Two Indian army soldiers were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district during a shelling by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
"Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars from 1715 hours in Sunderbanisector along the Line of Control (LoC) last night," a defence spokesman said.

The soldiers, Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma, &nbspwere critically injured after which both of them succumbed to their injuries, the spokesperson informed.&nbsp

Singh, 24, belonged to Danapur village of Akhnoor district in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his father, Ajit Singh. 
Sharma, 30, was from Sanhail village of Hiranagar district in Jammu. He is survived by his wife, Rajni Devi.

"Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma were brave and sincere soldiers. The nation will always remain indebted to the brave hearts for their supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," the defence spokesperson said.&nbsp

The fresh ceasefire violation comes four days after an army officer was injured when Pakistan Army violated ceasefire on Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

The soldiers, Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma, were critically injured after which both of them succumbed to their injuries, the spokesperson informed

Two Indian army soldiers were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunderbani sector of Rajouri district during a shelling by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday. "Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of small arms, automatics and mortars from 1715 hours in Sunderbanisector along the Line of Control (LoC) last night," a defence spokesman said. The soldiers, Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma, &nbspwere critically injured after which both of them succumbed to their injuries, the spokesperson informed. Singh, 24, belonged to Danapur village of Akhnoor district in Jammu and Kashmir. He is survived by his father, Ajit Singh. Sharma, 30, was from Sanhail village of Hiranagar district in Jammu. He is survived by his wife, Rajni Devi. "Rifleman Vinod Singh and Rifleman Jaki Sharma were brave and sincere soldiers. The nation will always remain indebted to the brave hearts for their supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty," the defence spokesperson said. The fresh ceasefire violation comes four days after an army officer was injured when Pakistan Army violated ceasefire on Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. (With inputs from PTI)

2 Indian army soldiers dead after unprovoked shelling by Pakistan

Noted senior Pakistani journalist Nusrat Javed has claimed that the United States (US) has imposed drastic sanctions on the Pakistani diplomats posted in Washington DC, saying, seeking permission to cross the radius of 25 kilometres will be mandatory for them from May 1.

"The US has made it mandatory for the Pakistani diplomats posted in Washington DC to seek permission to step outside the radius of 25 kilometres since May 1," said Nusrat on a TV show titled 'Bol Bol Pakistan.'

With this move, the diplomatic relations between the US and Pakistan, are expected to sour further, which are already going through a rough patch following an American envoy allegedly running down three people in Islamabad earlier this month.

"The restrictions are the ones which the US usually imposes on the countries it despises. For instance, the Russian diplomats have been expelled out of the country (over the poisoning of a former spy in Britain). However, such restrictions have not been slapped on Russia," the senior journalist noted.

Colonel Joseph Emanuel Hall, Defence and Air attache at the US Embassy in Pakistan, on Saturday, ran down three persons in Daman-e-Koh, north of Islamabad, prompting Pakistan to summon the US Ambassador David Hale to lodge a formal protest.

However, unlike American intelligence operative Raymond Davis, who, in 2011, was arrested in Lahore on charges of killing two Pakistani citizens, stirring up a massive diplomatic rift with Islamabad, Hall is not in police custody and is back on the embassy compound.

Earlier, the US State Department had conveyed to the Pakistan Embassy in Washington DC that if it does not ease the travel of the US diplomats, reciprocal restrictions will be imposed on the Pakistan envoys in the US from May 1, including restrictions on travel beyond 25 kilometres of the city of posting.&nbsp

The diplomatic relations between the US and Pakistan are already going through a rough patch

Noted senior Pakistani journalist Nusrat Javed has claimed that the United States (US) has imposed drastic sanctions on the Pakistani diplomats posted in Washington DC, saying, seeking permission to cross the radius of 25 kilometres will be mandatory for them from May 1. "The US has made it mandatory for the Pakistani diplomats posted in Washington DC to seek permission to step outside the radius of 25 kilometres since May 1," said Nusrat on a TV show titled 'Bol Bol Pakistan.' With this move, the diplomatic relations between the US and Pakistan, are expected to sour further, which are already going through a rough patch following an American envoy allegedly running down three people in Islamabad earlier this month. "The restrictions are the ones which the US usually imposes on the countries it despises. For instance, the Russian diplomats have been expelled out of the country (over the poisoning of a former spy in Britain). However, such restrictions have not been slapped on Russia," the senior journalist noted. Colonel Joseph Emanuel Hall, Defence and Air attache at the US Embassy in Pakistan, on Saturday, ran down three persons in Daman-e-Koh, north of Islamabad, prompting Pakistan to summon the US Ambassador David Hale to lodge a formal protest. However, unlike American intelligence operative Raymond Davis, who, in 2011, was arrested in Lahore on charges of killing two Pakistani citizens, stirring up a massive diplomatic rift with Islamabad, Hall is not in police custody and is back on the embassy compound. Earlier, the US State Department had conveyed to the Pakistan Embassy in Washington DC that if it does not ease the travel of the US diplomats, reciprocal restrictions will be imposed on the Pakistan envoys in the US from May 1, including restrictions on travel beyond 25 kilometres of the city of posting.

US imposed drastic restrictions on Pak diplomats in Washington DC: Pakistani journalist

By Khalid Bashir Shah

At 12:36 pm on April 9, 2018, Farooq Dar looks at his watch and says that at around this time last year he had been tied to an Indian Army jeep which doing the rounds of villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district.

The incident triggered a national debate which went on for many months and every now and then, the debate makes a return to the national headlines.&nbsp;

While the Indian Army awarded Major Leetul Gogoi, the officer who tied Farooq to the jeep, for saving people's lives and thinking strategically during a stone-pelting incident, Farooq’s life has been turned upside down.&nbsp;

He has had no employment or income this past year.&nbsp;

"Today is my birthday because on the same day I was tied to a car. God put me in this misery and pulled me out of the misery. This became my new birthday. IT was my mistake that I came out to cast the vote. After casting the vote I was tied to the car. This is the the exact time when I was tied to the vehicle. It is one o'clock and at this time I was near Arizal village tied to the vehicle," says Farooq.&nbsp;

"It was my fault to cast the vote, I was used as a human shield immediately after casting my vote. Is this my fault or of the person who tied me to the vehicle? If I had been the stone pelter, let them prove I was a stone pelter. At least there should have been some investigation and the man who tied me to the vehicle should have been asked why he tied me to the vehicle."

Farooq worked as an embroidery artist before, for want of a better word, the "incident".&nbsp;

He is fighting his legal battle with help from his lawyer, Ahsan Untoo. Other than his lawyer, no one else has come forward with support. The Jammu and Kashmir Human Rights Commission had sanctioned Farooq relief of a million rupees but the government turned it down.&nbsp;

"Problem is that I have lost my peace of mind, I am barely able to relax. If I go anywhere, people say, 'The human shield guy has come, he was paid 10 lakh, he has no worry. Only my lawyer came to rescue me and told me stand on my feet and I will fight for your justice. If my lawyer, Mohammad Ahsan Untoo, hadn’t supported me, my life would have gotten over."

Most recently a furore erupted in the Kashmir valley after a company began making <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-man-tied-to-jeep-now-theres-a-t-shirt-and-another-controversy-126473">T-shirts</a> showing Farooq tied to the Indian Army jeep. And then the Tiger Shroff movie Baaghi 2 also depicted the incident.&nbsp;

These, says Farooq, are an assault on his wounds.&nbsp;

"If anyone gets a small injury, and even if the injury starts healing, if there is a scratch on that clot... The wound will start bleeding again. That is what happens to my mind, my heart and my soul, when such things happen," he says.&nbsp;

"We have sent a legal notice to T-shirt people and to the film directors as well. Now the high court will deal with them."&nbsp;

He also talks about his lack of employment, saying, "No I don’t do any work. I used to work as a daily wage labourer and now that is now possible either. No one is willing to give me employment."

"They think the CID guys will be after me. Police will be searching for me, media will be following. The employees think if they take me for employment, their money will go to waste." &nbsp;

Dar has had no employment — people are too scared to hire him — since he was tied to an Indian Army jeep and used as a 'human shield' exactly a year ago

By Khalid Bashir Shah At 12:36 pm on April 9, 2018, Farooq Dar looks at his watch and says that at around this time last year he had been tied to an Indian Army jeep which doing the rounds of villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district. The incident triggered a national debate which went on for many months and every now and then, the debate makes a return to the national headlines. While the Indian Army awarded Major Leetul Gogoi, the officer who tied Farooq to the jeep, for saving people's lives and thinking strategically during a stone-pelting incident, Farooq’s life has been turned upside down. He has had no employment or income this past year. "Today is my birthday because on the same day I was tied to a car. God put me in this misery and pulled me out of the misery. This became my new birthday. IT was my mistake that I came out to cast the vote. After casting the vote I was tied to the car. This is the the exact time when I was tied to the vehicle. It is one o'clock and at this time I was near Arizal village tied to the vehicle," says Farooq. "It was my fault to cast the vote, I was used as a human shield immediately after casting my vote. Is this my fault or of the person who tied me to the vehicle? If I had been the stone pelter, let them prove I was a stone pelter. At least there should have been some investigation and the man who tied me to the vehicle should have been asked why he tied me to the vehicle." Farooq worked as an embroidery artist before, for want of a better word, the "incident". He is fighting his legal battle with help from his lawyer, Ahsan Untoo. Other than his lawyer, no one else has come forward with support. The Jammu and Kashmir Human Rights Commission had sanctioned Farooq relief of a million rupees but the government turned it down. "Problem is that I have lost my peace of mind, I am barely able to relax. If I go anywhere, people say, 'The human shield guy has come, he was paid 10 lakh, he has no worry. Only my lawyer came to rescue me and told me stand on my feet and I will fight for your justice. If my lawyer, Mohammad Ahsan Untoo, hadn’t supported me, my life would have gotten over." Most recently a furore erupted in the Kashmir valley after a company began making T-shirts showing Farooq tied to the Indian Army jeep. And then the Tiger Shroff movie Baaghi 2 also depicted the incident. These, says Farooq, are an assault on his wounds. "If anyone gets a small injury, and even if the injury starts healing, if there is a scratch on that clot... The wound will start bleeding again. That is what happens to my mind, my heart and my soul, when such things happen," he says. "We have sent a legal notice to T-shirt people and to the film directors as well. Now the high court will deal with them." He also talks about his lack of employment, saying, "No I don’t do any work. I used to work as a daily wage labourer and now that is now possible either. No one is willing to give me employment." "They think the CID guys will be after me. Police will be searching for me, media will be following. The employees think if they take me for employment, their money will go to waste."

There should have been an investigation: 'Human shield' Farooq Dar says 1 year on

China today welcomed the fence-mending visit of Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to Afghanistan, terming it as an "important step" to improve the strained ties between the two neighbours.

China is promoting a trilateral approach with Pakistan and Afghanistan and encouraging both of them to bury their differences over the Taliban as it seeks to connect its ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with Kabul.

Abbasi's "visit is an important step for improving the relations between the two countries. It demonstrates firm resolution of the two country to enhance dialogue and cooperation," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing here today.

During Abbasi's day-long visit to Afghanistan on Friday, the two sides agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement for regional peace and security.

Geng said that China noticed that the two countries reached a consensus on the Afghan peace process.

Without directly referring to the CPEC, which is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Geng said Pakistan and Afghanistan amity "enhance regional connectivity".

"China highly appreciates and firmly supports it (Abbasi's visit). This is conducive to the early achievement of peace in Afghanistan and also conducive peace and development," he said.

"As a neighbour and friend of Pakistan and Afghanistan, China is willing to play a constructive role in improving the relation between the two counties and actively promoting China, Pakistan and Afghanistan trilateral cooperation," he said.

China for the first time held a trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of the three countries here in December last where it proposed the extension of CPEC to Afghanistan much to the disquiet of India.

A study report titled Asian Competitiveness Annual Report 2018 released yesterday on the sidelines of Boao Forum for Asia in China's Boao city said CPEC the "flagship" project of the Belt and Road Initiative is being extended to Afghanistan.

"CPEC a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative, has not only improved local infrastructure but also is extending toward Afghanistan, reducing poverty, the hotbed of terrorism, and bringing better prospects for local people's lives," state-run Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying.&nbsp

During Abbasi's day-long visit to Afghanistan on Friday, the two sides agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement

China today welcomed the fence-mending visit of Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi to Afghanistan, terming it as an "important step" to improve the strained ties between the two neighbours. China is promoting a trilateral approach with Pakistan and Afghanistan and encouraging both of them to bury their differences over the Taliban as it seeks to connect its ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) with Kabul. Abbasi's "visit is an important step for improving the relations between the two countries. It demonstrates firm resolution of the two country to enhance dialogue and cooperation," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing here today. During Abbasi's day-long visit to Afghanistan on Friday, the two sides agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement for regional peace and security. Geng said that China noticed that the two countries reached a consensus on the Afghan peace process. Without directly referring to the CPEC, which is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Geng said Pakistan and Afghanistan amity "enhance regional connectivity". "China highly appreciates and firmly supports it (Abbasi's visit). This is conducive to the early achievement of peace in Afghanistan and also conducive peace and development," he said. "As a neighbour and friend of Pakistan and Afghanistan, China is willing to play a constructive role in improving the relation between the two counties and actively promoting China, Pakistan and Afghanistan trilateral cooperation," he said. China for the first time held a trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of the three countries here in December last where it proposed the extension of CPEC to Afghanistan much to the disquiet of India. A study report titled Asian Competitiveness Annual Report 2018 released yesterday on the sidelines of Boao Forum for Asia in China's Boao city said CPEC the "flagship" project of the Belt and Road Initiative is being extended to Afghanistan. "CPEC a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative, has not only improved local infrastructure but also is extending toward Afghanistan, reducing poverty, the hotbed of terrorism, and bringing better prospects for local people's lives," state-run Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying.

Pakistan PM's Afghan visit 'important step' to improve strained ties: China

An editorial published in a Pakistani daily has cautioned Pakistan to avoid an overtly sympathetic approach to extremism and groups espousing such causes, as not doing so, could germinate new forms of terror on its soil, and lead to more critical finger pointing by the international community.

The editorial, which has been published in the Express Tribune, says, " An ambivalent or equivocal attitude to extremism, in some instances a barely concealed sympathy for extremist groups, makes fertile ground for terror to germinate in and subsequently for entities such as the UNSC to point the finger so convincingly. The rest of the world reads these lists as well - and Pakistan makes its choices."

While it describes as unfortunate Pakistan's appearance and description on several global lists indirectly as a problematic nation without specifically acknowledging that terror flourishes from its soil, the editorial further states, "Some of those listed have been arrested but many are not, and as time passes and terrorist and extremist groups continue to recruit many without let or hindrance, and the pool of future terrorist grows, so does the problem. Their names are not yet on any list but they may be in future. Therein lies the root of the problem for Pakistan."

On the latest list issued by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of 139 individuals as terrorists and entities, it says, "There will be those that disagree with the presence of some individuals and organisations on the list, but in a majority of cases the evidence is clear and growing."

"Such lists rarely shrink over time unless the state in question is successfully and longitudinally countering terrorism. Using this list as a basis for argument there will be those that say that Pakistan has failed in that respect, and failed consistently and over time," the Express Tribune editorial concludes.&nbsp;

The editorial describes as unfortunate Pakistan's appearance and description on several global lists indirectly as a problematic nation

An editorial published in a Pakistani daily has cautioned Pakistan to avoid an overtly sympathetic approach to extremism and groups espousing such causes, as not doing so, could germinate new forms of terror on its soil, and lead to more critical finger pointing by the international community. The editorial, which has been published in the Express Tribune, says, " An ambivalent or equivocal attitude to extremism, in some instances a barely concealed sympathy for extremist groups, makes fertile ground for terror to germinate in and subsequently for entities such as the UNSC to point the finger so convincingly. The rest of the world reads these lists as well - and Pakistan makes its choices." While it describes as unfortunate Pakistan's appearance and description on several global lists indirectly as a problematic nation without specifically acknowledging that terror flourishes from its soil, the editorial further states, "Some of those listed have been arrested but many are not, and as time passes and terrorist and extremist groups continue to recruit many without let or hindrance, and the pool of future terrorist grows, so does the problem. Their names are not yet on any list but they may be in future. Therein lies the root of the problem for Pakistan." On the latest list issued by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of 139 individuals as terrorists and entities, it says, "There will be those that disagree with the presence of some individuals and organisations on the list, but in a majority of cases the evidence is clear and growing." "Such lists rarely shrink over time unless the state in question is successfully and longitudinally countering terrorism. Using this list as a basis for argument there will be those that say that Pakistan has failed in that respect, and failed consistently and over time," the Express Tribune editorial concludes.

Pakistan could germinate new forms of terror: Pakistani daily

A woman's legs were brutally chopped off by her brothers over a property dispute in Khanewal city in Pakistan's Punjab province, a media report said today.

The woman, a local farm worker, had asked her brothers to give her share in an inherited property. When rejected, she had threatened to move the court, The News reported.

But before she could move the court, her brothers attacked her with axes and chopped off her legs, the paper said.

The woman was shifted to the district hospital Khanewal, but later transferred to Multan's Nishtar Hospital, where she is stated to be in a critical condition.

Police have started investigation and are conducting raids to arrest the accused.&nbsp 
&nbsp

The woman, a local farm worker, had asked for a share of the siblings' inherited property. When rejected, she had threatened to move court

A woman's legs were brutally chopped off by her brothers over a property dispute in Khanewal city in Pakistan's Punjab province, a media report said today. The woman, a local farm worker, had asked her brothers to give her share in an inherited property. When rejected, she had threatened to move the court, The News reported. But before she could move the court, her brothers attacked her with axes and chopped off her legs, the paper said. The woman was shifted to the district hospital Khanewal, but later transferred to Multan's Nishtar Hospital, where she is stated to be in a critical condition. Police have started investigation and are conducting raids to arrest the accused.

Brothers chop off sister's legs over property dispute in Pak's Punjab

A protest was organised by over one lakh Pashtuns in Pakistan's Peshawar region on Sunday.

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The protest rally held against the Pakistan government and the security forces demanded an intervention of International community in the conflicted Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).

The protesters also demanded the release of suspects arrested by authorities over alleged links to militants.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-pakistan-protests-across-pok-to-mark-1947-invasion-22724">Anti-Pakistan protests across PoK to mark 1947 invasion</a>

Shouting slogans against the security forces the people demanded to clear mines planted in their areas.

Anti Pak protests are frequently staged in various parts of Pakistan including PoK and Balochistan.

Such protests are also organised by International community in Geneva, London and New York.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-republican-party-holds-anti-pakistan-protest-in-geneva-35082">Baloch Republican Party holds </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-republican-party-holds-anti-pakistan-protest-in-geneva-35082">anti-Pakistan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-republican-party-holds-anti-pakistan-protest-in-geneva-35082"> protest in Geneva</a>

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Over 100,000 Pashtuns held a rally in Peshawar against Pakistan govt earlier today. The protesters demanded international community to intervene in the war crimes in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). <a href="https://t.co/W8eUIu8z38">pic.twitter.com/W8eUIu8z38</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/983005191225184257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The protest rally held against the Pakistan government and the security forces demanded an intervention of International community in the conflicted Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA)

A protest was organised by over one lakh Pashtuns in Pakistan's Peshawar region on Sunday. × The protest rally held against the Pakistan government and the security forces demanded an intervention of International community in the conflicted Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). The protesters also demanded the release of suspects arrested by authorities over alleged links to militants. Also read: Anti-Pakistan protests across PoK to mark 1947 invasion Shouting slogans against the security forces the people demanded to clear mines planted in their areas. Anti Pak protests are frequently staged in various parts of Pakistan including PoK and Balochistan. Such protests are also organised by International community in Geneva, London and New York. Also read: Baloch Republican Party holds anti-Pakistan protest in Geneva Over 100,000 Pashtuns held a rally in Peshawar against Pakistan govt earlier today. The protesters demanded international community to intervene in the war crimes in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). pic.twitter.com/W8eUIu8z38 — ANI (@ANI) April 8, 2018 ×

Pashtuns protest against Pak government, demand international intervention in FATA

Pakistan is holding direct talks with Russia for the procurement of sophisticated military hardware, including air defence systems, fighter jets and battle tanks, a media report said on Sunday.

Defence Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan confirmed that Islamabad was interested in buying weapons from Moscow in an interview to the Russian news agency Sputnik, The Express Tribune reported.

"Air defence system is a different kind of weapon we are interested. We are very much interested in a very wide range of the Russian weapons technology. We are in negotiations [on air defence systems] and once we conclude negotiations, we will be able to announce them," Khan said.

The defence minister also outlined that Islamabad was interested in acquiring T-90 tanks from Moscow as part of a long-term deal rather than committing itself to a single purchase.

"We are interested in tanks T-90 and it is not going to be a one-time purchase but it is going to be a long-term commitment," Khan was quoted as saying by the agency.

He added that negotiations for the purchase of Russian Su-35 fighter jets are in their early stages, and an agreement in this regard may be reached "in the next few years", according to the Russian website.

The defence minister noted that both Pakistan and Russia were interested in a stable and democratic Afghanistan.

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp

"We are interested in tanks T-90 and it is not going to be a one-time purchase but it is going to be a long-term commitment," Khan was quoted as saying

Pakistan is holding direct talks with Russia for the procurement of sophisticated military hardware, including air defence systems, fighter jets and battle tanks, a media report said on Sunday. Defence Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan confirmed that Islamabad was interested in buying weapons from Moscow in an interview to the Russian news agency Sputnik, The Express Tribune reported. "Air defence system is a different kind of weapon we are interested. We are very much interested in a very wide range of the Russian weapons technology. We are in negotiations [on air defence systems] and once we conclude negotiations, we will be able to announce them," Khan said. The defence minister also outlined that Islamabad was interested in acquiring T-90 tanks from Moscow as part of a long-term deal rather than committing itself to a single purchase. "We are interested in tanks T-90 and it is not going to be a one-time purchase but it is going to be a long-term commitment," Khan was quoted as saying by the agency. He added that negotiations for the purchase of Russian Su-35 fighter jets are in their early stages, and an agreement in this regard may be reached "in the next few years", according to the Russian website. The defence minister noted that both Pakistan and Russia were interested in a stable and democratic Afghanistan. (With PTI inputs)

Pak in talks with Russia for procurement of sophisticated arms: Report

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah today sought that the Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into a 'Line of Peace' while India and Pakistan should initiate the dialogue process with an active involvement of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to usher harmony and tranquillity in the state.

He cautioned the Centre against taking the people of J&K "for granted and ignoring" their legitimate aspirations. He said the claims that demonetization had curbed stone pelting had fallen flat and expressed concern that "youth were now taking to guns".

India and Pakistan should resume the dialogue process and engage people of Jammu and Kashmir in an acceptable solution, Abdullah said addressing party workers at Balakote in Poonch district. Sagacity lies in acknowledging realities and shedding the baggage of the past, he said.

Referring to the Indo-Pak hostilities in 1990s, he said former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had invited the then Pakistan president Parvez Musharraf despite the Kargil incursion and his political wisdom worked in terms of a cease-fire agreement which brought cheer to the lives of border people.

"Why can't Vajpayee's spirit be emulated by his political inheritors," he said warning that extreme positions could lead to devastation and destruction in the entire region.

Reiterating his party's demand for greater autonomy to the state, the former chief minister said internal autonomy within the framework of Indian Constitution and conversion of Line of Control (LoC) into Line of Peace was the pragmatic way forward.

"The people of the state decided their future in 1947 by acceding to Mahatma Gandhi's secular India and they will fight all machinations of reversing these well-established credentials by polarising forces. "India is not religion specific but a country of all, irrespective of religion, region and caste. This legacy cannot be trampled on by fringe elements, currently holding the centre-stage in Indian politics, as a majority of Hindus disapprove politics of polarisation and division,"&nbsp;he said.

Without naming BJP, he said the current spell of governance in New Delhi had created chaos all over, with people feeling their identities threatened and thus taking to streets.

Abdullah expressed concern over the "dicey political situation" saying he would keep his fingers crossed about things to happen in case the present arrangement is repeated in New Delhi in 2019.

"India cannot flourish with a myopic political vision. It has been a forward-looking country, which has to move forward as a strong, stable and a united nation," he added.

Abdullah cautioned people against the divisive politics, saying attempts were being made to create a&nbsp;wedge in the society on the basis of region and religion. "All this is being done with a sinister motive of fragmenting Jammu and Kashmir into three different regions", he said and warned those nurturing this "nightmarish dream".

National Conference would fight these designs tooth and nail, he said.

Earlier, at a public meeting at Mandi in Poonch district, Abdullah cautioned the Centre against taking the people of Jammu and Kashmir for granted.

"The claims that demonetization had put an end to stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir have fallen flat as the youth were now taking to guns. The situation, therefore, cannot be allowed to drift anymore,"&nbsp;he said.

The former chief minister called for earnest initiatives to reach out to the people and urged the Centre to resolve the issues which are essentially political in nature and try to win over the alienated hearts and minds by shunning the policy of "creating divisions".

The MP reiterated the need for Indo-Pak dialogue and said Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into 'Line of Peace and Goodwill' to enable unhindered people to people exchange and trade.

Abdullah said the conversion of LoC into Line of Peace would benefit peoples living along the borders on both sides, who have been braving the brunt of hostilities.

He referred to the violence over the alleged "dilution" of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and said machinations are being engineered to end reservation.

"The present dispensation at the Centre is working against the interests of farmers, weaker sections, and minorities," he alleged.

The NC president also blamed the PDP-BJP dispensation in Jammu and Kashmir for "failing" to deliver.

"The lack of accountability and mis-governance have added to the miseries of the people, who are feeling let down on every front,"&nbsp;he claimed.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India and Pakistan should resume the dialogue process and engage people of Jammu and Kashmir in an acceptable solution, Abdullah said

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah today sought that the Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into a 'Line of Peace' while India and Pakistan should initiate the dialogue process with an active involvement of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to usher harmony and tranquillity in the state. He cautioned the Centre against taking the people of J&K "for granted and ignoring" their legitimate aspirations. He said the claims that demonetization had curbed stone pelting had fallen flat and expressed concern that "youth were now taking to guns". India and Pakistan should resume the dialogue process and engage people of Jammu and Kashmir in an acceptable solution, Abdullah said addressing party workers at Balakote in Poonch district. Sagacity lies in acknowledging realities and shedding the baggage of the past, he said. Referring to the Indo-Pak hostilities in 1990s, he said former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had invited the then Pakistan president Parvez Musharraf despite the Kargil incursion and his political wisdom worked in terms of a cease-fire agreement which brought cheer to the lives of border people. "Why can't Vajpayee's spirit be emulated by his political inheritors," he said warning that extreme positions could lead to devastation and destruction in the entire region. Reiterating his party's demand for greater autonomy to the state, the former chief minister said internal autonomy within the framework of Indian Constitution and conversion of Line of Control (LoC) into Line of Peace was the pragmatic way forward. "The people of the state decided their future in 1947 by acceding to Mahatma Gandhi's secular India and they will fight all machinations of reversing these well-established credentials by polarising forces. "India is not religion specific but a country of all, irrespective of religion, region and caste. This legacy cannot be trampled on by fringe elements, currently holding the centre-stage in Indian politics, as a majority of Hindus disapprove politics of polarisation and division," he said. Without naming BJP, he said the current spell of governance in New Delhi had created chaos all over, with people feeling their identities threatened and thus taking to streets. Abdullah expressed concern over the "dicey political situation" saying he would keep his fingers crossed about things to happen in case the present arrangement is repeated in New Delhi in 2019. "India cannot flourish with a myopic political vision. It has been a forward-looking country, which has to move forward as a strong, stable and a united nation," he added. Abdullah cautioned people against the divisive politics, saying attempts were being made to create a wedge in the society on the basis of region and religion. "All this is being done with a sinister motive of fragmenting Jammu and Kashmir into three different regions", he said and warned those nurturing this "nightmarish dream". National Conference would fight these designs tooth and nail, he said. Earlier, at a public meeting at Mandi in Poonch district, Abdullah cautioned the Centre against taking the people of Jammu and Kashmir for granted. "The claims that demonetization had put an end to stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir have fallen flat as the youth were now taking to guns. The situation, therefore, cannot be allowed to drift anymore," he said. The former chief minister called for earnest initiatives to reach out to the people and urged the Centre to resolve the issues which are essentially political in nature and try to win over the alienated hearts and minds by shunning the policy of "creating divisions". The MP reiterated the need for Indo-Pak dialogue and said Line of Control (LoC) should be converted into 'Line of Peace and Goodwill' to enable unhindered people to people exchange and trade. Abdullah said the conversion of LoC into Line of Peace would benefit peoples living along the borders on both sides, who have been braving the brunt of hostilities. He referred to the violence over the alleged "dilution" of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and said machinations are being engineered to end reservation. "The present dispensation at the Centre is working against the interests of farmers, weaker sections, and minorities," he alleged. The NC president also blamed the PDP-BJP dispensation in Jammu and Kashmir for "failing" to deliver. "The lack of accountability and mis-governance have added to the miseries of the people, who are feeling let down on every front," he claimed.

India's legacy cannot be trampled on by fringe elements: Farooq Abdullah

The controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor - the flagship project of China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) - is being extended to Afghanistan, a study report said Sunday.

The BRI has injected "fresh vitality" to Asia's economic cooperation and helped the continent to reshape its international relations, said the Asian Competitiveness Annual Report 2018 released here on the sidelines of China's Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference.

China in December had unveiled its plans to extend the&nbsp;50 billion CPEC to Afghanistan which has sparked concerns in India.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his meeting with his Pakistan and Afghan counterparts had offered to extend CPEC to Afghanistan.

"China and Pakistan are willing to look at with Afghanistan, on the basis of win-win, mutually beneficial principles, using an appropriate means to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan," Wang had said at the trilateral foreign ministers' meeting.

The BFA was formed by China in 2001 on the lines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, and holds its meeting every year.

This year's forum to be held till April 11 has opened at Boao today a coastal town in the southern island province of Hainan. President Xi Jinping is due to address the conference.

"China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative, has not only improved local infrastructure but also is extending toward Afghanistan, reducing poverty, the hotbed of terrorism, and bringing better prospects for local people's lives," state-run Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying.

The multi-billion-dollar BRI, the pet project of Xi has become a major stumbling block in India-China relations as CPEC has been listed as its "flagship project".

India has protested to China over CPEC, which is being built through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Outlining India's concerns on BRI, Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale told Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post recently that "when we talk about development projects or connectivity projects, they must be transparent, fair and equal. There are certain internationally accepted norms for such projects".

"If a project meets those norms, we will be happy to take part in it. One of the norms is the project should not violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of a country. Unfortunately, there is this thing called CPEC, which is called a flagship project of BRI which violates India's sovereignty and territory integrity. Therefore, we oppose it," he said.

Earlier, he told state-run Global Times that both countries should resolve differences. "This is a major problem for us. We need to talk about it, not push it under the carpet," he said.&nbsp;

China in December had unveiled its plans to extend the 50 billion CPEC to Afghanistan which has sparked concerns in India

The controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor - the flagship project of China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) - is being extended to Afghanistan, a study report said Sunday. The BRI has injected "fresh vitality" to Asia's economic cooperation and helped the continent to reshape its international relations, said the Asian Competitiveness Annual Report 2018 released here on the sidelines of China's Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference. China in December had unveiled its plans to extend the 50 billion CPEC to Afghanistan which has sparked concerns in India. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his meeting with his Pakistan and Afghan counterparts had offered to extend CPEC to Afghanistan. "China and Pakistan are willing to look at with Afghanistan, on the basis of win-win, mutually beneficial principles, using an appropriate means to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan," Wang had said at the trilateral foreign ministers' meeting. The BFA was formed by China in 2001 on the lines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, and holds its meeting every year. This year's forum to be held till April 11 has opened at Boao today a coastal town in the southern island province of Hainan. President Xi Jinping is due to address the conference. "China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative, has not only improved local infrastructure but also is extending toward Afghanistan, reducing poverty, the hotbed of terrorism, and bringing better prospects for local people's lives," state-run Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying. The multi-billion-dollar BRI, the pet project of Xi has become a major stumbling block in India-China relations as CPEC has been listed as its "flagship project". India has protested to China over CPEC, which is being built through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Outlining India's concerns on BRI, Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale told Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post recently that "when we talk about development projects or connectivity projects, they must be transparent, fair and equal. There are certain internationally accepted norms for such projects". "If a project meets those norms, we will be happy to take part in it. One of the norms is the project should not violate the sovereignty and territorial integrity of a country. Unfortunately, there is this thing called CPEC, which is called a flagship project of BRI which violates India's sovereignty and territory integrity. Therefore, we oppose it," he said. Earlier, he told state-run Global Times that both countries should resolve differences. "This is a major problem for us. We need to talk about it, not push it under the carpet," he said.

China-Pakistan Economic Corridor being extended to Afghanistan: Report

Citing continuing support to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, India on Saturday said it was difficult to proceed with the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) initiative under current circumstances.

The issue of organising the SAARC Summit came up for discussion during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli, who is in India on a three-day visit.

"The Prime Minister (Modi) mentioned that he very enthusiastically participated in the Kathmandu (SAARC) summit, but given the current state of play where there is cross-border terrorism - and this is a disruptive force in the region, it is difficult in such circumstances to proceed with such initiatives," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters.

SAARC Summits are usually held biennially and are hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association.

The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu, which was attended by PM Modi.

The 2016 SAARC Summit was to be held in Islamabad.

But after the terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances" and stepped up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. 19 Indian soldiers had died in the attack.

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet.

Maldives and Sri Lanka are the seventh and eighth members of the initiative.

During his visit to Kathmandu last month, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi sought Mr Oli's support for convening the SAARC Summit in Islamabad.

Abbasi has also urged Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena "to play his role for early convening of the summit".

"While India is very supportive of all regional connectivity and regional cooperation issues, the views expressed by the Prime Minister (Modi) was Prime Minister Oil was well aware of the circumstances," Mr Gokhale said.

The foreign secretary said the Nepalese prime minister told PM Modi he was looking forward to host the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation Summit or BIMSTEC this year. BIMSTEC excludes Pakistan.

Oli also gave a "positive reference" to the sub-regional Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal (BBIN) initiative, Mr Gokhale said.

Citing continuing support to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, India on Saturday said it was difficult to proceed with the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) initiative under current circumstances

Citing continuing support to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, India on Saturday said it was difficult to proceed with the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) initiative under current circumstances. The issue of organising the SAARC Summit came up for discussion during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli, who is in India on a three-day visit. "The Prime Minister (Modi) mentioned that he very enthusiastically participated in the Kathmandu (SAARC) summit, but given the current state of play where there is cross-border terrorism - and this is a disruptive force in the region, it is difficult in such circumstances to proceed with such initiatives," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale told reporters. SAARC Summits are usually held biennially and are hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association. The last SAARC Summit in 2014 was held in Kathmandu, which was attended by PM Modi. The 2016 SAARC Summit was to be held in Islamabad. But after the terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir on September 18 that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances" and stepped up diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. 19 Indian soldiers had died in the attack. The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. Maldives and Sri Lanka are the seventh and eighth members of the initiative. During his visit to Kathmandu last month, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi sought Mr Oli's support for convening the SAARC Summit in Islamabad. Abbasi has also urged Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena "to play his role for early convening of the summit". "While India is very supportive of all regional connectivity and regional cooperation issues, the views expressed by the Prime Minister (Modi) was Prime Minister Oil was well aware of the circumstances," Mr Gokhale said. The foreign secretary said the Nepalese prime minister told PM Modi he was looking forward to host the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation Summit or BIMSTEC this year. BIMSTEC excludes Pakistan. Oli also gave a "positive reference" to the sub-regional Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal (BBIN) initiative, Mr Gokhale said.

Difficult to proceed with SAARC initiative under current circumstances: India

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is going to conduct its biggest ever combat exercise along Pakistan and China borders.

The exercise- Gagan Shakti, 2018- will be taking place between April 10 to 23. Depending upon the order of the Air Force Chief, the Air Force will mobilise its assets in the war scenario within 48 hours of the orders.

Meanwhile, the IAF is readying to mobilise its entire asset and equipment inventory to conduct its biggest exercise ever.

IAF will mobilise more than 1100 combat, transport and rotary wing (helicopter) aircraft in order to practice the real time scenario, to be conducted day and night, of Combat with the enemy encompassing along Pakistan border in the Western areas and along China border in the Northern areas.

For the first time, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will be taking part in the exercise and will perform both the offensive and defensive roles. Navy's Maritime Combat Aircraft MiG 29s will also take part.

As per the protocol, Pakistan has been informed. The scale of the exercise can be gauged from the fact that just from Air Force more than 300 officers and more than 15,000 airmen have been mobilised. Joint operations scenario with the Army and the Navy are part of this exercise.

The pan India synergised exercise will showcase the multi spectrum capabilities, both offensive and defensive. The IAF will conduct all terrain operations- desert, high altitude, maritime scenarios and special operations- in the real time.

Mobility and resilience of air combat operations will be visible from the fact that Aircraft from Bhuj in Gujarat will fly towards Assam and conduct bombing and simultaneously aircraft from Assam will fly towards deserts of Rajasthan and will do bombing. Also, inter valley transfer of troops and equipments will be performed.

A senior IAF officer on the condition of anonymity told ANI, "The exercise will cover from the heights of 20,000 ft to the extreme hot areas of the desert and also the maritime scenarios. We will be utilising all the Air Force firing ranges. The IAF will be conducting landing at Advanced Landing Grounds, Improvised Airstrips and helipads."

During the exercise, 1100 aircraft will be flying three-four sorties in a day with the cumulative sorties reaching to the count of 3300 to 4400 in a day.

In order to maintain optimum turn around, keeping the aircraft Combat ready Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will be placing their technicians at the maintenance bases. Apart from the Defence assets there is participation of the railways and civil aviation manpower and machinery.

The exercise- Gagan Shakti, 2018- will be taking place from April 10 to 23. Depending upon the order of the Air Force Chief, the Air Force will mobilise its assets in the war scenario within 48 hours of the orders

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is going to conduct its biggest ever combat exercise along Pakistan and China borders. The exercise- Gagan Shakti, 2018- will be taking place between April 10 to 23. Depending upon the order of the Air Force Chief, the Air Force will mobilise its assets in the war scenario within 48 hours of the orders. Meanwhile, the IAF is readying to mobilise its entire asset and equipment inventory to conduct its biggest exercise ever. IAF will mobilise more than 1100 combat, transport and rotary wing (helicopter) aircraft in order to practice the real time scenario, to be conducted day and night, of Combat with the enemy encompassing along Pakistan border in the Western areas and along China border in the Northern areas. For the first time, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will be taking part in the exercise and will perform both the offensive and defensive roles. Navy's Maritime Combat Aircraft MiG 29s will also take part. As per the protocol, Pakistan has been informed. The scale of the exercise can be gauged from the fact that just from Air Force more than 300 officers and more than 15,000 airmen have been mobilised. Joint operations scenario with the Army and the Navy are part of this exercise. The pan India synergised exercise will showcase the multi spectrum capabilities, both offensive and defensive. The IAF will conduct all terrain operations- desert, high altitude, maritime scenarios and special operations- in the real time. Mobility and resilience of air combat operations will be visible from the fact that Aircraft from Bhuj in Gujarat will fly towards Assam and conduct bombing and simultaneously aircraft from Assam will fly towards deserts of Rajasthan and will do bombing. Also, inter valley transfer of troops and equipments will be performed. A senior IAF officer on the condition of anonymity told ANI, "The exercise will cover from the heights of 20,000 ft to the extreme hot areas of the desert and also the maritime scenarios. We will be utilising all the Air Force firing ranges. The IAF will be conducting landing at Advanced Landing Grounds, Improvised Airstrips and helipads." During the exercise, 1100 aircraft will be flying three-four sorties in a day with the cumulative sorties reaching to the count of 3300 to 4400 in a day. In order to maintain optimum turn around, keeping the aircraft Combat ready Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will be placing their technicians at the maintenance bases. Apart from the Defence assets there is participation of the railways and civil aviation manpower and machinery.

IAF to conduct biggest combat exercise along Pak, China borders

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-non-bailable-warrants-issued-against-nirav-modi-mehul-choksi-on-cbi-plea-129156">PNB scam: Non-bailable warrants issued against Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi on CBI plea</a>

A special CBI court in Mumbai has issued non-bailable warrants (NBWs) against billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi in connection with the cases related to over $2 billion banking fraud in the Punjab National Bank, officials said in New Delhi on Sunday.

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Rajinikanth on Sunday urged IPL franchise Chennai and its fans to wear a black armband as a show of solidarity with the protests in Tamil Nadu calling for the quick set up of a Cauvery management board.&nbsp&nbsp

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In yet another incident of discord, the Chinese military last month strongly protested against what it called the Indian Army's transgressions into the strategically sensitive Asaphila area along the border in Arunachal Pradesh, but the Indian side roundly dismissed the complaint, official sources said.

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The worst is over for PNB and it will come out of the mess created by the Nirav Modi fraud case in six months, the state-run lender's Managing Director Sunil Mehta said Sunday.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-afghanistan-to-act-against-fugitives-irreconcilable-militants-129127">Pakistan, Afghanistan to act against fugitives, irreconcilable militants</a>

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement for regional peace and security, the Foreign Office said today.

PNB scam: Non-bailable warrants issued against Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi on CBI plea A special CBI court in Mumbai has issued non-bailable warrants (NBWs) against billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi in connection with the cases related to over $2 billion banking fraud in the Punjab National Bank, officials said in New Delhi on Sunday. Rajinikanth wants Chennai players to wear black armbands. This is why Rajinikanth on Sunday urged IPL franchise Chennai and its fans to wear a black armband as a show of solidarity with the protests in Tamil Nadu calling for the quick set up of a Cauvery management board. China objects to India's 'transgression' in Arunachal Pradesh India rejects the protest In yet another incident of discord, the Chinese military last month strongly protested against what it called the Indian Army's transgressions into the strategically sensitive Asaphila area along the border in Arunachal Pradesh, but the Indian side roundly dismissed the complaint, official sources said. Worst behind us, will be out of Nirav Modi mess in 6 months: PNB MD The worst is over for PNB and it will come out of the mess created by the Nirav Modi fraud case in six months, the state-run lender's Managing Director Sunil Mehta said Sunday. Pakistan, Afghanistan to act against fugitives, irreconcilable militants Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement for regional peace and security, the Foreign Office said today.

Newsbrief: Big stories of the day

Pakistan's former military ruler Pervez Musharraf shall not return to the country until an interim government is formed. Musharraf is supposed to appear before a special Pakistani court in a high treason court.&nbsp;

The former president and chief of All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) has postponed his plan to return from the UAE. According to reports, the incumbent government will not provide him the security he had applied for.

Musharraf is likely to return by the end of May or early June this year as soon as an interim government is formed, a party leader told media.

The 74-year-old retired general has been living in Dubai since last year after he was allowed to leave Pakistan for his medical treatment.

Musharraf had ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He had sought adequate security from the government for his return. A&nbsp;petition was moved to the interior ministry as the former president faced security threats.

A new application will be filed with the federal government seeking foolproof security for Musharraf.

Musharraf was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in Pakistan. The move led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

Former President of Pakistan has been declared "proclaimed offender" by courts in the treason and the Benazir Bhutto assassination cases.

 
&nbsp;

Musharraf was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in the Pakistan

Pakistan's former military ruler Pervez Musharraf shall not return to the country until an interim government is formed. Musharraf is supposed to appear before a special Pakistani court in a high treason court. The former president and chief of All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) has postponed his plan to return from the UAE. According to reports, the incumbent government will not provide him the security he had applied for. Musharraf is likely to return by the end of May or early June this year as soon as an interim government is formed, a party leader told media. The 74-year-old retired general has been living in Dubai since last year after he was allowed to leave Pakistan for his medical treatment. Musharraf had ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He had sought adequate security from the government for his return. A petition was moved to the interior ministry as the former president faced security threats. A new application will be filed with the federal government seeking foolproof security for Musharraf. Musharraf was indicted in March 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in Pakistan. The move led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. Former President of Pakistan has been declared "proclaimed offender" by courts in the treason and the Benazir Bhutto assassination cases.

Pervez Musharraf postpones plan to return to Pakistan

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement for regional peace and security, the Foreign Office said today.

In a statement, it said that the two sides have agreed to "operationalise the working groups under Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS)" during Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's visit to Kabul on April 6.

It said that Pakistan was committed to "support the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation."

"The two countries to undertake effective actions against fugitives and the irreconcilable elements posing security threats to either of the two countries," it further said.

"Both countries commit to deny use of their respective territories by any country, network, group or individuals for anti-state activities against either country," according to APAPPS.

They agreed to put in place a joint supervision, coordination and confirmation mechanism through Liaison Officers for realisation of the agreed actions.

The two countries vowed to avoid territorial and aerial violations of each other's territory.

The two countries also agreed to avoid public blame game and instead use APAPPS cooperation mechanisms to respond to mutual issues of contention and concerns.

They would establish Working Groups and necessary cooperation mechanism as per APAPPS for full its implementation and the above mutually reinforcing principles.

The APAPPS was agreed in February and the officials of the two countries held several high level meetings before it was decided to operationalize the agreement.&nbsp

The two countries vowed to avoid territorial and aerial violations of each other's territory

Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to take action against fugitives and the irreconcilable militants under a bilateral agreement for regional peace and security, the Foreign Office said today. In a statement, it said that the two sides have agreed to "operationalise the working groups under Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS)" during Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's visit to Kabul on April 6. It said that Pakistan was committed to "support the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation." "The two countries to undertake effective actions against fugitives and the irreconcilable elements posing security threats to either of the two countries," it further said. "Both countries commit to deny use of their respective territories by any country, network, group or individuals for anti-state activities against either country," according to APAPPS. They agreed to put in place a joint supervision, coordination and confirmation mechanism through Liaison Officers for realisation of the agreed actions. The two countries vowed to avoid territorial and aerial violations of each other's territory. The two countries also agreed to avoid public blame game and instead use APAPPS cooperation mechanisms to respond to mutual issues of contention and concerns. They would establish Working Groups and necessary cooperation mechanism as per APAPPS for full its implementation and the above mutually reinforcing principles. The APAPPS was agreed in February and the officials of the two countries held several high level meetings before it was decided to operationalize the agreement.

Pakistan, Afghanistan to act against fugitives, irreconcilable militants

Pakistan is working on a draft bill to permanently ban Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud Dawa as well as other terror groups and individuals on the watch list of the interior ministry, a move which has the backing of the powerful military establishment.

The bill will replace the presidential ordinance that banned outfits and people already on the watch list of the interior ministry, Dawn reported today.

Citing its sources in the law ministry, the paper reported that the proposed draft bill to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997 was likely to be tabled in the upcoming session of the National Assembly scheduled to commence tomorrow.

The law ministry was involved in the process for the purpose of vetting the proposed draft bill, the sources said, adding that the military establishment was also on board.

The powerful military establishment enjoys considerable influence over policy decisions in Pakistan.

The government decided to prepare a draft bill to amend the ATA as part of its damage-control campaign after the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) approved a nomination proposal tabled jointly by the US, the UK, France and Germany to place

Pakistan on the international watchdog's money-laundering and terror-financing grey list in February.

Earlier, President Mamnoon Hussain had promulgated the ordinance amending the ATA to include entities listed by the UNSC as proscribed groups but it will expire in 120 days.

The National Assembly can extend it for another four months after which it has to be tabled before both the houses - National Assembly and the Senate - for further extension.

Through the ordinance, amendments were made to ATA's Section 11-B that sets out parameters for proscription of groups and Section 11-EE that describes the grounds for listing of individuals. In both sections, Sub-Section 'aa' was added.

According to the sub-section, organisations and individuals "listed under the United Nations (Security Council) Act, 1948 (XIV of 1948), or" will be included in the First Schedule (for organisations) and Fourth Schedule (for individuals), respectively, on an ex parte basis.

Under Section 11-EE, the requirements were: "(a) concerned in terrorism (b) an activist, office-bearer or an associate of an organisation kept under observation under section 11D or proscribed under section 11B and (c) in any way concerned or suspected to be concerned with such organisation or affiliated with any group or organisation suspected to be involved in terrorism or sectarianism or acting on behalf of, or at the direction of, any person or organisation proscribed under this Act."

In addition to the draft bill, Pakistan is also preparing a consolidated database of known terrorists and terrorist organisations which will be accessible to financial institutions and law-enforcement agencies of the country to strengthen the regime against money laundering and terror financing.

For the enforcement of prohibition of funds and financial services, it was recommended to the authorities to ensure that statutory regulatory orders issued under UNSC Resolutions-1267 and - 1373 (issued under ATA) are implemented without delay.

The government would also frame the ATA's freezing and seizure rules and ensure that Anti-Terrorism Amendment Ordinance 2018 is enacted through the parliament, according to the draft action plan.

The amendment to the ATA would also enable investigation officers to be trained to investigate sources of funding besides other financial aspects in terrorism cases.

The presidential ordinance has already been challenged by Saeed in the Islamabad High Court. He claimed that the ordinance had been promulgated due to external pressure and hence was not only prejudicial to the sovereignty but also contradictory to the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.

Saeed was listed under UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008.

His JuD is believed to be the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attack that killed 166 people. It has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014.

When contacted, Barrister Zafarullah Khan, special assistant to the prime minister, said that the amendment to the ATA was a subject of the interior ministry. He added the law would not introduce anything new, as it would basically ensure compliance to the UNSC Resolutions.&nbsp;

The bill will replace the presidential ordinance that banned outfits and people already on the watch list of the interior ministry

Pakistan is working on a draft bill to permanently ban Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud Dawa as well as other terror groups and individuals on the watch list of the interior ministry, a move which has the backing of the powerful military establishment. The bill will replace the presidential ordinance that banned outfits and people already on the watch list of the interior ministry, Dawn reported today. Citing its sources in the law ministry, the paper reported that the proposed draft bill to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997 was likely to be tabled in the upcoming session of the National Assembly scheduled to commence tomorrow. The law ministry was involved in the process for the purpose of vetting the proposed draft bill, the sources said, adding that the military establishment was also on board. The powerful military establishment enjoys considerable influence over policy decisions in Pakistan. The government decided to prepare a draft bill to amend the ATA as part of its damage-control campaign after the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) approved a nomination proposal tabled jointly by the US, the UK, France and Germany to place Pakistan on the international watchdog's money-laundering and terror-financing grey list in February. Earlier, President Mamnoon Hussain had promulgated the ordinance amending the ATA to include entities listed by the UNSC as proscribed groups but it will expire in 120 days. The National Assembly can extend it for another four months after which it has to be tabled before both the houses - National Assembly and the Senate - for further extension. Through the ordinance, amendments were made to ATA's Section 11-B that sets out parameters for proscription of groups and Section 11-EE that describes the grounds for listing of individuals. In both sections, Sub-Section 'aa' was added. According to the sub-section, organisations and individuals "listed under the United Nations (Security Council) Act, 1948 (XIV of 1948), or" will be included in the First Schedule (for organisations) and Fourth Schedule (for individuals), respectively, on an ex parte basis. Under Section 11-EE, the requirements were: "(a) concerned in terrorism (b) an activist, office-bearer or an associate of an organisation kept under observation under section 11D or proscribed under section 11B and (c) in any way concerned or suspected to be concerned with such organisation or affiliated with any group or organisation suspected to be involved in terrorism or sectarianism or acting on behalf of, or at the direction of, any person or organisation proscribed under this Act." In addition to the draft bill, Pakistan is also preparing a consolidated database of known terrorists and terrorist organisations which will be accessible to financial institutions and law-enforcement agencies of the country to strengthen the regime against money laundering and terror financing. For the enforcement of prohibition of funds and financial services, it was recommended to the authorities to ensure that statutory regulatory orders issued under UNSC Resolutions-1267 and - 1373 (issued under ATA) are implemented without delay. The government would also frame the ATA's freezing and seizure rules and ensure that Anti-Terrorism Amendment Ordinance 2018 is enacted through the parliament, according to the draft action plan. The amendment to the ATA would also enable investigation officers to be trained to investigate sources of funding besides other financial aspects in terrorism cases. The presidential ordinance has already been challenged by Saeed in the Islamabad High Court. He claimed that the ordinance had been promulgated due to external pressure and hence was not only prejudicial to the sovereignty but also contradictory to the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. Saeed was listed under UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008. His JuD is believed to be the front organisation for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attack that killed 166 people. It has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. When contacted, Barrister Zafarullah Khan, special assistant to the prime minister, said that the amendment to the ATA was a subject of the interior ministry. He added the law would not introduce anything new, as it would basically ensure compliance to the UNSC Resolutions.

Pakistan plans permanent ban on Hafiz Saeed's JuD, other terror groups

Pakistan scored in the last minute to draw the action-packed opener Pool B match against India of the men's hockey competition at the 21st Commonwealth Games.

For India, Dilepreet Singh (13th minute) scored in the first quarter and later on Harmanpreet Singh (20the minute) stretched the lead by converting a penalty corner in the second quarter of the game.

Team India was leading 2-0 when Muhammad Irfan Jr. (39th minute) pulled the deficit and scored the first goal for Pakistan. In the last minutes of the game, Pakistan was given a penalty corner and Ali Mubashar scored the sensational equaliser.

Pakistan emerged late in the game to snatch the victory from India. India lost tempo in the second half and Pakistan's last-minute review was fortunate for the team as their penalty corner conversion helped them to draw against arch-rival India.

All the excitement came down to the last seven seconds as the Indian hockey team's perennial problem of conceding late goals left them with a disappointment.

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FT. India's impressive show in their opening game of the <a href="https://twitter.com/GC2018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GC2018</a> XXI Commonwealth Games is marred by a set-piece goal at the last moment to result in a draw against Pakistan on 7th April.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HallaHockeyKa?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HallaHockeyKa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GC2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/9V2tWoXLJ8">pic.twitter.com/9V2tWoXLJ8</a>
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Pakistan scored in the last minute to draw the action-packed men's hockey opener Pool B match against India

Pakistan scored in the last minute to draw the action-packed opener Pool B match against India of the men's hockey competition at the 21st Commonwealth Games. For India, Dilepreet Singh (13th minute) scored in the first quarter and later on Harmanpreet Singh (20the minute) stretched the lead by converting a penalty corner in the second quarter of the game. Team India was leading 2-0 when Muhammad Irfan Jr. (39th minute) pulled the deficit and scored the first goal for Pakistan. In the last minutes of the game, Pakistan was given a penalty corner and Ali Mubashar scored the sensational equaliser. Pakistan emerged late in the game to snatch the victory from India. India lost tempo in the second half and Pakistan's last-minute review was fortunate for the team as their penalty corner conversion helped them to draw against arch-rival India. All the excitement came down to the last seven seconds as the Indian hockey team's perennial problem of conceding late goals left them with a disappointment. FT. India's impressive show in their opening game of the @GC2018 XXI Commonwealth Games is marred by a set-piece goal at the last moment to result in a draw against Pakistan on 7th April.#IndiaKaGame #HallaHockeyKa #GC2018 #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/9V2tWoXLJ8 — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) April 7, 2018 ×

Commonwealth Games: Pak salvages 2-2 draw with last-gasp goal against India

&nbspA former seminary student who hurled a shoe at Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif last month has been released from prison on bail.

A judicial magistrate Friday granted post-arrest bail to Munawar Hussain along with his two accomplices Abdul Ghafoor and Muhammad Sajid subject to furnishing surety bonds of worth Rs 100,000 each.

"The suspects were released from the Kot Lakhpat Jail today after they furnished surety bonds of worth Rs 100,000 each," a jail official said.

Several members of the Tahreek-e-Labaik party greeted them outside the jail and chanted slogans against the PML-N government for not punishing those involved in making changes to the law of finality of Prophet Mohammad.

The party is also known for widespread street power and massive protests in opposition to any change in Pakistan's controversial blasphemy law.

On Friday&nbspa counsel for the accused argued that their clients did not belong to any political party nor had any political motive.

He said their act was in reaction to the amendment to the 'Khatam-i-Nabuwat' (finality of Prophethood) law by the parliament. He asked the magistrate to release the suspects on bail as they were ready to submit surety bonds.

Police in Lahore's Qila Gujjar Singh area had registered a case against the suspects for assault and criminal intimidation.

Later the police also added the Anti-Terrorism Act in the FIR. However, an anti-terrorism court allowing a petition of the suspects ordered the police to delete the terrorism charge.

Hussain had hurled a shoe at Sharif, who resigned as prime minister last July after the Supreme Court disqualified him over alleged corruption, when he came to the dais to address a gathering here. The attacker then chanted "Labbaik Ya Rasoolallah".

The shoe hit Sharif's shoulder and ear. The co-suspects also tried to throw shoes but security personnel overpowered them. All three were former students of the Jamia Naeemia, a religious seminary in Lahore.

The incident had drawn widespread condemnation from all political and religious parties.

An identical reason was given by Faiz Rasool, who threw black ink on the face of Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif last month.

A judicial magistrate Friday granted post-arrest bail to Munawar Hussain along with his two accomplices Abdul Ghafoor and Muhammad Sajid subject to furnishing surety bonds of worth Rs 100,000 each

&nbspA former seminary student who hurled a shoe at Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif last month has been released from prison on bail. A judicial magistrate Friday granted post-arrest bail to Munawar Hussain along with his two accomplices Abdul Ghafoor and Muhammad Sajid subject to furnishing surety bonds of worth Rs 100,000 each. "The suspects were released from the Kot Lakhpat Jail today after they furnished surety bonds of worth Rs 100,000 each," a jail official said. Several members of the Tahreek-e-Labaik party greeted them outside the jail and chanted slogans against the PML-N government for not punishing those involved in making changes to the law of finality of Prophet Mohammad. The party is also known for widespread street power and massive protests in opposition to any change in Pakistan's controversial blasphemy law. On Friday&nbspa counsel for the accused argued that their clients did not belong to any political party nor had any political motive. He said their act was in reaction to the amendment to the 'Khatam-i-Nabuwat' (finality of Prophethood) law by the parliament. He asked the magistrate to release the suspects on bail as they were ready to submit surety bonds. Police in Lahore's Qila Gujjar Singh area had registered a case against the suspects for assault and criminal intimidation. Later the police also added the Anti-Terrorism Act in the FIR. However, an anti-terrorism court allowing a petition of the suspects ordered the police to delete the terrorism charge. Hussain had hurled a shoe at Sharif, who resigned as prime minister last July after the Supreme Court disqualified him over alleged corruption, when he came to the dais to address a gathering here. The attacker then chanted "Labbaik Ya Rasoolallah". The shoe hit Sharif's shoulder and ear. The co-suspects also tried to throw shoes but security personnel overpowered them. All three were former students of the Jamia Naeemia, a religious seminary in Lahore. The incident had drawn widespread condemnation from all political and religious parties. An identical reason was given by Faiz Rasool, who threw black ink on the face of Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif last month.

Pakistan man who hurled shoe at Sharif released on bail

Walking on the path of social reform, Pakistan is to inaugurate country's first ever institute for educational and vocational training for transgender community.

Named The Gender Guardian, the school offers a full 12 years of academic education from the primary level to matriculation, and then leading up to college.

As per a news report by the Dawn on Friday, The Gender Guardian school will be inaugurated on April 15 at Lahore under the aegis of Asif Shahzad, who is also school's founder.

The school has been built by an NGO named Exploring Future Foundation which is set to open two more branches of the school in Islamabad and Karachi

The school will also impart technical education, such as fashion designing, beautician and hair styling courses, graphic designing, computer and mobile repairing, among others.

It will have separate wings for primary, matriculation and also graduation-level classes.

Shahzad said that the school has 15 faculty members — three of whom themselves are from the transgender community.

Shahzad said," School has 15 faculty members three of whom themselves are from the transgender community".

The management said that more than 40 aspiring students from the transgender community have already registered with the soon-to-be operational school and will be a part of the opening batch.

The school will be formally launched through an opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore's Alhamra Hall, with several names from the showbiz industry expected to attend.

The Gender Guardian school will be inaugurated on April 15 at Lahore under the aegis of Asif Shahzad, who is also school's founder

Walking on the path of social reform, Pakistan is to inaugurate country's first ever institute for educational and vocational training for transgender community. Named The Gender Guardian, the school offers a full 12 years of academic education from the primary level to matriculation, and then leading up to college. As per a news report by the Dawn on Friday, The Gender Guardian school will be inaugurated on April 15 at Lahore under the aegis of Asif Shahzad, who is also school's founder. The school has been built by an NGO named Exploring Future Foundation which is set to open two more branches of the school in Islamabad and Karachi The school will also impart technical education, such as fashion designing, beautician and hair styling courses, graphic designing, computer and mobile repairing, among others. It will have separate wings for primary, matriculation and also graduation-level classes. Shahzad said that the school has 15 faculty members — three of whom themselves are from the transgender community. Shahzad said," School has 15 faculty members three of whom themselves are from the transgender community". The management said that more than 40 aspiring students from the transgender community have already registered with the soon-to-be operational school and will be a part of the opening batch. The school will be formally launched through an opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore's Alhamra Hall, with several names from the showbiz industry expected to attend.

Pakistan to open its first school for transgenders

The Pakistan Army appears to have taken its game of 'good and bad' terrorists to a new level.

According to a commentary published in the web site of the European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS), there exists a nexus between the judiciary, the army and Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jamaat-ud-Dawa de facto head Hafiz Saeed, wherein, "Good terrorists are set to become the lawmakers of tomorrow."

It may be recalled that in October 2017, Pakistan Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said, "That the State was working on a 'mainstreaming' programme to induct members of armed groups into the political process..".

The EFSAS commentary clearly visualizes this as terrorists and terrorists-linked groups being integrated into Pakistan's country's mainstream politics with the aim, according to the Major General, "to develop a constructive role for them.".

It does not seem to matter that recently created political entities such as the Milli Muslim League (MML) and the Tehreek-i-Azad-i-Kashmir (TAK), both Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) fronts with Hafiz Saeed as the de facto head, have been added to the lists of Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGT) by the US State Department on April 3, 2018. It also does not seem to matter that the US Treasury Department has also designated seven MML members as terrorists.

The courts of Pakistan seem to think differently. On the same day that the United States amended the designation of TAK and MML as fronts of the terrorist organisation, Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Lahore High Court (LHC) ordered the Government of Pakistan "...not to harass Hafiz Saeed and to allow him to continue with his 'social welfare activities' until further order.". It is pertinent to note that the same court freed Saeed from house arrest in November 2017, which drew widespread international condemnation.

"Make no mistake: whatever LeT chooses to call itself, it remains a violent terrorist group. The US supports all efforts to ensure that LeT does not have a political voice until it gives up violence as a tool of influence" - Nathan A. Sales, coordinator for counter-terrorism at the US Department of State, said.

Hafiz Saeed has been named as the mastermind of the Mumbai attack in 2008 in which more than 160 people lost their lives. The international community, led by the United Nations and the United States, has declared Hafiz Saeed a global terrorist. In 2012, the US placed a $10 million bounty on him.

From Field Marshal Ayub Khan (President of Pakistan from 1958-1969) to General Pervez Musharraf (President of Pakistan from 2001-2008) and in between, the Pakistani Army has a history of working in tandem with the courts of Pakistan, aimed at legitimising the military's unconstitutional actions.

In Pakistan, the army has a history of overshadowing the political landscape. The civilian government in reality has very limited authority or control over critical matters of national importance such as foreign policy and security. Courts have been instrumental in engineering political outcomes and recent developments suggest that they will play a pre-emptive role in guarding 'strategic interests', vital for the country's foreign policy and security, concludes the EFSAS commentary.&nbsp

In Pakistan, the army has a history of overshadowing the political landscape. The civilian government, in reality, has very limited authority or control over critical matters of national importance such as foreign policy and security

The Pakistan Army appears to have taken its game of 'good and bad' terrorists to a new level. According to a commentary published in the web site of the European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS), there exists a nexus between the judiciary, the army and Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jamaat-ud-Dawa de facto head Hafiz Saeed, wherein, "Good terrorists are set to become the lawmakers of tomorrow." It may be recalled that in October 2017, Pakistan Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said, "That the State was working on a 'mainstreaming' programme to induct members of armed groups into the political process..". The EFSAS commentary clearly visualizes this as terrorists and terrorists-linked groups being integrated into Pakistan's country's mainstream politics with the aim, according to the Major General, "to develop a constructive role for them.". It does not seem to matter that recently created political entities such as the Milli Muslim League (MML) and the Tehreek-i-Azad-i-Kashmir (TAK), both Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) fronts with Hafiz Saeed as the de facto head, have been added to the lists of Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGT) by the US State Department on April 3, 2018. It also does not seem to matter that the US Treasury Department has also designated seven MML members as terrorists. The courts of Pakistan seem to think differently. On the same day that the United States amended the designation of TAK and MML as fronts of the terrorist organisation, Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Lahore High Court (LHC) ordered the Government of Pakistan "...not to harass Hafiz Saeed and to allow him to continue with his 'social welfare activities' until further order.". It is pertinent to note that the same court freed Saeed from house arrest in November 2017, which drew widespread international condemnation. "Make no mistake: whatever LeT chooses to call itself, it remains a violent terrorist group. The US supports all efforts to ensure that LeT does not have a political voice until it gives up violence as a tool of influence" - Nathan A. Sales, coordinator for counter-terrorism at the US Department of State, said. Hafiz Saeed has been named as the mastermind of the Mumbai attack in 2008 in which more than 160 people lost their lives. The international community, led by the United Nations and the United States, has declared Hafiz Saeed a global terrorist. In 2012, the US placed a $10 million bounty on him. From Field Marshal Ayub Khan (President of Pakistan from 1958-1969) to General Pervez Musharraf (President of Pakistan from 2001-2008) and in between, the Pakistani Army has a history of working in tandem with the courts of Pakistan, aimed at legitimising the military's unconstitutional actions. In Pakistan, the army has a history of overshadowing the political landscape. The civilian government in reality has very limited authority or control over critical matters of national importance such as foreign policy and security. Courts have been instrumental in engineering political outcomes and recent developments suggest that they will play a pre-emptive role in guarding 'strategic interests', vital for the country's foreign policy and security, concludes the EFSAS commentary.

Pak Army, courts giving political legitimacy to Saeed, others

As ironical as it gets, Afghanistan had accused Pakistan of launching air strikes a day before Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's day-long visit was scheduled to Kabul on Friday, aimed at easing tensions between the two countries.

The air strikes reportedly caused "huge financial damages" in Afghanistan's Kunar border province.

Afghanistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry said, "Afghanistan warns that continuing violations of international norms ... will have further consequences on the relations between the two countries," reported RadioFreeEurope Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).

On Friday, Pakistan dubbed the allegation as "baseless" that it violated Afghan airspace, however.

Later on that day, Abbasi arrived in Kabul.

The delegation held talks with Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and other senior officials in Kabul.

The talks will focus on consolidating bilateral political, economic, security and counter-terrorism cooperation, return of Afghan refugees, combating drug production and narco-trade, the Afghan peace process and regional political and security situation.

According to Afghan presidential spokesman Shah Hussain Murtazawi that bracing peace talks with the Taliban, the return of Afghan refugees who are now in Pakistan, and the exchange of prisoners were high on the agenda of the meeting between Ghani and Abbasi, reported (RFE/RL).

Abbasi's visit to Kabul is his first since becoming prime minister in 2017.

Pakistan and Afghanistan share strained bilateral relationship. Both Kabul and Islamabad steadily purport that the attacks in the two countries were being plotted and carried out by the safe havens located in the two countries.

Earlier this week a high-level Pakistani delegation, headed by Tehmina Janjua, has reached Afghanistan to hold talks with Afghan authorities on the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS).&nbsp

Pakistan and Afghanistan share strained bilateral relationship. Both Kabul and Islamabad steadily purport that the attacks in the two countries were being plotted and carried out by the safe havens located in the two countries

As ironical as it gets, Afghanistan had accused Pakistan of launching air strikes a day before Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi's day-long visit was scheduled to Kabul on Friday, aimed at easing tensions between the two countries. The air strikes reportedly caused "huge financial damages" in Afghanistan's Kunar border province. Afghanistan's Foreign Affairs Ministry said, "Afghanistan warns that continuing violations of international norms ... will have further consequences on the relations between the two countries," reported RadioFreeEurope Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). On Friday, Pakistan dubbed the allegation as "baseless" that it violated Afghan airspace, however. Later on that day, Abbasi arrived in Kabul. The delegation held talks with Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and other senior officials in Kabul. The talks will focus on consolidating bilateral political, economic, security and counter-terrorism cooperation, return of Afghan refugees, combating drug production and narco-trade, the Afghan peace process and regional political and security situation. According to Afghan presidential spokesman Shah Hussain Murtazawi that bracing peace talks with the Taliban, the return of Afghan refugees who are now in Pakistan, and the exchange of prisoners were high on the agenda of the meeting between Ghani and Abbasi, reported (RFE/RL). Abbasi's visit to Kabul is his first since becoming prime minister in 2017. Pakistan and Afghanistan share strained bilateral relationship. Both Kabul and Islamabad steadily purport that the attacks in the two countries were being plotted and carried out by the safe havens located in the two countries. Earlier this week a high-level Pakistani delegation, headed by Tehmina Janjua, has reached Afghanistan to hold talks with Afghan authorities on the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS).

Abbasi met Ghani amid air strike allegations

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will travel to Afghanistan Friday on a day-long visit during which he is likely to discuss a range of issues, including ways to facilitate talks with the Taliban.

In a statement, the Foreign Office said Abbasi was visiting Kabul on an invitation of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

"The Prime Minister's visit is taking place in the backdrop of Pakistan's support to President Ghani's offer of peace talks with the Taliban for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan and strengthening bilateral engagement," it said.

Abbasi will have in-depth consultations with Ghani and Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah on matters of mutual interest, including strengthening bilateral political, economic, security and counter-terrorism cooperation, the return of Afghan refugees, combating drug production and narco-trade, Afghan peace process and regional political and security situation.

He will also meet senior Afghan political leaders.

Pakistan will continue to support Afghanistan's developments efforts through capacity building in infrastructure, educational and health sectors in Afghanistan. Pakistan also aspires to deepen people-to-people contacts, the statement said.

Prime Minister Abbasi would also discuss with the Afghan leadership ways to facilitate travel between the two countries, assist education and medical treatment of Afghan nationals in Pakistan and expand trade and transit facilitation between the two countries.

To promote regional economic integration, the two countries are participating in key trans-regional initiatives namely Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline and Central Asia-South Asia Electricity Transmission and Trade Project (CASA-1000).

Abbasi recently joined the Afghan president in Herat to inaugurate the TAPI gas pipeline project. The two sides are also engaged in undertaking major bilateral rail-road connectivity projects.

The objective of Abbasi's visit to Afghanistan is to strengthen the positive momentum in bilateral relations and help augment joint endeavours in the pursuit of durable peace, stability and economic prosperity in the two countries, and the region, according to FO statement.

Afghanistan and the US have blamed Pakistan for allegedly providing safe havens to elements of the Afghan Taliban and Haqqani Network.

Pakistan denies the charge, alleging that it is Afghan forces that offer sanctuary to elements of the Pakistani Taliban.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will travel to Afghanistan tomorrow on a day-long visit

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will travel to Afghanistan Friday on a day-long visit during which he is likely to discuss a range of issues, including ways to facilitate talks with the Taliban. In a statement, the Foreign Office said Abbasi was visiting Kabul on an invitation of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. "The Prime Minister's visit is taking place in the backdrop of Pakistan's support to President Ghani's offer of peace talks with the Taliban for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan and strengthening bilateral engagement," it said. Abbasi will have in-depth consultations with Ghani and Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah on matters of mutual interest, including strengthening bilateral political, economic, security and counter-terrorism cooperation, the return of Afghan refugees, combating drug production and narco-trade, Afghan peace process and regional political and security situation. He will also meet senior Afghan political leaders. Pakistan will continue to support Afghanistan's developments efforts through capacity building in infrastructure, educational and health sectors in Afghanistan. Pakistan also aspires to deepen people-to-people contacts, the statement said. Prime Minister Abbasi would also discuss with the Afghan leadership ways to facilitate travel between the two countries, assist education and medical treatment of Afghan nationals in Pakistan and expand trade and transit facilitation between the two countries. To promote regional economic integration, the two countries are participating in key trans-regional initiatives namely Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline and Central Asia-South Asia Electricity Transmission and Trade Project (CASA-1000). Abbasi recently joined the Afghan president in Herat to inaugurate the TAPI gas pipeline project. The two sides are also engaged in undertaking major bilateral rail-road connectivity projects. The objective of Abbasi's visit to Afghanistan is to strengthen the positive momentum in bilateral relations and help augment joint endeavours in the pursuit of durable peace, stability and economic prosperity in the two countries, and the region, according to FO statement. Afghanistan and the US have blamed Pakistan for allegedly providing safe havens to elements of the Afghan Taliban and Haqqani Network. Pakistan denies the charge, alleging that it is Afghan forces that offer sanctuary to elements of the Pakistani Taliban.

Pakistan PM to visit Afghanistan Friday

A sporting clash which is never short of political undertones, India and Pakistan will be up against each other in their Commonwealth Games hockey opener here tomorrow -- a match touted as the blockbuster showdown of the preliminary stage.

"We start favourites," declared India coach Sjoerd Marijne after his two-time defending silver-medallist team's practice session here today.

More than the politics though, Marijne was concerned about the high temperatures in Gold Coast for their Group B match.

"It's really hot, 28-29 degrees and we play at 2:30pm (Local Time), so, that will be difficult circumstances. That's why we have to stay calm for ourselves," he said.

Also he doesn't want his side to panic if an early goal doesn't come along.

"If it is happening, it is good, if not then we have to be patient. Let the ball do the work."

The two sides' last Commonwealth Games face-off happened eight years ago in the 2010 Delhi edition and it turned out to be a memorable outing for both for contrasting reasons.

The Indians ended up jubilant after slamming seven goals, while the Pakistanis were left to agonise after securing just four in that match.

Overall, the record stands 1-1 between the two sides as Pakistan had the last laugh in the 2006 Games in Melbourne.

The two teams squared off most recently at last year's Asia Cup in Bangladesh where India claimed the honours.

Here at the Games, the two south asian rivals are placed in a group that also features England, Wales and Malaysia.

The Indians are favourites to advance along with England and they would be aiming to get the perfect start. And what better to get the adrenaline going than beating the nemesis from across the border.

In fact, the Indians simply dominated Pakistan in all the four clashes the two teams were involved in last year.

Under the guidance of new coach Marijne, form also seems to be on India's side, having claimed the Asia Cup in October. Marijne took over compatriot Roelant Oltmans, who is interestingly now the chief coach of Pakistan after being unceremoinously dumped by Hockey India in a bitter parting.

The team boasts of four penalty corner specialists in Rupinder Pal Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, Varun Kumar and Amit Rohidas but this particular aspect of the game has always been bit of a bother for the team.

It remains to be seen how much of a difference Marijne is able to make in improving the poor penalty corner conversion rate.

Skipper Manpreet Singh, who has taken over from the now out-of-favour Sardar Singh, will be handling the midfield, while SV Sunil and the power of Gurjant Singh will be expected to lead precise attacks on the opposition citadel.

Speaking of citadels, the ever-reliable PR Sreejesh will be guarding the Indian net.

For Pakistan too, there has been change of guard on the coaching front with Oltmans coming in last month for a second stint as their coach.

The team has not had good results in the last few months, losing early in the Asia Cup before going down in the four-nation invitational in Australia.

Given the turmoil, they are not expected to be much of a challenge to India but then an Indo-Pak showdown has always been known to bring out something special from both sides.

So much so that even Australian captain Mark Knowles is looking forward to it.

"...That is the one people should get out and watch, that is colour, that is flair, that is excitement. It is two sports mad nations going at each other. It will be very exciting," he promised.&nbsp

The match is touted as the blockbuster showdown of the preliminary stage

A sporting clash which is never short of political undertones, India and Pakistan will be up against each other in their Commonwealth Games hockey opener here tomorrow -- a match touted as the blockbuster showdown of the preliminary stage. "We start favourites," declared India coach Sjoerd Marijne after his two-time defending silver-medallist team's practice session here today. More than the politics though, Marijne was concerned about the high temperatures in Gold Coast for their Group B match. "It's really hot, 28-29 degrees and we play at 2:30pm (Local Time), so, that will be difficult circumstances. That's why we have to stay calm for ourselves," he said. Also he doesn't want his side to panic if an early goal doesn't come along. "If it is happening, it is good, if not then we have to be patient. Let the ball do the work." The two sides' last Commonwealth Games face-off happened eight years ago in the 2010 Delhi edition and it turned out to be a memorable outing for both for contrasting reasons. The Indians ended up jubilant after slamming seven goals, while the Pakistanis were left to agonise after securing just four in that match. Overall, the record stands 1-1 between the two sides as Pakistan had the last laugh in the 2006 Games in Melbourne. The two teams squared off most recently at last year's Asia Cup in Bangladesh where India claimed the honours. Here at the Games, the two south asian rivals are placed in a group that also features England, Wales and Malaysia. The Indians are favourites to advance along with England and they would be aiming to get the perfect start. And what better to get the adrenaline going than beating the nemesis from across the border. In fact, the Indians simply dominated Pakistan in all the four clashes the two teams were involved in last year. Under the guidance of new coach Marijne, form also seems to be on India's side, having claimed the Asia Cup in October. Marijne took over compatriot Roelant Oltmans, who is interestingly now the chief coach of Pakistan after being unceremoinously dumped by Hockey India in a bitter parting. The team boasts of four penalty corner specialists in Rupinder Pal Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, Varun Kumar and Amit Rohidas but this particular aspect of the game has always been bit of a bother for the team. It remains to be seen how much of a difference Marijne is able to make in improving the poor penalty corner conversion rate. Skipper Manpreet Singh, who has taken over from the now out-of-favour Sardar Singh, will be handling the midfield, while SV Sunil and the power of Gurjant Singh will be expected to lead precise attacks on the opposition citadel. Speaking of citadels, the ever-reliable PR Sreejesh will be guarding the Indian net. For Pakistan too, there has been change of guard on the coaching front with Oltmans coming in last month for a second stint as their coach. The team has not had good results in the last few months, losing early in the Asia Cup before going down in the four-nation invitational in Australia. Given the turmoil, they are not expected to be much of a challenge to India but then an Indo-Pak showdown has always been known to bring out something special from both sides. So much so that even Australian captain Mark Knowles is looking forward to it. "...That is the one people should get out and watch, that is colour, that is flair, that is excitement. It is two sports mad nations going at each other. It will be very exciting," he promised.

India-Pakistan sub-continental rivalry set to light up CWG hockey competition

By Adnan Rasool*

Pakistanis head to the polls to elect their next prime minister in July. Until then, though, the Supreme Court seems to be in charge of the country.

In July 2017, revelations from the Panama Papers leak spurred Pakistan’s high court to rule that then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had lied to the public about his family finances. Sharif, who maintained his innocence, was forced to resign as prime minister.

However, he continued to lead his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party, or PML-N, effectively controlling Pakistan’s government. Then, in February 2018, the Supreme Court also removed him as party chairman.

Because Sharif was not “honest” or “righteous,” Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar additionally ruled, all “orders passed, directions given and documents issued” under his leadership were officially declared null.

Sharif and his supporters accuse Pakistan’s chief justice of interfering in politics and swaying the upcoming election. As a Pakistani political scientist, I fear they may be right.

Judicial overreach

Military coups used to be the biggest risk to Pakistani democracy. Thanks to coup d'etats in 1958, 1977 and 1999, my country has spent 33 years of its 71-year history under military rule.

To a people rightfully fearful of interference in their political system, then, the Supreme Court’s recent actions are alarming. By discrediting some politicians while seemingly overlooking corrupt public officials from other parties, the judiciary is effectively influencing the outcome of July’s election.

How do a nation’s top judges - people sworn to defend the Constitution - become a threat to democracy? That’s the focus of my research on judicial independence in Pakistan.

In Pakistan, as in other former British colonies, the Supreme Court has the power to take what’s called “suo motu” action. That means judges can rule on issues of their own volition, without any motion or complaint filed in court.

For instance, Chief Justice Nisar recently ordered a hearing on the rape and murder of a young child in Lahore, because closing that case quickly was deemed to be in the public interest.

As it happens, in recent years he has also removed the prime minister from public office twice, conducted surprise inspections at government hospitals, lambasted the media for commenting on open cases and ordered investigations into police violence.

Such sweeping authority creates a clash of institutions between the judiciary and other branches of government. Such competition can be detrimental to democracy. My research in several countries has found that when supreme court justices venture into political affairs, they create conflict with lawmakers and heads of state.

It is unsurprising, then, that Chief Justice Nisar’s suo motu cases over the past few months have outraged many Pakistani politicians, who say the justice is guilty of judicial overreach.

Nisar responds that he is simply following the law, adding that the “courts are not the enemies of the government.”

Sharif takes his case to the ‘people’s court’

But to some, Nisar’s timing – the lead-up to a big national election – is suspicious. So, too, is his selection of suo motu hearings: The overwhelming majority of political cases added to the Supreme Court’s docket since 2015 have focused on Sharif’s party.

The toppled prime minister, for his part, claims that he is the victim of a “judicial coup.” At rallies across Pakistan, Sharif tells his supporters that since he cannot run for re-election this fall, he must ask them, the “people’s court,” to vote for his PML-N party.

The Supreme Court has already removed one PML-N senator, and two of its ministers are under investigation for alleged contempt of court. Sharif and the PLM-N leadership cite these cases as evidence that the party is under judicial attack.

In targeting Sharif and his party, Justice Nisar has allowed the ousted prime minister to paint themselves as the underdogs, even though the party is still in power. This has strengthened the PML-N’s position ahead of the upcoming election. Currently, it is polling above its closest rivals by about eight points.

Sharif also remains the most popular leader in the country, according to recent surveys.

Chief justice or general?

Suggestions that the Pakistani military was behind Sharif’s 2017 ouster have bolstered the former prime minister’s claim of victimhood.

Credible analysts assert that the prime minister challenged Pakistan’s generals’ authority when he was in power by taking relatively noncombative approach to neighboring India and Afghanistan. Normally, the Pakistani military – whose power is so enduring that Pakistanis often call it simply the “establishment” – directs regional security.

Sharif also butted heads with Pakistan’s armed forces during his 1997-1999 administration, ultimately leading to his overthrow by the military in 1999.

Since coups are no longer acceptable in Pakistan, the logic goes, this time the generals used legal action to remove Sharif. 
Judicial overreach abroad

Pakistan is not the only place questioning the limits of judicial intervention in the democratic process.

Bangladeshi courts used their suo motu powers to prosecute and sideline a main opposition leader prior to elections in both 2008 and 2009.

In Brazil, Judge Sergio Moro faced accusations of staging a judicial coup in January when he convicted former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of corruption, likely disqualifying him from this year’s presidential election.

Brazilian courts don’t have suo motu power. But judges there have used the judicial discretion of their civil law system to dramatically expand the scope of a nationwide bribery inquiry. Upwards of 100 congressmen and senators are now under judicial investigation.

Judges in the United States, too, have the power expand the scope of a petition to the court. A classic example is the 2010 Supreme Court case Citizens United. Nominally, the nine justices were supposed to rule on what constituted political advertising. Instead, they issued a much broader verdict on free speech and corporate money in elections.

In those countries, as in Pakistan, judges contend they are simply doing their jobs, acting as a critical constitutional check on the political system.

But in a young democracy like Pakistan’s, the standoff between judges and the ruling party is fueling an unhealthy level of uncertainty during a campaign season. If the chief justice is not in fact staging a coup, I’m alarmed to say, it sure feels like he is.

*(Adnan Rasool is a PhD candidate/student innovation fellow, Georgia State University )

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Sharif and his supporters accuse Pakistan’s chief justice of interfering in politics and swaying the upcoming election.

By Adnan Rasool* Pakistanis head to the polls to elect their next prime minister in July. Until then, though, the Supreme Court seems to be in charge of the country. In July 2017, revelations from the Panama Papers leak spurred Pakistan’s high court to rule that then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had lied to the public about his family finances. Sharif, who maintained his innocence, was forced to resign as prime minister. However, he continued to lead his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz party, or PML-N, effectively controlling Pakistan’s government. Then, in February 2018, the Supreme Court also removed him as party chairman. Because Sharif was not “honest” or “righteous,” Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar additionally ruled, all “orders passed, directions given and documents issued” under his leadership were officially declared null. Sharif and his supporters accuse Pakistan’s chief justice of interfering in politics and swaying the upcoming election. As a Pakistani political scientist, I fear they may be right. Judicial overreach Military coups used to be the biggest risk to Pakistani democracy. Thanks to coup d'etats in 1958, 1977 and 1999, my country has spent 33 years of its 71-year history under military rule. To a people rightfully fearful of interference in their political system, then, the Supreme Court’s recent actions are alarming. By discrediting some politicians while seemingly overlooking corrupt public officials from other parties, the judiciary is effectively influencing the outcome of July’s election. How do a nation’s top judges - people sworn to defend the Constitution - become a threat to democracy? That’s the focus of my research on judicial independence in Pakistan. In Pakistan, as in other former British colonies, the Supreme Court has the power to take what’s called “suo motu” action. That means judges can rule on issues of their own volition, without any motion or complaint filed in court. For instance, Chief Justice Nisar recently ordered a hearing on the rape and murder of a young child in Lahore, because closing that case quickly was deemed to be in the public interest. As it happens, in recent years he has also removed the prime minister from public office twice, conducted surprise inspections at government hospitals, lambasted the media for commenting on open cases and ordered investigations into police violence. Such sweeping authority creates a clash of institutions between the judiciary and other branches of government. Such competition can be detrimental to democracy. My research in several countries has found that when supreme court justices venture into political affairs, they create conflict with lawmakers and heads of state. It is unsurprising, then, that Chief Justice Nisar’s suo motu cases over the past few months have outraged many Pakistani politicians, who say the justice is guilty of judicial overreach. Nisar responds that he is simply following the law, adding that the “courts are not the enemies of the government.” Sharif takes his case to the ‘people’s court’ But to some, Nisar’s timing – the lead-up to a big national election – is suspicious. So, too, is his selection of suo motu hearings: The overwhelming majority of political cases added to the Supreme Court’s docket since 2015 have focused on Sharif’s party. The toppled prime minister, for his part, claims that he is the victim of a “judicial coup.” At rallies across Pakistan, Sharif tells his supporters that since he cannot run for re-election this fall, he must ask them, the “people’s court,” to vote for his PML-N party. The Supreme Court has already removed one PML-N senator, and two of its ministers are under investigation for alleged contempt of court. Sharif and the PLM-N leadership cite these cases as evidence that the party is under judicial attack. In targeting Sharif and his party, Justice Nisar has allowed the ousted prime minister to paint themselves as the underdogs, even though the party is still in power. This has strengthened the PML-N’s position ahead of the upcoming election. Currently, it is polling above its closest rivals by about eight points. Sharif also remains the most popular leader in the country, according to recent surveys. Chief justice or general? Suggestions that the Pakistani military was behind Sharif’s 2017 ouster have bolstered the former prime minister’s claim of victimhood. Credible analysts assert that the prime minister challenged Pakistan’s generals’ authority when he was in power by taking relatively noncombative approach to neighboring India and Afghanistan. Normally, the Pakistani military – whose power is so enduring that Pakistanis often call it simply the “establishment” – directs regional security. Sharif also butted heads with Pakistan’s armed forces during his 1997-1999 administration, ultimately leading to his overthrow by the military in 1999. Since coups are no longer acceptable in Pakistan, the logic goes, this time the generals used legal action to remove Sharif. Judicial overreach abroad Pakistan is not the only place questioning the limits of judicial intervention in the democratic process. Bangladeshi courts used their suo motu powers to prosecute and sideline a main opposition leader prior to elections in both 2008 and 2009. In Brazil, Judge Sergio Moro faced accusations of staging a judicial coup in January when he convicted former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of corruption, likely disqualifying him from this year’s presidential election. Brazilian courts don’t have suo motu power. But judges there have used the judicial discretion of their civil law system to dramatically expand the scope of a nationwide bribery inquiry. Upwards of 100 congressmen and senators are now under judicial investigation. Judges in the United States, too, have the power expand the scope of a petition to the court. A classic example is the 2010 Supreme Court case Citizens United. Nominally, the nine justices were supposed to rule on what constituted political advertising. Instead, they issued a much broader verdict on free speech and corporate money in elections. In those countries, as in Pakistan, judges contend they are simply doing their jobs, acting as a critical constitutional check on the political system. But in a young democracy like Pakistan’s, the standoff between judges and the ruling party is fueling an unhealthy level of uncertainty during a campaign season. If the chief justice is not in fact staging a coup, I’m alarmed to say, it sure feels like he is. *(Adnan Rasool is a PhD candidate/student innovation fellow, Georgia State University ) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Pakistan's activist Supreme Court endangers a fragile democracy

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