden through a fake polio-eradication campaign in Abbotabad. According to investigative journalist Seymour Hersh, Afridi played no such role but was made the scapegoat to ensure the ex-ISI officer who spilled the beans on bin Laden's whereabouts to the Americans got out of the country. The Americans appear to want to make amends and get Afridi out of prison. Reports have surfaced that he could be exchanged for Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani convicted of Al Qaeda links and jailed for 86 years in a Texas prison. Pakistan has denied the report but there's no doubt Aafia's release would be very popular in Pakistan. By all accounts, she is a mysterious figure. Aafia Siddiqui is an MIT-trained neuroscientist who was influenced by radical Islamist ideas. In 2002, she is alleged to have helped Al Qaeda operative Majid enter the US. in 2003, she married the nephew of 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammad. That same year she vanished with her children. Her family believes she was kidnapped — by whom is left unsaid — flown to Kabul and held in Bagram prison where she was tortured. The Pakistanis have denied any role in her rendition to Afghanistan. So have the Americans. Her ex-husband says she was on the run because of her Islamist connections, moving between Quetta, Iran and Karachi. Two of her children live with her sister in Karachi but have maintained silence. International jurists say Aafia's Al Qaeda links do not justify her 86-year sentence. Others say Pakistani intelligence may not want her to return as she could reveal details of their involvement in the US programme of illegal renditions. Is Aafia a cold-blooded terrorist or somebody who was drawn into the jihadi web without really understanding what she was getting into? The truth may never be known.

Is the US exchanging an Al Qaeda terrorist for the Pakistani doctor who helped them catch Osama?

Pakistan based journalist and activist Gul Bukhari, who was abducted by unknown people in Lahore on Tuesday night has now returned home.

Her family has confirmed that she has returned home and is fine, Dawn reported.

Responding to the incident, former Pakistan Ambassador to US Husain Haqqani tweeted, "Concerned by news of columnist @gulbukhari, British-#Pakistan dual national & outspoken critic of Pak military's role in politics, going missing. She should not join the long list of #EnforcedDisappearances in #Pakistan."

Journalists like Umer Ali and Saeed Shah earlier tweeted confirming the news of her abduction.

"Several journalists confirming @gulbukhari was forcibly picked up while on her way to attend a TV talk show. She has been a consisted critic of the military's alleged intervention in the Pakistani politics," Umer Ali's tweeted.

"Gul Bukhari is a political activist and social media voice in Pakistan. Reports suggest she was abducted by agents of the state. This is just weeks before an election," Saeed Shah said in a tweet.

Another Twitter user Afrasiab Khattak in a tweet said, "I strongly condemn the abduction of Gul Bukhari in Lahore. Armed invasion on Wana Town to physically eliminate Ali Wazir & Gul Bukhari's abduction shows that the forces of fascism are using the absence of a political government for crushing dissent."

Bukhari was on her way to the studio to appear in a show when some unknown people stopped her vehicle and abducted her.

She, who is known for her outspoken criticism of Pakistan military's role in politics, is currently a contributing Op-Ed writer at The Nation.

Gul Bukhari is a political activist and social media voice in Pakistan. Reports suggest she was abducted by agents of the state.

Pakistan based journalist and activist Gul Bukhari, who was abducted by unknown people in Lahore on Tuesday night has now returned home. Her family has confirmed that she has returned home and is fine, Dawn reported. Responding to the incident, former Pakistan Ambassador to US Husain Haqqani tweeted, "Concerned by news of columnist @gulbukhari, British-#Pakistan dual national & outspoken critic of Pak military's role in politics, going missing. She should not join the long list of #EnforcedDisappearances in #Pakistan." Journalists like Umer Ali and Saeed Shah earlier tweeted confirming the news of her abduction. "Several journalists confirming @gulbukhari was forcibly picked up while on her way to attend a TV talk show. She has been a consisted critic of the military's alleged intervention in the Pakistani politics," Umer Ali's tweeted. "Gul Bukhari is a political activist and social media voice in Pakistan. Reports suggest she was abducted by agents of the state. This is just weeks before an election," Saeed Shah said in a tweet. Another Twitter user Afrasiab Khattak in a tweet said, "I strongly condemn the abduction of Gul Bukhari in Lahore. Armed invasion on Wana Town to physically eliminate Ali Wazir & Gul Bukhari's abduction shows that the forces of fascism are using the absence of a political government for crushing dissent." Bukhari was on her way to the studio to appear in a show when some unknown people stopped her vehicle and abducted her. She, who is known for her outspoken criticism of Pakistan military's role in politics, is currently a contributing Op-Ed writer at The Nation.

Abducted Pakistan journalist Gul Bukhari returns home

The World Bank has recommended the Pakistani government to stop pursuing the water dispute case with India at the International Court of Arbitration (ICA). Instead, Islamabad has been advised to accept India's offer of consulting a "neutral expert".

Almost a fortnight after Pakistan moved the World Bank challenging India's alleged violation of Indus Water Treaty (IWT) by inaugurating the Kishanganga Dam, the institution has refrained from conceding to Islamabad's demand.

World Bank president Jim Yong Kim has asked Pakistan to not to take the matter to ICA, reported Pakistani daily Dawn. A source, cited by the newspaper, claimed the bank has taken cognizance of India's argument. According to New Delhi, the IWT of 1960 has not been violated as the Kishanganga hydropower station is a 'run-of-river' dam which will not deplete the water-level downstream flowing across the border.

Islamabad, however, disagrees with India's views, claiming the project not only violates the IWT but also depletes the share of Indus water flowing into Pakistan.

Notably, Pakistan had first moved the World Bank seeking the stoppage of Kishanganga hydropower project in November 2016. The bank had decided to appoint a former US chief justice as the arbitrator between the two sides. However, it rescinded its order in December 2016 and, instead, scheduled secretary-level talks between India and Pakistan on four occasions - in February, April, July and October 2017.

The meetings failed to yield results. While Pakistan remained firm on settling the matter through arbitration by internationally recognised courts, New Delhi wanted to resolve the issue in a bilateral framework, under the watch of a neutral expert.

"Pakistan believed that acceding to India’s proposal of referring the dispute to neutral experts or withdrawing from its stand would mean closing the doors of arbitration and surrendering its right of raising disputes before international courts. It will become a precedent and every time a dispute emerges between Pakistan and India, the latter will always opt for dispute resolution through neutral experts," an official privy to the matter was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

Islamabad, however, disagrees with India's views, claiming the project not only violates the IWT but also depletes the share of Indus water flowing into Pakistan.

The World Bank has recommended the Pakistani government to stop pursuing the water dispute case with India at the International Court of Arbitration (ICA). Instead, Islamabad has been advised to accept India's offer of consulting a "neutral expert". Almost a fortnight after Pakistan moved the World Bank challenging India's alleged violation of Indus Water Treaty (IWT) by inaugurating the Kishanganga Dam, the institution has refrained from conceding to Islamabad's demand. World Bank president Jim Yong Kim has asked Pakistan to not to take the matter to ICA, reported Pakistani daily Dawn. A source, cited by the newspaper, claimed the bank has taken cognizance of India's argument. According to New Delhi, the IWT of 1960 has not been violated as the Kishanganga hydropower station is a 'run-of-river' dam which will not deplete the water-level downstream flowing across the border. Islamabad, however, disagrees with India's views, claiming the project not only violates the IWT but also depletes the share of Indus water flowing into Pakistan. Notably, Pakistan had first moved the World Bank seeking the stoppage of Kishanganga hydropower project in November 2016. The bank had decided to appoint a former US chief justice as the arbitrator between the two sides. However, it rescinded its order in December 2016 and, instead, scheduled secretary-level talks between India and Pakistan on four occasions - in February, April, July and October 2017. The meetings failed to yield results. While Pakistan remained firm on settling the matter through arbitration by internationally recognised courts, New Delhi wanted to resolve the issue in a bilateral framework, under the watch of a neutral expert. "Pakistan believed that acceding to India’s proposal of referring the dispute to neutral experts or withdrawing from its stand would mean closing the doors of arbitration and surrendering its right of raising disputes before international courts. It will become a precedent and every time a dispute emerges between Pakistan and India, the latter will always opt for dispute resolution through neutral experts," an official privy to the matter was quoted as saying by the Dawn.

Kishanganga dam row: Stop pursuing water dispute with India at ICA, World Bank tells Pakistan

In a major breakthrough for India, the World Bank has asked Pakistan not to pursue the&nbsp;Kishanganga dam dispute to the International Court of Arbitration (ICA), a Pakistani daily reported.

Pakistan's Dawn newspaper reported that the World Bank has told Pakistan to comply with India's to appoint a “neutral expert” to solve the issue.

PM Modi had inaugurated the Kishanganga hydropower project in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) last month with Pakistan officials protesting the Indian prime minister's move. PM Modi had said the project will ensure J&K will not only get free but also sufficient power.&nbsp;

Pakistan had earlier objected to the construction of dam alleging that project affected the flow of water in Neelum river. It led Hague's arbitration court to halt the construction and it ruled that India could divert all the water leaving a small amount for Kishanganga river.&nbsp;

Pakistan considers the construction of the Kishanganga dam as a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960. 
&nbsp; 
According to the Pakistan daily, World Bank president Jim Yong Kim advised Pakistan to "withdraw" from its stand and suggested two names to help resolve the dispute.

Pakistan had earlier appointed a four-member delegation to request the World Bank to act as a guarantor in the Kishanganga Dam issue.

Pakistan considers the construction of the Kishanganga dam as a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960.

In a major breakthrough for India, the World Bank has asked Pakistan not to pursue the Kishanganga dam dispute to the International Court of Arbitration (ICA), a Pakistani daily reported. Pakistan's Dawn newspaper reported that the World Bank has told Pakistan to comply with India's to appoint a “neutral expert” to solve the issue. PM Modi had inaugurated the Kishanganga hydropower project in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) last month with Pakistan officials protesting the Indian prime minister's move. PM Modi had said the project will ensure J&K will not only get free but also sufficient power. Pakistan had earlier objected to the construction of dam alleging that project affected the flow of water in Neelum river. It led Hague's arbitration court to halt the construction and it ruled that India could divert all the water leaving a small amount for Kishanganga river. Pakistan considers the construction of the Kishanganga dam as a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960. According to the Pakistan daily, World Bank president Jim Yong Kim advised Pakistan to "withdraw" from its stand and suggested two names to help resolve the dispute. Pakistan had earlier appointed a four-member delegation to request the World Bank to act as a guarantor in the Kishanganga Dam issue.

Comply with India, appoint 'neutral expert' to solve Kishanganga dam dispute: World Bank to Pakistan

At least three paramilitary soldiers were killed and four others injured in an attack by militants in Pakistan's Balochistan province today.

Two militants attacked a check post of paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) near Mastung city of the province, a security official said.

One attacker was killed in exchange of fire with soldiers while other blew himself up, according to the security sources.

They said that three soldiers were killed and four injured in the gun battle and ensuing suicide bombing.

Two terrorists attacked a check post of paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) near Mastung

At least three paramilitary soldiers were killed and four others injured in an attack by militants in Pakistan's Balochistan province today. Two militants attacked a check post of paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) near Mastung city of the province, a security official said. One attacker was killed in exchange of fire with soldiers while other blew himself up, according to the security sources. They said that three soldiers were killed and four injured in the gun battle and ensuing suicide bombing.

Terrorists attack Pakistan checkpoint in Balochistan; 3 soldiers killed

Several Pashtun ethnic rights activists were killed and at least 25 were wounded in a Pakistan tribal region on Sunday, when Taliban militants attacked their gathering and security forces opened fire on protesters during disturbances that followed.

The violence took place in Wana, the main administrative centre for South Waziristan, one of the most volatile of the tribal lands on Pakistan`s border with Afghanistan.

Local tribesmen and one security official, speaking on condition on anonymity, said two people were killed and 25 wounded. But Manzoor Pashteen, the head of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), said in a posting on social media that at least 10 people died and 30 were wounded during Sunday`s violence.

In his Twitter post, Pashteen described how Taliban fighters had first attacked the PTM gathering. Later angry protesters threw stones, prompting "indiscriminate" firing by security forces, he said.

The PTM became prominent after the killing of a Pashtun youth by police in the southern city of Karachi in January. Since then it has held rallies across many towns and cities.

Ali Wazir, a PTM leader who was wounded in the attack, told Reuters that the militants wanted PTM to leave the area and were "dictating an end to PTM activities in Wana".

Some PTM members said they suspected the gunmen who attacked them belonged to a Taliban faction that has covert support from Pakistan`s powerful military. The military, which denies fostering proxy groups, did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The PTM alleges that thousands of Pashtuns were targeted in state-organised killings after Pakistan joined the US-led war on terror in 2001 and launched major military operations against militant strongholds in tribal areas between 2009 and 2014.

The military has been engaged in talks with PTM members to address some of their grievances.

Pashteen called for protests at UN offices in response to the latest outrage.&nbsp

"Pashtuns wherever should protest now and those who cannot should do it tomorrow in front of the UN offices because this state doesn’t listen to our voice," Pashteen said.

PTM supporters in Peshawar protested outside the Islamabad Press Club late on Sunday evening.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) assembly on May 27 approved the merger of the province with the semi autonomous tribal areas and frontier regions, in a move aimed at bringing them into Pakistan`s political mainstream.

 
&nbsp

Several Pashtun ethnic rights activists were killed and at least 25 were wounded in a Pakistan tribal region on Sunday, when Taliban militants attacked their gathering and security forces opened fire on protesters during disturbances that followed

Several Pashtun ethnic rights activists were killed and at least 25 were wounded in a Pakistan tribal region on Sunday, when Taliban militants attacked their gathering and security forces opened fire on protesters during disturbances that followed. The violence took place in Wana, the main administrative centre for South Waziristan, one of the most volatile of the tribal lands on Pakistan`s border with Afghanistan. Local tribesmen and one security official, speaking on condition on anonymity, said two people were killed and 25 wounded. But Manzoor Pashteen, the head of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), said in a posting on social media that at least 10 people died and 30 were wounded during Sunday`s violence. In his Twitter post, Pashteen described how Taliban fighters had first attacked the PTM gathering. Later angry protesters threw stones, prompting "indiscriminate" firing by security forces, he said. The PTM became prominent after the killing of a Pashtun youth by police in the southern city of Karachi in January. Since then it has held rallies across many towns and cities. Ali Wazir, a PTM leader who was wounded in the attack, told Reuters that the militants wanted PTM to leave the area and were "dictating an end to PTM activities in Wana". Some PTM members said they suspected the gunmen who attacked them belonged to a Taliban faction that has covert support from Pakistan`s powerful military. The military, which denies fostering proxy groups, did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. The PTM alleges that thousands of Pashtuns were targeted in state-organised killings after Pakistan joined the US-led war on terror in 2001 and launched major military operations against militant strongholds in tribal areas between 2009 and 2014. The military has been engaged in talks with PTM members to address some of their grievances. Pashteen called for protests at UN offices in response to the latest outrage. "Pashtuns wherever should protest now and those who cannot should do it tomorrow in front of the UN offices because this state doesn’t listen to our voice," Pashteen said. PTM supporters in Peshawar protested outside the Islamabad Press Club late on Sunday evening. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) assembly on May 27 approved the merger of the province with the semi autonomous tribal areas and frontier regions, in a move aimed at bringing them into Pakistan`s political mainstream.

Pashtun activists killed in Pakistan, blame militants and security forces

After India and Pakistan <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-dialogue-offer-opportunity-to-save-jk-from-bloodshed-mehbooba-141939">DGMS announced a ceasefire </a>agreement last week, minister of state for home affairs(MoS) Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing.

In the latest incident, two BSF personnel were <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/two-bsf-personnel-killed-as-pak-violates-ceasefire-in-jk-141850">killed after Pakistani troops opened fire in Akhnoor</a>, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday. The sudden firing led to the death of Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey. At least 13 people were injured during the cross-border firing.

Speaking about the incident, Ahir said: &nbsp;"We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan," adding,"we will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement."

MoS Ahir added that India will continue to follow the &nbsp;"no-first-strike" policy.

Meanwhile, BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said &nbsp;Islamabad says one thing and does another.

India and Pakistan DGMOs last week had agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit".&nbsp;

"Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed,"BSF IG Awtar said. Indian troops stationed at the border returned fire, he informed.

"After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w78kiiGgrv0" width="560"></iframe>

BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said Islamabad says one thing and does another.

After India and Pakistan DGMS announced a ceasefire agreement last week, minister of state for home affairs(MoS) Hansraj Ahir said the government will be "constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement" in view of cross-border firing. In the latest incident, two BSF personnel were killed after Pakistani troops opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district on Sunday. The sudden firing led to the death of Assistant Sub-inspector Satya Narayan Yadav and Constable Vijay Kumar Pandey. At least 13 people were injured during the cross-border firing. Speaking about the incident, Ahir said: "We had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan," adding,"we will be constrained to revoke the ceasefire agreement." MoS Ahir added that India will continue to follow the "no-first-strike" policy. Meanwhile, BSF's Jammu frontier IG Ram Awtar said Islamabad says one thing and does another. India and Pakistan DGMOs last week had agreed to implement the ceasefire pact of 2003 in "letter and spirit". "Suddenly, Pakistan started firing around 1.15 am, injuring two of our personnel who later succumbed,"BSF IG Awtar said. Indian troops stationed at the border returned fire, he informed. "After every incident, we do a detailed study and accordingly take precautionary measures for the future. This incident of cross-border firing will be probed as well," the BSF IG said.

No respite in border firing, will be constrained to revoke ceasefire: MoS Home Hansraj Ahir

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday refused to take the blame for the power crisis in the country.

According to The News, the energy shortage in Pakistan has adversely impacted the economy. The country is currently facing up to 18 hours of power outages a day and is expected to face a more acute electricity crisis, if the matter is not dealt with a sense of urgency.

A special parliamentary committee on circular debt was told last month that the transmission and distribution system needs USD 40-50 billion in investment to put an end to load shedding across the country. These numbers severely question the PML-N government's approach to the power sector.

Geo News, however, quoted Sharif, as saying "When we left (office in July 2017), everything in the country was fine."

Sharif was addressing media outside an accountability court.

He was appearing before an accountability court in Islamabad, which adjourned the cross-examination of the Panama Gate Joint Investigation Team (JIT) head and prosecution's star witness, Wajid Zia, in the Al-Azizia reference against the Sharif family till June 11.

Accountability court's Judge Muhammad Bashir while adjourning the cross-examination directed the prosecution to submit final arguments in London flats case by tomorrow.

Sharif said that the PML (N) government that had just completed its tenure on May 31 had inaugurated many projects for the benefit of the people of the country.

"Before the end of (their) tenures, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif had inaugurated many projects, including 39 mega projects and motorways."

Previously,&nbsp;Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry on Wednesday said former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was "playing politics" in courts and would pay a heavy price one day.

His remarks came after Sharif said in the Avenfield reference trial at the Islamabad accountability court earlier today that the case was filed against him as a "reciprocal punishment for taking legal action against (former president Pervez) Musharraf despite being warned not to do so."

Pakistan will hold elections on July 25.

According to The News, the energy shortage in Pakistan has adversely impacted the economy. The country is currently facing up to 18 hours of power outages a day and is expected to face a more acute electricity crisis, if the matter is not dealt with a sense of urgency

Former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday refused to take the blame for the power crisis in the country. According to The News, the energy shortage in Pakistan has adversely impacted the economy. The country is currently facing up to 18 hours of power outages a day and is expected to face a more acute electricity crisis, if the matter is not dealt with a sense of urgency. A special parliamentary committee on circular debt was told last month that the transmission and distribution system needs USD 40-50 billion in investment to put an end to load shedding across the country. These numbers severely question the PML-N government's approach to the power sector. Geo News, however, quoted Sharif, as saying "When we left (office in July 2017), everything in the country was fine." Sharif was addressing media outside an accountability court. He was appearing before an accountability court in Islamabad, which adjourned the cross-examination of the Panama Gate Joint Investigation Team (JIT) head and prosecution's star witness, Wajid Zia, in the Al-Azizia reference against the Sharif family till June 11. Accountability court's Judge Muhammad Bashir while adjourning the cross-examination directed the prosecution to submit final arguments in London flats case by tomorrow. Sharif said that the PML (N) government that had just completed its tenure on May 31 had inaugurated many projects for the benefit of the people of the country. "Before the end of (their) tenures, former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif had inaugurated many projects, including 39 mega projects and motorways." Previously, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry on Wednesday said former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was "playing politics" in courts and would pay a heavy price one day. His remarks came after Sharif said in the Avenfield reference trial at the Islamabad accountability court earlier today that the case was filed against him as a "reciprocal punishment for taking legal action against (former president Pervez) Musharraf despite being warned not to do so." Pakistan will hold elections on July 25.

When we left, everything was fine: Nawaz Sharif refuses to take blame for Pakistan's electricity crisis

Ahead of the July 25 elections, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday started accepting the nomination papers after the Supreme Court announced its verdict rejecting amendments in the forms.

The Lahore High Court ruled on June 1 that the nomination papers do not necessarily seek information regarding candidates' educational background, criminal record, and dual citizenship.

It further ordered the election body to add requirements under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution to the nomination papers.

The ECP will continue to receive the nomination papers, in compliance with the approved format as per Election Act 2017, from June 4 till June 8.

The nominations papers will be scrutinised on June 14 while any appeals against the decision regarding nomination process must be filed till June 19.

On June 27, first candidates' list would be displayed and the candidates would get a day's time to withdraw their nominations.

The final list of candidates along with election symbols would be issued on June 29.&nbsp;

The Lahore High Court ruled on June 1 that the nomination papers do not necessarily seek information regarding candidates' educational background, criminal record, and dual citizenship

Ahead of the July 25 elections, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Monday started accepting the nomination papers after the Supreme Court announced its verdict rejecting amendments in the forms. The Lahore High Court ruled on June 1 that the nomination papers do not necessarily seek information regarding candidates' educational background, criminal record, and dual citizenship. It further ordered the election body to add requirements under Articles 62 and 63 of the Constitution to the nomination papers. The ECP will continue to receive the nomination papers, in compliance with the approved format as per Election Act 2017, from June 4 till June 8. The nominations papers will be scrutinised on June 14 while any appeals against the decision regarding nomination process must be filed till June 19. On June 27, first candidates' list would be displayed and the candidates would get a day's time to withdraw their nominations. The final list of candidates along with election symbols would be issued on June 29.

Pakistan Election Commission starts accepting nomination papers

England thrashed Pakistan by an innings and 55 runs to win the second Test at Headingley on Sunday.

Victory, completed inside three days, saw England level the two-match series at 1-1 after Pakistan won the first Test at Lord's by nine wickets.

It was also England's first victory in a Test match since they beat the West Indies at Lord's in September, with the side having endured a winless run of six defeats in eight Tests coming into this fixture.

By sharing the spoils in this short campaign, England avoided a third successive series defeat after reverses in Australia and New Zealand.

Jos Buttler's blistering 80 not out on Sunday saw England to a total of 363 and commanding first-innings lead of 189.

Pakistan then collapsed to 134, losing their last seven wickets for just 50 runs. Stuart Broad took three for 28 and off-spinner Dominic Bess grabbed his first wickets at Test level in a return of three for 33.

The match ended when England captain Joe Root, on his Yorkshire home ground, held a sharp slip catch to dismiss last man Mohammad Abbas off the bowling of Broad.

Brief scores:

Pakistan 1st Innings 174 (Shadab Khan 56 S Broad 3-38, J Anderson 3-43, C Woakes 3-55)

England 1st Innings 363 (J Buttler 80 no Faheem Ashraf 3-60)

Pakistan 2nd Innings 134 (S Broad 3-28, D Bess 3-33)

Result: England won by an innings and 55 runs

Series: Two-match series ends level at 1-1

England beat Pakistan by an innings and 55 runs to win 2nd Test, series ends 1-1

England thrashed Pakistan by an innings and 55 runs to win the second Test at Headingley on Sunday. Victory, completed inside three days, saw England level the two-match series at 1-1 after Pakistan won the first Test at Lord's by nine wickets. It was also England's first victory in a Test match since they beat the West Indies at Lord's in September, with the side having endured a winless run of six defeats in eight Tests coming into this fixture. By sharing the spoils in this short campaign, England avoided a third successive series defeat after reverses in Australia and New Zealand. Jos Buttler's blistering 80 not out on Sunday saw England to a total of 363 and commanding first-innings lead of 189. Pakistan then collapsed to 134, losing their last seven wickets for just 50 runs. Stuart Broad took three for 28 and off-spinner Dominic Bess grabbed his first wickets at Test level in a return of three for 33. The match ended when England captain Joe Root, on his Yorkshire home ground, held a sharp slip catch to dismiss last man Mohammad Abbas off the bowling of Broad. Brief scores: Pakistan 1st Innings 174 (Shadab Khan 56 S Broad 3-38, J Anderson 3-43, C Woakes 3-55) England 1st Innings 363 (J Buttler 80 no Faheem Ashraf 3-60) Pakistan 2nd Innings 134 (S Broad 3-28, D Bess 3-33) Result: England won by an innings and 55 runs Series: Two-match series ends level at 1-1

England hammer Pakistan to win 2nd Test by an innings; draw the two-match series

Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day.

"The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we benefit from it," Mehbooba said addressing a convention of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mehbooba said the ceasefire and talks offer an opportunity to the separatists to stop bloodshed in Jammu and Kashmir.

"There are other parties who are not in the mainstream, and if they have some other agenda, they have an opportunity now if they want to stop bloodshed in J&K. We always say that there has to be a political solution to J&K and the army or CRPF or police cannot resolve it.&nbsp

"It can only be resolved politically thorough dialogue. And when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stake holders to come forward to save J&K and its economy," she said.&nbsp

While the Centre announced unilateral ceasefire for the holy month of Ramadhan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently said the Centre was ready to talk to separatists in the valley if they are willing for a dialogue.

The chief minister said while she cannot force the separatists, they have to think on giving the youth in Kashmir a way out from the stone and gun culture.

"We cannot force you or give you a dictation, but can only request&nbspeven a day before yesterday a youth got killed after he came under a vehicle during stone-pelting. He was an orphan but why take to stone-pelting. Why not give them a way out from this morass, from stone or gun culture," she said.

Putting the onus on the separatists, Mehbooba said the mainstream parties in the state gave them an opportunity by providing an atmosphere for talks and now it was up to the separatists to take advantage of the opportunity.

"We, mainstream parties, gave you unilateral ceasefire and an atmosphere for talks, now it is up to you - the separatists. I request them that it is an opportunity, that you always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward to achieve a political solution. So, today you have an offer of dialogue".&nbsp

"They (Centre) are saying come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of this morass and difficult time, then all be it mainstream parties or separatists have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day," she said, adding "I request all the leaders (separatists) " you are very tall leaders - but right now use this opportunity of talks to save J&K. Come forward and talk".

She said the eyes of the whole country were on Kashmir and if the people here lose this opportunity, then no one will support or advocate for them tomorrow.

"The Home Minister of this country is saying they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If we lose this opportunity, nobody will support us tomorrow, no one will advocate for us. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide and how they try to save the people of Kashmir, especially its youth. If we have to save J&K, this is an opportunity for us," Mehbooba said.&nbsp

Amidst reports of more youth joining militant ranks, the chief minister said the increase in the militancy would only increase the footprints of the security forces in the valley.

"The increase in the number of youth picking up guns will increase the presence of army, CRPF and the police here. The more the situation improves, the more we can tell Army, CRPF or police that your role is over and you reduce your footprints," she said.

Referring to the spate of grenade attacks over the last few days, Mehbooba said gun or grenade attacks achieve nothing.

"Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that army or CRPF jawans have come from far-flung areas for their bread and butter, what will this achieve".

"There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? We have achieved Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, Poonch-Rawalkote road and if the situation improves, I promise you that we will re-open more such routes," she said.

The chief minister also batted for talks between India and Pakistan and condemned the ceasefire violations on the border.

"Till both the countries come closer, situation will not improve. J&K bears the maximum impact of the relationship between India and Pakistan. So, our party's agenda is that they should talk to each other," she said.

Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from 'bloodshed', Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day

Asking the separatists to come forward for talks and save the state from "bloodshed", Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the unilateral ceasefire and the offer of dialogue by the Centre as an opportunity that does not come every day. "The people of Kashmir and the leadership here have to decide on the opportunity provided by the Centre in terms of unilateral ceasefire, which stopped the bloodshed here, and then the readiness for dialogue, how we benefit from it," Mehbooba said addressing a convention of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mehbooba said the ceasefire and talks offer an opportunity to the separatists to stop bloodshed in Jammu and Kashmir. "There are other parties who are not in the mainstream, and if they have some other agenda, they have an opportunity now if they want to stop bloodshed in J&K. We always say that there has to be a political solution to J&K and the army or CRPF or police cannot resolve it. "It can only be resolved politically thorough dialogue. And when there is an offer of dialogue from the Centre, I request all stake holders to come forward to save J&K and its economy," she said. While the Centre announced unilateral ceasefire for the holy month of Ramadhan, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh recently said the Centre was ready to talk to separatists in the valley if they are willing for a dialogue. The chief minister said while she cannot force the separatists, they have to think on giving the youth in Kashmir a way out from the stone and gun culture. "We cannot force you or give you a dictation, but can only request&nbspeven a day before yesterday a youth got killed after he came under a vehicle during stone-pelting. He was an orphan but why take to stone-pelting. Why not give them a way out from this morass, from stone or gun culture," she said. Putting the onus on the separatists, Mehbooba said the mainstream parties in the state gave them an opportunity by providing an atmosphere for talks and now it was up to the separatists to take advantage of the opportunity. "We, mainstream parties, gave you unilateral ceasefire and an atmosphere for talks, now it is up to you - the separatists. I request them that it is an opportunity, that you always say that military solution is no solution and only dialogue is the way forward to achieve a political solution. So, today you have an offer of dialogue". "They (Centre) are saying come and talk to us. I think if J&K has to be taken out of this morass and difficult time, then all be it mainstream parties or separatists have to come forward and use this opportunity. Such an opportunity does not come every day," she said, adding "I request all the leaders (separatists) " you are very tall leaders - but right now use this opportunity of talks to save J&K. Come forward and talk". She said the eyes of the whole country were on Kashmir and if the people here lose this opportunity, then no one will support or advocate for them tomorrow. "The Home Minister of this country is saying they want to embrace Kashmiris and are ready for talks. If we lose this opportunity, nobody will support us tomorrow, no one will advocate for us. The eyes of the whole country are on J&K and its leadership to see what they decide and how they try to save the people of Kashmir, especially its youth. If we have to save J&K, this is an opportunity for us," Mehbooba said. Amidst reports of more youth joining militant ranks, the chief minister said the increase in the militancy would only increase the footprints of the security forces in the valley. "The increase in the number of youth picking up guns will increase the presence of army, CRPF and the police here. The more the situation improves, the more we can tell Army, CRPF or police that your role is over and you reduce your footprints," she said. Referring to the spate of grenade attacks over the last few days, Mehbooba said gun or grenade attacks achieve nothing. "Despite the unilateral ceasefire, there are grenade attacks. They do not see that civilians are getting killed, they do not see that army or CRPF jawans have come from far-flung areas for their bread and butter, what will this achieve". "There have been thousands of grenade attacks till now, thousands have picked up guns and become militants, but what has been achieved? We have achieved Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, Poonch-Rawalkote road and if the situation improves, I promise you that we will re-open more such routes," she said. The chief minister also batted for talks between India and Pakistan and condemned the ceasefire violations on the border. "Till both the countries come closer, situation will not improve. J&K bears the maximum impact of the relationship between India and Pakistan. So, our party's agenda is that they should talk to each other," she said.

Ceasefire, dialogue offer opportunity to save J&K from bloodshed: Mehbooba

Lal Hussain saunters through Rawalpindi's empty streets at&nbsp;1:00 am&nbsp;shattering the silence with syncopated drum beats, awakening startled Pakistanis so they can sleepily eat one last meal before the day's Ramadan fasting begins.

"Wake up and eat your morning meal!" he howls along with the Bhangra-inspired beats emanating from his dhol drum.

Hussain has been faithfully hitting the streets every Ramadan for the last 35 years, walking with his tasselled drum for miles through the deserted byways and back alleys of the city's old quarter.

Mothers and children peek through their windows to catch a glimpse of the drummer as he passes, while men greet him in the streets offering small amounts of cash as thanks for his service.

But this centuries-old tradition is becoming rarer in Pakistan.

Millions of devout Pakistanis observe the holy fasting month of Ramadan. From sunrise onwards they abstain from food and drink, breaking their fast at sunset with a meal called iftar.

Then in the hours before dawn, they eat once more, with sehri, the morning meal, giving them a final opportunity to consume litres (pints) of water and juice and plates of food before the day-long fast.

Drummers once provided the heartbeat to the sehri ritual but their future is uncertain as more Pakistanis connect to the grid and purchase smartphones.

Now, people almost universally rely on phone alarms, digital clocks or public announcements on loudspeakers to rouse them from their slumber in time for sehri.

"Need is the mother of innovation," says Uxi Mufti, former director general of Pakistan's national institute of culture and heritage.

"Now when (the drummers) are not required, they are vanishing."

Every year fewer drummers fan out in the cities and villages across Pakistan during Ramadan to wake their fellow Muslims for sehri.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Hardly a dozen drummers are left in Rawalpindi," Hussain tells&nbsp;as he makes his rounds through the city of some five million people.

"There used to be a drum beater in every street but now many of them have gone. The younger generations have adopted other professions."

Even as his fellow drummers have retired or abandoned the tradition, the 66-year-old persists undaunted as he battles hepatitis C -- determined to keep the practice alive for as long as possible.

His dedication has endeared him to residents.

"It rekindles (memories of) our forefathers, our culture, so we enjoy it in the same manner," says Yasir Butt.

And with Pakistan's frequent power cuts, Hussain says he is ultimately more reliable than residents' battery-reliant phones.

"There are people who tell me to continue with drum beating as they don't trust their mobile phones," he says.

'Wake up and eat your morning meal' he howls along with the Bhangra-inspired beats emanating from his dhol drum

Lal Hussain saunters through Rawalpindi's empty streets at 1:00 am shattering the silence with syncopated drum beats, awakening startled Pakistanis so they can sleepily eat one last meal before the day's Ramadan fasting begins. "Wake up and eat your morning meal!" he howls along with the Bhangra-inspired beats emanating from his dhol drum. Hussain has been faithfully hitting the streets every Ramadan for the last 35 years, walking with his tasselled drum for miles through the deserted byways and back alleys of the city's old quarter. Mothers and children peek through their windows to catch a glimpse of the drummer as he passes, while men greet him in the streets offering small amounts of cash as thanks for his service. But this centuries-old tradition is becoming rarer in Pakistan. Millions of devout Pakistanis observe the holy fasting month of Ramadan. From sunrise onwards they abstain from food and drink, breaking their fast at sunset with a meal called iftar. Then in the hours before dawn, they eat once more, with sehri, the morning meal, giving them a final opportunity to consume litres (pints) of water and juice and plates of food before the day-long fast. Drummers once provided the heartbeat to the sehri ritual but their future is uncertain as more Pakistanis connect to the grid and purchase smartphones. Now, people almost universally rely on phone alarms, digital clocks or public announcements on loudspeakers to rouse them from their slumber in time for sehri. "Need is the mother of innovation," says Uxi Mufti, former director general of Pakistan's national institute of culture and heritage. "Now when (the drummers) are not required, they are vanishing." Every year fewer drummers fan out in the cities and villages across Pakistan during Ramadan to wake their fellow Muslims for sehri. "Hardly a dozen drummers are left in Rawalpindi," Hussain tells as he makes his rounds through the city of some five million people. "There used to be a drum beater in every street but now many of them have gone. The younger generations have adopted other professions." Even as his fellow drummers have retired or abandoned the tradition, the 66-year-old persists undaunted as he battles hepatitis C -- determined to keep the practice alive for as long as possible. His dedication has endeared him to residents. "It rekindles (memories of) our forefathers, our culture, so we enjoy it in the same manner," says Yasir Butt. And with Pakistan's frequent power cuts, Hussain says he is ultimately more reliable than residents' battery-reliant phones. "There are people who tell me to continue with drum beating as they don't trust their mobile phones," he says.

The beat is fading for Pakistan's Ramadan drummers

Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah will contest the July 25 general elections on the platform of Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek as the group's Milli Muslim League is yet to be registered as a political party, a senior member of the outfit said on Saturday.

Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), a front for the Lashkar-e- Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, launched its political front Milli Muslim League, but it has not been yet registered by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

With general elections approaching, the group has decided to contest on the platform of the "dormant" political entity Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT), which was registered in the ECP.

"It was a kind of dormant party registered by a citizen Ehsan. There are several such parties registered with the ECP and such an arrangement is made ahead of the general elections if any mainstream party or organisation faces any issue or complication," a member of the JuD told PTI.

"Since the Milli Muslim League (MML) fails to get registered with the ECP it is going for this arrangement (contesting the upcoming polls on AAT platform)," he said.

MML president Saifullah Khalid will make a formal announcement regarding this shortly, he added.

The AAT's election symbol is 'chair'.

"Now the JuD/MML candidates will contest on the 'chair' symbol across the country," the member said.

He said since the MML has hardly any chance to get registered with the ECP as it had announced the election schedule and issued election symbols, it had no other option but to contest the election on any 'dormant' entity like AAT or support the Mutahidda Majlis Amal (MMA), an alliance of mainstream religious parties of the country.

"But Saeed chose to contest independently," he said.

The MML has also confirmed contesting the July 25 election on the 'chair' symbol.

"We have decided to support the candidates of AAT in July 25 elections," MML President Saifullah Khalid told PTI.

"We will play a role in the victory of those contesting on the symbol of chair. To save Pakistan, patriotic people should be supported in the elections," he said.

Khalid said the MML had been denied registration in the ECP for the last 11 months but will take part in the polls by supporting the candidates of AAT.

"Meanwhile we will continue fighting our case (registration of MML) in the court and ECP," he added.

The MML president said over 350 political parties were registered with the ECP but there is objection regarding the MML.

"I ask the MML workers to get ready and make full preparations across the country to make the AAT candidates successful in the upcoming elections. We have to serve humanity and no one can stop us from our political struggle," he said.

Meanwhile, the MML has filed a contempt of court petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the ECP for using delaying tactics regarding its enlisting as a political party as per law. June 11 is fixed for the case hearing in the IHC.

The court in March had set aside the ECP order declining registration of the MML.

Justice Aamer Farooq of the IHC bench had referred the matter to the ECP, directing the electoral body to pass a speaking order.

The MML had challenged the October 11 order of the ECP declining registration to the MML as a political party allegedly on the behest of the interior ministry.

The interior ministry had opposed enlisting of the MML as a political party arguing it's an offshoot of the Jamaatud Dawa of Hafiz Saeed banned under a UN resolution.

The JuD formed MML at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore. Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti- terrorism act.

The JuD was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.&nbsp;

Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), a front for the Lashkar-e- Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, launched its political front Milli Muslim League, but it has not been yet registered by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP)

Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Jammat-ud-Dawah will contest the July 25 general elections on the platform of Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek as the group's Milli Muslim League is yet to be registered as a political party, a senior member of the outfit said on Saturday. Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), a front for the Lashkar-e- Taiba militant group that carried out the deadly 2008 Mumbai attack, launched its political front Milli Muslim League, but it has not been yet registered by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). With general elections approaching, the group has decided to contest on the platform of the "dormant" political entity Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT), which was registered in the ECP. "It was a kind of dormant party registered by a citizen Ehsan. There are several such parties registered with the ECP and such an arrangement is made ahead of the general elections if any mainstream party or organisation faces any issue or complication," a member of the JuD told PTI. "Since the Milli Muslim League (MML) fails to get registered with the ECP it is going for this arrangement (contesting the upcoming polls on AAT platform)," he said. MML president Saifullah Khalid will make a formal announcement regarding this shortly, he added. The AAT's election symbol is 'chair'. "Now the JuD/MML candidates will contest on the 'chair' symbol across the country," the member said. He said since the MML has hardly any chance to get registered with the ECP as it had announced the election schedule and issued election symbols, it had no other option but to contest the election on any 'dormant' entity like AAT or support the Mutahidda Majlis Amal (MMA), an alliance of mainstream religious parties of the country. "But Saeed chose to contest independently," he said. The MML has also confirmed contesting the July 25 election on the 'chair' symbol. "We have decided to support the candidates of AAT in July 25 elections," MML President Saifullah Khalid told PTI. "We will play a role in the victory of those contesting on the symbol of chair. To save Pakistan, patriotic people should be supported in the elections," he said. Khalid said the MML had been denied registration in the ECP for the last 11 months but will take part in the polls by supporting the candidates of AAT. "Meanwhile we will continue fighting our case (registration of MML) in the court and ECP," he added. The MML president said over 350 political parties were registered with the ECP but there is objection regarding the MML. "I ask the MML workers to get ready and make full preparations across the country to make the AAT candidates successful in the upcoming elections. We have to serve humanity and no one can stop us from our political struggle," he said. Meanwhile, the MML has filed a contempt of court petition in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the ECP for using delaying tactics regarding its enlisting as a political party as per law. June 11 is fixed for the case hearing in the IHC. The court in March had set aside the ECP order declining registration of the MML. Justice Aamer Farooq of the IHC bench had referred the matter to the ECP, directing the electoral body to pass a speaking order. The MML had challenged the October 11 order of the ECP declining registration to the MML as a political party allegedly on the behest of the interior ministry. The interior ministry had opposed enlisting of the MML as a political party arguing it's an offshoot of the Jamaatud Dawa of Hafiz Saeed banned under a UN resolution. The JuD formed MML at the time when Saeed was detained in Lahore. Saeed and his four aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were placed under house arrest in Lahore on January 30 under anti- terrorism act. The JuD was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The JuD chief also carries a USD 10 million American bounty on his head for his role in terror activities.

Hafiz Saeed's JuD to contest Pakistan general elections on AAT platform

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founder and exiled leader Altaf Hussain on Saturday announced his resolution to boycott the upcoming 2018 Pakistan General Elections, scheduled to be held on July 25, citing incidents of injustice meted out to the party workers at the hands of the Pakistan Army.

This came after the MQM on Friday announced a conditional boycott of the elections and the application for the same was forwarded to Hussain.

With the announcement of boycott, Hussain also appealed to the Mohajirs and MQM workers to stay at home on the day of polling and not be a part of the election proceedings.

Hussain made this announcement in an address from London. He cited incidents of various state-sponsored injustices like arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings of Mohajirs and MQM workers, the embargo against him, and closure of his party headquarters Nine Zero in Karachi as the reasons behind his decision.

He also mentioned that the party offices that have not been destroyed were occupied by the Pakistani military establishment, and in an attempt to eliminate the movement, thousands of MQM workers have been arrested and given life imprisonment.

While accusing the Pakistani military of suppressing the rights of the minority groups including Balochs, Pashtoons, and Mohajirs, Hussain said "MQM on participating in the country`s politics also accounts for the boycott as when the movement is allowed to do politics in Pakistan then how would it be possible for them to appoint candidates."

He also accused the army of assassinating Pakistan`s founder Mohammad Ali Jinnah and conducting atrocities on the women, as he said, "More than 250 women factory workers were kidnapped and had not been returned back to their families.

"Instead of repeated requests put forward by the Mohajirs to look into the incidents of disappearances of women, the Pakistani government, police, media, and the military remained silent on the issue, as claimed by Hussain.

Further, Hussain blamed former Pakistan`s military chief Ayub Khan for sending troops to kill numerous unarmed and innocent Mohajirs, and to rape women.

He then took on the government of former Pakistani president late Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for massacring Mohajirs and imposing biased quota system to suppress the minority and support the Sindhi community.

For the time being, Pakistan is governed by an interim government headed by former Pakistan Chief Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk.

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founder and exiled leader Altaf Hussain on Saturday announced his resolution to boycott the upcoming 2018 Pakistan General Elections, scheduled to be held on July 25, citing incidents of injustice meted out to the party workers at the hands of the Pakistan Army

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founder and exiled leader Altaf Hussain on Saturday announced his resolution to boycott the upcoming 2018 Pakistan General Elections, scheduled to be held on July 25, citing incidents of injustice meted out to the party workers at the hands of the Pakistan Army. This came after the MQM on Friday announced a conditional boycott of the elections and the application for the same was forwarded to Hussain. With the announcement of boycott, Hussain also appealed to the Mohajirs and MQM workers to stay at home on the day of polling and not be a part of the election proceedings. Hussain made this announcement in an address from London. He cited incidents of various state-sponsored injustices like arbitrary arrests and extra-judicial killings of Mohajirs and MQM workers, the embargo against him, and closure of his party headquarters Nine Zero in Karachi as the reasons behind his decision. He also mentioned that the party offices that have not been destroyed were occupied by the Pakistani military establishment, and in an attempt to eliminate the movement, thousands of MQM workers have been arrested and given life imprisonment. While accusing the Pakistani military of suppressing the rights of the minority groups including Balochs, Pashtoons, and Mohajirs, Hussain said "MQM on participating in the country`s politics also accounts for the boycott as when the movement is allowed to do politics in Pakistan then how would it be possible for them to appoint candidates." He also accused the army of assassinating Pakistan`s founder Mohammad Ali Jinnah and conducting atrocities on the women, as he said, "More than 250 women factory workers were kidnapped and had not been returned back to their families. "Instead of repeated requests put forward by the Mohajirs to look into the incidents of disappearances of women, the Pakistani government, police, media, and the military remained silent on the issue, as claimed by Hussain. Further, Hussain blamed former Pakistan`s military chief Ayub Khan for sending troops to kill numerous unarmed and innocent Mohajirs, and to rape women. He then took on the government of former Pakistani president late Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for massacring Mohajirs and imposing biased quota system to suppress the minority and support the Sindhi community. For the time being, Pakistan is governed by an interim government headed by former Pakistan Chief Justice Nasir-ul-Mulk.

MQM will boycott Pakistan's 2018 elections, confirms exiled leader Altaf Hussain

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