Pakistan's Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has authorised the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to intercept and trace calls in the interest of national security. Although not surprised, Pakistanis are expressing anger over the violation of digital rights in the country.

Gravitas | Pakistan Allows Pak Spy Agency, ISI, to Tap Phones, Cites National Security

Pakistan has allowed its Intelligence agency ISI to intercept phone calls and messages for national security and prevention of crime. The government has authorised the inter-services intelligence under Section 54 of telecommunication act of Pakistan's Minister of International Technology.

Pakistan government allows ISI to intercept calls and messages

Four soldiers of the Indian Army have been killed, six have been injured after terrorists ambushed an Army convoy in the Kathua district of Jammu & Kashmir. The Army vehicles were on a routine patrol of the area.

Pakistan pushing terror in guise of talks?

Pakistan government allows ISI to intercept calls & messages

Pattern of Pakistan's malafied foreign policy: Pushing terror in guise of talks

Pakistan allows ISI to intercept calls, permission given for national security & crime prevention

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Indian community welcomes PM Modi in Russia - Biden frustrated by 'elite' Democrats - Russia to discharge Indians working in Army - Pakistan govt allows ISI to intercept calls - Terrorists used old routes to enter J&K: Sources - Mumbai rains: IMD issues red alert - Japanese stocks at record high

Indian community welcomes PM Modi in Russia | Biden frustrated by 'elite' Democrats

<p>In Pakistan's Sindh area, a father has been arrested for burying his 15-day-old infant daughter alive, reported ARY News on Sunday (July 7). The harrowing incident happened in Tharushah, Naushahro Feroze area of Sindh area.</p>

<h2><strong>What could push a father to such depravity?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Reportedly, the father, identified only by the name Tayyab, has confessed to the police that he had buried his daughter alive as he didn't have any money for her medical treatment. However, it is not known what disease she was suffering from.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tayyab told police officials that he tied the infant girl in a sack before burying her. A case has been registered against the accused father.</p>

<p>As per the report, the police revealed that a court has instructed them to exhume the makeshift grave of the few days-old baby&nbsp;and has ordered that a postmortem be conducted on her remains.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-plans-comprehensive-social-media-ban-for-muharram-738484">Pakistan plans comprehensive social media ban for Muharram</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Poverty in Sindh</strong></h2>

<p>Sindh, the second largest of all the provinces in Sindh as per the World Bank, has a higher-than-average percentage of people living below the poverty line.</p>

<p>As per World Bank data from 2022, the province has a population of 50.4 million people (23 per cent of Pakistan's total population). Out of this, almost half live in rural areas and 37 per cent of the rural population lives below the poverty line — higher than Pakistan's average.</p>

<p>In some areas, like the Badin district, poverty rates reach as high as 53.4 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Key gender disparities in Sindh relate to access and utilisation of Maternal, Newborn and Child Healthcare (MNCH) services; early childhood development and education opportunities for the extremely poor and women-headed households," among other things it adds.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-fall-from-grace-in-global-gender-gap-index-ranks-145th-among-146-nations-738687">Pakistan's 'fall from grace' in Global Gender Gap Index; ranks 145th among 146 nations</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Gender Gap in Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>As per the World Economic Forum (WEF)'s latest Global Gender Gap Index — for the year 2024 — Pakistan has hit the bottom in terms of gender parity, second only to Sudan. As per the 2024 Global Gender Gap Index released last month, Pakistan ranks 145 on a list of 146 nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The nation has fallen from last year's 142nd rank to 145th this year, indicating a worsening situation for women.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Pakistan's Sindh area, a father has been arrested for burying his 15-day-old infant daughter alive, reported ARY News on Sunday (July 7). The harrowing incident happened in Tharushah, Naushahro Feroze area of Sindh area.

In Pakistan's Sindh area, a father has been arrested for burying his 15-day-old infant daughter alive, reported ARY News on Sunday (July 7). The harrowing incident happened in Tharushah, Naushahro Feroze area of Sindh area. What could push a father to such depravity? Reportedly, the father, identified only by the name Tayyab, has confessed to the police that he had buried his daughter alive as he didn't have any money for her medical treatment. However, it is not known what disease she was suffering from. Tayyab told police officials that he tied the infant girl in a sack before burying her. A case has been registered against the accused father. As per the report, the police revealed that a court has instructed them to exhume the makeshift grave of the few days-old baby and has ordered that a postmortem be conducted on her remains. Also read | Pakistan plans comprehensive social media ban for Muharram Poverty in Sindh Sindh, the second largest of all the provinces in Sindh as per the World Bank, has a higher-than-average percentage of people living below the poverty line. As per World Bank data from 2022, the province has a population of 50.4 million people (23 per cent of Pakistan's total population). Out of this, almost half live in rural areas and 37 per cent of the rural population lives below the poverty line — higher than Pakistan's average. In some areas, like the Badin district, poverty rates reach as high as 53.4 per cent. "Key gender disparities in Sindh relate to access and utilisation of Maternal, Newborn and Child Healthcare (MNCH) services; early childhood development and education opportunities for the extremely poor and women-headed households," among other things it adds. Also read | Pakistan's 'fall from grace' in Global Gender Gap Index; ranks 145th among 146 nations Gender Gap in Pakistan As per the World Economic Forum (WEF)'s latest Global Gender Gap Index — for the year 2024 — Pakistan has hit the bottom in terms of gender parity, second only to Sudan. As per the 2024 Global Gender Gap Index released last month, Pakistan ranks 145 on a list of 146 nations. The nation has fallen from last year's 142nd rank to 145th this year, indicating a worsening situation for women. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Father ties 15-day-old daughter in sack, buries her alive. This is what he told the police

<p>Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari described Pakistan's general elections held in February as 'not transparent'. However, the third generation scion of the Sindh-based political party rejected the widely accepted view that the country's national elections were rigged.</p>

<p>While addressing a press conference in Balochistan province's Quetta, the PPP chairperson claimed that rigging was done in every single election against his party. He added that to end the "cycle of rigging’ in elections, politicians need to reach a consensus".</p>

<p>"The politicians need to agree that the match should be played fairly and the result should also be accepted," Bilawal added.</p>

<p>He said that the PPP is playing a leading role in election reforms but a number of times, a party or a politician attempts to hinder the process.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-angels-prevail-in-islamabad-but-after-historic-blow-to-pakistan-army-689286">The Capitals: 'Angels' prevail in Islamabad but after historic blow to Pakistan Army</a></strong></p>

<p>Bilawal cited the examples of election rigging claims being heard in election tribunals. He said that Singh government has done 'significant' work in the health sector, vowing to do the same in Balochistan.</p>

<p>He added that his party will provide relief to the people of Balochistan and ensure that they have access to quality healthcare and education.</p>

<p>"The PPP has done a lot of work in the health sector in Sindh as a state-of-the-art hospital is established in Gambat for liver transplants. &nbsp;The hospital in Naseerabad, Balochhistan will be on par with the one in Gambat," Bilawal added.</p>

<p>The PPP chairperson said that the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) abolition is in the party’s manifesto.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pakistan Govt bans employees from siting late in offices to enjoy air-conditioning</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, addressing the budget session of the National Assembly, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari claimed NAB used to carry out political engineering and revenge and defame politicians. He, however, did not name at whose behest NAB does these purported acts of political engineering. But notably, senior NAB officials are former or serving army officials.</p>

<p>The PPP leader said he regrets the lack of consensus on NAB’s abolition.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari described Pakistan's general elections held in February as 'not transparent'. However, the third generation scion of the Sindh-based political party rejected the widely accepted view that the country's national elections were rigged.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari described Pakistan's general elections held in February as 'not transparent'. However, the third generation scion of the Sindh-based political party rejected the widely accepted view that the country's national elections were rigged. While addressing a press conference in Balochistan province's Quetta, the PPP chairperson claimed that rigging was done in every single election against his party. He added that to end the "cycle of rigging’ in elections, politicians need to reach a consensus". "The politicians need to agree that the match should be played fairly and the result should also be accepted," Bilawal added. He said that the PPP is playing a leading role in election reforms but a number of times, a party or a politician attempts to hinder the process. Also read | The Capitals: 'Angels' prevail in Islamabad but after historic blow to Pakistan Army Bilawal cited the examples of election rigging claims being heard in election tribunals. He said that Singh government has done 'significant' work in the health sector, vowing to do the same in Balochistan. He added that his party will provide relief to the people of Balochistan and ensure that they have access to quality healthcare and education. "The PPP has done a lot of work in the health sector in Sindh as a state-of-the-art hospital is established in Gambat for liver transplants. The hospital in Naseerabad, Balochhistan will be on par with the one in Gambat," Bilawal added. The PPP chairperson said that the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) abolition is in the party’s manifesto. Also watch | Gravitas: Pakistan Govt bans employees from siting late in offices to enjoy air-conditioning × Meanwhile, addressing the budget session of the National Assembly, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari claimed NAB used to carry out political engineering and revenge and defame politicians. He, however, did not name at whose behest NAB does these purported acts of political engineering. But notably, senior NAB officials are former or serving army officials. The PPP leader said he regrets the lack of consensus on NAB’s abolition. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto admits February elections were 'not transparent'

In Pakistan the political Faceoff between Imran Khan's Pakistan Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and the Pakistan government does not seem to be ending soon. The Islamabad district administration has revoked the permission granted to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for holding a rally. The administration had initially approved the rally at Peshawar Road in Tarnol. However, the permission was withdrawn due to security concerns and potential terrorist threats. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: PTI members vow to hold 'record-breaking' public gathering

The Islamabad district administration has revoked the permission granted to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for holding a rally. The administration had initially approved the rally at Peshawar Road in Tarnol. However, the permission was withdrawn due to security concerns and potential terrorist threats.

Pakistan: Government revokes permission for PTI rally invoking security concerns

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to determine the future of social media platforms including YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok during the Muharram festival. This decision comes in response to the Punjab government's request for a ban, aimed at controlling "hate material."</p>

<p>Shia Muslims hold gatherings during the festival to observe the martyrdom of the grandson of the prophet of Islam.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/masoud-pezeshkian-irans-heart-specialist-president-is-single-dad-who-stood-for-mahsa-amini-738454">Masoud Pezeshkian: Iran's president is single dad who stood for Mahsa Amini</a></p>

<p>Muslims observe his martyrdom as a symbol of resistance to oppression. Shia Muslims hold gatherings during the first ten days of Muharram, culminating in large processions on the 9th and 10th of the month.</p>

<p>The government in Pakistan usually undertake security measures during Muharram, including imposing restrictions on&nbsp;internet services, cell phones and social media&nbsp;to avoid acts of violence.</p>

<p>The Punjab government in Pakistan had urged federal officials&nbsp;to restrict&nbsp;access to social media from July 6 to 11 to control the spread of misinformation and hate material to prevent violence.</p>

<p>This week, the provincial home department, through a letter to the Interior Ministry, recommended suspending Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, and other social media platforms across the province.</p>

<p>The Ministry of Interior after a meeting held on Friday (Jul 5)&nbsp;deferred a decision on the Punjab government's request.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-bilawal-bhutto-admits-february-elections-were-not-transparent-738375">Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto admits February elections were 'not transparent'</a></p>

<p>It stated that PM Sharif would make the final decision on the matter, adding that the requests of the provinces had "neither been rejected nor accepted".</p>

<p>Muharram is likely to begin on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;7) or Monday (Jul&nbsp;8) on the condition of the sighting of the moon.</p>

<p><strong>Muharram</strong></p>

<p>Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The first day of this holy month is known as the Islamic New Year, Al Hijri or Arabic New Year.</p>

<p>Although not just for the New Year celebrations, the month of Muharram holds great historical significance for both Shia and Sunni Muslims around the globe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/costlier-in-karachi-than-in-europe-pakistan-introduces-milk-tax-pushes-price-to-a-record-high-737900">Costlier in Karachi than in Europe! Pakistan introduces milk tax, pushes price to a record high</a></p>

<p>Unlike the Gregorian calendar which consists of 365 days, the Islamic calendar has 354 days divided into 12 months where Muharram is followed by the months of Safar, Rabi-al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada ath-Thaniyah, Rajab, Shaban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Zil-Qadah and Zil-Hijjah.</p>

<p>After Ramadan, Muharram is considered the most sacred month in Islam, marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to determine the future of social media platforms including YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok during the Muharram festival.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to determine the future of social media platforms including YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok during the Muharram festival. This decision comes in response to the Punjab government's request for a ban, aimed at controlling "hate material." Shia Muslims hold gatherings during the festival to observe the martyrdom of the grandson of the prophet of Islam. Also read: Masoud Pezeshkian: Iran's president is single dad who stood for Mahsa Amini Muslims observe his martyrdom as a symbol of resistance to oppression. Shia Muslims hold gatherings during the first ten days of Muharram, culminating in large processions on the 9th and 10th of the month. The government in Pakistan usually undertake security measures during Muharram, including imposing restrictions on internet services, cell phones and social media to avoid acts of violence. The Punjab government in Pakistan had urged federal officials to restrict access to social media from July 6 to 11 to control the spread of misinformation and hate material to prevent violence. This week, the provincial home department, through a letter to the Interior Ministry, recommended suspending Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, X, TikTok, and other social media platforms across the province. The Ministry of Interior after a meeting held on Friday (Jul 5) deferred a decision on the Punjab government's request. Also read: Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto admits February elections were 'not transparent' It stated that PM Sharif would make the final decision on the matter, adding that the requests of the provinces had "neither been rejected nor accepted". Muharram is likely to begin on Sunday (Jul 7) or Monday (Jul 8) on the condition of the sighting of the moon. Muharram Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The first day of this holy month is known as the Islamic New Year, Al Hijri or Arabic New Year. Although not just for the New Year celebrations, the month of Muharram holds great historical significance for both Shia and Sunni Muslims around the globe. Also read: Costlier in Karachi than in Europe! Pakistan introduces milk tax, pushes price to a record high Unlike the Gregorian calendar which consists of 365 days, the Islamic calendar has 354 days divided into 12 months where Muharram is followed by the months of Safar, Rabi-al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada ath-Thaniyah, Rajab, Shaban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Zil-Qadah and Zil-Hijjah. After Ramadan, Muharram is considered the most sacred month in Islam, marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan plans comprehensive social media ban for Muharram

Pakistan's Federal Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiative imposed a ban on employees who sit late in offices idly to enjoy air-conditioning facility.

Gravitas: Pakistan Govt bans employees from siting late in offices to enjoy air-conditioning

Pakistan is aiming to finalize a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout exceeding $6 billion this month. Junior Finance Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that all IMF requirements in the annual budget have been addressed, despite domestic concerns over new taxation measures.

Pakistan blocks 210,000 SIM cards over tax filings

Is Pakistan putting nukes on its fighter jets? A photograph, taken during the rehearsals for the 2023 Pakistan Day Parade, appears to show a JF-17 jet carrying a Ra’ad missile, a nuclear-capable projectile.

Gravitas: Pakistan arming its JF-17 fighter jets with Ra'ad nuke missiles?

<p>The milk prices increased by more than a fifth in Pakistan after the government introduced a new tax which made the dairy staple costlier than it is in Australia, France and other developed countries.</p>

<p>In the supermarkets of Karachi, Ultra-high temperature or UHT milk is being sold for Rs 370 ($1.33) per litre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the data collected by Bloomberg, the milk costs $1.29 in Amsterdam, $1.23 in Paris, and $1.08 in Melbourne.</p>

<p>In the taxation changes introduced by the government last week as part of the national budget, the milk tax was introduced which is 18 per cent on packaged milk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, it was exempted from any tax. Before the tax was imposed, which resulted in an increase in retail prices by 25 per cent, the cost of milk was similar to the prices in other countries like&nbsp;Nigeria and Vietnam, said Muhammad Nasir, who is a spokesman for the local unit of Dutch dairy producer Royal FrieslandCampina NV.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-left-unchecked-jaishankar-takes-veiled-dig-at-pak-china-at-sco-summit-737849">'If left unchecked..': Jaishankar takes veiled dig at Pak, China at SCO summit</a></p>

<p>The costlier price of milk will only increase the inflation that the South Asian country is battling amid a deepening economic crisis that has led to stagnation in wages and erosion of spending power.</p>

<p>Child health is also likely to decline because of the increase in milk prices as 40 per cent of the country has been living in poverty.</p>

<p>“It will deny nutrition from a population that is already suffering from malnutrition,” said Nasir, in a text message to Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nearly 60 per cent of Pakistani children, who are under five&nbsp;years of age, are anaemic and nearly 40 per cent of them are suffering from stunted growth.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistanis express displeasure of surge in milk price on social media</strong></h2>

<p>Taking to social media platforms, the Pakistanis expressed displeasure over the price hike of milk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Bone-breaking inflation is on its peak! Milk prices in Pakistan have surged by more than 20% following the imposition of a new tax, making the dairy staple more expensive in Karachi than in Paris, Melbourne, and Amsterdam,” one of the users wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bone breaking inflation is on its peak!<br />
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Milk prices in Pakistan have surged by more than 20% following the imposition of a new tax, making the dairy staple more expensive in Karachi than in Paris, Melbourne, and Amsterdam. <a href="https://t.co/EApfF1iB7C">pic.twitter.com/EApfF1iB7C</a></p>
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<p>“Milk prices in Pakistan surged by more than a fifth after a new tax was applied, making the dairy staple more expensive than in France, Australia and some other developed nations. Great going,” said another user.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;7 killed, 18 injured in bus accident in Pakistan's Karachi</strong></p>

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<p>The taxes were raised by the Pakistan government by 40 per cent, which was the highest on record. The increase was part of the national budget introduced last week which was aimed at meeting conditions proposed by the International Monetary Fund for getting a new bailout.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The milk prices increased by more than a fifth in Pakistan after the government introduced a new tax which made the dairy staple costlier than it is in Australia, France and other developed countries.

The milk prices increased by more than a fifth in Pakistan after the government introduced a new tax which made the dairy staple costlier than it is in Australia, France and other developed countries. In the supermarkets of Karachi, Ultra-high temperature or UHT milk is being sold for Rs 370 ($1.33) per litre. As per the data collected by Bloomberg, the milk costs $1.29 in Amsterdam, $1.23 in Paris, and $1.08 in Melbourne. In the taxation changes introduced by the government last week as part of the national budget, the milk tax was introduced which is 18 per cent on packaged milk. Earlier, it was exempted from any tax. Before the tax was imposed, which resulted in an increase in retail prices by 25 per cent, the cost of milk was similar to the prices in other countries like Nigeria and Vietnam, said Muhammad Nasir, who is a spokesman for the local unit of Dutch dairy producer Royal FrieslandCampina NV. Also Read: 'If left unchecked..': Jaishankar takes veiled dig at Pak, China at SCO summit The costlier price of milk will only increase the inflation that the South Asian country is battling amid a deepening economic crisis that has led to stagnation in wages and erosion of spending power. Child health is also likely to decline because of the increase in milk prices as 40 per cent of the country has been living in poverty. “It will deny nutrition from a population that is already suffering from malnutrition,” said Nasir, in a text message to Bloomberg. Nearly 60 per cent of Pakistani children, who are under five years of age, are anaemic and nearly 40 per cent of them are suffering from stunted growth. Pakistanis express displeasure of surge in milk price on social media Taking to social media platforms, the Pakistanis expressed displeasure over the price hike of milk. “Bone-breaking inflation is on its peak! Milk prices in Pakistan have surged by more than 20% following the imposition of a new tax, making the dairy staple more expensive in Karachi than in Paris, Melbourne, and Amsterdam,” one of the users wrote on X. Bone breaking inflation is on its peak! Milk prices in Pakistan have surged by more than 20% following the imposition of a new tax, making the dairy staple more expensive in Karachi than in Paris, Melbourne, and Amsterdam. pic.twitter.com/EApfF1iB7C — Qazi Asif (@QMAAsif) July 4, 2024 × “Milk prices in Pakistan surged by more than a fifth after a new tax was applied, making the dairy staple more expensive than in France, Australia and some other developed nations. Great going,” said another user. Watch: 7 killed, 18 injured in bus accident in Pakistan's Karachi The taxes were raised by the Pakistan government by 40 per cent, which was the highest on record. The increase was part of the national budget introduced last week which was aimed at meeting conditions proposed by the International Monetary Fund for getting a new bailout. (With inputs from agencies)

Costlier in Karachi than in Europe! Pakistan introduces milk tax, pushes price to a record high

<p>At the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Kazakhstan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a powerful speech on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, taking a veiled swipe at China and Pakistan while calling for united action against terrorism and climate change.</p>

<p>Earlier, reports mentioned that PM Modi opted to skip the event due to his planned visits to Russia and Austria, which is now confirmed to take place from&nbsp;July 8 to July 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his remarks, Jaishankar&nbsp;highlighted India's concerns over the need for decisive action against terrorism, a clear reference to Pakistan's reluctance to crack down on terrorist groups operating from their soil.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-key-partner-russia-on-july-8-9-set-to-hold-22nd-bilateral-annual-summit-737810">PM Modi to visit key partner Russia on July 8-9, set to hold 22nd bilateral annual summit</a></p>

<p>Jaishankar, who led the Indian delegation at the 24th SCO Summit, said, “Many of us have had our experiences, often originating beyond our borders. Let us be clear that if left unchecked, it can become a major threat to regional and global peace."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dig at China&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Jaishankar also spoke about the importance of "respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity" for connectivity and infrastructure projects, as well as "non-discriminatory trade rights and transit regimes".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-sco-summit-2024-date-agenda-key-participants-and-more-737670">The SCO Summit 2024: Date, agenda, key participants and more</a></p>

<p>This statement was a clear reference to India's concerns over the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Climate change&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian minister also stressed the importance of mitigating the effects of climate change, which he described as "another prominent concern before us today".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-elections-2024-voting-underway-at-40000-polling-stations-737817">UK Elections 2024: Voting underway at 40,000 polling stations</a></strong></p>

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<p>Jaishankar said, "We are working towards achieving a committed reduction in emissions, including transition to alternate fuels, adoption of electric vehicles, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. In this context, during India’s SCO presidency, a Joint Statement on emerging fuels, and a Concept Paper on de-carbonisation in the transportation sector were approved."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Kazakhstan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a powerful speech on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, taking a veiled swipe at China and Pakistan while calling for united action against terrorism and climate change.

At the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Kazakhstan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a powerful speech on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, taking a veiled swipe at China and Pakistan while calling for united action against terrorism and climate change. Earlier, reports mentioned that PM Modi opted to skip the event due to his planned visits to Russia and Austria, which is now confirmed to take place from July 8 to July 10. In his remarks, Jaishankar highlighted India's concerns over the need for decisive action against terrorism, a clear reference to Pakistan's reluctance to crack down on terrorist groups operating from their soil. Also Read | PM Modi to visit key partner Russia on July 8-9, set to hold 22nd bilateral annual summit Jaishankar, who led the Indian delegation at the 24th SCO Summit, said, “Many of us have had our experiences, often originating beyond our borders. Let us be clear that if left unchecked, it can become a major threat to regional and global peace." Dig at China Jaishankar also spoke about the importance of "respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity" for connectivity and infrastructure projects, as well as "non-discriminatory trade rights and transit regimes". Also Read | The SCO Summit 2024: Date, agenda, key participants and more This statement was a clear reference to India's concerns over the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Climate change The Indian minister also stressed the importance of mitigating the effects of climate change, which he described as "another prominent concern before us today". Watch | UK Elections 2024: Voting underway at 40,000 polling stations × Jaishankar said, "We are working towards achieving a committed reduction in emissions, including transition to alternate fuels, adoption of electric vehicles, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. In this context, during India’s SCO presidency, a Joint Statement on emerging fuels, and a Concept Paper on de-carbonisation in the transportation sector were approved." (With inputs from agencies)

'If left unchecked..': Jaishankar takes veiled dig at Pak, China at SCO summit

<p>Minority rights activists in Pakistan took to the streets on Tuesday (July 2) following the death sentence handed down to a Christian man for allegedly sharing a blasphemous TikTok post. The case has sparked outrage and highlighted ongoing concerns about the misuse of blasphemy laws in the country.</p>

<p>The controversy began in August when an image accusing two Christian brothers of desecrating a religious text&nbsp;was widely circulated. The resulting uproar led to a mob attack on a Christian enclave, where over 80 homes and 19 churches were destroyed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistani court sentences Christian man to death over blasphemy allegations</strong></p>

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<p>On Tuesday (July 2), about&nbsp;60 demonstrators gathered in Karachi and held&nbsp;banners condemning the "misuse of blasphemy laws." Among the protesters was Christian pastor Ghazala Shafiq, who voiced fears about the increasing danger faced by minorities in Pakistan, news agency AFP reported.</p>

<p>"Day by day, Pakistan is becoming a country where minorities aren't safe anymore," said Shafiq. "People can do whatever they want to do with us," she added, AFP report added further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The individual at the centre of the blasphemy case, 27-year-old Ehsan Masih, was convicted by a court in eastern Sahiwal city in Punjab.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Christian man sentenced to death</strong></p>

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<p>His lawyer, Akmal Bhatti, argued that Masih, who is illiterate, did not understand the content of the image he shared on TikTok.</p>

<p>"He shared the page on his TikTok without any understanding of what it was," Bhatti explained. "He did not write anything with that post, did not add anything himself that could be considered blasphemous."</p>

<p>The initial arrests of the two Christian brothers for blasphemy were overturned after investigators determined they were likely framed due to a personal grudge.</p>

<p>Despite this, Masih's conviction has moved forward.</p>

<p>According to Amnesty International, Pakistan's last executions occurred in 2020 but many convicts endure prolonged and harsh conditions on death row.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Minority rights activists in Pakistan took to the streets on Tuesday (July 2) following the death sentence handed down to a Christian man for allegedly sharing a blasphemous TikTok post.

Minority rights activists in Pakistan took to the streets on Tuesday (July 2) following the death sentence handed down to a Christian man for allegedly sharing a blasphemous TikTok post. The case has sparked outrage and highlighted ongoing concerns about the misuse of blasphemy laws in the country. The controversy began in August when an image accusing two Christian brothers of desecrating a religious text was widely circulated. The resulting uproar led to a mob attack on a Christian enclave, where over 80 homes and 19 churches were destroyed. Also watch | Pakistani court sentences Christian man to death over blasphemy allegations × On Tuesday (July 2), about 60 demonstrators gathered in Karachi and held banners condemning the "misuse of blasphemy laws." Among the protesters was Christian pastor Ghazala Shafiq, who voiced fears about the increasing danger faced by minorities in Pakistan, news agency AFP reported. "Day by day, Pakistan is becoming a country where minorities aren't safe anymore," said Shafiq. "People can do whatever they want to do with us," she added, AFP report added further. The individual at the centre of the blasphemy case, 27-year-old Ehsan Masih, was convicted by a court in eastern Sahiwal city in Punjab. Also watch | Pakistan: Christian man sentenced to death × His lawyer, Akmal Bhatti, argued that Masih, who is illiterate, did not understand the content of the image he shared on TikTok. "He shared the page on his TikTok without any understanding of what it was," Bhatti explained. "He did not write anything with that post, did not add anything himself that could be considered blasphemous." The initial arrests of the two Christian brothers for blasphemy were overturned after investigators determined they were likely framed due to a personal grudge. Despite this, Masih's conviction has moved forward. According to Amnesty International, Pakistan's last executions occurred in 2020 but many convicts endure prolonged and harsh conditions on death row. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistani Christians take to streets over blasphemy death sentence

A court in Pakistan sentenced a Christian man to death for sharing what it said was hateful content against Muslims on social media after one of the worst mob attacks on Christians in the eastern Punjab province last year, his lawyer said on July 1, adding he will appeal the verdict.

Pakistan: Christian man sentenced to death over blasphemy allegations

<p>After Narendra Modi took over as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive&nbsp;term, The Pakistan establishment&nbsp;seems to have changed the policy yet again. There has been a rise in terror activities as well as infiltration&nbsp;bids on the Line of Control and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Security forces have found that terror outfits are now choosing the age-old traditional&nbsp; infiltration routes to enter the Union Territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Army, Border Security Forces and Jammu Kashmir Police have a new challenge at hand. At a time when the snow has started melting on the higher reaches of the Line of Control and International Border, the number of Infiltration bids has increased as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But what has changed this time is that terror groups are using the old traditional infiltration routes. The Pir Panjal hills in south Kashmir and Shamsawari hills in north Kashmir, close to the Line of Control have once again been&nbsp;used&nbsp;by the terrorists to infiltrate as they are covered with dense forests and have dozens of natural caves.</p>

<p>"This is an obvious reality, there is no doubt that there (in Pakistan)&nbsp;there are camps, there are factories of terrorism, there are such organisations operating there and their business is running on bloodshed here if they are not able to do so then their money stops. It is a challenge and we have seen it before and the answer to your question is whether they have started new routes which were closed earlier and have been opened again, the answer is "yes", are they trying to activate it, the answer is "yes", the reason is we all know." said R R Swain, DGP, Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir Police's&nbsp;DGP RR Swain recently said that 70-80&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;terrorists&nbsp;are&nbsp; active in Jammu and Kashmir and the focus of&nbsp;terrorism has shifted from local to&nbsp;foreign&nbsp; terrorists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The increasing number of&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;terrorists is a challenge for the security forces as they are trained in Pakistan&nbsp;terror camps before being sent to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent times, forces&nbsp;have also noticed that these terrorists are carrying out attacks in the Jammu region but most of these&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;terrorists are said to be hiding in the same belt.</p>

<p>''It is a fact now that the Kashmiri youth are not joining the&nbsp;terror ranks. The figure has&nbsp;come down to its lowest in decades. According to the data, the last lowest figure of our youth's involvement in terrorism was in 2013, but this time it is even less than that."&nbsp;said R R Swain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, security forces continue to increase the deployment of troops for a strong counter-infiltration grid.</p>


After Narendra Modi took over as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive term, The Pakistan establishment seems to have changed the policy yet again.

After Narendra Modi took over as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive term, The Pakistan establishment seems to have changed the policy yet again. There has been a rise in terror activities as well as infiltration bids on the Line of Control and International Border in Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces have found that terror outfits are now choosing the age-old traditional infiltration routes to enter the Union Territory. Indian Army, Border Security Forces and Jammu Kashmir Police have a new challenge at hand. At a time when the snow has started melting on the higher reaches of the Line of Control and International Border, the number of Infiltration bids has increased as well. But what has changed this time is that terror groups are using the old traditional infiltration routes. The Pir Panjal hills in south Kashmir and Shamsawari hills in north Kashmir, close to the Line of Control have once again been used by the terrorists to infiltrate as they are covered with dense forests and have dozens of natural caves. "This is an obvious reality, there is no doubt that there (in Pakistan) there are camps, there are factories of terrorism, there are such organisations operating there and their business is running on bloodshed here if they are not able to do so then their money stops. It is a challenge and we have seen it before and the answer to your question is whether they have started new routes which were closed earlier and have been opened again, the answer is "yes", are they trying to activate it, the answer is "yes", the reason is we all know." said R R Swain, DGP, Jammu and Kashmir Police. Jammu and Kashmir Police's DGP RR Swain recently said that 70-80 foreign terrorists are active in Jammu and Kashmir and the focus of terrorism has shifted from local to foreign terrorists. The increasing number of foreign terrorists is a challenge for the security forces as they are trained in Pakistan terror camps before being sent to Jammu and Kashmir. In recent times, forces have also noticed that these terrorists are carrying out attacks in the Jammu region but most of these foreign terrorists are said to be hiding in the same belt. ''It is a fact now that the Kashmiri youth are not joining the terror ranks. The figure has come down to its lowest in decades. According to the data, the last lowest figure of our youth's involvement in terrorism was in 2013, but this time it is even less than that." said R R Swain. Meanwhile, security forces continue to increase the deployment of troops for a strong counter-infiltration grid.

Terrorists using old traditional infiltration routes in J&K; foreign terrorists more than locals after decades

Pakistani court sentences Christian man to death over blasphemy allegations

Pakistan: Christian man sentenced to death

At least seven people were killed and 18 others injured on Sunday after a passenger bus overturned in Pakistan's southern port city of Karachi. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: 7 dead as bus collided with a trailer in Karachi

7 killed, 18 injured in bus accident in Pakistan's Karachi

<p>A district and sessions court in Islamabad declined the pleas of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, as well as his wife, Bushra Bibi, to suspend their seven-year sentences in the Iddat Case on Thursday, reported Dawn.<br />
The verdict, which had been reserved on Tuesday was notably announced by Additional District and sessions judge (ADSJ) Afzal Majoka today.</p>

<p>Lawyers, women activists, and members of civil society all harshly condemned the Iddat conviction as a "blow to women's right to dignity and privacy."</p>

<p>The ruling had been met with protests in Islamabad by activists and criticism in Karachi by demonstrators who were against the "state's intrusion into people's private lives.</p>

<p>Prior to the general elections, on February 3, an Islamabad court condemned the couple to seven years in prison and fined them each PKR 500,000 for getting married during Bushra Bibi's Iddat period.</p>

<p>The couple was given 14 years in prison in the Toshakhana case, while Imran and his foreign minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, were given 10 years in prison in the Cypher case, the same week the verdict was rendered.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan writes from Jail, attacks Pak army Chief Asim Munir</strong></p>

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<p>Imran and Qureshi were found not guilty in the Cypher case earlier this month, and the penalties in the Toshakhana case were suspended in April.</p>

<p>The case was previously being heard by District and Sessions Judge Shahrukh Arjumand, who had reserved the verdict in May.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-sentenced-to-three-years-in-prison-in-toshakhana-case-622603">Toshakhana case: Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrested after being found guilty, sentenced to three years in jail</a></strong></p>

<p>On the day of the anticipated announcement, he requested that the matter be transferred, citing Maneka's plea to be removed from the appeals panel. The case was then moved to ADSJ Majoka.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Bushra Bibi's attorney had petitioned the Islamabad High Court for her release on bond and a sentence suspension. In a related development, the sessions court was instructed by the Islamabad High Court to rule on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder's and his wife's pleas within ten days.</p>


A district and sessions court in Islamabad declined the pleas of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, as well as his wife, Bushra Bibi, to suspend their seven-year sentences in the Iddat Case on Thursday, reported Dawn.

A district and sessions court in Islamabad declined the pleas of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, as well as his wife, Bushra Bibi, to suspend their seven-year sentences in the Iddat Case on Thursday, reported Dawn. The verdict, which had been reserved on Tuesday was notably announced by Additional District and sessions judge (ADSJ) Afzal Majoka today. Lawyers, women activists, and members of civil society all harshly condemned the Iddat conviction as a "blow to women's right to dignity and privacy." The ruling had been met with protests in Islamabad by activists and criticism in Karachi by demonstrators who were against the "state's intrusion into people's private lives. Prior to the general elections, on February 3, an Islamabad court condemned the couple to seven years in prison and fined them each PKR 500,000 for getting married during Bushra Bibi's Iddat period. The couple was given 14 years in prison in the Toshakhana case, while Imran and his foreign minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, were given 10 years in prison in the Cypher case, the same week the verdict was rendered. Also watch | Pakistan: Imran Khan writes from Jail, attacks Pak army Chief Asim Munir × Imran and Qureshi were found not guilty in the Cypher case earlier this month, and the penalties in the Toshakhana case were suspended in April. The case was previously being heard by District and Sessions Judge Shahrukh Arjumand, who had reserved the verdict in May. Also read | Toshakhana case: Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan arrested after being found guilty, sentenced to three years in jail On the day of the anticipated announcement, he requested that the matter be transferred, citing Maneka's plea to be removed from the appeals panel. The case was then moved to ADSJ Majoka. Nonetheless, Bushra Bibi's attorney had petitioned the Islamabad High Court for her release on bond and a sentence suspension. In a related development, the sessions court was instructed by the Islamabad High Court to rule on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder's and his wife's pleas within ten days.

Pakistan: Imran Khan, wife Bushra to remain in jail as court denies bail in illegal marriage case

In an overwhelming majority, the US representatives has voted to demand a “full and independent investigation of claims of interference or irregularities” in elections held early this year in Pakistan.

Gravitas | US House of Representatives passes resolution to investigate Pakistan's 2024 Polls

<p>The Indian subcontinent's deadly heatwave has killed at least 450 people in the Pakistani city of Karachi over the last four days alone, a leading non-profit of the South Asian country said on Wednesday (June 26). The Edhi Foundation said it received&nbsp;at least 427 bodies in the last four days excluding Wednesday while the Sindh government on Tuesday released 23 bodies in three government hospitals.</p>

<p>Karachi is Pakistan's port city in the Sindh province and is the largest city in the crises-ridden nation. The soaring mercury crossed&nbsp;40 degrees Celsius for the third consecutive day on Wednesday (June 26). Such temperatures are too high for coastal areas.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Glaciers melting amid scorching heatwave in Northern India</strong></p>

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<p>"We have four mortuaries operating in Karachi and we have reached a stage where there is no more space to keep more bodies in our mortuaries," Faisal Edhi, who heads the Foundation, said.</p>

<p>Edhi Trust is the largest welfare foundation in Pakistan and provides various free or subsidised services to the poor, homeless, orphan street children, discarded babies and battered women.</p>

<p>"The sad fact is that many of these bodies have come from areas where a lot of load shedding is going on even in this harshest weather," he said.</p>

<p>Most of the bodies belonged to homeless people and drug addicts, the Edhi Foundation said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-2024-saudi-arabia-says-it-didnt-notice-any-extreme-heat-related-deaths-among-pilgrims-732815">Hajj 2024: Saudi Arabia says it didn't notice any extreme heat-related deaths among pilgrims</a></strong></p>

<p>"The extreme heat wave got to them as these people spend their entire day out in the open searching for fixes," he said, only to add: "But only the government hospitals or where they were initially taken to can tell you the real cause of death."</p>

<p>On Tuesday (June 25) itself, the non-profit&nbsp;had received 135 bodies at their morgues and 128 on Monday (June 24).</p>

<p>The Pakistani citizens in Karachi and the rest of the country also suffer from long hours of load shedding in many areas. Karachi Electric, the electricity provider for Karachi city claimed that power cuts are happening in the city as the Sindh government still has to clear the dues of Rs 10 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian subcontinent's deadly heatwave has killed at least 450 people in the Pakistani city of Karachi over the last four days alone, a leading non-profit of the South Asian country said on Wednesday (June 26).

The Indian subcontinent's deadly heatwave has killed at least 450 people in the Pakistani city of Karachi over the last four days alone, a leading non-profit of the South Asian country said on Wednesday (June 26). The Edhi Foundation said it received at least 427 bodies in the last four days excluding Wednesday while the Sindh government on Tuesday released 23 bodies in three government hospitals. Karachi is Pakistan's port city in the Sindh province and is the largest city in the crises-ridden nation. The soaring mercury crossed 40 degrees Celsius for the third consecutive day on Wednesday (June 26). Such temperatures are too high for coastal areas. Also watch | Glaciers melting amid scorching heatwave in Northern India × "We have four mortuaries operating in Karachi and we have reached a stage where there is no more space to keep more bodies in our mortuaries," Faisal Edhi, who heads the Foundation, said. Edhi Trust is the largest welfare foundation in Pakistan and provides various free or subsidised services to the poor, homeless, orphan street children, discarded babies and battered women. "The sad fact is that many of these bodies have come from areas where a lot of load shedding is going on even in this harshest weather," he said. Most of the bodies belonged to homeless people and drug addicts, the Edhi Foundation said. Also read | Hajj 2024: Saudi Arabia says it didn't notice any extreme heat-related deaths among pilgrims "The extreme heat wave got to them as these people spend their entire day out in the open searching for fixes," he said, only to add: "But only the government hospitals or where they were initially taken to can tell you the real cause of death." On Tuesday (June 25) itself, the non-profit had received 135 bodies at their morgues and 128 on Monday (June 24). The Pakistani citizens in Karachi and the rest of the country also suffer from long hours of load shedding in many areas. Karachi Electric, the electricity provider for Karachi city claimed that power cuts are happening in the city as the Sindh government still has to clear the dues of Rs 10 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Homeless, drug addicts among 450 killed by heatwave in Karachi

There appears to be more legs to the bull run in Pakistani stocks, which could be an indication of better economic conditions. This bolsters the outlook for Asia's best-performing market this year, beating Indian stocks at all-time highs.

Gravitas | Pakistan's stock rally leads in Asia

Now, we turn our attention to a silent bull run in the Pakistani stock market. There appears to be more legs to the bull run in Pakistani stocks, which could be an indication of better economic conditions. This bolsters the outlook for Asia's best-performing market this year, beating Indian stocks at all-time highs. Take a look at this report for more...

Pakistan's stock rally leads in Asia with more gains seen

<p>Pakistan's first human milk bank has been forced to suspend operations following a religious edict that deemed the initiative "haram" or forbidden under Islamic law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) in Karachi had launched the country's first Shariah-compliant human milk bank just weeks ago, with the goal of providing donated breast milk to premature and malnourished infants. &nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the project has now been put on hold after a revised fatwa or religious ruling. Notably, in December 2023, a fatwa was issued by the influential Darul Uloom Karachi seminary which called for "providing necessary religious endorsement to proceed."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-forces-kill-at-least-24-in-three-separate-airstrikes-on-gaza-735063">Israeli forces kill at least 24 in three separate airstrikes on Gaza</a></p>

<p>Now, the revised fatwa by the seminary cited the need to respect religious and cultural sensitivities surrounding the issue and said it would seek further guidance from Pakistan's Council of Islamic Ideology.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Concept of 'Milk Kinship'</strong></h2>

<p>The controversy centres around the Islamic concept of "milk kinship", where a woman who breastfeeds a child not biologically related to her develops familial ties that prohibit marriage between the child and her own offspring. &nbsp;</p>

<p>While human milk banks have operated in the West for over a century, the notion of milk kinship has impeded their adoption in the Muslim world. A similar initiative in Bangladesh was shut down in 2019 after facing religious opposition. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenyan-protests-erupt-over-controversial-finance-bill-what-is-it-735068">Kenyan protests erupt over controversial finance bill. What is it?</a></p>

<p>"This relationship is akin to blood ties, which forbids marriage between breastfed siblings within Islamic legal frameworks," as per Mufti Syed Qaiser Hussain Tirmizi, a prominent Islamic scholar. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-un-report-conditions-improve-in-northern-gaza-735102">Israel war | UN report: Conditions improve in Northern Gaza</a></strong></p>

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<p>Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) had initially obtained a fatwa allowing the milk bank to operate, on the condition that it maintain detailed records of donors and recipients to prevent any violations of Sharia law.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the revised edict from Darul Uloom Karachi has now forced the institute to suspend the project, despite its potential to save the lives of premature and malnourished infants in Pakistan.</p>

<p>"Our primary goal remains the health and well-being of children, and we are committed to finding solutions that honour both our medical and religious responsibilities," SICHN said in its statement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's first human milk bank has been forced to suspend operations following a religious edict that deemed the initiative "haram" or forbidden under Islamic law.

Pakistan's first human milk bank has been forced to suspend operations following a religious edict that deemed the initiative "haram" or forbidden under Islamic law. The Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) in Karachi had launched the country's first Shariah-compliant human milk bank just weeks ago, with the goal of providing donated breast milk to premature and malnourished infants. However, the project has now been put on hold after a revised fatwa or religious ruling. Notably, in December 2023, a fatwa was issued by the influential Darul Uloom Karachi seminary which called for "providing necessary religious endorsement to proceed." Also Read | Israeli forces kill at least 24 in three separate airstrikes on Gaza Now, the revised fatwa by the seminary cited the need to respect religious and cultural sensitivities surrounding the issue and said it would seek further guidance from Pakistan's Council of Islamic Ideology. Concept of 'Milk Kinship' The controversy centres around the Islamic concept of "milk kinship", where a woman who breastfeeds a child not biologically related to her develops familial ties that prohibit marriage between the child and her own offspring. While human milk banks have operated in the West for over a century, the notion of milk kinship has impeded their adoption in the Muslim world. A similar initiative in Bangladesh was shut down in 2019 after facing religious opposition. Also Read | Kenyan protests erupt over controversial finance bill. What is it? "This relationship is akin to blood ties, which forbids marriage between breastfed siblings within Islamic legal frameworks," as per Mufti Syed Qaiser Hussain Tirmizi, a prominent Islamic scholar. Watch | Israel war | UN report: Conditions improve in Northern Gaza × Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) had initially obtained a fatwa allowing the milk bank to operate, on the condition that it maintain detailed records of donors and recipients to prevent any violations of Sharia law. However, the revised edict from Darul Uloom Karachi has now forced the institute to suspend the project, despite its potential to save the lives of premature and malnourished infants in Pakistan. "Our primary goal remains the health and well-being of children, and we are committed to finding solutions that honour both our medical and religious responsibilities," SICHN said in its statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's first human milk bank halts operations as initiative seen 'haram' under Islamic law

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Pakistani Christians take to streets over blasphemy death sentence

Pakistan: Christian man sentenced to death over blasphemy allegations

Terrorists using old traditional infiltration routes in J&K; foreign terrorists more than locals after decades

Pakistani court sentences Christian man to death over blasphemy allegations

Pakistan: Christian man sentenced to death

Pakistan: 7 dead as bus collided with a trailer in Karachi

7 killed, 18 injured in bus accident in Pakistan's Karachi

Pakistan: Imran Khan, wife Bushra to remain in jail as court denies bail in illegal marriage case