Pakistan's first human milk bank was forced to temporarily shut its door after a fatwa declared such a project 'un-Islamic'. The fatwa set out conditions for a milk bank. After religious scholars deemed it "haram", the facility was forced to shut down.

Gravitas: Fatwa threatens Pakistan's 1st human milk bank as religious scholars declare it Un-Islamic

Pakistan's first human milk bank briefly halted operations on Saturday after receiving harsh criticism from religious groups.

Does Pakistan's human milk project comply with Islamic law? Pak shuts first human milk bank

Pakistan's top leadership has cleared the decks to launch a new military operation to curb terrorism in the country. The goal is to quell the surge in violence. Considering it is not the first time Pakistan has made such an announcement, the question is: Will it work?

Gravitas: Can Pakistan's new military operation curb terrorism?

Delegation from Pakistan reached Jammu as part of ongoing discussions concerning the 1960 Indus Water Treaty. The team is scheduled to visit various dam sites in the region. Security increased outside the hotel where the delegation is staying.

Indus Water Treaty: First Pakistan delegation since Article 370 abrogation arrives in Jammu

The Canadian parliament on June 18 held a 'moment of silence' for pro-Khalistan terrorist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-shot-dead-in-canadas-surrey-605893">Hardeep Singh Nijjar</a>, who was shot dead a year ago by two unidentified men in the parking lot of a Gurdwara in British Columbia's Surrey.

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Amidst strained ties with India, Canadian Parliament observes a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar 
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HardeepSinghNijjar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HardeepSinghNijjar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Canada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Canada</a> <a href="https://t.co/FUaXIWbtKh">pic.twitter.com/FUaXIWbtKh</a>
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Nijjar, who entered Canada in February 1997 on a fake passport and was an Indian citizen until 2007&nbsp;had been listed as terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) after years of "insurrectionary imputations" for the creation of an imagined Sikh homeland in northern India, called Khalistan.<img alt="Hardeep Singh Nijjar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d7586f4-7fda-431c-a30b-cd92f95e1d7d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nijjarterror.png" />

An official Indian government notification dated July 1, 2020 showing Hardeep Singh Nijjar listed as terrorist under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act&nbsp;

Nijjar was accused of being among orchestrators of the assassination of a Dalit spiritual leader Baba Bhaniara in Punjab in 2014.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pulls-off-a-pakistan-act-holds-moment-of-silent-for-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-in-parliament-733095">Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament</a>

In 2018, the Indian government again accused Nijjar of "multiple targeted killings" in India, and in February 2018, Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister of Punjab, included Nijjar on a list of "most wanted persons" given to Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oppose-moves-giving-political-space-to-extremism-indias-foreign-ministry-on-canada-honouring-nijjar-733876">'Oppose move giving political space to extremism': India's foreign ministry on Canada honouring Nijjar</a>

According to an Indian government dossier, Nijjar frequently travelled to Pakistan for arms and explosives training, and in coordination with Pakistan-based Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Jagtar Singh Tara, even organised arms training camp on Canadian soil in December 2015 to train one&nbsp;Mandeep Singh Dhaliwal in the use of an AK-47 assault rifle, a sniper rifle and a pistol.

Dhaliwal&nbsp;was subsequently sent to Punjab to target Shiv Sena leaders there.

So even as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed last year that Ottawa's investigating agencies are probing potential role of "Indian government agents" on the basis of some "credible allegations" — not the evidence — what exactly makes Nijjar a "human rights activist", as per Ottawa?

In an August 2021 sermon when he was the chief of Surrey's Gurdwara body, Nijjar openly exhorted taking up arms against the Indian state and "dancing to the edge of the sword".

"Those who advocate peaceful methods, we need to leave them behind. What justice will we get this way?," Nijjar had said, according to the Globe and Mail newspaper.

Pakistan and Canada: Strange parallel in glorification of terror

The last time Indians noted the use of a parliamentary institution for glorification of terrorism, it was back in 2016 in neighbouring Pakistan. In September 2016, Pakistani leader Fawad Chaudhry described slain Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani as "freedom fighter", drawing thumps on the benches of Islamabad's National Assembly.

But whether Pakistan acknowledges it or not, it has suffered the consequences of making terrorism an instrument of foreign policy.

Numerous groups funded and trained by Pakistan in its unsuccessful attempts to 'bleed India by a thousand cuts' splintered into Frankenstein's monsters for the South Asian nation, carrying out routine terror attacks targeting Pakistani civilians and security forces.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Canada holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament

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The country became a fountainhead of terrorism, with groups like Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and others turning their guns against their own benefactors.&nbsp;

Islamabad made some show of mending it ways, sending into house arrest some leaders who were roaming free, like founders of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammed, only when global anti-terror funding watchdog FATF put the country under a 'grey list'.&nbsp;

Those attempts slowly faded as soon as the lens of global agencies turned away.

In the past decades, Pakistan had armed and helped Khalistaini terrorists operating from its soil.

The former government of Afghanistan had blamed Pakistan for helping its ouster by Taliban.&nbsp;

So both its neighbours, Afghanistan and India, have blamed Pakistan for being the originator and funder of terrorism.&nbsp;

It will be a tiring repetition of facts if I begin listing the numerous times Pakistan-bred terrorists attacked India, or helped the continuing infiltrations into its territory.&nbsp;

Now, in a curious turn of history, Canada is becoming a glorifier of Khalistani terrorism in the name of freedom of speech.&nbsp;

A combination of factors are behind it: The Justin Trudeau government is in coalition with the New Democratic Party, whose leader Jagmeet Singh is an open supporter of Khalistan movement. Over the years, constant family-based migration of Sikhs into some key Burrows (Canadian electoral districts) has made them a key 'vote bank' and deciding factor in the country's local and national elections.&nbsp;

This, and very active participation of Canadian Sikhs in voting, eventually led to the community having political clout far beyond its demographic strength.&nbsp;

From a community once turned away in the 'Komagata Maru incident' of 1914, to having ministers in the cabinet, Sikhs have come a long way in Canada.&nbsp;

But to use that clout in some way or the other, directly or tacitly, to support Khalistani movement amounts to activities violating India's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

It is ironic that Canada, which faced its largest terror attack from Khalistanis, is praising Nijjar around the same time as it is marking the anniversary of that terrible tragedy, the Kanishka bombing, which killed 268 Candian citizens, the largest nationality among 329 total victims.

Opportunistic politics is what led Canada to this situation where a person like Nijjar gets a moment and mention in parliament.&nbsp;

But Canadian historians will do well to remind the government that there are some lessons to be learned from Pakistan's experience of becoming a state sponsor of terrorism, only to fall victim to the monster it created. Canada has allowed denounced cause of Khalistan to spawn a brutal gang culture spanning two continents. It will only return to haunt the exact freedom of speech Trudeau claims to be defending.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanishka-terror-attack-anniversary-india-says-justice-awaited-trudeau-silent-on-perpetrators-734529">Kanishka terror attack anniversary: India says justice awaited; Trudeau silent on perpetrators</a>

For now, by holding a 'moment of silence' in the parliament for a person of Nijjar's profile, Canada has pulled off a terror-sympathising act of Pakistani proportions. Its justification in the name of "individual freedoms" or "free speech" bolsters extremism, the kind that fathers acts of terror like Kanishka bombing, 26/11 and 9/11.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The Canadian parliament on June 18 held a 'moment of silence' for pro-Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead a year ago by two unidentified men in the parking lot of a Gurdwara in British Columbia's Surrey.

The Canadian parliament on June 18 held a 'moment of silence' for pro-Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead a year ago by two unidentified men in the parking lot of a Gurdwara in British Columbia's Surrey. Amidst strained ties with India, Canadian Parliament observes a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar . . .#HardeepSinghNijjar #Canada pic.twitter.com/FUaXIWbtKh — WION (@WIONews) June 19, 2024 × Nijjar, who entered Canada in February 1997 on a fake passport and was an Indian citizen until 2007 had been listed as terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) after years of "insurrectionary imputations" for the creation of an imagined Sikh homeland in northern India, called Khalistan. An official Indian government notification dated July 1, 2020 showing Hardeep Singh Nijjar listed as terrorist under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act Nijjar was accused of being among orchestrators of the assassination of a Dalit spiritual leader Baba Bhaniara in Punjab in 2014. Also read | Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament In 2018, the Indian government again accused Nijjar of "multiple targeted killings" in India, and in February 2018, Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister of Punjab, included Nijjar on a list of "most wanted persons" given to Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau. Also read | 'Oppose move giving political space to extremism': India's foreign ministry on Canada honouring Nijjar According to an Indian government dossier, Nijjar frequently travelled to Pakistan for arms and explosives training, and in coordination with Pakistan-based Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Jagtar Singh Tara, even organised arms training camp on Canadian soil in December 2015 to train one Mandeep Singh Dhaliwal in the use of an AK-47 assault rifle, a sniper rifle and a pistol. Dhaliwal was subsequently sent to Punjab to target Shiv Sena leaders there. So even as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed last year that Ottawa's investigating agencies are probing potential role of "Indian government agents" on the basis of some "credible allegations" — not the evidence — what exactly makes Nijjar a "human rights activist", as per Ottawa? In an August 2021 sermon when he was the chief of Surrey's Gurdwara body, Nijjar openly exhorted taking up arms against the Indian state and "dancing to the edge of the sword". "Those who advocate peaceful methods, we need to leave them behind. What justice will we get this way?," Nijjar had said, according to the Globe and Mail newspaper. Pakistan and Canada: Strange parallel in glorification of terror The last time Indians noted the use of a parliamentary institution for glorification of terrorism, it was back in 2016 in neighbouring Pakistan. In September 2016, Pakistani leader Fawad Chaudhry described slain Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani as "freedom fighter", drawing thumps on the benches of Islamabad's National Assembly. But whether Pakistan acknowledges it or not, it has suffered the consequences of making terrorism an instrument of foreign policy. Numerous groups funded and trained by Pakistan in its unsuccessful attempts to 'bleed India by a thousand cuts' splintered into Frankenstein's monsters for the South Asian nation, carrying out routine terror attacks targeting Pakistani civilians and security forces. Also watch | Canada holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament × The country became a fountainhead of terrorism, with groups like Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and others turning their guns against their own benefactors. Islamabad made some show of mending it ways, sending into house arrest some leaders who were roaming free, like founders of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammed, only when global anti-terror funding watchdog FATF put the country under a 'grey list'. Those attempts slowly faded as soon as the lens of global agencies turned away. In the past decades, Pakistan had armed and helped Khalistaini terrorists operating from its soil. The former government of Afghanistan had blamed Pakistan for helping its ouster by Taliban. So both its neighbours, Afghanistan and India, have blamed Pakistan for being the originator and funder of terrorism. It will be a tiring repetition of facts if I begin listing the numerous times Pakistan-bred terrorists attacked India, or helped the continuing infiltrations into its territory. Now, in a curious turn of history, Canada is becoming a glorifier of Khalistani terrorism in the name of freedom of speech. A combination of factors are behind it: The Justin Trudeau government is in coalition with the New Democratic Party, whose leader Jagmeet Singh is an open supporter of Khalistan movement. Over the years, constant family-based migration of Sikhs into some key Burrows (Canadian electoral districts) has made them a key 'vote bank' and deciding factor in the country's local and national elections. This, and very active participation of Canadian Sikhs in voting, eventually led to the community having political clout far beyond its demographic strength. From a community once turned away in the 'Komagata Maru incident' of 1914, to having ministers in the cabinet, Sikhs have come a long way in Canada. But to use that clout in some way or the other, directly or tacitly, to support Khalistani movement amounts to activities violating India's territorial integrity and sovereignty. It is ironic that Canada, which faced its largest terror attack from Khalistanis, is praising Nijjar around the same time as it is marking the anniversary of that terrible tragedy, the Kanishka bombing, which killed 268 Candian citizens, the largest nationality among 329 total victims. Opportunistic politics is what led Canada to this situation where a person like Nijjar gets a moment and mention in parliament. But Canadian historians will do well to remind the government that there are some lessons to be learned from Pakistan's experience of becoming a state sponsor of terrorism, only to fall victim to the monster it created. Canada has allowed denounced cause of Khalistan to spawn a brutal gang culture spanning two continents. It will only return to haunt the exact freedom of speech Trudeau claims to be defending. Also read | Kanishka terror attack anniversary: India says justice awaited; Trudeau silent on perpetrators For now, by holding a 'moment of silence' in the parliament for a person of Nijjar's profile, Canada has pulled off a terror-sympathising act of Pakistani proportions. Its justification in the name of "individual freedoms" or "free speech" bolsters extremism, the kind that fathers acts of terror like Kanishka bombing, 26/11 and 9/11. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Parliament honour for Nijjar shows Canada is killin' it at being Pakistan

In India's Jammu and Kashmir, encounters with Pakistan-backed terrorists have led to the seizure of highly encrypted Chinese telecom-hear ultra set - an equipment originally meant for use by the Pakistani Army.

J&K: Seizure of mobile handsets used by terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir raises alarm

Headlines of the hour: - NEET Paper leak: 2 teachers arrested in Latur - AI to power Alexa soon? - Houthis claim attack on 4 ships in Haifa port - Monsoon to cover North India by July 3: IMD

WION Headlines | NEET Paper leak: 2 teachers arrested in Latur | AI to power Alexa soon?

A man in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was burnt alive by a mob over blasphemy allegations. Watch the video to know more.

Pakistan: Mob burns tourist alive over alleged blasphemy

China has downgraded its diplomatic stance towards Pakistan, reclassifying its relationship from a “top priority” to a “priority” within its foreign policy framework. Watch in for more details!

China downgrades diplomatic stance towards Pakistan, takes away 'high priority' status

Pakistan is no longer China's 'high priority' status partner

During an event in Islamabad, China's Minister of the International Department, Liu Jianchao, said "Business environment cannot improve without security.' Recently, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also returned nearly empty-handed from a trip to China where he had hoped to secure major investments for Pakistan, especially through a revival of CPEC. But with the flagship project of the BRI suffering in Pakistan due to internal turmoil, is China growing tired of Pakistan? What else does this message from the Chinese Minister want to convey to Pakistan?

Gravitas: CPEC in danger? China sets conditions on Pakistan for new BRI investments

The Punjab government has banned protests and public gatherings in the province. The ban comes in the wake of the Opposition - PTI - as it plans to carry out nationwide protest demanding the release of the leader Imran Khan.

Pakistan: Punjab govt bans protests, public gatherings; ban in response to nationwide PTI protests

Pakistan man accused of Blasphemy beaten to death, set on fire

India once again slammed Pakistan. At UNHRC, India slams Pakistan for raking up the Kashmir issue. First Secretary Anupama Singh says Pakistan has a 'stellar record as the world's biggest exporter of terrorism...'

India slams Pakistan for raking up Kashmir issue at UNHRC in Geneva

Pakistan: Another incident of mob justice; tourist lynched, body set on fire in Swat valley | WION

Dozens of members of minority Ahmadi community were arrested in Pakistan for allegedly sacrificing animals on Eid-ul Adha as the four million-strong community is deemed non-Muslim under the country's constitution. Watch in for more details!

Dozens of members of minority Ahmadi community arrested in Pakistan

Dozens of members of minority Ahmadi community were arrested in Pakistan for allegedly sacrificing animals on Eid-ul Adha.

The four million-strong community is deemed non-Muslim under the country's constitution.&nbsp;

The Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Pakistan, which represents the minority community in the country, strongly protested against the authorities for allegedly preventing Ahmadis from offering their religious rites within the confinement of their homes during Eid.

Notably, contrary to other reports in the media, WION can confirm that no members of Ahmadi community have been killed in the acts of violence and vandalism that erupted in the country over Eid-ul Adha earlier this week.&nbsp;

"At least 36 members of the minority Ahmadi community have been arrested for offering sacrificial animals for slaughter on Eid-ul Adha in the country mostly in Punjab province," Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Pakistan official Amir Mahmood told news agency Press Trust of India.&nbsp;

Mahmood accused radical Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) of fanning the hatred and leading acts of vandalism against the Ahmadi community in the country.&nbsp;

"Preventing Ahmadis from offering their religious rites within the confinement of four walls is a grave violation of their human rights as well as a clear violation of the judgements by the Supreme Court of Pakistan," he said.

Mahmood said that Ahmadis are being harassed throughout Pakistan and especially in Punjab, not only by extremists but also by law enforcement agencies.

Mahmood said the police not only detained Ahmadis but also their sacrificial animals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ahmadis-in-pakistan-say-intimidated-ahead-of-eid-al-adha-feast-732103">Ahmadis in Pakistan say intimidated ahead of Eid Al-Adha feast</a>

"Instead of protecting Ahmadis from harassment and violence, the police officials are calling in Ahmadiyya leadership in various police stations and are threatening them that if any Ahmadi is found performing the 'Qurbani' or offering Eid prayers, then they are in imminent danger from the TLP," he said.

"It has come to be known that the intelligence agencies have also issued a threat alert on the occasion of Eid against Ahmadis," he said.

Unlike the overwhelming majority of Muslims across the world, Ahmadi Muslims do not subscribe to the conventional teachings of Islam and dispute the finality of prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Mob attacks Christians in Pakistan province, 5 injured

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In 1974, Pakistan's parliament under the premiership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto passed a law that declared Ahmadis to be non-Muslims, and the country's constitution was amended to define a Muslim as someone who believes in the finality of the Prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;

The law made it a crime punishable by death for Ahmadis to use Islamic greetings, the traditional call to prayer, or to pray in mosques.

Since 1987, the members of the community remains banned from practicing their faith in public.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Dozens of members of minority Ahmadi community were arrested in Pakistan for allegedly sacrificing animals on Eid-ul Adha. The four million-strong community is deemed non-Muslim under the country's constitution.

Dozens of members of minority Ahmadi community were arrested in Pakistan for allegedly sacrificing animals on Eid-ul Adha. The four million-strong community is deemed non-Muslim under the country's constitution. The Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Pakistan, which represents the minority community in the country, strongly protested against the authorities for allegedly preventing Ahmadis from offering their religious rites within the confinement of their homes during Eid. Notably, contrary to other reports in the media, WION can confirm that no members of Ahmadi community have been killed in the acts of violence and vandalism that erupted in the country over Eid-ul Adha earlier this week. "At least 36 members of the minority Ahmadi community have been arrested for offering sacrificial animals for slaughter on Eid-ul Adha in the country mostly in Punjab province," Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Pakistan official Amir Mahmood told news agency Press Trust of India. Mahmood accused radical Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) of fanning the hatred and leading acts of vandalism against the Ahmadi community in the country. "Preventing Ahmadis from offering their religious rites within the confinement of four walls is a grave violation of their human rights as well as a clear violation of the judgements by the Supreme Court of Pakistan," he said. Mahmood said that Ahmadis are being harassed throughout Pakistan and especially in Punjab, not only by extremists but also by law enforcement agencies. Mahmood said the police not only detained Ahmadis but also their sacrificial animals. Also read | Ahmadis in Pakistan say intimidated ahead of Eid Al-Adha feast "Instead of protecting Ahmadis from harassment and violence, the police officials are calling in Ahmadiyya leadership in various police stations and are threatening them that if any Ahmadi is found performing the 'Qurbani' or offering Eid prayers, then they are in imminent danger from the TLP," he said. "It has come to be known that the intelligence agencies have also issued a threat alert on the occasion of Eid against Ahmadis," he said. Unlike the overwhelming majority of Muslims across the world, Ahmadi Muslims do not subscribe to the conventional teachings of Islam and dispute the finality of prophet Muhammad. Also watch | Mob attacks Christians in Pakistan province, 5 injured × In 1974, Pakistan's parliament under the premiership of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto passed a law that declared Ahmadis to be non-Muslims, and the country's constitution was amended to define a Muslim as someone who believes in the finality of the Prophet Muhammad. The law made it a crime punishable by death for Ahmadis to use Islamic greetings, the traditional call to prayer, or to pray in mosques. Since 1987, the members of the community remains banned from practicing their faith in public. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Ahmadi community members face arrests, vandalism for animal sacrifice on Eid-ul Adha

Unknown gunmen are back in the news as a retired Pakistani brigadier was shot dead in Punjab's Jhelum district late Monday (June 17), as per media reports. Amir Hamza, who was also an operative of Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), came under attack by four unidentified gunmen riding on two motorcycles. The four men opened indiscriminate fire on the ISI member and fled the scene after ensuring their target was dead. Hamza was travelling in his car, along with his wife and daughter, when the attack took place and they also received minor injuries.

In a statement given to police, Hamza's wife claimed her husband had no personal enmity with anyone. On the other hand, police are considering the murder as a targeted killing.

<h2>Who is Amir Hamza?</h2>

Amir Hamza was on the target list of Indian counter-terror agencies for long. He was believed to be the mastermind behind the 2018 attack on the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K). The attack had left six soldiers dead and 12 others critically injured.

Hamza was believed to be an operative of the ISI and he had last served as director general of Pakistan's Emergency Services Academy. According to reports, he was also involved in other anti-India terror activities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjTq6ehm-eGAxVerVYBHXyjCTgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-nuclear-arsenal-now-larger-than-pakistans-china-far-ahead-report-732744" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-nuclear-arsenal-now-larger-than-pakistans-china-far-ahead-report-732744&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTq6ehm-eGAxVerVYBHXyjCTgQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">India's nuclear arsenal now larger than Pakistan's, China far ahead: Report</a>

Hamza is the second Pakistan-based individual linked to the Sunjwan army camp attack to have been killed by unknown men.

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Khwaja Shahid, alias Mia Mujahid, who was also linked to the 2018 attack, was found beheaded near the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

<h2>Previous such killings</h2>

Hamza's death is the latest in a series of killings involving Pakistanis connected to ISI-controlled terrorist activities in India.

Back in December, Adnan Ahmed, also known as Abu Hanzala, who was a senior commander of LeT and responsible for planning attacks on security convoys in Kashmir, was shot dead by unknown assailants in Karachi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjTq6ehm-eGAxVerVYBHXyjCTgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pulls-off-a-pakistan-act-holds-moment-of-silent-for-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-in-parliament-733095" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pulls-off-a-pakistan-act-holds-moment-of-silent-for-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-in-parliament-733095&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjTq6ehm-eGAxVerVYBHXyjCTgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Canada pulls off a Pakistan act. Holds `moment of silent` for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament</a>

Earlier, in October, Shahid Latif, a terrorist from Jaish-e-Muhammed who was the main handler of the group that attacked the Pathankot airbase in 2016, was killed in a mosque in Sialkot by unidentified gunmen.

(With inputs from agencies)

Unknown gunmen are back in the news as a retired Pakistani brigadier was shot dead in Punjab's Jhelum district late Monday (June 17), as per media reports. Amir Hamza, who was also an operative of Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), came under attack by four unidentified gunmen riding on two motorcycles.

Unknown gunmen are back in the news as a retired Pakistani brigadier was shot dead in Punjab's Jhelum district late Monday (June 17), as per media reports. Amir Hamza, who was also an operative of Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), came under attack by four unidentified gunmen riding on two motorcycles. The four men opened indiscriminate fire on the ISI member and fled the scene after ensuring their target was dead. Hamza was travelling in his car, along with his wife and daughter, when the attack took place and they also received minor injuries. In a statement given to police, Hamza's wife claimed her husband had no personal enmity with anyone. On the other hand, police are considering the murder as a targeted killing. Who is Amir Hamza? Amir Hamza was on the target list of Indian counter-terror agencies for long. He was believed to be the mastermind behind the 2018 attack on the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The attack had left six soldiers dead and 12 others critically injured. Hamza was believed to be an operative of the ISI and he had last served as director general of Pakistan's Emergency Services Academy. According to reports, he was also involved in other anti-India terror activities. Also read: India's nuclear arsenal now larger than Pakistan's, China far ahead: Report Hamza is the second Pakistan-based individual linked to the Sunjwan army camp attack to have been killed by unknown men. Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Khwaja Shahid, alias Mia Mujahid, who was also linked to the 2018 attack, was found beheaded near the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Previous such killings Hamza's death is the latest in a series of killings involving Pakistanis connected to ISI-controlled terrorist activities in India. Back in December, Adnan Ahmed, also known as Abu Hanzala, who was a senior commander of LeT and responsible for planning attacks on security convoys in Kashmir, was shot dead by unknown assailants in Karachi. Also read: Canada pulls off a Pakistan act. Holds `moment of silent` for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament Earlier, in October, Shahid Latif, a terrorist from Jaish-e-Muhammed who was the main handler of the group that attacked the Pathankot airbase in 2016, was killed in a mosque in Sialkot by unidentified gunmen. (With inputs from agencies)

ISI operative and retired Pak brigadier linked to 2018 J&K attack shot dead by unknown men: Report

In yet another show of support for anti-India separatism, Canada's parliament on Tuesday (June 18) held a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of&nbsp;Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death. The move is similar to one&nbsp;previously held by India's western neighbour Pakistan, who&nbsp;used the platform of its National Assembly in Islamabad to valourise terrorist Burhan Wani.&nbsp;

Nijjar was designated&nbsp;a terrorist by New Delhi for fostering separatism in India's Punjab state and related acts of terrorism. He was the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and&nbsp;was killed in a targeted shooting in Canada's Surrey, outside a British Columbia&nbsp;Gurudwara&nbsp;on June 18 last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-hardeep-nijjar-shot-dead-in-canadas-surrey-605893">Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar shot dead in Canada's Surrey</a>

Four Indian nationals,&nbsp;Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh, are accused of killing Nijjar.

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Amidst strained ties with India, Canadian Parliament observes a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar 
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HardeepSinghNijjar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HardeepSinghNijjar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Canada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Canada</a> <a href="https://t.co/FUaXIWbtKh">pic.twitter.com/FUaXIWbtKh</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1803257820348846579?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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In response to Canada's so-called 'moment of silence', the Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced a memorial service in memory of 329 people killed in the 1985 Khalistani bombing of an Air India Kanishka aircraft.

The memorial service is scheduled to be held later this week on Sunday (June 23).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/motivated-and-absurd-india-slams-canadas-accusations-over-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjars-killing-637339">'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing</a>

Taking to X, the Indian Consulate General said, "India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation."

Also watch |&nbsp;Canada: Three arrested in Nijjar's killing, yet to prove Indian gov't link with suspects

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Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who moved to Canada in 1997 under a fake passport, was&nbsp;described as a Canadian national in the country's parliament by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.&nbsp;

According to Indian agencies, Nijjar was actively recruiting and training people for Khalistan Tiger Force, a banned terrorist organisation. India had sought his extradition as he was wanted in a number of cases for disseminating terrorism in India's Punjab state. He was also wanted in the 2017 Ludhiana blast which claimed the lives of six people and left 42 injured.

In yet another show of support for anti-India separatism, Canada's parliament on Tuesday (June 18) held a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death.

In yet another show of support for anti-India separatism, Canada's parliament on Tuesday (June 18) held a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death. The move is similar to one previously held by India's western neighbour Pakistan, who used the platform of its National Assembly in Islamabad to valourise terrorist Burhan Wani. Nijjar was designated a terrorist by New Delhi for fostering separatism in India's Punjab state and related acts of terrorism. He was the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and was killed in a targeted shooting in Canada's Surrey, outside a British Columbia Gurudwara on June 18 last year. Also read | Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar shot dead in Canada's Surrey Four Indian nationals, Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh, are accused of killing Nijjar. Amidst strained ties with India, Canadian Parliament observes a moment of silence for Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar . . .#HardeepSinghNijjar #Canada pic.twitter.com/FUaXIWbtKh — WION (@WIONews) June 19, 2024 × In response to Canada's so-called 'moment of silence', the Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced a memorial service in memory of 329 people killed in the 1985 Khalistani bombing of an Air India Kanishka aircraft. The memorial service is scheduled to be held later this week on Sunday (June 23). Also read | 'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing Taking to X, the Indian Consulate General said, "India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation." Also watch | Canada: Three arrested in Nijjar's killing, yet to prove Indian gov't link with suspects × Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who moved to Canada in 1997 under a fake passport, was described as a Canadian national in the country's parliament by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. According to Indian agencies, Nijjar was actively recruiting and training people for Khalistan Tiger Force, a banned terrorist organisation. India had sought his extradition as he was wanted in a number of cases for disseminating terrorism in India's Punjab state. He was also wanted in the 2017 Ludhiana blast which claimed the lives of six people and left 42 injured.

Canada pulls off a Pakistan act, holds 'moment of silence' for terrorist Hardeep Nijjar in parliament

#Gravitas | While global attention is focused on Gaza, a potentially more dangerous conflict is brewing along the Himalayas, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific. A recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reveals how the 9 nuclear nations of the world have increased their nuclear stockpile rapidly. With India, Pakistan, and China being nuclear-armed states in Southern Asia, concerns arise about potential scenarios if Pakistan and China join forces with their nuclear weapons. Questions also arise about the impact of U.S. involvement in the Pacific and the potential for conflict in the Indo-Pacific to trigger turmoil in West Asia. Could Asia Go Up in Nuclear Flames?

India's nuclear stockpile tops Pak's for the first time in 25 years

Arms tracker SIPRI is out with its latest report. The nuclear arms race is intensifying. India is expanding its nuclear arsenal. China is also boosting its nuclear stockpile. Are nations preparing for a possible nuclear war? Watch this video for all details.

India's nuclear arsenal surpasses Pakistan while China boosts nuclear stockpile

Pakistan captain Babar Azam and five other players will be holidaying in London&nbsp;instead of returning home after a disastrous T20 World Cup, reports have claimed. Apart from Babar, the&nbsp;likes of Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan and Azam Khan will also be in England's capital for the next few days as the rest of the squad and backroom staff return to Pakistan.&nbsp;

A report in the Pakistani newspaper&nbsp;The Express Tribune claimed that the players listed above intend to visit London to spend time with friends and family. Meanwhile, some are also contemplating participating in the local leagues in the UK.&nbsp;

Head coach Gary Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood will return to their respective homes. The report added that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had given the nod to the coaching staff to return to their home countries as there were no upcoming engagements.&nbsp;

Pakistan are scheduled to play a two-match home Test series against Bangladesh in August followed by England who come visiting for a three-match Test series in October.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-have-to-leave-captaincy-babar-azam-opens-up-on-his-future-after-pakistans-exit-from-t20-wc-732419">Also read |&nbsp;‘If I have to leave captaincy…’ – Babar Azam opens up on his future after Pakistan’s exit from T20 WC</a>

<h2>Pakistan World Cup debacle</h2>

Pakistan crashed out of the World Cup without reaching the Super 8 stage after losing to the USA and India in the league matches. In the final match against Ireland, Pakistan stumbled to an unconvincing three-wicket win while chasing a modest target of 107.&nbsp;

After Pakistan huffed and puffed their way to the finish line against Ireland, Babar was quizzed in the post-match press conference about his captaincy future where he remained diplomatic in his answer.&nbsp;

"When I gave up the captaincy [in 2023], I thought that I shouldn't be doing it now, that's why I left it and I announced it myself," Babar said.&nbsp;

"Then when they gave it back to me, it was the decision of the PCB. When I go back, we will discuss all that has happened here. And if I have to leave the captaincy, I will announce it openly. I will not hide behind anything. Whatever happens will happen in the open. But for now, I have not thought about it. It is eventually PCB's decision," he added.

Under Babar's captaincy, Pakistan had also crashed out of the group stage of the 50-over World Cup in India last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan captain Babar Azam and five other players will be holidaying in London instead of returning home after a disastrous T20 World Cup, reports have claimed.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam and five other players will be holidaying in London instead of returning home after a disastrous T20 World Cup, reports have claimed. Apart from Babar, the likes of Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan and Azam Khan will also be in England's capital for the next few days as the rest of the squad and backroom staff return to Pakistan. A report in the Pakistani newspaper The Express Tribune claimed that the players listed above intend to visit London to spend time with friends and family. Meanwhile, some are also contemplating participating in the local leagues in the UK. Head coach Gary Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood will return to their respective homes. The report added that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had given the nod to the coaching staff to return to their home countries as there were no upcoming engagements. Pakistan are scheduled to play a two-match home Test series against Bangladesh in August followed by England who come visiting for a three-match Test series in October. Also read | ‘If I have to leave captaincy…’ – Babar Azam opens up on his future after Pakistan’s exit from T20 WC Pakistan World Cup debacle Pakistan crashed out of the World Cup without reaching the Super 8 stage after losing to the USA and India in the league matches. In the final match against Ireland, Pakistan stumbled to an unconvincing three-wicket win while chasing a modest target of 107. After Pakistan huffed and puffed their way to the finish line against Ireland, Babar was quizzed in the post-match press conference about his captaincy future where he remained diplomatic in his answer. "When I gave up the captaincy [in 2023], I thought that I shouldn't be doing it now, that's why I left it and I announced it myself," Babar said. "Then when they gave it back to me, it was the decision of the PCB. When I go back, we will discuss all that has happened here. And if I have to leave the captaincy, I will announce it openly. I will not hide behind anything. Whatever happens will happen in the open. But for now, I have not thought about it. It is eventually PCB's decision," he added. Under Babar's captaincy, Pakistan had also crashed out of the group stage of the 50-over World Cup in India last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan players including captain Babar Azam to holiday in London after disastrous T20 World Cup: Report

Pakistanis from the minority Ahmadi community say they are under increasing pressure from authorities and Islamist groups ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebrations on Monday.

The Ahmadiyya sect, considered heretics by fundamentalist groups, has been persecuted for decades in Pakistan but threats and intimidation have risen in recent years.

"Eid is supposed to be a happy occasion, but it's filled with trepidation and threats for us now," Naeem Aslam, an Ahmadi in Chakwal, told AFP.

The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, to be celebrated on Monday, is marked by the ritual sacrifice of animals often bought days in advance.

Amir Mehmood, a spokesman for the community in the city of Chakwal in Punjab, said police earlier this week placed three senior representatives in "preventive detention" for 30 days, demanding a written order that they would not sacrifice animals.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-leaders-gather-in-switzerland-to-pave-way-for-russia-ukraine-peace-732098">Global leaders gather in Switzerland to pave way for Russia-Ukraine peace</a>

Mehmood told AFP that the men were released on Thursday following negotiations and pressure from rights groups, and a verbal commitment to perform the religious rites at their homes -- something he said Ahmadis already do.

"The law allows us to practice our faith in the four walls of our homes. But even that has become an issue recently," Mehmood said.

The government's deputy commissioner office in Punjab said the detention order was given to "maintain law and order" after public complaints.

"This opposition to our performing the sacrifice is something recent that we've seen happening in the last three or four years," Aslam said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/azerbaijan-president-aliyev-invites-pm-modi-for-cop29-summit-in-november-732091">Azerbaijan President Aliyev invites PM Modi for COP29 Summit in November</a>

But their belief that the movement's founder Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was the "mahdi" or messiah has marked them as blasphemous unbelievers, particularly in Pakistan. There are around 500,000 Amadis in Pakistan according to their community leadership.

The constitution has branded them non-Muslims since 1974, and a 1984 law forbids them from claiming their faith as Islamic or openly practising Islamic rituals.

In a report published last year, the independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said there had been a surge in the persecution of Ahmadis in Punjab, adding that the rise of extremist religious groups in recent years had aggravated anti-Ahmadi sentiment.

Pakistani police arrested a man last Sunday accused of killing two Ahmadis hours apart in separate attacks in the eastern Punjab province.

Last month, a mob from the radical anti-blasphemy party Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) gathered outside an Ahmadi place of worship in Jhelum, Punjab, where a TLP leader threatened to hang any member who dared to perform the sacrifice.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-agenda-for-upcoming-us-elections-supreme-court-strikes-down-trump-era-ban-on-gun-bump-stocks-732092">New agenda for upcoming US elections? Supreme Court strikes down Trump-era ban on gun bump stocks</a>

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In videos of the incident shared on social media, the frenzied crowd can be seen chanting in support as the police look on.

"Ever since that day men, on motorcycles have been stationed outside the homes of Ahmadis in the area spying to see if we bring home an animal for sacrifice," an Ahmadi leader in the city who asked not to be named told AFP.

"All this intimidation is being done with the tacit approval of the authorities," he said. "This has only further emboldened the extremists."

Ahmadis in the city have also been asked to give written assurances to police that they would "maintain law and order" after several residents registered complaints against them, he added.

Fayyaz Ahmad -- not his real name -- had to hide on his rooftop when police raided his home in the industrial city of Faisalabad last year.

A complaint had been filed against him after his neighbours saw his nephew distributing meat among relatives.

According to Ahmad, police went through his refrigerator to look for evidence of the sacrifice.

"I've lived in this area for 27 years and this was the first time something like this happened," he said.

A viral video last year from the same city showed police in Faisalabad raiding the house of an Ahmadi and recovering three goats.

"As much as I want to perform my religious duty this year, I have to hold back. I can see my neighbours peeping in to see if I have bought a goat," Ahmad said.

Pakistanis from the minority Ahmadi community say they are under increasing pressure from authorities and Islamist groups ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebrations on Monday.

Pakistanis from the minority Ahmadi community say they are under increasing pressure from authorities and Islamist groups ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebrations on Monday. The Ahmadiyya sect, considered heretics by fundamentalist groups, has been persecuted for decades in Pakistan but threats and intimidation have risen in recent years. "Eid is supposed to be a happy occasion, but it's filled with trepidation and threats for us now," Naeem Aslam, an Ahmadi in Chakwal, told AFP. The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, to be celebrated on Monday, is marked by the ritual sacrifice of animals often bought days in advance. Amir Mehmood, a spokesman for the community in the city of Chakwal in Punjab, said police earlier this week placed three senior representatives in "preventive detention" for 30 days, demanding a written order that they would not sacrifice animals. Also Read | Global leaders gather in Switzerland to pave way for Russia-Ukraine peace Mehmood told AFP that the men were released on Thursday following negotiations and pressure from rights groups, and a verbal commitment to perform the religious rites at their homes -- something he said Ahmadis already do. "The law allows us to practice our faith in the four walls of our homes. But even that has become an issue recently," Mehmood said. The government's deputy commissioner office in Punjab said the detention order was given to "maintain law and order" after public complaints. "This opposition to our performing the sacrifice is something recent that we've seen happening in the last three or four years," Aslam said. Also Read | Azerbaijan President Aliyev invites PM Modi for COP29 Summit in November But their belief that the movement's founder Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was the "mahdi" or messiah has marked them as blasphemous unbelievers, particularly in Pakistan. There are around 500,000 Amadis in Pakistan according to their community leadership. The constitution has branded them non-Muslims since 1974, and a 1984 law forbids them from claiming their faith as Islamic or openly practising Islamic rituals. In a report published last year, the independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said there had been a surge in the persecution of Ahmadis in Punjab, adding that the rise of extremist religious groups in recent years had aggravated anti-Ahmadi sentiment. Pakistani police arrested a man last Sunday accused of killing two Ahmadis hours apart in separate attacks in the eastern Punjab province. Last month, a mob from the radical anti-blasphemy party Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) gathered outside an Ahmadi place of worship in Jhelum, Punjab, where a TLP leader threatened to hang any member who dared to perform the sacrifice. Watch | New agenda for upcoming US elections? Supreme Court strikes down Trump-era ban on gun bump stocks × In videos of the incident shared on social media, the frenzied crowd can be seen chanting in support as the police look on. "Ever since that day men, on motorcycles have been stationed outside the homes of Ahmadis in the area spying to see if we bring home an animal for sacrifice," an Ahmadi leader in the city who asked not to be named told AFP. "All this intimidation is being done with the tacit approval of the authorities," he said. "This has only further emboldened the extremists." Ahmadis in the city have also been asked to give written assurances to police that they would "maintain law and order" after several residents registered complaints against them, he added. Fayyaz Ahmad -- not his real name -- had to hide on his rooftop when police raided his home in the industrial city of Faisalabad last year. A complaint had been filed against him after his neighbours saw his nephew distributing meat among relatives. According to Ahmad, police went through his refrigerator to look for evidence of the sacrifice. "I've lived in this area for 27 years and this was the first time something like this happened," he said. A viral video last year from the same city showed police in Faisalabad raiding the house of an Ahmadi and recovering three goats. "As much as I want to perform my religious duty this year, I have to hold back. I can see my neighbours peeping in to see if I have bought a goat," Ahmad said.

Ahmadis in Pakistan say intimidated ahead of Eid Al-Adha feast

From Sheikh Hasina to Mohd Muizzu, 5 South Asian leaders attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new govt, reaffirming India's Sagar policy. While Pakistan and Afghanistan were not on this list, Pak's former PM Nawaz Sharif and the current President of the ruling PML-N also congratulated the Prime Minister.

Modi reaffirms 'neighbourhood first' at swearing-in

A delegation from Pakistan under the Indus Water Commission, led by neutral experts, is set to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir later this month.

The administration of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday (June 15)&nbsp;appointed liaison officers in preparation for the delegation's visit.

These neutral experts are responsible for addressing technical questions related to the design, construction, and operation of engineering works on the rivers governed by the treaty. Such delegation visits are routine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-liquid-ied-a-new-challenge-for-the-security-forces-in-jammu-and-kashmir-731788">Is Liquid IED a new challenge for the security forces in Jammu and Kashmir?</a>

The last Pakistan delegation visit was in 2019, but this time they are accompanied by neutral experts.&nbsp;

Technical objections have been a recurring theme under the Indus water treaty of 1960 for which neutral experts have been deployed.

In 2015, Pakistan requested the appointment of a neutral expert to examine its technical objections to India's Kishenganga and Ratle Hydro Electric Projects (HEPs). India, in turn, made a separate request for a neutral expert to address the matter.&nbsp;

The Indus Water Treaty, brokered by the World Bank and signed in 1960, allocates the waters of three Eastern Rivers—Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi—to India for unrestricted use.

Conversely, the waters of three Western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—are allocated to Pakistan. Despite this division, India retains the right to generate hydroelectricity through run-of-the-river projects on the Western rivers, provided they adhere to specific design criteria.

A delegation from Pakistan under the Indus Water Commission, led by neutral experts, is set to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir later this month. The administration of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday (June 15) appointed liaison officers in preparation for the delegation's visit.

A delegation from Pakistan under the Indus Water Commission, led by neutral experts, is set to visit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir later this month. The administration of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday (June 15) appointed liaison officers in preparation for the delegation's visit. These neutral experts are responsible for addressing technical questions related to the design, construction, and operation of engineering works on the rivers governed by the treaty. Such delegation visits are routine. Also read: Is Liquid IED a new challenge for the security forces in Jammu and Kashmir? The last Pakistan delegation visit was in 2019, but this time they are accompanied by neutral experts. Technical objections have been a recurring theme under the Indus water treaty of 1960 for which neutral experts have been deployed. In 2015, Pakistan requested the appointment of a neutral expert to examine its technical objections to India's Kishenganga and Ratle Hydro Electric Projects (HEPs). India, in turn, made a separate request for a neutral expert to address the matter. The Indus Water Treaty, brokered by the World Bank and signed in 1960, allocates the waters of three Eastern Rivers—Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi—to India for unrestricted use. Conversely, the waters of three Western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—are allocated to Pakistan. Despite this division, India retains the right to generate hydroelectricity through run-of-the-river projects on the Western rivers, provided they adhere to specific design criteria.

Pakistan Indus water panel delegation, neutral experts to visit Jammu and Kashmir

No allocation has been made for minorities welfare schemes under the Pakistani federal budget for 2024-25. As per the budget documents reviewed by WION, the header "welfare of minorities initiatives/schemes" has been assigned zero allocation. This marks a stark contrast to the previous fiscal year (2023-24), which had earmarked 100 million Pakistani Rupees for minority welfare, maintaining the same figure even in the revised budget.

The exclusion comes at a time when religious minorities in Pakistan—comprising Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and others—continue to face numerous challenges. These include systemic discrimination, violence, and the repercussions of stringent blasphemy laws. Reports of forced conversions, kidnappings, and attacks on places of worship have been distressingly frequent, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of these communities.

Meanwhile, the budget for religious affairs has seen an increase. The allocation for religious affairs in the 2024-25 budget stands at Pakistan Rs 1,861 million, up from Pakistan Rs 1,780 million in the previous year. Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony is responsible for managing religious affairs, including the welfare of Haj pilgrims.

The budget allocation for the human rights division has also been slashed significantly. For the fiscal year 2024-25, the division has been allocated only 104 million Pakistan rupees, a steep drop from the previous year's 814 million Pakistan rupees. Notably, the revised budget for 2023-24 indicated an actual expenditure of just 130 million rupees out of the 814 million allocated, raising questions about the utilisation of funds.

In another notable allocation, Pakistan has proposed a substantial budget for its armed forces. The defence budget for 2024-25 has been proposed at Rs 2.12 trillion, reflecting a 17.6% increase from the previous year. This constitutes 1.7% of the country’s GDP, highlighting the government's prioritisation of military spending.

No allocation has been made for minorities welfare schemes under the Pakistani federal budget for 2024-25. As per the budget documents reviewed by WION, the header "welfare of minorities initiatives/schemes" has been assigned zero allocation.

No allocation has been made for minorities welfare schemes under the Pakistani federal budget for 2024-25. As per the budget documents reviewed by WION, the header "welfare of minorities initiatives/schemes" has been assigned zero allocation. This marks a stark contrast to the previous fiscal year (2023-24), which had earmarked 100 million Pakistani Rupees for minority welfare, maintaining the same figure even in the revised budget. The exclusion comes at a time when religious minorities in Pakistan—comprising Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and others—continue to face numerous challenges. These include systemic discrimination, violence, and the repercussions of stringent blasphemy laws. Reports of forced conversions, kidnappings, and attacks on places of worship have been distressingly frequent, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of these communities. Meanwhile, the budget for religious affairs has seen an increase. The allocation for religious affairs in the 2024-25 budget stands at Pakistan Rs 1,861 million, up from Pakistan Rs 1,780 million in the previous year. Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony is responsible for managing religious affairs, including the welfare of Haj pilgrims. The budget allocation for the human rights division has also been slashed significantly. For the fiscal year 2024-25, the division has been allocated only 104 million Pakistan rupees, a steep drop from the previous year's 814 million Pakistan rupees. Notably, the revised budget for 2023-24 indicated an actual expenditure of just 130 million rupees out of the 814 million allocated, raising questions about the utilisation of funds. In another notable allocation, Pakistan has proposed a substantial budget for its armed forces. The defence budget for 2024-25 has been proposed at Rs 2.12 trillion, reflecting a 17.6% increase from the previous year. This constitutes 1.7% of the country’s GDP, highlighting the government's prioritisation of military spending.

No allocation for minorities under Pakistan's federal budget 2024-25

In the wake of widespread claims of rigging in Pakistan's elections an opposition leader in Pakistan has lavished praise on elections process in neighboring India. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan: PTI leader Shibli Faraz's praises India for conducting free and fair elections

Pakistan opposition leader Shibli Faraz on Thursday (Jun 13) heaped praises on 'enemy country' India for the successful and peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha elections, results of which were announced on June 4. He stressed the fact that no member of the opposition said the elections were rigged and the results were widely accepted.

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In the Pakistani Parliament, opposition leader Shibli Faraz praised the Indian electoral process, highlighting how the world's largest democracy conducted its lengthy elections with EVMs, announced results, and transferred power smoothly without any allegations of fraud. Why… <a href="https://t.co/eNnzidup3x">pic.twitter.com/eNnzidup3x</a>
— Ghulam Abbas Shah (@ghulamabbasshah) <a href="https://twitter.com/ghulamabbasshah/status/1801146287557124188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“I don’t want to quote the example of the enemy country. Elections have recently concluded there, with more than 800 million people voting in lakhs of polling stations. The election was conducted using EVM for one month, but did anyone say the polls were rigged?” said Shibli Faraz.

“Why can’t Pakistan have free and fair elections?”

<h2>Rigging in Pakistan elections</h2>

Notably, Pakistan also held its general elections in February this year, which were marred by widespread allegations of rigging and interference by the powerful army.

Even a senior Pakistani official had admitted to election rigging as the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI) held protests across the country. Commissioner Rawalpindi Liaqat Ali Chatta had accepted before the camera that the results were changed for the independent candidates affiliated to the PTI, jailed former premier Imran Khan's party.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjK-MrwrtiGAxXqbmwGHZFVD0UQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-based-terror-outfit-let-front-claims-responsibility-for-reasi-attack-730457" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-based-terror-outfit-let-front-claims-responsibility-for-reasi-attack-730457&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjK-MrwrtiGAxXqbmwGHZFVD0UQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Pakistan-based terror outfit LeT`s front TRF claims responsibility for Reasi attack</a>

Khan later blamed the Election Commission of Pakistan for turning the success of his party into a defeat. "It was the biggest robbery that was committed on the public mandate,” Khan said in remarks to the Supreme Court via video link.

<h2>India's election process</h2>

On the other hand, elections in neighbouring India concluded on June 1, with the end of phase seven polls. The results were announced on June 4 and were fully declared within 12 hours. Within a week, the new government had already settled in Delhi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjK-MrwrtiGAxXqbmwGHZFVD0UQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-eyes-on-vaishno-devi-pakistan-speedster-hassan-ali-condemns-reasi-terror-attack-731165" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-eyes-on-vaishno-devi-pakistan-speedster-hassan-ali-condemns-reasi-terror-attack-731165&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjK-MrwrtiGAxXqbmwGHZFVD0UQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">`All eyes on Vaishno Devi`: Pakistan speedster Hassan Ali condemns horrific Reasi terror attack</a>

In his Thursday speech, Shibli Faraz highlighted the culture of election rigging in his nation and blamed corrupt politicians for the same.

“The one who loses (the election) doesn’t concede, and the winner remains unrelenting. These sorts of issues have left our country politically bankrupt,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan opposition leader Shibli Faraz on Thursday (Jun 13) heaped praises on 'enemy country' India for the successful and peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha elections, results of which were announced on June 4.

Pakistan opposition leader Shibli Faraz on Thursday (Jun 13) heaped praises on 'enemy country' India for the successful and peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha elections, results of which were announced on June 4. He stressed the fact that no member of the opposition said the elections were rigged and the results were widely accepted. In the Pakistani Parliament, opposition leader Shibli Faraz praised the Indian electoral process, highlighting how the world's largest democracy conducted its lengthy elections with EVMs, announced results, and transferred power smoothly without any allegations of fraud. Why… pic.twitter.com/eNnzidup3x — Ghulam Abbas Shah (@ghulamabbasshah) June 13, 2024 × “I don’t want to quote the example of the enemy country. Elections have recently concluded there, with more than 800 million people voting in lakhs of polling stations. The election was conducted using EVM for one month, but did anyone say the polls were rigged?” said Shibli Faraz. “Why can’t Pakistan have free and fair elections?” Rigging in Pakistan elections Notably, Pakistan also held its general elections in February this year, which were marred by widespread allegations of rigging and interference by the powerful army. Even a senior Pakistani official had admitted to election rigging as the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI) held protests across the country. Commissioner Rawalpindi Liaqat Ali Chatta had accepted before the camera that the results were changed for the independent candidates affiliated to the PTI, jailed former premier Imran Khan's party. Also read: Pakistan-based terror outfit LeT`s front TRF claims responsibility for Reasi attack Khan later blamed the Election Commission of Pakistan for turning the success of his party into a defeat. "It was the biggest robbery that was committed on the public mandate,” Khan said in remarks to the Supreme Court via video link. India's election process On the other hand, elections in neighbouring India concluded on June 1, with the end of phase seven polls. The results were announced on June 4 and were fully declared within 12 hours. Within a week, the new government had already settled in Delhi. Also read: `All eyes on Vaishno Devi`: Pakistan speedster Hassan Ali condemns horrific Reasi terror attack In his Thursday speech, Shibli Faraz highlighted the culture of election rigging in his nation and blamed corrupt politicians for the same. “The one who loses (the election) doesn’t concede, and the winner remains unrelenting. These sorts of issues have left our country politically bankrupt,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Pakistan politician praises 'enemy country' India for free and fair elections, slams rigging culture

Pakistan's coalition government is set to unveil ambitious fiscal targets in its 2024/2025 budget today. The country aims to secure a crucial bailout from the international monetary fund. Officials and analysts anticipate that the budget will be contractionary. Aiming to bridge the gap between revenue collection and total expenditure.

PM Sharif's tough reforms under pressure

Pakistan’s central bank lowered its benchmark rate by a bigger margin than expected, the first reduction in four years, after consumer prices eased in the South Asian nation. Gravitas reports.

Gravitas | The state of Pakistan's economy: Pakistan cuts benchmark interest rate

For over a week, there were some social media buzz and videos purportedly of the crash of a&nbsp;Pakistani JF-17, the fighter jet it developed jointly with China. But authorities chose to exercise caution by withholding information about the incident, apparently&nbsp;involving the Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Block 2. And now, the maker of the ejection seat of the aircraft has revealed the incident in a post on X, saying the pilot had ejected safely.

The crash, which purportedly occurred last Wednesday (June 5) near the Jhang district within the Faisalabad division of Punjab province, had sparked speculation about the state of the country's military aviation capabilities.

However, neither Pakistani media outlets nor government authorities provided official statements regarding the crash.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-us-deeply-concerned-by-stabbing-of-4-american-college-teachers-in-china-730878">White House says US 'deeply concerned' by stabbing of 4 American college teachers in China</a>

On Wednesday (June 11),&nbsp; Martin-Baker,&nbsp;which describes itself as the world's leading manufacturer of Ejection Seats, posted on X that the pilot,&nbsp;a Wing Commander, managed to safely eject using one of its Martin-Baker PK16LE seats.

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On Wednesday 5th June, a Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Block 2 aircraft crashed near the Jhang district. The pilot successfully ejected using the Martin-Baker PK16LE Seat.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MartinBaker?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MartinBaker</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EngineeringForLife?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EngineeringForLife</a> <a href="https://t.co/8gIkX3ZihE">pic.twitter.com/8gIkX3ZihE</a>
— Martin-Baker (@MB_EjectEject) <a href="https://twitter.com/MB_EjectEject/status/1800458129873998164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The British company revealed&nbsp;that the incident marked yet another successful ejection,&nbsp;while underscoring the efficacy of its life-saving ejection technology.

It added that so far, a total of 7,723 lives have been saved through Martin-Baker ejection seats.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunter-biden-found-guilty-on-illegal-gun-possession-case-730858">Hunter Biden found guilty on illegal gun possession case</a>

Videos have been doing the rounds on social media in the past week, purportedly showing the pilot who ejected to safety. One such clip showed him lying on the ejection seat, covering his face with one hand, and speaking on a mobile phone, as locals gather and chatter around him.

<h2>JF-17:&nbsp;Jointly&nbsp;developed by Pakistan-China </h2>

The JF-17 Thunder, a collaborative effort between Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China, is a crucial aircraft of Pakistan's Air Force.

According to the US Army Training and Doctrine Command headquartered at Fort Eustis, Virginia, the "JF-17 Thunder Pakistani Multirole Combat is a lightweight, single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft developed jointly by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China."

It was designed to replace several older aircraft and fulfill various operational roles including "interception, ground attack, anti-ship, and aerial reconnaissance."

As per the specifications mentioned about the JF-17 Block 2, which purportedly crashed in Pakistan, "it is a dual-seat variant, 8 of which were rolled out at PAC Kamra in December 2019."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-headlines-hunter-biden-guilty-on-gun-trial-azov-hails-us-lifting-weapons-ban-730889">WION Headlines | Hunter Biden guilty on gun trial | Azov hails US lifting weapons ban</a>

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"The production of the first JF-17B was initiated by Pakistan and China in 2016. On 28 April 2017, the JF-17B took its maiden test flight in Chengdu," the command information reads.&nbsp;

This incident added to a series of past crashes involving Pakistani military aircraft that, as per Pakistan's local media reports, raised concerns about the challenges faced by Pakistani authorities in maintaining an air fleet comprising aging aircraft amid limited financial resources.

The decision to withhold information seems to be Pakistan's cautious approach and perhaps is aimed at managing public perception and maintaining operational security within its armed forces.

However, nothing substantial can be asserted amid the silence by Pakistani Air Force.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

For over a week, there were some social media buzz and videos purportedly of the crash of a Pakistani JF-17, the fighter jet it developed jointly with China. But authorities chose to exercise caution by withholding information about the incident, apparently involving the Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Block 2.

For over a week, there were some social media buzz and videos purportedly of the crash of a Pakistani JF-17, the fighter jet it developed jointly with China. But authorities chose to exercise caution by withholding information about the incident, apparently involving the Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Block 2. And now, the maker of the ejection seat of the aircraft has revealed the incident in a post on X, saying the pilot had ejected safely. The crash, which purportedly occurred last Wednesday (June 5) near the Jhang district within the Faisalabad division of Punjab province, had sparked speculation about the state of the country's military aviation capabilities. However, neither Pakistani media outlets nor government authorities provided official statements regarding the crash. Also Read | White House says US 'deeply concerned' by stabbing of 4 American college teachers in China On Wednesday (June 11), Martin-Baker, which describes itself as the world's leading manufacturer of Ejection Seats, posted on X that the pilot, a Wing Commander, managed to safely eject using one of its Martin-Baker PK16LE seats. On Wednesday 5th June, a Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Block 2 aircraft crashed near the Jhang district. The pilot successfully ejected using the Martin-Baker PK16LE Seat.#MartinBaker #EngineeringForLife pic.twitter.com/8gIkX3ZihE — Martin-Baker (@MB_EjectEject) June 11, 2024 × The British company revealed that the incident marked yet another successful ejection, while underscoring the efficacy of its life-saving ejection technology. It added that so far, a total of 7,723 lives have been saved through Martin-Baker ejection seats. Also Read | Hunter Biden found guilty on illegal gun possession case Videos have been doing the rounds on social media in the past week, purportedly showing the pilot who ejected to safety. One such clip showed him lying on the ejection seat, covering his face with one hand, and speaking on a mobile phone, as locals gather and chatter around him. JF-17: Jointly developed by Pakistan-China The JF-17 Thunder, a collaborative effort between Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China, is a crucial aircraft of Pakistan's Air Force. According to the US Army Training and Doctrine Command headquartered at Fort Eustis, Virginia, the "JF-17 Thunder Pakistani Multirole Combat is a lightweight, single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft developed jointly by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China." It was designed to replace several older aircraft and fulfill various operational roles including "interception, ground attack, anti-ship, and aerial reconnaissance." As per the specifications mentioned about the JF-17 Block 2, which purportedly crashed in Pakistan, "it is a dual-seat variant, 8 of which were rolled out at PAC Kamra in December 2019." Watch | WION Headlines | Hunter Biden guilty on gun trial | Azov hails US lifting weapons ban × "The production of the first JF-17B was initiated by Pakistan and China in 2016. On 28 April 2017, the JF-17B took its maiden test flight in Chengdu," the command information reads. This incident added to a series of past crashes involving Pakistani military aircraft that, as per Pakistan's local media reports, raised concerns about the challenges faced by Pakistani authorities in maintaining an air fleet comprising aging aircraft amid limited financial resources. The decision to withhold information seems to be Pakistan's cautious approach and perhaps is aimed at managing public perception and maintaining operational security within its armed forces. However, nothing substantial can be asserted amid the silence by Pakistani Air Force. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan was secretive about fighter jet JF-17 crash, but ejection seat maker firm made it public

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