<p>An earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale hit Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11). The tremors of the quake, which had its epicentre in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan were also felt in India and neighbouring Pakistan. The effect in India was, however, milder compared to the other two countries.</p>

<p>According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) the earthquake with magnitude&nbsp;6.0 jolted parts of the country.&nbsp;There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.</p>

<h2>Effect in Pakistan</h2>

<p>According to DawnNewsTV,&nbsp;tremors were felt in the Pakistani cities of&nbsp;Islamabad&nbsp;Lahore and its surrounding areas, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The epicentre of the earthquake was said to be Afghanistan's Hindu Kush Region and it took place around 14:20 (PST), said the PMD.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An earthquake originated on 11-01-2024 at 14:20 PST<br />
Mag: 6.0<br />
Depth: 213 km<br />
Lat: 36.16 N<br />
Long: 70.63 E<br />
Epicenter: Hindu Kush Region Afghanistan <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Earthquakes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Earthquakes</a></p>
— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/pmdgov/status/1745377779334672759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The recent tremor&nbsp;came around a week after Pakistan's&nbsp;Quetta district and&nbsp;adjoining areas were hit by a 4.6 magnitude earthquake, prompting residents to evacuate their homes around 11:10 am (local time).</p>

<p>Notably, the&nbsp;epicentre of that quake was also&nbsp;Afghanistan's Hindu Kush Region, according to the PMD.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-detain-and-lash-young-girls-for-violating-hijab-rules-678674">&nbsp;Afghanistan: Taliban detain and lash young girls for violating hijab rules</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan emergency services spokesperson&nbsp;Bilal Ahmad Faizi said its control room had not received any distress calls or reports about any loss of lives or property&nbsp;after the quake on Thursday, so far, reported Dawn.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Quake in Afghanistan jolts northern India</strong></h2>

<p>"Earthquake of Magnitude:6.1, Occurred on 11-01-2024, 14:50:24 IST, Lat: 36.48 &amp; Long: 70.45, Depth: 220 Km ,Location: &nbsp;Afghanistan," said India's National Center for Seismology, in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earthquake of Magnitude:6.1, Occurred on 11-01-2024, 14:50:24 IST, Lat: 36.48 &amp; Long: 70.45, Depth: 220 Km ,Location: Afghanistan for more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/fN2hpmK3jO">https://t.co/fN2hpmK3jO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Indiametdept</a> <a href="https://t.co/q5pkBVscsW">pic.twitter.com/q5pkBVscsW</a></p>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1745379055191654625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The tremor&nbsp;caused panic among people, with many in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR)&nbsp;reported shaking of furniture.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Earthquake of magnitude 6.1 on Richter scale hits Afghanistan, tremors felt in North India.<br />
<br />
(Visuals from Poonch, J&amp;K) <a href="https://t.co/kMTT2XxYQ7">pic.twitter.com/kMTT2XxYQ7</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1745385726014074889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Images and videos show people in&nbsp;New Delhi&nbsp;and its surrounding areas like&nbsp;Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurgaon rushing out of their homes and offices after the tremors around 2:50 pm (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Afghanistan earthquakes</strong></h2>

<p>The recent earthquakes in Afghanistan come&nbsp;months after the country was shaken by its&nbsp;deadliest quake.&nbsp;In October 2023, an earthquake&nbsp;struck the country's Herat province, which led to the death of around 1,000 people and injured thousands of others, according to&nbsp;Afghanistan's disaster management ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-afghanistan-hit-by-the-deadliest-earthquake-in-years-644683">Afghanistan hit by the deadliest earthquake in years</a></strong></p>

<p>A spokesperson from the&nbsp;Taliban administration had also said that the&nbsp;6.3 magnitude earthquake destroyed around&nbsp;1,320 houses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale hit Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11). The tremors of the quake, which had its epicentre in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan were also felt in India and neighbouring Pakistan.

An earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale hit Afghanistan on Thursday (Jan 11). The tremors of the quake, which had its epicentre in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan were also felt in India and neighbouring Pakistan. The effect in India was, however, milder compared to the other two countries. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) the earthquake with magnitude 6.0 jolted parts of the country. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Effect in Pakistan According to DawnNewsTV, tremors were felt in the Pakistani cities of Islamabad Lahore and its surrounding areas, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The epicentre of the earthquake was said to be Afghanistan's Hindu Kush Region and it took place around 14:20 (PST), said the PMD. An earthquake originated on 11-01-2024 at 14:20 PST Mag: 6.0 Depth: 213 km Lat: 36.16 N Long: 70.63 E Epicenter: Hindu Kush Region Afghanistan #Earthquakes — Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) January 11, 2024 × The recent tremor came around a week after Pakistan's Quetta district and adjoining areas were hit by a 4.6 magnitude earthquake, prompting residents to evacuate their homes around 11:10 am (local time). Notably, the epicentre of that quake was also Afghanistan's Hindu Kush Region, according to the PMD. ALSO READ | Afghanistan: Taliban detain and lash young girls for violating hijab rules Pakistan emergency services spokesperson Bilal Ahmad Faizi said its control room had not received any distress calls or reports about any loss of lives or property after the quake on Thursday, so far, reported Dawn. Quake in Afghanistan jolts northern India "Earthquake of Magnitude:6.1, Occurred on 11-01-2024, 14:50:24 IST, Lat: 36.48 & Long: 70.45, Depth: 220 Km ,Location: Afghanistan," said India's National Center for Seismology, in a post on X. Earthquake of Magnitude:6.1, Occurred on 11-01-2024, 14:50:24 IST, Lat: 36.48 & Long: 70.45, Depth: 220 Km ,Location: Afghanistan for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/fN2hpmK3jO @KirenRijiju @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia @Indiametdept pic.twitter.com/q5pkBVscsW — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) January 11, 2024 × The tremor caused panic among people, with many in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) reported shaking of furniture. #WATCH | Earthquake of magnitude 6.1 on Richter scale hits Afghanistan, tremors felt in North India. (Visuals from Poonch, J&K) pic.twitter.com/kMTT2XxYQ7 — ANI (@ANI) January 11, 2024 × Images and videos show people in New Delhi and its surrounding areas like Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurgaon rushing out of their homes and offices after the tremors around 2:50 pm (local time). Afghanistan earthquakes The recent earthquakes in Afghanistan come months after the country was shaken by its deadliest quake. In October 2023, an earthquake struck the country's Herat province, which led to the death of around 1,000 people and injured thousands of others, according to Afghanistan's disaster management ministry. ALSO READ | Afghanistan hit by the deadliest earthquake in years A spokesperson from the Taliban administration had also said that the 6.3 magnitude earthquake destroyed around 1,320 houses. (With inputs from agencies)

Earthquake of magnitude 6.1 hits Afghanistan; tremors felt in northern India, parts of Pakistan

<p>At least five police officers were killed and dozens of others were injured after a bomb blast hit&nbsp;a polio protection team in northwestern Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, on Monday (Jan 8), said local officials. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>“A police truck transporting around 25 policemen for anti-polio campaign duties was targeted by an IED (improvised explosive device),” Anwar ul Haq, a senior government official in Bajaur district, told the news agency.</p>

<p>A report by Dawn citing rescue services said around 27&nbsp;injured people were taken to the Bajaur district headquarters hospital.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-without-bat-with-caretaker-pm-how-pakistan-elections-remain-a-delayed-affair-677160">Explained | Why Pakistan’s national elections remain a delayed affair</a></strong></p>

<p>Dr Wazir Khan Safi, a medical superintendent in the district, as per the Dawn, said that 12 out of the 22 injured were being treated at the hospital, while 10 others seriously injured were sent to another medical facility in the Pakistani city of Peshawar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Those seriously injured would be taken to Peshawar via a helicopter, said Malakand Division Commissioner Saqib Raza, adding that the area had been cordoned off. The ongoing polio campaign in the area has also been suspended due to the blast, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, caretaker Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Arshad Hussain Shah condemned the blast and expressed his grief at the “martyrdom of police officials”. He has also directed the district administration to ensure that those wounded receive timely aid.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-21-tehreek-e-taliban-pakistan-militants-connected-to-various-attacks-arrested-675880">Pakistan: 21 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militants connected to various attacks arrested</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Rise in attacks in Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>The blast took place in Mamund in Bajaur district, an area which is around 14 kilometres away from Afghanistan and has witnessed a rise in attacks since&nbsp;the Taliban took control of Kabul in 2021.</p>

<p>The Pakistani Taliban or&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan later claimed responsibility for the attack that took place&nbsp;hours after&nbsp;authorities launched the first anti-polio campaign of this year. The militant group is a&nbsp;separate group but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/three-pak-police-officers-slain-ansar-ul-islam-militant-group-claims-responsibility-670226">Three Pak police officers slain, Ansar-ul-Islam militant group claims responsibility</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan and Afghanistan are among the only countries where polio – a debilitating virus which can cause lifelong disability – continues to be endemic,&nbsp;even though vaccines for the disease have been around for decades now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Islamic militants often target polio teams and police assigned to protect them, claiming falsely that the campaigns are a Western conspiracy to sterilize children.</p>

<p>The opposition against the vaccines&nbsp;grew after the United States Central Intelligence Agency organised a fake vaccination drive to help track down Al-Qaeda’s former leader Osama bin Laden in the Pakistani town of Abbottabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least five police officers were killed and dozens of others were injured after a bomb blast hit a polio protection team in northwestern Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, on Monday (Jan 8), said local officials.

At least five police officers were killed and dozens of others were injured after a bomb blast hit a polio protection team in northwestern Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, on Monday (Jan 8), said local officials. What happened? “A police truck transporting around 25 policemen for anti-polio campaign duties was targeted by an IED (improvised explosive device),” Anwar ul Haq, a senior government official in Bajaur district, told the news agency. A report by Dawn citing rescue services said around 27 injured people were taken to the Bajaur district headquarters hospital. ALSO READ | Explained | Why Pakistan’s national elections remain a delayed affair Dr Wazir Khan Safi, a medical superintendent in the district, as per the Dawn, said that 12 out of the 22 injured were being treated at the hospital, while 10 others seriously injured were sent to another medical facility in the Pakistani city of Peshawar. Those seriously injured would be taken to Peshawar via a helicopter, said Malakand Division Commissioner Saqib Raza, adding that the area had been cordoned off. The ongoing polio campaign in the area has also been suspended due to the blast, he added. In a statement, caretaker Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Arshad Hussain Shah condemned the blast and expressed his grief at the “martyrdom of police officials”. He has also directed the district administration to ensure that those wounded receive timely aid. ALSO READ | Pakistan: 21 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militants connected to various attacks arrested Rise in attacks in Pakistan The blast took place in Mamund in Bajaur district, an area which is around 14 kilometres away from Afghanistan and has witnessed a rise in attacks since the Taliban took control of Kabul in 2021. The Pakistani Taliban or Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan later claimed responsibility for the attack that took place hours after authorities launched the first anti-polio campaign of this year. The militant group is a separate group but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban. ALSO READ | Three Pak police officers slain, Ansar-ul-Islam militant group claims responsibility Pakistan and Afghanistan are among the only countries where polio – a debilitating virus which can cause lifelong disability – continues to be endemic, even though vaccines for the disease have been around for decades now. Islamic militants often target polio teams and police assigned to protect them, claiming falsely that the campaigns are a Western conspiracy to sterilize children. The opposition against the vaccines grew after the United States Central Intelligence Agency organised a fake vaccination drive to help track down Al-Qaeda’s former leader Osama bin Laden in the Pakistani town of Abbottabad. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Bomb blast in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa kills at least five, injures dozens

<p>Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8.</p>

<p>The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The resolution, presented by Senator Dilawar Khan, received the approval of a majority of lawmakers.</p>

<p>The move was however opposed by Pakistan Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah, who were present in the House.</p>

<p>The resolution stated, "The Constitution upheld the right to vote for every citizen of Pakistan and the Election Commission of Pakistan was bound to conduct free and fair polls contingent upon inclusivity and ensuring the participation of all regional people."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Resolution passed by majority in the Senate today....! <a href="https://twitter.com/appcsocialmedia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@appcsocialmedia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GovtofPakistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovtofPakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MoIB_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoIB_Official</a> <a href="https://t.co/K1OnrldizV">pic.twitter.com/K1OnrldizV</a></p>
— Senate of Pakistan (@SenatePakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatePakistan/status/1743236123604963570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Various political parties, as per the resolution, had raised concerns related to weather conditions and how it would lead to difficulties in ensuring participation of voters in the cold areas at the time of the electoral process.</p>

<p>"The vote turnout in colder areas remains notably high during the moderate weather conditions. January and February are recognised as the coldest months in the majority of the areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," it stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-court-issues-arrest-warrants-to-over-100-activists-of-imran-khans-party-over-may-9-violence-676967">Pak court issues arrest warrants to over 100 activists of Imran Khan's party over May 9 violence</a></p>

<h2><strong>‘Security Concerns’</strong></h2>

<p>Senator Khan expressed "great concern" over recent attacks targeting Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures.</p>

<p>"Recent attempts on the lives of JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures have&nbsp;raised concerns about the safety of political leaders."</p>

<p>"The Ministry of Interior has conveyed serious threats to the lives of prominent politicians increasing the challenges faced by political parties in exercising their right to a free and fair election," the resolution noted.</p>

<p>It further highlighted that there was an increase in the number of attacks on security forces and citizens, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The senator said alerts had been issued by intelligence agencies indicating "imminent threats" of militant attacks on election rallies, which could have a potential impact on the safety of citizens and the democratic electoral process.</p>

<p>"The intelligence agencies have warned of militant attacks threats on election rallies in both provinces".</p>

<p>"The Senate of Pakistan hereby resolves that the conduct in elections without addressing legitimate concerns, facilitating sufficient opportunities for election campaign and guaranteeing the safety of politicians and citizens would amount to violation of fundamental rights," the resolution stated.</p>

<p>"The election schedule may be postponed to facilitate the effective participation of people from all areas of&nbsp;Pakistan and belonging to all political shades,"&nbsp;it demanded.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8. The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions.

Pakistan's Senate on Friday (Jan 5) approved a resolution that seeks to delay the general elections which were originally scheduled for Feb 8. The decision was taken citing security concerns and harsh weather conditions. The resolution, presented by Senator Dilawar Khan, received the approval of a majority of lawmakers. The move was however opposed by Pakistan Information Minister Murtaza Solangi and PML-N Senator Afnan Ullah, who were present in the House. The resolution stated, "The Constitution upheld the right to vote for every citizen of Pakistan and the Election Commission of Pakistan was bound to conduct free and fair polls contingent upon inclusivity and ensuring the participation of all regional people." Resolution passed by majority in the Senate today....! @appcsocialmedia @GovtofPakistan @MoIB_Official pic.twitter.com/K1OnrldizV — Senate of Pakistan (@SenatePakistan) January 5, 2024 × Various political parties, as per the resolution, had raised concerns related to weather conditions and how it would lead to difficulties in ensuring participation of voters in the cold areas at the time of the electoral process. "The vote turnout in colder areas remains notably high during the moderate weather conditions. January and February are recognised as the coldest months in the majority of the areas in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," it stated. Also read: Pak court issues arrest warrants to over 100 activists of Imran Khan's party over May 9 violence ‘Security Concerns’ Senator Khan expressed "great concern" over recent attacks targeting Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures. "Recent attempts on the lives of JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman, former lawmaker Mohsin Dawar, and other political figures have raised concerns about the safety of political leaders." "The Ministry of Interior has conveyed serious threats to the lives of prominent politicians increasing the challenges faced by political parties in exercising their right to a free and fair election," the resolution noted. It further highlighted that there was an increase in the number of attacks on security forces and citizens, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The senator said alerts had been issued by intelligence agencies indicating "imminent threats" of militant attacks on election rallies, which could have a potential impact on the safety of citizens and the democratic electoral process. "The intelligence agencies have warned of militant attacks threats on election rallies in both provinces". "The Senate of Pakistan hereby resolves that the conduct in elections without addressing legitimate concerns, facilitating sufficient opportunities for election campaign and guaranteeing the safety of politicians and citizens would amount to violation of fundamental rights," the resolution stated. "The election schedule may be postponed to facilitate the effective participation of people from all areas of Pakistan and belonging to all political shades," it demanded. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Senate approves resolution seeking to delay general elections scheduled for Feb 8

<p>A Pakistani anti-terrorism court on Friday issued arrest warrants to more than 100 activists of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party for their alleged involvement in the attack on the ISI building in Punjab province during the anti-government protests.</p>

<p>On May 9, violent protests erupted after the arrest of Khan, the former prime minister and PTI party chief, by paramilitary Rangers from the premises of the Islamabad High Court in connection with an alleged corruption case.</p>

<p>His party workers vandalised a dozen military installations, including the Jinnah House (Lahore Corps Commander House), Mianwali airbase and the ISI building in Faisalabad. The Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi was also attacked by the mob for the first time.</p>

<p>"The Anti-Terrorism Court issued arrest warrants of over 100 PTI leaders and workers allegedly involved in the attack on Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) offices in Faisalabad city (some 130kms from Lahore) during riots on May 9, 2023," a court official told PTI here on Friday.</p>

<p>The PTI leaders who are contesting next month's general elections from the Faisalabad district are also among those whose arrest warrants have been issued, he said. The wanted men of the PTI have reportedly been hiding since May.</p>

<p>The Pakistan Army is already conducting the trial of 102 suspects involved in the attacks on military installations including the ISI building in Faisalabad during violent protests that erupted on May 9 across the country following the arrest of former prime minister and PTI supremo Khan.</p>

<p>PTI central spokesperson Raoof Hasan said that "every draconian measure" has been employed by the state to have the party decimated and Imran Khan deleted from people's memory.</p>

<p>"This includes driving Khan out of office using the influence of pelf and power, registering over 180 fake and fraudulent cases against him from corruption to jeopardising national interests, arresting him and convicting him on one count with proceedings moving at an accelerated pace in others, and subjecting him to maltreatment and humiliation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raoof further said such measures also include exerting pressure on the PTI leaders to leave him, incarcerating them for prolonged periods and thwarting their bail by re-arresting them in other cases, abducting and torturing others to change political loyalties, denying it the right to hold political rallies and depriving it of its election symbol.</p>

<p>The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the deterioration in the state of human rights in the country.</p>

<p>“The blatant manipulation of the electoral landscape has been witnessed in which one political party among others has been singled out for systematic dismemberment. The state's clampdown on dissent, whether on freedom of opinion, expression or assembly, has further constricted civic spaces in the country at a time when people must be allowed to express their will freely ahead of the national election next month,” the HRCP said.</p>

<p>Currently over 10,000 PTI workers and leaders are languishing in jails in different parts of the country after May 9 events. Imran Khan is also detained at Adiala Jail Rawalpindi since August last in different cases.</p>

<p>The PTI alleges that under the 'London Plan' PMLN supremo Nawaz Sharif will be made prime minister in the wake of the February 8, 2024 polls with the blessing of the military establishment and Khan and his party will be crushed.</p>


A Pakistani anti-terrorism court on Friday issued arrest warrants to more than 100 activists of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party for their alleged involvement in the attack on the ISI building in Punjab province during the anti-government protests.

A Pakistani anti-terrorism court on Friday issued arrest warrants to more than 100 activists of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party for their alleged involvement in the attack on the ISI building in Punjab province during the anti-government protests. On May 9, violent protests erupted after the arrest of Khan, the former prime minister and PTI party chief, by paramilitary Rangers from the premises of the Islamabad High Court in connection with an alleged corruption case. His party workers vandalised a dozen military installations, including the Jinnah House (Lahore Corps Commander House), Mianwali airbase and the ISI building in Faisalabad. The Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi was also attacked by the mob for the first time. "The Anti-Terrorism Court issued arrest warrants of over 100 PTI leaders and workers allegedly involved in the attack on Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) offices in Faisalabad city (some 130kms from Lahore) during riots on May 9, 2023," a court official told PTI here on Friday. The PTI leaders who are contesting next month's general elections from the Faisalabad district are also among those whose arrest warrants have been issued, he said. The wanted men of the PTI have reportedly been hiding since May. The Pakistan Army is already conducting the trial of 102 suspects involved in the attacks on military installations including the ISI building in Faisalabad during violent protests that erupted on May 9 across the country following the arrest of former prime minister and PTI supremo Khan. PTI central spokesperson Raoof Hasan said that "every draconian measure" has been employed by the state to have the party decimated and Imran Khan deleted from people's memory. "This includes driving Khan out of office using the influence of pelf and power, registering over 180 fake and fraudulent cases against him from corruption to jeopardising national interests, arresting him and convicting him on one count with proceedings moving at an accelerated pace in others, and subjecting him to maltreatment and humiliation." Raoof further said such measures also include exerting pressure on the PTI leaders to leave him, incarcerating them for prolonged periods and thwarting their bail by re-arresting them in other cases, abducting and torturing others to change political loyalties, denying it the right to hold political rallies and depriving it of its election symbol. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the deterioration in the state of human rights in the country. “The blatant manipulation of the electoral landscape has been witnessed in which one political party among others has been singled out for systematic dismemberment. The state's clampdown on dissent, whether on freedom of opinion, expression or assembly, has further constricted civic spaces in the country at a time when people must be allowed to express their will freely ahead of the national election next month,” the HRCP said. Currently over 10,000 PTI workers and leaders are languishing in jails in different parts of the country after May 9 events. Imran Khan is also detained at Adiala Jail Rawalpindi since August last in different cases. The PTI alleges that under the 'London Plan' PMLN supremo Nawaz Sharif will be made prime minister in the wake of the February 8, 2024 polls with the blessing of the military establishment and Khan and his party will be crushed.

Pak court issues arrest warrants to over 100 activists of Imran Khan's party over May 9 violence

<p>Former Pakistan finance minister Sartaj Aziz has passed away in Islamabad aged 94. On Tuesday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) announced Aziz's demise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr Sartaj Aziz. A stalwart, a true icon and a towering figure! His contributions to the nation and towards the party will never be forgotten," wrote the party in a post on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Sartaj Aziz. A stalwart, a true icon and a towering figure! His contributions to the nation and towards the party will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace and may he be granted the highest place in jannah. AMEEN <a href="https://t.co/SLwrxUYbXp">pic.twitter.com/SLwrxUYbXp</a></p>
— PMLN (@pmln_org) <a href="https://twitter.com/pmln_org/status/1742237868003860722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Sartaj Aziz's political career</strong></h2>

<p>As per reports, during his term as Pakistan's Foreign minister, Aziz made an effort to promote peace with neighbouring India. India declared Pakistan as a most favoured nation (MFN) in 1996. Following the Pulwama attack in 2019, this status was revoked.</p>

<p>He is also known to be the only senior minister in the Pakistan government who, back in the late 1990s, counselled against the nation's plans for carrying out its own nuclear tests—codename Chagai-I and Chagai-II, in retaliation for India's May 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests.</p>

<p>Aziz held senior positions at the Ministry of Finance and the Planning Commission, where he played a crucial role in shaping economic policies that "steered Pakistan through crucial eras".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-announces-his-candidacy-for-prime-ministership-674073">Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto</a></strong></p>

<p>Aziz served as the deputy chair of the Planning Commission of Pakistan, a member of the federal cabinet as the de facto Minister for Foreign Affairs, a Federal Senator and a National Security Advisor.</p>

<p>President Dr Arif Alvi expressed grief over Aziz's death, extending condolences to his family.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ur">صدرمملکت ڈاکٹر عارف علوی کاسابق وزیر خزانہ ومشیر خارجہ امور سرتاج عزیز کے انتقال پر اظہارافسوس<br />
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صدرمملکت کاسرتاج عزیز کی وفات پرگہرے دُکھ کااظہار<br />
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صدرمملکت کا مرحوم سرتاج عزیز کے لواحقین کےساتھ اظہارتعزیت<br />
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صدرمملکت کی مرحوم سرتاج عزیز کیلئے دعائےمغفرت، ورثاء کیلئے صبر جمیل کی دعا <a href="https://t.co/zsvGB4G4b9">pic.twitter.com/zsvGB4G4b9</a></p>
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PresOfPakistan/status/1742244972781261303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar praised Aziz&nbsp;as an experienced politician and a great asset to the nation.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ur">نگران وزیراعظم انوار الحق کاکڑ کا بزرگ سیاستدان اور سابق وفاقی وزیر سرتاج عزیز کے انتقال پر گہرے افسوس اور رنج کا اظہار۔ وزیر اعظم کی مرحوم کی بلندیء درجات کی دعاء اور ان کے اہل خانہ سے اظہارِ تعزیت۔<br />
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سرتاج عزیز انتہائی زیرک اور منجھے ہوئے سیاستدان ، تحریک پاکستان کے فعال کارکن…</p>
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakPMO/status/1742254206516633936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, expressing sorrow, noted that Aziz lived "a rare life of courage, dignity, and integrity; a life worth celebrating."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that Aziz contributed and accomplished much in his life.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Inna lilla he wa inna elahe rajaon<br />
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Sartaj Aziz Sahib passed away this evening in Islamabad.<br />
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He lived a rare life of courage, dignity, and integrity; a life worth celebrating.<br />
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He contributed and accomplished much; excelling at everything that he did. To all of us who worked…</p>
— Shahid Khaqan Abbasi (@SKhaqanAbbasi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SKhaqanAbbasi/status/1742256225868268019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-party-to-approach-election-tribunals-against-poll-disqualification-675568">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party to approach election tribunals against poll disqualification</a></strong></p>

<p>PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal said Aziz was a veteran of the Pakistan movement and said he was a "great asset" to Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">اِنَّا لِلّٰہِ وَاِنَّآ اِلَیْہِ رَاجِعُوْنَ<br />
Mr Sartaj Aziz has passed away. He was a veteran of Pakistan movement &amp; great asset for the nation. He will be missed very much. His services for the nation will always be remembered. I had honour of working with him very closely and… <a href="https://t.co/am70fOP5KK">pic.twitter.com/am70fOP5KK</a></p>
— Ahsan Iqbal (@betterpakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/betterpakistan/status/1742238648773550468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Conveying his "deep" sorrow, Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani described Aziz as an "iconic figure who served Pakistan selflessly with exemplary dedication".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">انا للہ وانا الیہ راجعون۔<br />
Deeply grieved to learn of the sad demise of Sartaj Aziz Sb. A thorough gentleman, he was an iconic figure who served Pakistan selflessly and with exemplary dedication. He will always be remembered for his intellectual prowess, integrity, and kindness.</p>
— Jalil Abbas Jilani (@JalilJilani) <a href="https://twitter.com/JalilJilani/status/1742239723442065467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan finance minister Sartaj Aziz has passed away in Islamabad aged 94. On Tuesday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) announced Aziz's demise. "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr Sartaj Aziz.

Former Pakistan finance minister Sartaj Aziz has passed away in Islamabad aged 94. On Tuesday, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) announced Aziz's demise. "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr Sartaj Aziz. A stalwart, a true icon and a towering figure! His contributions to the nation and towards the party will never be forgotten," wrote the party in a post on X. It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Sartaj Aziz. A stalwart, a true icon and a towering figure! His contributions to the nation and towards the party will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace and may he be granted the highest place in jannah. AMEEN pic.twitter.com/SLwrxUYbXp — PMLN (@pmln_org) January 2, 2024 × Sartaj Aziz's political career As per reports, during his term as Pakistan's Foreign minister, Aziz made an effort to promote peace with neighbouring India. India declared Pakistan as a most favoured nation (MFN) in 1996. Following the Pulwama attack in 2019, this status was revoked. He is also known to be the only senior minister in the Pakistan government who, back in the late 1990s, counselled against the nation's plans for carrying out its own nuclear tests—codename Chagai-I and Chagai-II, in retaliation for India's May 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests. Aziz held senior positions at the Ministry of Finance and the Planning Commission, where he played a crucial role in shaping economic policies that "steered Pakistan through crucial eras". Also read | Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto Aziz served as the deputy chair of the Planning Commission of Pakistan, a member of the federal cabinet as the de facto Minister for Foreign Affairs, a Federal Senator and a National Security Advisor. President Dr Arif Alvi expressed grief over Aziz's death, extending condolences to his family. صدرمملکت ڈاکٹر عارف علوی کاسابق وزیر خزانہ ومشیر خارجہ امور سرتاج عزیز کے انتقال پر اظہارافسوس صدرمملکت کاسرتاج عزیز کی وفات پرگہرے دُکھ کااظہار صدرمملکت کا مرحوم سرتاج عزیز کے لواحقین کےساتھ اظہارتعزیت صدرمملکت کی مرحوم سرتاج عزیز کیلئے دعائےمغفرت، ورثاء کیلئے صبر جمیل کی دعا pic.twitter.com/zsvGB4G4b9 — The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) January 2, 2024 × Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar praised Aziz as an experienced politician and a great asset to the nation. نگران وزیراعظم انوار الحق کاکڑ کا بزرگ سیاستدان اور سابق وفاقی وزیر سرتاج عزیز کے انتقال پر گہرے افسوس اور رنج کا اظہار۔ وزیر اعظم کی مرحوم کی بلندیء درجات کی دعاء اور ان کے اہل خانہ سے اظہارِ تعزیت۔ سرتاج عزیز انتہائی زیرک اور منجھے ہوئے سیاستدان ، تحریک پاکستان کے فعال کارکن… — Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) January 2, 2024 × Former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, expressing sorrow, noted that Aziz lived "a rare life of courage, dignity, and integrity; a life worth celebrating." He also said that Aziz contributed and accomplished much in his life. Inna lilla he wa inna elahe rajaon Sartaj Aziz Sahib passed away this evening in Islamabad. He lived a rare life of courage, dignity, and integrity; a life worth celebrating. He contributed and accomplished much; excelling at everything that he did. To all of us who worked… — Shahid Khaqan Abbasi (@SKhaqanAbbasi) January 2, 2024 × Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan’s party to approach election tribunals against poll disqualification PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal said Aziz was a veteran of the Pakistan movement and said he was a "great asset" to Pakistan. اِنَّا لِلّٰہِ وَاِنَّآ اِلَیْہِ رَاجِعُوْنَ Mr Sartaj Aziz has passed away. He was a veteran of Pakistan movement & great asset for the nation. He will be missed very much. His services for the nation will always be remembered. I had honour of working with him very closely and… pic.twitter.com/am70fOP5KK — Ahsan Iqbal (@betterpakistan) January 2, 2024 × Conveying his "deep" sorrow, Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani described Aziz as an "iconic figure who served Pakistan selflessly with exemplary dedication". انا للہ وانا الیہ راجعون۔ Deeply grieved to learn of the sad demise of Sartaj Aziz Sb. A thorough gentleman, he was an iconic figure who served Pakistan selflessly and with exemplary dedication. He will always be remembered for his intellectual prowess, integrity, and kindness. — Jalil Abbas Jilani (@JalilJilani) January 2, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan finance minister Sartaj Aziz passes away at 94

<p>Pakistan's&nbsp;caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar imposed a ban on New Year celebrations in the country in a bid to express solidarity with the people of Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.</p>

<p>Kakar called on the people of his country to show solidarity with the Palestinians and display solemnity and humility on New Year.</p>

<p>"Keeping in mind the seriously concerning situation in Palestine and to show solidarity with our Palestinian brothers and sisters, there will be a strict ban by the government on holding any kind of event for New Year," he said in a brief address.</p>

<p>He further&nbsp;said that Israeli forces "crossed all limits of violence and injustice", claiming the lives of over 21,000 Palestinians and killing nearly 9,000 children in its counter-offensive.</p>

<p>"The whole Pakistani nation and the Muslim world are in a sheer state of anguish over the massacre of innocent children and genocide of unarmed Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that his country had sent two aid packages to Palestine with the third one being prepared.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that Pakistan was in talks with Jordan and Egypt to ensure timely aid to Palestinians and evacuation of those wounded in Gaza.</p>

<p>Kakar said Pakistan was making all&nbsp;necessary efforts to highlight the plight of the Palestinians on various global forums and would continue to do so in future.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/freed-israeli-hostage-mia-schem-reveals-details-about-54-day-hamas-captivity-says-went-through-holocaust-674751">Freed Israeli hostage Mia Schem reveals details about 54-day Hamas captivity, says 'went through holocaust'</a></p>

<h2><strong>UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’</strong></h2>

<p>Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United Nations flagged the human rights situation in the West Bank and urged Israel to "end unlawful killings" of the Palestinian population in the West Bank.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report released on Thursday (Dec 28) by the UN&nbsp;demanded an immediate end to the use of military weapons during law enforcement operations as well as an end to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of Palestinians, and the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions.</p>

<p>"The use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary and discriminatory movement restrictions that affect Palestinians are extremely troubling," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years."</p>

<p>The report looked at the human rights situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar imposed a ban on New Year celebrations in the country in a bid to express solidarity with the people of Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar imposed a ban on New Year celebrations in the country in a bid to express solidarity with the people of Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Kakar called on the people of his country to show solidarity with the Palestinians and display solemnity and humility on New Year. "Keeping in mind the seriously concerning situation in Palestine and to show solidarity with our Palestinian brothers and sisters, there will be a strict ban by the government on holding any kind of event for New Year," he said in a brief address. He further said that Israeli forces "crossed all limits of violence and injustice", claiming the lives of over 21,000 Palestinians and killing nearly 9,000 children in its counter-offensive. "The whole Pakistani nation and the Muslim world are in a sheer state of anguish over the massacre of innocent children and genocide of unarmed Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank." He added that his country had sent two aid packages to Palestine with the third one being prepared. He also said that Pakistan was in talks with Jordan and Egypt to ensure timely aid to Palestinians and evacuation of those wounded in Gaza. Kakar said Pakistan was making all necessary efforts to highlight the plight of the Palestinians on various global forums and would continue to do so in future. Also read: Freed Israeli hostage Mia Schem reveals details about 54-day Hamas captivity, says 'went through holocaust' UN asks Israel to ‘end unlawful killings’ Shelling by Israel near a hospital in Khan Younis late on December 27 claimed the lives of 20 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The United Nations flagged the human rights situation in the West Bank and urged Israel to "end unlawful killings" of the Palestinian population in the West Bank. A report released on Thursday (Dec 28) by the UN demanded an immediate end to the use of military weapons during law enforcement operations as well as an end to arbitrary detention and ill-treatment of Palestinians, and the lifting of discriminatory movement restrictions. "The use of military tactics and weapons in law enforcement contexts, the use of unnecessary or disproportionate force, and the enforcement of broad, arbitrary and discriminatory movement restrictions that affect Palestinians are extremely troubling," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement. "The intensity of the violence and repression is something that has not been seen in years." The report looked at the human rights situation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan caretaker PM Kakar announces ban on New Year celebrations. Here's why

<p>India has formally requested Pakistan to hand over Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The notorious figure, who remains a wanted terrorist in India, has continued to operate freely from within Pakistan, even as his son, Talha Saeed, recently announced that he will stand for the upcoming Pakistani general elections.</p>

<p>The request has been, an extradition request from New Delhi to Islamabad. Indian agencies like the NIA have been involved in the case. Hafiz Saeed, the co-founder of the United Nations-listed terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was the key man behind the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, India's financial capital.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-6-deaths-and-702-new-covid-19-cases-in-a-day-takes-number-of-active-cases-to-4097-674267">India Covid update: 6 deaths, 702 new cases in 24 hours, total active cases at 4,097</a></p>

<p>In the aftermath of the Mumbai terror attack, Hafiz Saeed was swiftly listed under the 'United Nations Security Council Sanctions Committee on Al-Qaida and ISIL' in December 2008. The United States and the European Union have also designated him as an international terrorist. Reflecting the severity of his actions, the U.S. government had, in 2012, offered a substantial $10 million bounty for information leading to the capture of Hafiz Mohammad Saeed.</p>

<p>For India, terrorism originating from territories under Pakistan's control remains a pressing concern in bilateral relations. New Delhi has consistently emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to take credible, irreversible, and verifiable action to curb cross-border terrorism directed against India. India has also called upon Pakistan to expedite the trial of the Mumbai terror attacks case, providing all relevant evidence to facilitate justice. However, despite the sharing of conclusive evidence, there has been minimal progress in the ongoing trial within Pakistan.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India Covid: 4097 active cases of Covid in India, highest surge in Kerala&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In response to reports of India's extradition request for Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry declined to comment much. It said, "The question is based on speculative reporting. We would not like to comment on such reports."</p>


India has formally requested Pakistan to hand over Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The notorious figure, who remains a wanted terrorist in India, has continued to operate freely from within Pakistan, even as his son, Talha Saeed, recently announced that he will stand for the upcoming Pakistani general elections.

India has formally requested Pakistan to hand over Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The notorious figure, who remains a wanted terrorist in India, has continued to operate freely from within Pakistan, even as his son, Talha Saeed, recently announced that he will stand for the upcoming Pakistani general elections. The request has been, an extradition request from New Delhi to Islamabad. Indian agencies like the NIA have been involved in the case. Hafiz Saeed, the co-founder of the United Nations-listed terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was the key man behind the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai, India's financial capital. Also read: India Covid update: 6 deaths, 702 new cases in 24 hours, total active cases at 4,097 In the aftermath of the Mumbai terror attack, Hafiz Saeed was swiftly listed under the 'United Nations Security Council Sanctions Committee on Al-Qaida and ISIL' in December 2008. The United States and the European Union have also designated him as an international terrorist. Reflecting the severity of his actions, the U.S. government had, in 2012, offered a substantial $10 million bounty for information leading to the capture of Hafiz Mohammad Saeed. For India, terrorism originating from territories under Pakistan's control remains a pressing concern in bilateral relations. New Delhi has consistently emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to take credible, irreversible, and verifiable action to curb cross-border terrorism directed against India. India has also called upon Pakistan to expedite the trial of the Mumbai terror attacks case, providing all relevant evidence to facilitate justice. However, despite the sharing of conclusive evidence, there has been minimal progress in the ongoing trial within Pakistan. Watch: India Covid: 4097 active cases of Covid in India, highest surge in Kerala In response to reports of India's extradition request for Hafiz Saeed, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry declined to comment much. It said, "The question is based on speculative reporting. We would not like to comment on such reports."

India asks Pakistan to extradite 26/11 terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed

<p>Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court.</p>

<p>"PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers for NA-130 (National Assembly seat from Lahore) have been accepted by the Election Commission," Sharif's lawyer Amjad Pervez told reporters on Tuesday.</p>

<p>He said no objections to 73-year-old Sharif's candidature have been raised.</p>

<p>"Nawaz Sharif will now contest both from Lahore and Mansahra city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," he said.<br />
<br />
When asked whether Sharif was disqualified to contest polls for life time, Pervez said: "Sharif's disqualification has ended after his acquittal in corruption references against him."</p>

<p>All the leadership of the Sharif family -- Sharif, his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Hamza Shehbaz -- are mainly contesting from Lahore.</p>

<p><strong>Gravitas: Pakistan's 'drug drones' infiltrate india</strong></p>

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<p>After his return to the country this October from London where he spent four years in self-exile on medical grounds, Sharif was acquitted in two major corruption cases — Avenfield Apartments and Al-Azizia Steel Mills — by the Islamabad High Court.</p>

<p>Barrister Zafarullah Khan said that Sharif can contest elections, citing an amendment to the Elections Act by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. That amendment to Section 232 of the Elections Act caps disqualifications at five years.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-announces-his-candidacy-for-prime-ministership-674073">Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto</a></strong></p>

<p>According to senior lawyer Raja Inam Ameen Minhas, the amended law cannot benefit Sharif since the legislature did not amend Section 232 retrospectively. He said since the amendment entails penal consequences, it cannot deal with the matter in the past.</p>

<p>"The law that deals with punishment cannot be applied retrospectively unless the legislature categorically gives this effect. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling says disqualification under Article 62(1f) of the Constitution is lifelong. This ruling directly impacts Nawaz Sharif, who was disqualified under this provision," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/relief-for-imran-khans-party-peshawar-high-court-restores-ptis-bat-election-symbol-673753">Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol</a></strong></p>

<p>Another senior lawyer Kashif Ali Malik said that the lifelong interpretation in the Elections Act cannot interpret, override or defeat constitutional provisions.</p>

<p>Sharif, the only Pakistani politician who became the prime minister of the coup-prone country for a record three times, has been receiving PM-designate protocol with the blessings of the military.</p>

<p>Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party alleges that under the 'London Plan' Sharif will be made the Prime Minister following the February 8 polls with the blessing of the military establishment under Army Chief Gen Asim Munir.</p>


Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court.

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers have been accepted by the Election Commission despite questions on his eligibility to contest the February 8 general elections in the wake of 'life-long disqualification' by the apex court. "PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif's nomination papers for NA-130 (National Assembly seat from Lahore) have been accepted by the Election Commission," Sharif's lawyer Amjad Pervez told reporters on Tuesday. He said no objections to 73-year-old Sharif's candidature have been raised. "Nawaz Sharif will now contest both from Lahore and Mansahra city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," he said. When asked whether Sharif was disqualified to contest polls for life time, Pervez said: "Sharif's disqualification has ended after his acquittal in corruption references against him." All the leadership of the Sharif family -- Sharif, his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Hamza Shehbaz -- are mainly contesting from Lahore. Gravitas: Pakistan's 'drug drones' infiltrate india × After his return to the country this October from London where he spent four years in self-exile on medical grounds, Sharif was acquitted in two major corruption cases — Avenfield Apartments and Al-Azizia Steel Mills — by the Islamabad High Court. Barrister Zafarullah Khan said that Sharif can contest elections, citing an amendment to the Elections Act by the previous Pakistan Democratic Movement-led government. That amendment to Section 232 of the Elections Act caps disqualifications at five years. Also Read | Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto According to senior lawyer Raja Inam Ameen Minhas, the amended law cannot benefit Sharif since the legislature did not amend Section 232 retrospectively. He said since the amendment entails penal consequences, it cannot deal with the matter in the past. "The law that deals with punishment cannot be applied retrospectively unless the legislature categorically gives this effect. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling says disqualification under Article 62(1f) of the Constitution is lifelong. This ruling directly impacts Nawaz Sharif, who was disqualified under this provision," he said. Also Read | Relief for Imran Khan’s party: Peshawar High Court restores PTI’s ‘bat’ election symbol Another senior lawyer Kashif Ali Malik said that the lifelong interpretation in the Elections Act cannot interpret, override or defeat constitutional provisions. Sharif, the only Pakistani politician who became the prime minister of the coup-prone country for a record three times, has been receiving PM-designate protocol with the blessings of the military. Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan's party alleges that under the 'London Plan' Sharif will be made the Prime Minister following the February 8 polls with the blessing of the military establishment under Army Chief Gen Asim Munir.

Pakistan’s election body accepts Nawaz Sharif’s nomination papers for NA-130 Lahore

<p>Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have&nbsp;assumed&nbsp;Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27). PPP has already announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would be its PM candidate and Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari will be the presidential nominee in elections which are due to be held on February.</p>

<p>Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari is former Pakistan president who served between 2008 and 2013. Bilawal's mother, the late Benazir Bhutto held the prime ministerial post twice.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested under GHQ attack case</strong></p>

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<p>Bhutto-Zardari has said that he would be the PM candidate subject to PPP's Central Executive Committee’s approval, but this will be a mere formality given the party's announcement earlier this month.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-successfully-tests-fatah-ii-guided-multi-launch-rocket-system-674025">Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan has a multi-party system and the prime ministership is decided based on which party gets more number of seats in the parliament, but announcement of a prime-ministerial candidate often helps project an image of the party in the run up to the elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-police-manhandle-drag-and-detain-ex-pak-fm-qureshi-even-after-sc-grants-bail-673977">Police manhandle, drag and detain ex-Pakistan FM Qureshi after SC grants bail</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, the death anniversary of his mother Benazir, Bilawal addressed a gathering in Garhi Khuda Baksh where members of his family, including his mother,&nbsp;are buried.</p>

<p>He presented his party's election agenda. Here are the promises he made in agenda&nbsp;as reported in Pakistani media:</p>

<ul>
	<li>If elected, Bhutto-Zardari said that his government would ensure salaries are doubled within five years.</li>
	<li>People in poorer sections of the society will get 300 units of free solar energy. Each district in the country will have green energy parks.</li>
	<li>Bilawal has promised free healthcare for everyone in Pakistan</li>
	<li>The manifesto says three million houses will be built for the poor and those affected by floods.</li>
	<li>PPP has promised education for all. Bilawal said that his government will roll out projects to better educate the masses.</li>
	<li>His government would increase the scope of Benazir Income Support Programme and will introduce more welfare schemes.</li>
	<li>For farmers a 'Hari Card' will be issued.</li>
	<li>The government will enhance support for people who work as labourers with the help of Benazir Mazdoor Card.</li>
	<li>For unemployed youth, there will be 'Youth Card' and also a 'Youth Markaz'</li>
	<li>To eradicate hunger in the country, the government will embark on ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’</li>
</ul>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have assumed Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27).

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) and son of parents who both have assumed Pakistan's top offices in past, announced his candidacy for prime ministership of the South Asian nation on Wednesday (Dec 27). PPP has already announced that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari would be its PM candidate and Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari will be the presidential nominee in elections which are due to be held on February. Bilawal's father Asif Ali Zardari is former Pakistan president who served between 2008 and 2013. Bilawal's mother, the late Benazir Bhutto held the prime ministerial post twice. Watch | Pakistan: Former minister Mahmood Qureshi rearrested under GHQ attack case × Bhutto-Zardari has said that he would be the PM candidate subject to PPP's Central Executive Committee’s approval, but this will be a mere formality given the party's announcement earlier this month. Also Read | Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system Pakistan has a multi-party system and the prime ministership is decided based on which party gets more number of seats in the parliament, but announcement of a prime-ministerial candidate often helps project an image of the party in the run up to the elections. Also Read | Police manhandle, drag and detain ex-Pakistan FM Qureshi after SC grants bail On Wednesday, the death anniversary of his mother Benazir, Bilawal addressed a gathering in Garhi Khuda Baksh where members of his family, including his mother, are buried. He presented his party's election agenda. Here are the promises he made in agenda as reported in Pakistani media: If elected, Bhutto-Zardari said that his government would ensure salaries are doubled within five years. People in poorer sections of the society will get 300 units of free solar energy. Each district in the country will have green energy parks. Bilawal has promised free healthcare for everyone in Pakistan The manifesto says three million houses will be built for the poor and those affected by floods. PPP has promised education for all. Bilawal said that his government will roll out projects to better educate the masses. His government would increase the scope of Benazir Income Support Programme and will introduce more welfare schemes. For farmers a 'Hari Card' will be issued. The government will enhance support for people who work as labourers with the help of Benazir Mazdoor Card. For unemployed youth, there will be 'Youth Card' and also a 'Youth Markaz' To eradicate hunger in the country, the government will embark on ‘Bhook Mitao Programme’ (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto

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<p>Pakistan's military wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday (Dec 27) claimed it had successfully conducted the flight test of Fatah-II, a guided multi-launch rocket system (MLRS). Senior officers from all three wings of the military as well as scientists and engineers were present to witness the flight test.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and navigation system, Fatah-II is capable of engaging targets with high precision up to a range of 400 kilometres, ISPR claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the successful launch, the president, prime minister,&nbsp;chairman joint chiefs of staff committee and chief of army staff congratulated participating troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the flight test of the second iteration of Fatah MLRS comes over two years after Fatah-1 was launched in August 2021. At the time, ISPR said the rocket system was capable of delivering a conventional warhead.</p>

<p>In October, earlier this year, Islamabad claimed it also successfully test-fired&nbsp;the Ababeel Weapon System, aimed at "strengthening deterrence and enhancing strategic stability in the region".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hindu-temple-in-pakistans-sindh-attacked-with-rocket-launchers-616676"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Hindu temple in Pakistan's Sindh attacked with rocket launchers</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Pakistan's ammunition supply to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, earlier this year, multiple reports suggested that Pakistan had supplied a shipment of over 10,000 rockets intended for use in Grad multi-barrel rocket launchers to Ukraine in its war with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, a few months later, Ukrainian commanders on the frontlines stated that ammunitions supplied&nbsp;from Pakistan were not of good quality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, the UK allegedly used the Pakistani Air Force based in Rawalpindi as the air bridge to transfer Ukraine-bound arms from a British air base in the Mediterranean to Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport in Romania.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brahmos-missile-misfiring-into-pakistan-cost-india-rs-240-million-598251" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | 'BrahMos missile misfiring into Pakistan cost India Rs 240 million'</strong></a></p>

<p>Moscow, at the time, said it was aware of the developments, adding that Islamabad was indulging in 'explicit anti-Russia actions'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Yes, there have been reports and information about such instances. We take this information very seriously. Such examples, if confirmed, are very explicit anti-Russia actions that we cannot ignore,” said Denis Alipov, the Russian ambassador to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Security experts view the launch of Fatah-II as another attempt by Islamabad to flood the Ukrainian market with its weapons.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's military wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday (Dec 27) claimed it had successfully conducted the flight test of Fatah-II, a guided multi-launch rocket system (MLRS).

Pakistan's military wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Wednesday (Dec 27) claimed it had successfully conducted the flight test of Fatah-II, a guided multi-launch rocket system (MLRS). Senior officers from all three wings of the military as well as scientists and engineers were present to witness the flight test. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and navigation system, Fatah-II is capable of engaging targets with high precision up to a range of 400 kilometres, ISPR claimed. After the successful launch, the president, prime minister, chairman joint chiefs of staff committee and chief of army staff congratulated participating troops. Notably, the flight test of the second iteration of Fatah MLRS comes over two years after Fatah-1 was launched in August 2021. At the time, ISPR said the rocket system was capable of delivering a conventional warhead. In October, earlier this year, Islamabad claimed it also successfully test-fired the Ababeel Weapon System, aimed at "strengthening deterrence and enhancing strategic stability in the region". Watch | Hindu temple in Pakistan's Sindh attacked with rocket launchers × Pakistan's ammunition supply to Ukraine Notably, earlier this year, multiple reports suggested that Pakistan had supplied a shipment of over 10,000 rockets intended for use in Grad multi-barrel rocket launchers to Ukraine in its war with Russia. However, a few months later, Ukrainian commanders on the frontlines stated that ammunitions supplied from Pakistan were not of good quality. Last year, the UK allegedly used the Pakistani Air Force based in Rawalpindi as the air bridge to transfer Ukraine-bound arms from a British air base in the Mediterranean to Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport in Romania. Also read | 'BrahMos missile misfiring into Pakistan cost India Rs 240 million' Moscow, at the time, said it was aware of the developments, adding that Islamabad was indulging in 'explicit anti-Russia actions'. "Yes, there have been reports and information about such instances. We take this information very seriously. Such examples, if confirmed, are very explicit anti-Russia actions that we cannot ignore,” said Denis Alipov, the Russian ambassador to India. Security experts view the launch of Fatah-II as another attempt by Islamabad to flood the Ukrainian market with its weapons. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan successfully tests Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system

<p>In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Parkash, who is from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reportedly filed nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in the Buner district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Filing her nomination on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket, Parkash is optimistic about contesting the elections scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024, to elect the members of the 16th National Assembly,</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mumbai-2611-terror-attacks-mastermind-hafiz-saeeds-party-to-contest-polls-in-pakistan-673431">Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party to contest polls in Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>A report by the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, on Monday (Dec 25), citing local politician Saleem Khan, who is affiliated with the Qaumi Watan Party said Parkash is the first woman from Buner to have submitted her nomination papers to contest the upcoming elections from the general seat.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Saveera Parkash?</strong></h2>

<p>Saveera told Dawn that she is following in her father’s footsteps Oam Prakash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member for the past 35 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Parkash, general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College last year. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with the Pakistani media outlet, Prakash said that she filed her nomination on December 23 and also spoke about her commitment to the welfare of the community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Parkash said that she wants to work for the welfare of women in the area, ensure a safe space for them and help them attain their rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khans-party-to-approach-high-court-against-flawed-verdict-from-polls-watchdog-673495">Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog</a></strong></p>

<p>During the interview with Dawn, Parkash highlighted the historic neglect and suppression of women in the development sector. If endorsed by the PPP leadership she would be the first woman from Buner to contest elections on a general seat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about the party giving her a ticket, Parkash said that she hoped she would get one as the “senior leadership” had requested her father to let her run for the general seat. She also expressed hope that&nbsp;PPP would endorse her candidature.</p>

<p>She said “serving humanity is in my blood” due to her medical background, but her aspiration to become an elected official stems from having experienced poor management and helplessness in government hospitals as a doctor.</p>

<p>A social media influencer from Buner, Imran Noshad Khan expressed his wholehearted endorsement of Saveera Parkash, irrespective of her political affiliation, reported Dawn.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/security-nightmare-in-pakistan-country-reports-highest-instances-of-suicide-attacks-since-2014-673296">Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014</a></strong></p>

<p>Parkash is “breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy,” Khan told the Pakistani media outlet which was necessary to recognise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It took 55 years “since Buner merged with Pakistan for a woman to step forward and contest in elections,” said the social media influencer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a five per cent inclusion of women candidates is mandatory on general seats.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year.

In a historic development in Pakistan politics, a Hindu woman named Saveera Parkash from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region filed her nomination for a general seat in the country’s upcoming polls that are scheduled to take place next year. Parkash, who is from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reportedly filed nomination papers for the general seat of PK-25 in the Buner district. Filing her nomination on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket, Parkash is optimistic about contesting the elections scheduled to take place on February 8, 2024, to elect the members of the 16th National Assembly, ALSO READ | Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party to contest polls in Pakistan A report by the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, on Monday (Dec 25), citing local politician Saleem Khan, who is affiliated with the Qaumi Watan Party said Parkash is the first woman from Buner to have submitted her nomination papers to contest the upcoming elections from the general seat. Who is Saveera Parkash? Saveera told Dawn that she is following in her father’s footsteps Oam Prakash, a retired doctor and dedicated PPP member for the past 35 years. Parkash, general secretary of the PPP women’s wing in Buner, completed her MBBS from the Abbottabad International Medical College last year. In an interview with the Pakistani media outlet, Prakash said that she filed her nomination on December 23 and also spoke about her commitment to the welfare of the community. Parkash said that she wants to work for the welfare of women in the area, ensure a safe space for them and help them attain their rights. ALSO READ | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog During the interview with Dawn, Parkash highlighted the historic neglect and suppression of women in the development sector. If endorsed by the PPP leadership she would be the first woman from Buner to contest elections on a general seat. When asked about the party giving her a ticket, Parkash said that she hoped she would get one as the “senior leadership” had requested her father to let her run for the general seat. She also expressed hope that PPP would endorse her candidature. She said “serving humanity is in my blood” due to her medical background, but her aspiration to become an elected official stems from having experienced poor management and helplessness in government hospitals as a doctor. A social media influencer from Buner, Imran Noshad Khan expressed his wholehearted endorsement of Saveera Parkash, irrespective of her political affiliation, reported Dawn. ALSO READ | Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014 Parkash is “breaking stereotypes perpetuated by traditional patriarchy,” Khan told the Pakistani media outlet which was necessary to recognise. It took 55 years “since Buner merged with Pakistan for a woman to step forward and contest in elections,” said the social media influencer. According to recent amendments by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), a five per cent inclusion of women candidates is mandatory on general seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Saveera Parkash: In a first, Hindu woman files nomination for Pakistan’s 2024 general elections

<p>Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said on Monday (Dec 25) that it would challenge Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to consider intra-party polls unconstitutional and revoke the 'cricket bat' symbol</p>

<p>ECP's five-member panel on Friday last week, rejected the party's internal elections and also denied its plea to have cricket bat as electoral symbol for upcoming general elections.</p>

<p>Mohammad Muazzam Butt, lawyer of PTI and the party's central information secretary was quoted by Dawn newspaper saying that the party would move Peshawar High Court and will file a writ petition on December 26.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Afghanistan-Pakistan water sharing dispute: Taliban's dam project in Kunar River</strong></p>

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<p>Butt reportedly termed ECP's decision to be "legally flawed" and claimed that the commission had failed to deliver justice.</p>

<p>Pakistan's electoral watchdog has held PTI's internal elections void in less than a month. Barrister Gohar Ali Khan was elected as party chairman in the internal elections.</p>

<p>Gohar Khan who is close to Imran Khan (71) lost his chairmanship within days due to decision by the ECP.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the 'bat'?</strong></h2>

<p>Imran Khan, the famous former cricketer-turned-politician is currently in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. He is facing multiple cases which the former PM claims are politically motivated. His stature as a cricketer may likely help him in elections if his party fights polls with a cricket-related electoral symbol.</p>

<p>But ECP has denied the permission.</p>

<p>“It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated November 23 and failed to hold intra-party election following PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017,” it said in its decision.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/security-nightmare-in-pakistan-country-reports-highest-instances-of-suicide-attacks-since-2014-673296">Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014</a></strong></p>

<p>The PTI has slammed the decision as being part of the “famous London Plan” and a “disgusting and shameful attempt to stop the party from [participating in the] election”. The party says it has enough support among Pakistan public which will hand it victory in general elections in February next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-in-2023-imran-khans-arrest-return-of-nawaz-sharif-and-baloch-uprising-672947">Imran Khan's arrest to Nawaz Sharif's return and Baloch uprising, events that shook Pakistan in 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>The party has decided to appeal the decision at every forum and has even said that its candidates will contest elections with the 'bat' symbol, come what may.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said on Monday (Dec 25) that it would challenge Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to consider intra-party polls unconstitutional and revoke the 'cricket bat' symbol ECP's five-member panel on Friday last week, rejected the party's internal elections and also denied its plea to have cricket bat as electoral symbol for upcoming general elections.

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said on Monday (Dec 25) that it would challenge Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision to consider intra-party polls unconstitutional and revoke the 'cricket bat' symbol ECP's five-member panel on Friday last week, rejected the party's internal elections and also denied its plea to have cricket bat as electoral symbol for upcoming general elections. Mohammad Muazzam Butt, lawyer of PTI and the party's central information secretary was quoted by Dawn newspaper saying that the party would move Peshawar High Court and will file a writ petition on December 26. Watch | Afghanistan-Pakistan water sharing dispute: Taliban's dam project in Kunar River × Butt reportedly termed ECP's decision to be "legally flawed" and claimed that the commission had failed to deliver justice. Pakistan's electoral watchdog has held PTI's internal elections void in less than a month. Barrister Gohar Ali Khan was elected as party chairman in the internal elections. Gohar Khan who is close to Imran Khan (71) lost his chairmanship within days due to decision by the ECP. Why the 'bat'? Imran Khan, the famous former cricketer-turned-politician is currently in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. He is facing multiple cases which the former PM claims are politically motivated. His stature as a cricketer may likely help him in elections if his party fights polls with a cricket-related electoral symbol. But ECP has denied the permission. “It is held that PTI has not complied with our directions rendered therein order dated November 23 and failed to hold intra-party election following PTI prevailing Constitution, 2019 and Election Act, 2017, and Election Rules, 2017,” it said in its decision. Also Read | Security nightmare in Pakistan? Country reports highest instances of suicide attacks since 2014 The PTI has slammed the decision as being part of the “famous London Plan” and a “disgusting and shameful attempt to stop the party from [participating in the] election”. The party says it has enough support among Pakistan public which will hand it victory in general elections in February next year. Also Read | Imran Khan's arrest to Nawaz Sharif's return and Baloch uprising, events that shook Pakistan in 2023 The party has decided to appeal the decision at every forum and has even said that its candidates will contest elections with the 'bat' symbol, come what may. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's party to approach high court against 'flawed' verdict from polls watchdog

<p>The Pakistan Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 22) approved former prime minister Imran Khan and ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's bail in the cipher case against surety bonds of Rs 1 million each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Sardar Tariq Masood and Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah presided over the hearing and delivered the verdict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief and his aide were indicted in the cipher case once again earlier this month by the special court, established under the Official Secrets Act 2023 after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) declared their jail trial null and void.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the repeated indictment, both have pleaded not guilty in the case and alleged&nbsp;that "powerful people" behind the cipher case had made them the scapegoat.</p>

<p>During the hearing on Friday, Khan's counsel argued that&nbsp;the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had acted in haste to arrest the former PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The FIA remained silent in the case for seven months and then arrested the PTI leader as soon as he [Imran Khan] was granted bail in the Toshakhana case," the counsel told the bench.</p>

<p>While Khan has been granted bail, it remains unclear at this stage if he will be released from jail as there are&nbsp;multiple arrest warrants against&nbsp;his name in several other high-profile cases. The PTI leader has been in prison since August,&nbsp;after a conviction in another corruption case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-imran-khan-and-mahmood-qureshi-indicted-again-in-cipher-case-669407"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan and Mahmood Qureshi indicted again in Cipher case</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>The cipher case</strong></h2>

<p>In the cipher case, Imran Khan faces allegations that he violated the Official Secrets Act when he disclosed a secret diplomatic cable, called the cipher. This was sent by Pakistan's embassy in Washington last year in March. Khan reportedly lost possession of the diplomatic cable later.</p>

<p>Both Khan and Qureshi had claimed that the cable had a threat from the US to topple the PTI government which was then in power in Pakistan.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-remains-disqualified-from-contesting-elections-after-conviction-appeal-fails-672275"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Imran Khan remains disqualified from contesting elections after conviction appeal fails</strong></a></p>

<p>Khan was ousted from the prime ministerial office in April last year after a no-confidence vote. Since being relived of the premier post, more than 150 cases have been slapped against him.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Pakistan Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 22) approved former prime minister Imran Khan and ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's bail in the cipher case against surety bonds of Rs 1 million each.

The Pakistan Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 22) approved former prime minister Imran Khan and ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's bail in the cipher case against surety bonds of Rs 1 million each. A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Sardar Tariq Masood and Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah presided over the hearing and delivered the verdict. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief and his aide were indicted in the cipher case once again earlier this month by the special court, established under the Official Secrets Act 2023 after the Islamabad High Court (IHC) declared their jail trial null and void. Despite the repeated indictment, both have pleaded not guilty in the case and alleged that "powerful people" behind the cipher case had made them the scapegoat. During the hearing on Friday, Khan's counsel argued that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had acted in haste to arrest the former PM. "The FIA remained silent in the case for seven months and then arrested the PTI leader as soon as he [Imran Khan] was granted bail in the Toshakhana case," the counsel told the bench. While Khan has been granted bail, it remains unclear at this stage if he will be released from jail as there are multiple arrest warrants against his name in several other high-profile cases. The PTI leader has been in prison since August, after a conviction in another corruption case. Watch | Pakistan: Imran Khan and Mahmood Qureshi indicted again in Cipher case × The cipher case In the cipher case, Imran Khan faces allegations that he violated the Official Secrets Act when he disclosed a secret diplomatic cable, called the cipher. This was sent by Pakistan's embassy in Washington last year in March. Khan reportedly lost possession of the diplomatic cable later. Both Khan and Qureshi had claimed that the cable had a threat from the US to topple the PTI government which was then in power in Pakistan. Also read | Imran Khan remains disqualified from contesting elections after conviction appeal fails Khan was ousted from the prime ministerial office in April last year after a no-confidence vote. Since being relived of the premier post, more than 150 cases have been slapped against him. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi granted bail by SC in cipher case

<p>Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has once again lauded India over the economic progress made by the country's arch-rival and neighbour. During a public address, Sharif said India had reached the Moon while Pakistan was yet to rise from the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have been responsible for our own downfall, otherwise this nation would have reached a different place," said Sharif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our neighbours have reached the moon but we haven't even risen from the ground so far. It can't keep going on like this," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharif's statement comes a day after he said neither India nor the US were responsible for Pakistan's economic downfall.</p>

<p>“Today where Pakistan has reached (in terms of the state of the economy) this is not done by India, the US or even Afghanistan. In fact, we shot ourselves in our own foot…they (a reference to the military) imposed a selected (government) on this nation by rigging the 2018 polls that led to the sufferings of the people and downfall of the economy,” Sharif, the three-time prime minister who is vying to gain power for the fourth time, said.</p>

<p>Sharif taking a soft and rather progressive line concerning India is not a new phenomenon. When India successfully launched the Chandrayaan-3 mission to the south side of the Moon, Sharif made a similar comparison between the two countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today Pakistan's prime minister goes country to country to beg for funds while India has reached the moon and is holding G20 meetings. Why Pakistan couldn't achieve the feats India did. Who is responsible for this here?" he said at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nawaz-sharif-mending-relations-with-neighbours-crucial-for-pakistan-668249"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Nawaz Sharif: 'Mending relations with neighbours crucial for Pakistan'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Sharif eyeing return to power in Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>Sharif, holed up&nbsp;in London since 2019, has been looking to make a comeback to Pakistan's political stage for a long time. The whispers surrounding his return to Pakistan soil had started doing the rounds since November last year when he was issued a five-year diplomatic passport by the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs.</p>

<p>He later received a booster shot of confidence when the Islamabad High Court&nbsp;acquitted him in the&nbsp;Al-Aziziya reference case.&nbsp;The two-judge bench of IHC, comprising Chief Justice&nbsp;Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb announced the verdict. The same bench had acquitted him in the Avenfield property case last month as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-not-responsible-for-paks-economy-says-ex-pm-nawaz-sharif-blames-army-671589"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;‘India not responsible for Pakistan’s economy woes’, says ex-PM Nawaz Sharif, blames army</strong></a></p>

<p>Although acquittal in both cases paved way for Sharif's return to Pakistan, he still has another hurdle to cross. He remains disqualified from holding office by the Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case. The apex court, while interpreting Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution&nbsp;ruled that the disqualification is for life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has once again lauded India over the economic progress made by the country's arch-rival and neighbour. During a public address, Sharif said India had reached the Moon while Pakistan was yet to rise from the ground.

Pakistan's former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has once again lauded India over the economic progress made by the country's arch-rival and neighbour. During a public address, Sharif said India had reached the Moon while Pakistan was yet to rise from the ground. "We have been responsible for our own downfall, otherwise this nation would have reached a different place," said Sharif. "Our neighbours have reached the moon but we haven't even risen from the ground so far. It can't keep going on like this," he added. Sharif's statement comes a day after he said neither India nor the US were responsible for Pakistan's economic downfall. “Today where Pakistan has reached (in terms of the state of the economy) this is not done by India, the US or even Afghanistan. In fact, we shot ourselves in our own foot…they (a reference to the military) imposed a selected (government) on this nation by rigging the 2018 polls that led to the sufferings of the people and downfall of the economy,” Sharif, the three-time prime minister who is vying to gain power for the fourth time, said. Sharif taking a soft and rather progressive line concerning India is not a new phenomenon. When India successfully launched the Chandrayaan-3 mission to the south side of the Moon, Sharif made a similar comparison between the two countries. "Today Pakistan's prime minister goes country to country to beg for funds while India has reached the moon and is holding G20 meetings. Why Pakistan couldn't achieve the feats India did. Who is responsible for this here?" he said at the time. Watch | Nawaz Sharif: 'Mending relations with neighbours crucial for Pakistan' × Sharif eyeing return to power in Pakistan Sharif, holed up in London since 2019, has been looking to make a comeback to Pakistan's political stage for a long time. The whispers surrounding his return to Pakistan soil had started doing the rounds since November last year when he was issued a five-year diplomatic passport by the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He later received a booster shot of confidence when the Islamabad High Court acquitted him in the Al-Aziziya reference case. The two-judge bench of IHC, comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb announced the verdict. The same bench had acquitted him in the Avenfield property case last month as well. Also read | ‘India not responsible for Pakistan’s economy woes’, says ex-PM Nawaz Sharif, blames army Although acquittal in both cases paved way for Sharif's return to Pakistan, he still has another hurdle to cross. He remains disqualified from holding office by the Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case. The apex court, while interpreting Article 62(1)(f) of the Constitution ruled that the disqualification is for life. (With inputs from agencies)

Nawaz Sharif lauds India yet again, says ‘our neighbours reached Moon’

<p>A Pakistani court on Thursday (Dec 21) rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's plea to suspend a conviction which will keep him at bay from contesting elections, said his lawyer.</p>

<p>The verdict came a day prior to the deadline to submit nomination papers for elections for provincial and national assemblies due on February 8.</p>

<p>Khan, who has been at the centre of a political crisis since he was ousted in a parliamentary no-confidence vote in April 2022, was seeking to overturn the conviction which has barred him from contesting elections for five years straight.</p>

<p>"Imran Khan's request to suspend the decision in the Tosha Khana criminal case was rejected so that disqualification would remain (in place)," Khan's lawyer and spokesman on legal affairs, Naeem Haider Panjutha, said on X.</p>

<p>In another&nbsp;social media post, he said that Khan's party Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), would challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court on Friday.</p>

<p>The former Pakistani prime minister was imprisoned in August this year after being sentenced to three years in jail over unlawfully selling state gifts during his 2018-22 tenure as the country's leader.</p>

<p>He has denied any wrongdoing and&nbsp;dubbed the charges politically motivated,</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-chinas-secret-aircraft-sending-signals-to-hidden-station-in-us-satellite-tracker-says-maybe-672169">China's secret aircraft sending signals to US, hints satellite tracker</a></p>

<p>Khan, in addition to other cases running under his name, pleaded not guilty on December 13 to charges of leaking state secrets under an indictment that dealt a further blow to his chances of running again for election.</p>

<p>The charges are related to a classified cable that was sent to Islamabad by Pakistan's ambassador in Washington in the year 2022, which Khan is condemned for making public.</p>

<p>The main rival for PTI in the elections due in February would be former Pak PM Nawaz Sharif's party.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday evening (Dec 17), the leaders of Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), released a voice clone of the cricketer-turned-politician that was made using artificial intelligence (AI).</p>

<p>Calling it a “virtual rally”, his 4-minute message was played out on social media despite nationwide internet disruptions monitored by NetBlocks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-to-face-crisis-level-hunger-this-winter-as-uk-slashes-aid-by-more-than-half-672205">Afghanistan to face crisis-level hunger this winter as UK slashes aid by more than half</a></p>

<p>It was viewed by more than 4.5 million people across Facebook, X and YouTube.</p>

<p>PTI told AFP news agency that Khan sent a shorthand script through lawyers that was meshed out into his rhetorical style.</p>

<p>The text was then dubbed into audio using a tool from the AI firm ElevenLabs, which boasts the ability to create a “voice clone” from existing speech samples.</p>

<p>“My fellow Pakistanis, I would first like to praise the social media team for this historic attempt,” the voice mimicking Khan said. “Maybe you all are wondering how I am doing in jail. Today, my determination for real freedom is very strong.”</p>

<p>According to PTI, the audio was bookended with genuine video clips from the Khan’s former speeches. However, the caption appearing at regular intervals said that it was the “AI voice of Imran Khan based on his notes”.</p>

<p>“This was a no-brainer for us when Imran Khan is no longer there to meet at a political rally,” said the PTI social media chief Jibran Ilyas who is based in the US. “It was to get over the suppression.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Pakistani court on Thursday (Dec 21) rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's plea to suspend a conviction which will keep him at bay from contesting elections, said his lawyer.

A Pakistani court on Thursday (Dec 21) rejected former Prime Minister Imran Khan's plea to suspend a conviction which will keep him at bay from contesting elections, said his lawyer. The verdict came a day prior to the deadline to submit nomination papers for elections for provincial and national assemblies due on February 8. Khan, who has been at the centre of a political crisis since he was ousted in a parliamentary no-confidence vote in April 2022, was seeking to overturn the conviction which has barred him from contesting elections for five years straight. "Imran Khan's request to suspend the decision in the Tosha Khana criminal case was rejected so that disqualification would remain (in place)," Khan's lawyer and spokesman on legal affairs, Naeem Haider Panjutha, said on X. In another social media post, he said that Khan's party Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), would challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court on Friday. The former Pakistani prime minister was imprisoned in August this year after being sentenced to three years in jail over unlawfully selling state gifts during his 2018-22 tenure as the country's leader. He has denied any wrongdoing and dubbed the charges politically motivated, Also read: China's secret aircraft sending signals to US, hints satellite tracker Khan, in addition to other cases running under his name, pleaded not guilty on December 13 to charges of leaking state secrets under an indictment that dealt a further blow to his chances of running again for election. The charges are related to a classified cable that was sent to Islamabad by Pakistan's ambassador in Washington in the year 2022, which Khan is condemned for making public. The main rival for PTI in the elections due in February would be former Pak PM Nawaz Sharif's party. Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone On Sunday evening (Dec 17), the leaders of Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), released a voice clone of the cricketer-turned-politician that was made using artificial intelligence (AI). Calling it a “virtual rally”, his 4-minute message was played out on social media despite nationwide internet disruptions monitored by NetBlocks. Also read: Afghanistan to face crisis-level hunger this winter as UK slashes aid by more than half It was viewed by more than 4.5 million people across Facebook, X and YouTube. PTI told AFP news agency that Khan sent a shorthand script through lawyers that was meshed out into his rhetorical style. The text was then dubbed into audio using a tool from the AI firm ElevenLabs, which boasts the ability to create a “voice clone” from existing speech samples. “My fellow Pakistanis, I would first like to praise the social media team for this historic attempt,” the voice mimicking Khan said. “Maybe you all are wondering how I am doing in jail. Today, my determination for real freedom is very strong.” According to PTI, the audio was bookended with genuine video clips from the Khan’s former speeches. However, the caption appearing at regular intervals said that it was the “AI voice of Imran Khan based on his notes”. “This was a no-brainer for us when Imran Khan is no longer there to meet at a political rally,” said the PTI social media chief Jibran Ilyas who is based in the US. “It was to get over the suppression.” (With inputs from agencies)

Imran Khan remains disqualified from contesting elections after conviction appeal fails

<p>With the winter season approaching, it is estimated that about one in three children in Afghanistan will be affected by crisis-level hunger as the United Kingdom cut down on its aid for the Taliban-ruled country by approximately 60 per cent this year.</p>

<p>As per the latest figures released by the global hunger monitoring system Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), almost eight million children in the war-torn country will step into the new year without sufficient food and will have to live without ample winter clothing in freezing conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The families are worried about the survival of their kids as last year the cold winter claimed the lives of at least 160 people in the country where the temperatures dropped to minus 37 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>“Our homes are not usable, and we don’t know how we can survive this winter. The winter is approaching and it is too cold in these places. It will be covered with snow for weeks, the ways to travel will be blocked and these areas will be freezing,” the Independent quoted resident Aslam, who is the father of three currently living in a tent, as saying.</p>

<p>“Sometimes we don’t have bread to eat, and we sleep hungry. Seeing my child getting weak day by day and crying for food is devastating,” said Salma, a mother of a seven-month-old infant who had to rush her child to a clinic run by the UK-based humanitarian organisation according to the Independent.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-chinas-secret-aircraft-sending-signals-to-hidden-station-in-us-satellite-tracker-says-maybe-672169">Satellite tracker hints at China's secret aircraft sending signals to US</a></p>

<p>Hundreds of Afghans who have been forced to flee Pakistan since October this year, are at present surviving in makeshift camps and are being taken care of by humanitarian aid workers.</p>

<p>The health workers are also making efforts to keep respiratory diseases at bay.</p>

<p>“Our physicians reported that it gets cold at night, and it is difficult to ensure the well-being of children inside the tents,” said Arshad Malik, the country director of Save the Children, heading operations in Afghanistan, as per the Independent.</p>

<p>“This problem can negatively affect the health of both the child and the mother. We are afraid that the severe respiratory infections are highly likely due to prolonged exposure to dust storms, enclosed smoky shelters, other sick people, and extremely cold weather, as many families have travelled to Afghanistan in open, overcrowded trucks,” the Independent quotes him as saying.</p>

<p>The United Kingdom had slashed the aid for Afghanistan in the month of May this year by more than half, directly hitting the Afghans who were benefitting from the international funding.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


With the winter season approaching, it is estimated that about one in three children in Afghanistan will be affected by crisis-level hunger as the United Kingdom cut down on its aid for the Taliban-ruled country by approximately 60 per cent this year.

With the winter season approaching, it is estimated that about one in three children in Afghanistan will be affected by crisis-level hunger as the United Kingdom cut down on its aid for the Taliban-ruled country by approximately 60 per cent this year. As per the latest figures released by the global hunger monitoring system Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), almost eight million children in the war-torn country will step into the new year without sufficient food and will have to live without ample winter clothing in freezing conditions. The families are worried about the survival of their kids as last year the cold winter claimed the lives of at least 160 people in the country where the temperatures dropped to minus 37 degrees Celsius. “Our homes are not usable, and we don’t know how we can survive this winter. The winter is approaching and it is too cold in these places. It will be covered with snow for weeks, the ways to travel will be blocked and these areas will be freezing,” the Independent quoted resident Aslam, who is the father of three currently living in a tent, as saying. “Sometimes we don’t have bread to eat, and we sleep hungry. Seeing my child getting weak day by day and crying for food is devastating,” said Salma, a mother of a seven-month-old infant who had to rush her child to a clinic run by the UK-based humanitarian organisation according to the Independent. Also read: Satellite tracker hints at China's secret aircraft sending signals to US Hundreds of Afghans who have been forced to flee Pakistan since October this year, are at present surviving in makeshift camps and are being taken care of by humanitarian aid workers. The health workers are also making efforts to keep respiratory diseases at bay. “Our physicians reported that it gets cold at night, and it is difficult to ensure the well-being of children inside the tents,” said Arshad Malik, the country director of Save the Children, heading operations in Afghanistan, as per the Independent. “This problem can negatively affect the health of both the child and the mother. We are afraid that the severe respiratory infections are highly likely due to prolonged exposure to dust storms, enclosed smoky shelters, other sick people, and extremely cold weather, as many families have travelled to Afghanistan in open, overcrowded trucks,” the Independent quotes him as saying. The United Kingdom had slashed the aid for Afghanistan in the month of May this year by more than half, directly hitting the Afghans who were benefitting from the international funding. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan to face crisis-level hunger this winter as UK slashes aid by more than half

<p>A slew of screengrabs, by what appears to be the social media account of Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, took&nbsp;the internet by storm confirming the death of India’s most wanted criminal, Dawood Ibrahim, who, as per unconfirmed reports,&nbsp;has been poisoned and admitted to a hospital in Karachi.</p>

<p>The viral post shared by account anwaar_kakkar said, "The Messiah of humanity, dear to every Pakistani heart, our beloved His Excellency Dawood Ibrahim passed away due to poisoned by unknown. He breathed his last in a hospital in Karachi. May Allah grant him the highest position in Jannat. Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un."</p>

<p>However, DFRAC, an independent fact-checking website, calling the screenshot fake, shared a post on X saying that the username in the viral post did not match the official account of Anwaar ul Haq&nbsp;Kakar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further said that the parody account had an extra 'k' in the username and that the verified symbol in the screengrab of the Pakistani PM was also fake as the last post that Kakar shared on his official X account was on Dec 16.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-most-wanted-criminal-dawood-ibrahim-poisoned-in-pakistan-report-670678">Dawood Ibrahim, India’s most wanted criminal, poisoned in Pakistan: Report &nbsp;</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Social media users are sharing a screenshot of a tweet of the Caretaker PM of Pakistan, where he’s writing about the death of Dawood Ibrahim.❌<br />
1/3 <a href="https://t.co/Y5iBw8cgFD">pic.twitter.com/Y5iBw8cgFD</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dawood Ibrahim 'allegedly poisoned'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The 65-year-old underworld figure was poisoned and rushed to hospital in Pakistan's Karachi, claimed unconfirmed reports.</p>

<p>He allegedly was poisoned by one of his men and was rushed to hospital two days ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reports also claim that he is in critical condition and that the Pakistani establishment has tightened the security around the hospital.</p>

<p>So far, none of the developments have been confirmed officially.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mastermind of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, Ibrahim has been staying in Pakistan for decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fugitive gangster's nephew told India's anti-terror agency, NIA in January this year, that the underworld don stays in Karachi after marrying for the second time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Dawood Ibrahim has a second wife, a Pakistani Pathan. Her name is Maizabin. He has three daughters Marukh (married to Junaid, son of Javed Miandad), Mehrin (married), and Maziya (unmarried), and one son Mohin Nawaz (married)," Alishah Parkar, son of Dawood's sister Haseena Parkar, said in the statement, which is part of the chargesheet filed by the NIA in the case in November last year. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A slew of screengrabs, by what appears to be the social media account of Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, took the internet by storm confirming the death of India’s most wanted criminal, Dawood Ibrahim, who, as per unconfirmed reports, has been poisoned and admitted to a hospital in Karachi.

A slew of screengrabs, by what appears to be the social media account of Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar, took the internet by storm confirming the death of India’s most wanted criminal, Dawood Ibrahim, who, as per unconfirmed reports, has been poisoned and admitted to a hospital in Karachi. The viral post shared by account anwaar_kakkar said, "The Messiah of humanity, dear to every Pakistani heart, our beloved His Excellency Dawood Ibrahim passed away due to poisoned by unknown. He breathed his last in a hospital in Karachi. May Allah grant him the highest position in Jannat. Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un." However, DFRAC, an independent fact-checking website, calling the screenshot fake, shared a post on X saying that the username in the viral post did not match the official account of Anwaar ul Haq Kakar. It further said that the parody account had an extra 'k' in the username and that the verified symbol in the screengrab of the Pakistani PM was also fake as the last post that Kakar shared on his official X account was on Dec 16. Also read: Dawood Ibrahim, India’s most wanted criminal, poisoned in Pakistan: Report Social media users are sharing a screenshot of a tweet of the Caretaker PM of Pakistan, where he’s writing about the death of Dawood Ibrahim.❌ 1/3 pic.twitter.com/Y5iBw8cgFD — DFRAC (@DFRAC_org) December 18, 2023 × Dawood Ibrahim 'allegedly poisoned' The 65-year-old underworld figure was poisoned and rushed to hospital in Pakistan's Karachi, claimed unconfirmed reports. He allegedly was poisoned by one of his men and was rushed to hospital two days ago. The reports also claim that he is in critical condition and that the Pakistani establishment has tightened the security around the hospital. So far, none of the developments have been confirmed officially. Mastermind of the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, Ibrahim has been staying in Pakistan for decades. The fugitive gangster's nephew told India's anti-terror agency, NIA in January this year, that the underworld don stays in Karachi after marrying for the second time. “Dawood Ibrahim has a second wife, a Pakistani Pathan. Her name is Maizabin. He has three daughters Marukh (married to Junaid, son of Javed Miandad), Mehrin (married), and Maziya (unmarried), and one son Mohin Nawaz (married)," Alishah Parkar, son of Dawood's sister Haseena Parkar, said in the statement, which is part of the chargesheet filed by the NIA in the case in November last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Dawood death reports: Did Pak’s caretaker PM really call him ‘Messiah of humanity’? | Factcheck

<p>Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai on Wednesday (Dec 13) posted on X and subsequently deleted a series of proposed actions in response to a deadly terror attack on a military camp.&nbsp;Achakzai suggested that Pakistan should offer "drone bases to target militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Achakzai said “special targeted operations, air strikes, border closure with Afghanistan, return of Afghan refugees, anti-TTP&nbsp;political opposition gathering in Islamabad” must be considered.</p>

<p>“Last, offer US drone bases to target [Al Qaeda] and other militants sanctuaries in Afghanistan,” he wrote in the now-deleted post on X.</p>

<p>The US drone bases in Pakistan have remained a controversial topic for a long time. Washington has routinely used these bases to eliminate targets in Afghanistan. Former al-Qaida chief Ayman al-Zawahiri, sitting in Kabul was also killed in July 2022 by the US drone strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Shamsi airbase in Balochistan is one of the most well-known bases that the US utilised&nbsp;to target non-state actors. However, after a NATO strike in 2011 in Salala which claimed the lives of two dozen Pakistani soldiers, the US was asked to vacate the base.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-pakistan-become-a-suicide-state-546188" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>General Munir's US visit</strong></h2>

<p>The suggestion by&nbsp;Achakzai comes in the backdrop of Pakistan Army chief&nbsp;General Asim Munir's visit to Washington. Munir is attempting to convince US security officials that the rise of&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State's Khorasan offshoot (IS-K) pose a significant threat not only to Islamabad but to the US as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a brief statement released by the Pentagon, Munir met&nbsp;Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on Wednesday and discussed "recent regional security developments and potential areas for bilateral defence cooperation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban. Last year, the militant outfit announced it was calling off a ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of terror attacks have killed a number of civilians as well as military personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/troubled-by-home-grown-monster-ttp-pakistan-govt-mulls-military-offensive-reports-546449"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Troubled by home-grown monster TTP, Pakistan govt mulls military offensive: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>On Tuesday, at least 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed while dozens were injured after a&nbsp;&nbsp;vehicle containing explosives rammed into a building in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Afghan border.</p>

<p>The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Pakistan later released a detailed statement, which said a counter-operation led by the army resulted in the death of 27 terrorists.</p>

<p>"An intelligence-based operation was conducted in general area Darazinda on the reported presence of terrorists. During the conduct of operation, terrorists' hideout was busted and seventeen terrorists were sent to hell," the ISPR said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai on Wednesday (Dec 13) posted on X and subsequently deleted a series of proposed actions in response to a deadly terror attack on a military camp.

Balochistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai on Wednesday (Dec 13) posted on X and subsequently deleted a series of proposed actions in response to a deadly terror attack on a military camp. Achakzai suggested that Pakistan should offer "drone bases to target militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan". Achakzai said “special targeted operations, air strikes, border closure with Afghanistan, return of Afghan refugees, anti-TTP political opposition gathering in Islamabad” must be considered. “Last, offer US drone bases to target [Al Qaeda] and other militants sanctuaries in Afghanistan,” he wrote in the now-deleted post on X. The US drone bases in Pakistan have remained a controversial topic for a long time. Washington has routinely used these bases to eliminate targets in Afghanistan. Former al-Qaida chief Ayman al-Zawahiri, sitting in Kabul was also killed in July 2022 by the US drone strikes. The Shamsi airbase in Balochistan is one of the most well-known bases that the US utilised to target non-state actors. However, after a NATO strike in 2011 in Salala which claimed the lives of two dozen Pakistani soldiers, the US was asked to vacate the base. WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'? General Munir's US visit The suggestion by Achakzai comes in the backdrop of Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir's visit to Washington. Munir is attempting to convince US security officials that the rise of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State's Khorasan offshoot (IS-K) pose a significant threat not only to Islamabad but to the US as well. According to a brief statement released by the Pentagon, Munir met Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on Wednesday and discussed "recent regional security developments and potential areas for bilateral defence cooperation". TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban. Last year, the militant outfit announced it was calling off a ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of terror attacks have killed a number of civilians as well as military personnel. Also read | Troubled by home-grown monster TTP, Pakistan govt mulls military offensive: Reports On Tuesday, at least 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed while dozens were injured after a vehicle containing explosives rammed into a building in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Afghan border. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Pakistan later released a detailed statement, which said a counter-operation led by the army resulted in the death of 27 terrorists. "An intelligence-based operation was conducted in general area Darazinda on the reported presence of terrorists. During the conduct of operation, terrorists' hideout was busted and seventeen terrorists were sent to hell," the ISPR said. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Pakistan offer drone bases to US to target terror outfits?

<p>Police in Pakistan have busted an organ&nbsp;trafficking racket being run by an infamous doctor in the northeast part of the country as well as the eastern Punjab area. The gang reportedly removed kidneys of unsuspecting patients without their knowledge and sold them to rich clients.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Sharing further shocking details, police officials said the accused doctor, identified as&nbsp;Fawad Mukhtar, conducted surgeries at private residences&nbsp;to harvest kidneys and his associate, a car mechanic, used to give anesthesia to the victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eight people have been arrested for surgically removing kidneys from hundreds of patients for wealthy people needing a transplant.<br />
<br />
The police said that Fawad carried out 328 surgeries and sold the kidneys for prices as high as $34,000 (Rs 2.82 million), the CNN reported quoting Mohsin Naqvi, the Chief Minister of Pakistan's Punjab province.<br />
<br />
The ring&nbsp;leader had previously been detained five times for professional misconduct, but he was able to secure bail each time.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-taylor-swift-simone-biles-bring-star-power-to-stand-during-packers-vs-chiefs-665943">Taylor Swift, Simone Biles bring star-power to stand during Packers vs Chiefs</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Gang's active zone</strong></h2>

<p>According to authorities, at least three persons had died from having their organs harvested.</p>

<p>The gang was believed to be particularly active in the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)&nbsp;as well as the eastern Punjab area.</p>

<p>The transplants were performed in private homes, often without the patient's knowledge, according to Mohsin Naqvi, the Punjab chief minister.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpfs-1st-female-biker-expedition-starts-from-kashmir-shillong-and-kanyakumari-150-bikers-participate-642061">CRPF's 1st female biker expedition starts from Kashmir, Shillong and Kanyakumari; 150 bikers participate</a></strong></p>

<p>It is alleged that the mechanic who assisted Mukhtar helped lure vulnerable patients from hospitals.</p>

<p>"The facts and figures that have come to us make the heart tremble," Naqvi said during a press conference on Sunday.</p>

<p>"There are a lot more transplants and illegal surgeries than this. These are the ones that we have confirmed."<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan's law on organ trade</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan outlawed&nbsp;the commercial trade of human organs&nbsp;in 2010. A 10-year prison sentence and significant fines were added to deter unscrupulous doctors, intermediaries, receivers, and donors selling organs to offshore clients.</p>

<p>However, there has been a rise in organ trafficking in the country as people struggle with low wages and poor enforcement of the law.</p>

<p>Punjab police had busted another organ trafficking racket&nbsp;this January when a&nbsp;missing 14-year-old boy was found in an underground lab after his kidney was removed.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Police in Pakistan have busted an organ trafficking racket being run by an infamous doctor in the northeast part of the country as well as the eastern Punjab area.

Police in Pakistan have busted an organ trafficking racket being run by an infamous doctor in the northeast part of the country as well as the eastern Punjab area. The gang reportedly removed kidneys of unsuspecting patients without their knowledge and sold them to rich clients. Sharing further shocking details, police officials said the accused doctor, identified as Fawad Mukhtar, conducted surgeries at private residences to harvest kidneys and his associate, a car mechanic, used to give anesthesia to the victims. Eight people have been arrested for surgically removing kidneys from hundreds of patients for wealthy people needing a transplant. The police said that Fawad carried out 328 surgeries and sold the kidneys for prices as high as $34,000 (Rs 2.82 million), the CNN reported quoting Mohsin Naqvi, the Chief Minister of Pakistan's Punjab province. The ring leader had previously been detained five times for professional misconduct, but he was able to secure bail each time. Also read: Taylor Swift, Simone Biles bring star-power to stand during Packers vs Chiefs Gang's active zone According to authorities, at least three persons had died from having their organs harvested. The gang was believed to be particularly active in the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as well as the eastern Punjab area. The transplants were performed in private homes, often without the patient's knowledge, according to Mohsin Naqvi, the Punjab chief minister. Also read: CRPF's 1st female biker expedition starts from Kashmir, Shillong and Kanyakumari; 150 bikers participate It is alleged that the mechanic who assisted Mukhtar helped lure vulnerable patients from hospitals. "The facts and figures that have come to us make the heart tremble," Naqvi said during a press conference on Sunday. "There are a lot more transplants and illegal surgeries than this. These are the ones that we have confirmed." Pakistan's law on organ trade Pakistan outlawed the commercial trade of human organs in 2010. A 10-year prison sentence and significant fines were added to deter unscrupulous doctors, intermediaries, receivers, and donors selling organs to offshore clients. However, there has been a rise in organ trafficking in the country as people struggle with low wages and poor enforcement of the law. Punjab police had busted another organ trafficking racket this January when a missing 14-year-old boy was found in an underground lab after his kidney was removed. ×

Pakistan police bust organ trafficking gang that removed kidneys from hundreds of victims, sold to rich

<p>Pakistan's Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 1) began hearing a petition from rights activists demanding to stop&nbsp;the deportation of Afghan refugees,&nbsp;reported Reuters, citing a lawyer. This comes at a time when&nbsp;authorities are combing refugee settlements to find and deport thousands of Afghans who fled their country after the Taliban takeover.</p>

<p>On October 1, Pakistan said that it would expel more than a million undocumented refugees in the country. Most of these are Afghans. Since the announcement, about 370,000 Afghans have fled from Pakistan.</p>

<p>Pakistan has been maintaining that anti-Pakistan militants were among the undocumented refugees and they receive help from terror apparatus inside Afghanistan.</p>

<p>"Due to the urgency, as thousands of people are suffering on daily basis, I've requested the court to take up the case as early as next week," Umar Ijaz Gilani, a lawyer representing the rights activists was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistani father shoots daughter for appearing in a viral social media video</strong></p>

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<p>Gilani said that a three-judge panel heard the case and asked the government, the interior ministry and the foreign ministry in addition to a panel comprising government and top military officials to furnish&nbsp;an explanation.</p>

<p>Thousands of people&nbsp;fled Afghanistan to escape persecution after the Taliban seized power in the country&nbsp;following a chaotic and hasty retreat by US-led Western forces in 2021. Now, the refugees have gone underground in Pakistan to escape deportation as they still fear for their lives on their return to Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Gilani argued&nbsp;that children born to Afghan families in Pakistan cannot be sent back because of their birthright.</p>

<p>He further said that the petition that was heard on Friday was separate from another one that was exclusively focused on seeking Pakistani citizenship for such children.&nbsp; guaranteed by the country's constitution.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ex-pm-nawaz-sharif-acquitted-in-corruption-cases-ahead-of-general-elections-664316">Pakistan ex-PM Nawaz Sharif acquitted in corruption cases ahead of general elections</a></strong></p>

<p>There are more than 4 million Afghan migrants and refugees in Pakistan. 1.7 million of these are undocumented.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-election-commission-faces-accusation-of-changing-voting-map-in-favour-of-nawaz-sharif-664337">Pakistan's election commission faces accusation of changing voting map in ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's favour</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite calls from international bodies and refugee agencies to reconsider its deportation plans, Pakistan has continued conducting door-to-door searches in refugee settlements for people who have not left voluntarily.</p>

<p>According to Reuters,&nbsp;Pakistan is home to more than 4 million Afghan migrants and refugees, about 1.7 million of whom are undocumented.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 1) began hearing a petition from rights activists demanding to stop the deportation of Afghan refugees, reported Reuters, citing a lawyer.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 1) began hearing a petition from rights activists demanding to stop the deportation of Afghan refugees, reported Reuters, citing a lawyer. This comes at a time when authorities are combing refugee settlements to find and deport thousands of Afghans who fled their country after the Taliban takeover. On October 1, Pakistan said that it would expel more than a million undocumented refugees in the country. Most of these are Afghans. Since the announcement, about 370,000 Afghans have fled from Pakistan. Pakistan has been maintaining that anti-Pakistan militants were among the undocumented refugees and they receive help from terror apparatus inside Afghanistan. "Due to the urgency, as thousands of people are suffering on daily basis, I've requested the court to take up the case as early as next week," Umar Ijaz Gilani, a lawyer representing the rights activists was quoted as saying by Reuters. Watch | Pakistani father shoots daughter for appearing in a viral social media video × Gilani said that a three-judge panel heard the case and asked the government, the interior ministry and the foreign ministry in addition to a panel comprising government and top military officials to furnish an explanation. Thousands of people fled Afghanistan to escape persecution after the Taliban seized power in the country following a chaotic and hasty retreat by US-led Western forces in 2021. Now, the refugees have gone underground in Pakistan to escape deportation as they still fear for their lives on their return to Afghanistan. Gilani argued that children born to Afghan families in Pakistan cannot be sent back because of their birthright. He further said that the petition that was heard on Friday was separate from another one that was exclusively focused on seeking Pakistani citizenship for such children. guaranteed by the country's constitution. Also Read | Pakistan ex-PM Nawaz Sharif acquitted in corruption cases ahead of general elections There are more than 4 million Afghan migrants and refugees in Pakistan. 1.7 million of these are undocumented. Also Read | Pakistan's election commission faces accusation of changing voting map in ex-PM Nawaz Sharif's favour Despite calls from international bodies and refugee agencies to reconsider its deportation plans, Pakistan has continued conducting door-to-door searches in refugee settlements for people who have not left voluntarily. According to Reuters, Pakistan is home to more than 4 million Afghan migrants and refugees, about 1.7 million of whom are undocumented. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Supreme Court begins hearing petition challenging deportation of Afghan refugees

<p>South Africa defeated Pakistan on October 27 in an ODI World Cup 2023 match by one wicket. Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj helped their team win by scoring most precious runs with Maharaj hitting the winning four. Chasing 271, South Africa had a bit of scare after they lost nine wickets with 11 runs needed but eventually got home.</p>

<p>Speaking on the win, South Africa spinner Shamsi, who was at the crease with Maharaj, after the match, said, "Really happy, you know you played enough cricket as well to understand that sometimes it goes for you sometimes it doesn't so while it's going for me I'm happy to be able to contribute, you know to help the team win I didn't think I'll be able to put my pads on but it actually feels nice."</p>

<p>"The key was really holding your nerves in the end because it's so tempting when you see a spinner to play a big shot and try and finish it early," he added.</p>

<p>It was a big moment for South African players as they were able to defeat Pakistan for the first time in one of the seven World Cup meetings.</p>

<p>Pakistan kept taking wickets at regular interval despite scoring 270 as the bowlers put their heart out but the Proteas scampered over the line. The crushing defeat could lead Pakistan to the exit gate of the ongoing ODI World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-nfl-dallas-cowboys-rally-late-for-41-35-impressive-win-over-seattle-seahawks-664979">NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan was guilty of not scoring enough runs while batting first even with Shadab Khan and Saud Shakeel giving them hope of scoring 300 with 84-run partnership for the sixth wicket.</p>

<p>Nothing has gone right for Pakistan in this World Cup as they have lost four consecutive matches, only hope for them to make it to the top four is now to win their remaining three matches.</p>

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South Africa defeated Pakistan on October 27 in an ODI World Cup 2023 match by one wicket. Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj helped their team win by scoring most precious runs with Maharaj hitting the winning four.

South Africa defeated Pakistan on October 27 in an ODI World Cup 2023 match by one wicket. Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj helped their team win by scoring most precious runs with Maharaj hitting the winning four. Chasing 271, South Africa had a bit of scare after they lost nine wickets with 11 runs needed but eventually got home. Speaking on the win, South Africa spinner Shamsi, who was at the crease with Maharaj, after the match, said, "Really happy, you know you played enough cricket as well to understand that sometimes it goes for you sometimes it doesn't so while it's going for me I'm happy to be able to contribute, you know to help the team win I didn't think I'll be able to put my pads on but it actually feels nice." "The key was really holding your nerves in the end because it's so tempting when you see a spinner to play a big shot and try and finish it early," he added. It was a big moment for South African players as they were able to defeat Pakistan for the first time in one of the seven World Cup meetings. Pakistan kept taking wickets at regular interval despite scoring 270 as the bowlers put their heart out but the Proteas scampered over the line. The crushing defeat could lead Pakistan to the exit gate of the ongoing ODI World Cup. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks Pakistan was guilty of not scoring enough runs while batting first even with Shadab Khan and Saud Shakeel giving them hope of scoring 300 with 84-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Nothing has gone right for Pakistan in this World Cup as they have lost four consecutive matches, only hope for them to make it to the top four is now to win their remaining three matches. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: 'Didn't think I'll be..,' says Tabraiz Shamsi post helping South Africa win vs Pakistan

<p>Seven students of Sher-e-Kashmir University in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have been arrested and booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), said officials on Monday (November 27). They were arrested after they allegedly raised objectionable slogans and celebrated Indian cricket team's loss in recently concluded ICC Cricket World Cup.</p>

<p>The arrests were made after police investigated a complaint made by a student who accused his collegemates of harassing him and raising objectionable slogans after India's defeat in the final match. The student who lodged the complaint was not a local, as reported by Press Trust of India.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Over 500 properties seized in Jammu and Kashmir</strong></p>

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<p>PTI cited officials who said that the students were booked under various UAPA sections and the IPC (Indian Penal Code).</p>

<p>"A student from Punjab has complained about the seven final year students of SKUAST - K (Shuhama campus) that he was threatened with dire consequences after Australia defeated India in the men's cricket World Cup 2023 final on November 19," a senior police official said as quoted by ETV Bharat.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-woman-bites-off-husbands-ear-during-a-verbal-fight-fir-registered-663277">India: Delhi woman bites off husband's ear during verbal fight</a></strong></p>

<p>"An FIR (317/2023) has been registered on the basis of a written complaint by Sachin Bains, a resident of Punjab and a student of the university, against seven final year students of the SKUAST - K (Shuhama campus). The Kashmiri students named by the complainant have been identified as Umer, Asif, Mohsin, Tauqeer, Khalid, Sameer and Ubaid. Further investigation in the case is currently underway," the official told ETV Bharat.</p>

<h2><strong>Student received death threats, say reports</strong></h2>

<p>Media reports say that the student who filed police complaint is from Punjab and the arrested students allegedly threatened to shoot him as he supported India during the world cup final.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-gurez-valley-gets-connected-to-electricity-grid-for-first-time-after-independence-663825">India: Gurez Valley in Kashmir gets connected to electricity grid for the first time after independence</a></strong></p>

<p>The complainant has reportedly said that the accused raised pro-Pakistan slogans after the match and this "created fear among the students from outside the Union territory of J&amp;K"</p>

<p>Such disputes and even clashes between local and non-local students have occurred before in Kashmiri educational institutes, said ETV Bharat.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Seven students of Sher-e-Kashmir University in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have been arrested and booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), said officials on Monday (November 27).

Seven students of Sher-e-Kashmir University in India's Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have been arrested and booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), said officials on Monday (November 27). They were arrested after they allegedly raised objectionable slogans and celebrated Indian cricket team's loss in recently concluded ICC Cricket World Cup. The arrests were made after police investigated a complaint made by a student who accused his collegemates of harassing him and raising objectionable slogans after India's defeat in the final match. The student who lodged the complaint was not a local, as reported by Press Trust of India. Watch | Over 500 properties seized in Jammu and Kashmir × PTI cited officials who said that the students were booked under various UAPA sections and the IPC (Indian Penal Code). "A student from Punjab has complained about the seven final year students of SKUAST - K (Shuhama campus) that he was threatened with dire consequences after Australia defeated India in the men's cricket World Cup 2023 final on November 19," a senior police official said as quoted by ETV Bharat. Also Read | India: Delhi woman bites off husband's ear during verbal fight "An FIR (317/2023) has been registered on the basis of a written complaint by Sachin Bains, a resident of Punjab and a student of the university, against seven final year students of the SKUAST - K (Shuhama campus). The Kashmiri students named by the complainant have been identified as Umer, Asif, Mohsin, Tauqeer, Khalid, Sameer and Ubaid. Further investigation in the case is currently underway," the official told ETV Bharat. Student received death threats, say reports Media reports say that the student who filed police complaint is from Punjab and the arrested students allegedly threatened to shoot him as he supported India during the world cup final. Also Read | India: Gurez Valley in Kashmir gets connected to electricity grid for the first time after independence The complainant has reportedly said that the accused raised pro-Pakistan slogans after the match and this "created fear among the students from outside the Union territory of J&K" Such disputes and even clashes between local and non-local students have occurred before in Kashmiri educational institutes, said ETV Bharat. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Seven university students booked under UAPA over 'pro-Pakistan' slogans

<p>The Asian Development Bank said on Tuesday it had approved a $180 million loan to improve water supply and solid waste management services in two cities of Pakistan's Punjab province.</p>

<p>"This project will help make municipal services in these two cities more sustainable, resilient, and less carbon-intensive," ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov said in a statement.</p>

<p>The projects are for the cities of Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur, and the loan is part of a total of $10 billion which donors pledged to Pakistan to help it recover from last year's devastating floods.</p>

<p>The floods, which scientists said were aggravated by global warming, affected at least 33 million people and killed more than 1,700 from the beginning of the monsoon season in mid-June until mid-November.</p>

<p>The donors include the Islamic Development Bank with $4.2 billion, the World Bank with $2 billion, Saudi Arabia with $1 billion, as well as the European Union and China. France and the United States also made contributions.</p>


The Asian Development Bank said on Tuesday it had approved a $180 million loan to improve water supply and solid waste management services in two cities of Pakistan's Punjab province.

The Asian Development Bank said on Tuesday it had approved a $180 million loan to improve water supply and solid waste management services in two cities of Pakistan's Punjab province. "This project will help make municipal services in these two cities more sustainable, resilient, and less carbon-intensive," ADB Director General for Central and West Asia Yevgeniy Zhukov said in a statement. The projects are for the cities of Rawalpindi and Bahawalpur, and the loan is part of a total of $10 billion which donors pledged to Pakistan to help it recover from last year's devastating floods. The floods, which scientists said were aggravated by global warming, affected at least 33 million people and killed more than 1,700 from the beginning of the monsoon season in mid-June until mid-November. The donors include the Islamic Development Bank with $4.2 billion, the World Bank with $2 billion, Saudi Arabia with $1 billion, as well as the European Union and China. France and the United States also made contributions.

Asian Development Bank approves $180 million loan for Pakistan

<p>The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Nov 28) rejected a plea which sought a complete ban on the performance or working of artists from Pakistan in the country, and appealed to the petitioner to not be “so narrow-minded”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A bench of justices comprising SVN Bhatti and Sanjiv Khanna said that they were not inclined to interfere with the order of the Bombay High Court which had junked the plea filed by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, who claimed that he was an artiste and a cine worker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You should not press this appeal. Do not be so narrow-minded," stated the bench. Supreme Court further refused the submission of the plea to expunge some remarks which were made against the petitioner by the high court.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-20-year-old-medical-aspirant-found-dead-in-rajasthans-kota-663788">India: 20-year-old medical aspirant found dead in Rajasthan's Kota</a></p>

<p>The petitioner had sought the direction of the court for the central government to impose a complete ban on companies, Indian citizens, associations and firms from soliciting or employing any work or performance, entering into any association, or taking any services and so on with any Pakistani artist like musicians, singers, cine workers, technicians and lyricists.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Bombay High Court calls petition ‘a retrograde step’&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The petition was dismissed by the Bombay High Court which stated that the measures being sought by the petitioner were a retrograde step in the promotion of peace, unity and cultural harmony, and there is no merit in it. "One must understand that in order to be a patriot, one need not be inimical to those from abroad especially, from the neighbouring country," the court stated.</p>

<p>"A true patriot is a person who is selfless, who is devoted to the cause of his country, which he cannot be unless he is a person who is good at heart. A person who is good at heart would welcome in his country any activity which promotes peace, harmony, and tranquility within the country and across the border," it added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India PM Modi visits Tirupati shrine | New Zealand to scrap 'smoking ban'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In its order, the high court had stated that music, arts, sports, dance, culture and so on are the kinds of activities which are above cultures, nationalities and nations, and these events bring unity, harmony, tranquility and peace in the country and between countries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The high court stated how Pakistan was a participant in the Cricket World Cup. He added that this occurred because the Indian government took appreciable positive steps in the interest of harmony and overall peace in consonance with Article 51 of the Constitution of India which is regarding the promotion of international security and peace.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Nov 28) rejected a plea which sought a complete ban on the performance or working of artists from Pakistan in the country, and appealed to the petitioner to not be “so narrow-minded”.

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (Nov 28) rejected a plea which sought a complete ban on the performance or working of artists from Pakistan in the country, and appealed to the petitioner to not be “so narrow-minded”. A bench of justices comprising SVN Bhatti and Sanjiv Khanna said that they were not inclined to interfere with the order of the Bombay High Court which had junked the plea filed by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, who claimed that he was an artiste and a cine worker. "You should not press this appeal. Do not be so narrow-minded," stated the bench. Supreme Court further refused the submission of the plea to expunge some remarks which were made against the petitioner by the high court. Also read: India: 20-year-old medical aspirant found dead in Rajasthan's Kota The petitioner had sought the direction of the court for the central government to impose a complete ban on companies, Indian citizens, associations and firms from soliciting or employing any work or performance, entering into any association, or taking any services and so on with any Pakistani artist like musicians, singers, cine workers, technicians and lyricists. Bombay High Court calls petition ‘a retrograde step’ The petition was dismissed by the Bombay High Court which stated that the measures being sought by the petitioner were a retrograde step in the promotion of peace, unity and cultural harmony, and there is no merit in it. "One must understand that in order to be a patriot, one need not be inimical to those from abroad especially, from the neighbouring country," the court stated. "A true patriot is a person who is selfless, who is devoted to the cause of his country, which he cannot be unless he is a person who is good at heart. A person who is good at heart would welcome in his country any activity which promotes peace, harmony, and tranquility within the country and across the border," it added. Watch: India PM Modi visits Tirupati shrine | New Zealand to scrap 'smoking ban' In its order, the high court had stated that music, arts, sports, dance, culture and so on are the kinds of activities which are above cultures, nationalities and nations, and these events bring unity, harmony, tranquility and peace in the country and between countries. The high court stated how Pakistan was a participant in the Cricket World Cup. He added that this occurred because the Indian government took appreciable positive steps in the interest of harmony and overall peace in consonance with Article 51 of the Constitution of India which is regarding the promotion of international security and peace. (With inputs from agencies)

SC calls out ‘narrow-mindedness’, rejects plea seeking complete ban on Pak artists

<p>For the second straight time, Pakistan is on the brink of losing the hosting rights of a multi-team tournament, this time of the 2025 Champions Trophy, due to India and BCCI's stance of not sending their team to the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Due to disturbed political relations between both countries, and security being a major concern, India had opted out of playing the 2022 Asia Cup in Pakistan - the original host. The tournament later was played in the hybrid model, with Sri Lanka and Pakistan co-hosting it.</p>

<p>The latest reports have suggested that Pakistan might suffer the same fate again, depending on the BCCI's stance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, if the Indian government and the cricket board decide against sending the team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the tournament would be played entirely in the UAE or the hybrid model, with Pakistan hosting non-India matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-nz-1st-test-saqlains-knowledge-of-asian-conditions-will-come-in-handy-for-us-luke-ronchi-663374">BAN vs NZ, 1st Test - Saqlain's knowledge of Asian conditions will come in handy for us: Luke Ronchi</a></strong></p>

<p>As per a report of news agency PTI, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf and COO Salman Naseer met the ICC executive board in Ahmedabad to discuss uncertainty surrounding the venue of the 2025 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Pakistani officials discussed the probability of the Indian board (BCCI) again refusing to send its team to Pakistan and made it clear that in any given situation, the ICC must avoid taking unilateral decisions on the tournament,” a source told PTI.</p>

<p>The PCB's top bosses argue that several top teams have toured Pakistan in the past two years, including England, New Zealand and Australia, without any team facing or complaining about security concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that if India insists on complaining on security grounds, the ICC must appoint an independent security agency, which could liaise with the Pakistan government and their security officials to assess the situation of the participating teams, including India.</p>

<p>“The PCB officials said many top teams had toured Pakistan in the last two years without any security concerns. They also made it clear that in case of India not sending its team and its matches being moved to another country, then the ICC must compensate Pakistan for this,” the source added.</p>

<h2>The return of the Champions Trophy</h2>

<p>The ICC Champions Trophy - an eight-team event in 2025, will return for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan beat India to win their maiden title.</p>

<p>While India and Australia have won it twice, with the Men in Blue last winning in 2013, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies and South Africa have won it once.</p>


For the second straight time, Pakistan is on the brink of losing the hosting rights of a multi-team tournament, this time of the 2025 Champions Trophy, due to India and BCCI's stance of not sending their team to the country.

For the second straight time, Pakistan is on the brink of losing the hosting rights of a multi-team tournament, this time of the 2025 Champions Trophy, due to India and BCCI's stance of not sending their team to the country. Due to disturbed political relations between both countries, and security being a major concern, India had opted out of playing the 2022 Asia Cup in Pakistan - the original host. The tournament later was played in the hybrid model, with Sri Lanka and Pakistan co-hosting it. The latest reports have suggested that Pakistan might suffer the same fate again, depending on the BCCI's stance. However, if the Indian government and the cricket board decide against sending the team to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy, the tournament would be played entirely in the UAE or the hybrid model, with Pakistan hosting non-India matches. ALSO READ: BAN vs NZ, 1st Test - Saqlain's knowledge of Asian conditions will come in handy for us: Luke Ronchi As per a report of news agency PTI, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf and COO Salman Naseer met the ICC executive board in Ahmedabad to discuss uncertainty surrounding the venue of the 2025 Champions Trophy. “Pakistani officials discussed the probability of the Indian board (BCCI) again refusing to send its team to Pakistan and made it clear that in any given situation, the ICC must avoid taking unilateral decisions on the tournament,” a source told PTI. The PCB's top bosses argue that several top teams have toured Pakistan in the past two years, including England, New Zealand and Australia, without any team facing or complaining about security concerns. They added that if India insists on complaining on security grounds, the ICC must appoint an independent security agency, which could liaise with the Pakistan government and their security officials to assess the situation of the participating teams, including India. “The PCB officials said many top teams had toured Pakistan in the last two years without any security concerns. They also made it clear that in case of India not sending its team and its matches being moved to another country, then the ICC must compensate Pakistan for this,” the source added. The return of the Champions Trophy The ICC Champions Trophy - an eight-team event in 2025, will return for the first time since 2017 when Pakistan beat India to win their maiden title. While India and Australia have won it twice, with the Men in Blue last winning in 2013, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies and South Africa have won it once.

2025 Champions Trophy venue likely to change as BCCI remains firm on not travelling to Pakistan - Reports

<p>Pakistan's step to take hundreds of dollars from each Afghan refugees as exit permit fee is drawing sharp comments and criticism form the Western diplomats and the United Nations. The fees also apply to those who have worked with Western governments and agencies in Afghanistan and have escape to Pakistan in the face of persecution from Taliban after the group seized power in Kabul in August 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan has said that each Afghan refugee who wishes to leave the country will have to pay USD 830. This decision came after Pakistan announced crackdown against foreigners who did not have valid documents to stay in the country. A deadline of November 1 was previously given for unregistered Afghans to leave the country. Media reports have said that there are 2 million such Afghans in Pakistan.</p>

<p>After the deadline passed, Pakistan started a mass deportation drive.</p>

<p>Many of these Afghans have worked for Western governments and agencies during the rule of US-supported government in the country and are now awaiting resettlement in these countries.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Will the U.S. cut aid to Pakistan? 11 lawmakers write to Secretary Blinken</strong></p>

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<p>The United States has plans to resettle 25,000 Afghans in the US while UK has shown a willingness to take-in 20,000 such Afghans.</p>

<p>But the issue of exit fees has made the matter complicated. On top of it, payment of the fees has to be done using a credit card which most Afghans don't have access to.</p>

<p>The Guardian quoted five unnamed Western diplomats in Pakistan who said that the step taken by Pakistan to charge such an exit fee is internationally unprecedented.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ppp-chief-bhutto-warns-wont-accept-results-if-meddling-takes-place-661071">Pakistan: Won’t accept poll results if meddling takes place, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto warns</a></strong></p>

<p>“I know it is very tough economically for Pakistan but really, to try to make money off refugees is really unattractive,” said one diplomat as quoted by The Guardian.</p>

<p>“The issue has also been raised by the two UN agencies in the lead on this mess, the [UN refugee agency] UNHCR and [International Organization of Migration] IOM,” the diplomat added. “It has also been raised in capitals and headquarters. I suspect everyone has also passed the message to their [Pakistani contacts].”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-designates-pak-based-outfit-lashkar-e-taiba-as-terror-organisation-661083">Israel designates Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba as terror organisation</a></strong></p>

<p>The news report quoted another unnamed diplomat who said the some Western governments were made aware of the decision by Pakistan and that it claimed that USD 850 was lower amount compared to USD 10,000 initially planned.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
“It is very bizarre and I personally find it very frustrating. If Pakistan wants to facilitate the process of the settlement of refugees in the west then they should not make it more complicated with such absurd conditions,” the diplomat said. “What is the justification for this exit permit fee? To make a lot of money?”</p>

<p>The diplomat was quoted by The Guardian.</p>


Pakistan's step to take hundreds of dollars from each Afghan refugees as exit permit fee is drawing sharp comments and criticism form the Western diplomats and the United Nations.

Pakistan's step to take hundreds of dollars from each Afghan refugees as exit permit fee is drawing sharp comments and criticism form the Western diplomats and the United Nations. The fees also apply to those who have worked with Western governments and agencies in Afghanistan and have escape to Pakistan in the face of persecution from Taliban after the group seized power in Kabul in August 2021. Pakistan has said that each Afghan refugee who wishes to leave the country will have to pay USD 830. This decision came after Pakistan announced crackdown against foreigners who did not have valid documents to stay in the country. A deadline of November 1 was previously given for unregistered Afghans to leave the country. Media reports have said that there are 2 million such Afghans in Pakistan. After the deadline passed, Pakistan started a mass deportation drive. Many of these Afghans have worked for Western governments and agencies during the rule of US-supported government in the country and are now awaiting resettlement in these countries. Watch | Will the U.S. cut aid to Pakistan? 11 lawmakers write to Secretary Blinken × The United States has plans to resettle 25,000 Afghans in the US while UK has shown a willingness to take-in 20,000 such Afghans. But the issue of exit fees has made the matter complicated. On top of it, payment of the fees has to be done using a credit card which most Afghans don't have access to. The Guardian quoted five unnamed Western diplomats in Pakistan who said that the step taken by Pakistan to charge such an exit fee is internationally unprecedented. Also Read | Pakistan: Won’t accept poll results if meddling takes place, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto warns “I know it is very tough economically for Pakistan but really, to try to make money off refugees is really unattractive,” said one diplomat as quoted by The Guardian. “The issue has also been raised by the two UN agencies in the lead on this mess, the [UN refugee agency] UNHCR and [International Organization of Migration] IOM,” the diplomat added. “It has also been raised in capitals and headquarters. I suspect everyone has also passed the message to their [Pakistani contacts].” Also Read | Israel designates Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba as terror organisation The news report quoted another unnamed diplomat who said the some Western governments were made aware of the decision by Pakistan and that it claimed that USD 850 was lower amount compared to USD 10,000 initially planned. “It is very bizarre and I personally find it very frustrating. If Pakistan wants to facilitate the process of the settlement of refugees in the west then they should not make it more complicated with such absurd conditions,” the diplomat said. “What is the justification for this exit permit fee? To make a lot of money?” The diplomat was quoted by The Guardian.

Pakistan decision to charge Afghan refugees $830 dollars for exit permit draws criticism

<p>Pakistan&nbsp;Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar, while interacting with the media reporters on Thursday (Nov 16), said that the country is likely to need financial aid from the International Monetary Fund and hence, is likely to seek another bailout from the international multilateral lender.<br />
<br />
“We need to continue with the IMF as our economy is still fragile and we will possibly seek another loan,” stated Akhtar, who is the finance minister of the caretaker government.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/angelina-jolies-calls-out-pakistan-as-it-deports-afghan-refugees-658503">Angelina Jolie calls out Pakistan as it deports Afghan refugees</a></p>

<p>The comment was made by the minister a day after a staff-level agreement for a $700 million payout was reached by the South Asian nation with the IMF under an existing programme, which highlighted the deepening financial crisis being faced by the country that is battling economic and political turmoil.<br />
<br />
Pakistan's dollar-denominated debt of around $1 billion is coming due next year after the elections are conducted in February. Although the country is on the path of economic recovery, the country is susceptible to significant external risks, stated the IMF in a statement on Wednesday (Nov 15) after successfully concluding talks with the caretaker government of Pakistan.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan to hold elections in February</strong></h2>

<p>The interim government's term ends in February as the country votes in national elections to elect a new administration.<br />
<br />
Akhtar stated that the caretaker government will try to speak to the IMF for the next programme as the country will need the help of the international lender to consolidate macroeconomic stability. She stated that the foreign reserves of the country will increase in December after the materialisation of the pledges made by global lenders.<br />
<br />
A plan of raising funds from the global bond market was postponed by Pakistan as it won't fetch them the best price, stated the minister, further adding that the country is looking for other funding sources.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan?</strong></p>

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<p>A default on its debt was averted by Pakistan after it secured the current nine-month loan programme in July from the IMF and it is expected that the completion of its first review along and inflows from other lenders will boost its dwindling reserves which fell $115 million to $7.4 billion. This decline is equivalent to less than two months of the country's imports.<br />
<br />
The IMF agreement also gave a boost to the caretaker government of Pakistan under Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. The prime minister is making an attempt to secure $6.3 billion in loans from the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, and Islamic Development Bank, and around $10 billion in bilateral funding from creditor nations.<br />
<br />
As per reports, investors have been showing optimism about the fiscal recovery of Pakistan on the back of the IMF loan that has increased by more than 50 per cent return on its dollar bonds this year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar, while interacting with the media reporters on Thursday (Nov 16), said that the country is likely to need financial aid from the International Monetary Fund and hence, is likely to seek another bailout from the international multilateral lender.

Pakistan Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar, while interacting with the media reporters on Thursday (Nov 16), said that the country is likely to need financial aid from the International Monetary Fund and hence, is likely to seek another bailout from the international multilateral lender. “We need to continue with the IMF as our economy is still fragile and we will possibly seek another loan,” stated Akhtar, who is the finance minister of the caretaker government. Also read: Angelina Jolie calls out Pakistan as it deports Afghan refugees The comment was made by the minister a day after a staff-level agreement for a $700 million payout was reached by the South Asian nation with the IMF under an existing programme, which highlighted the deepening financial crisis being faced by the country that is battling economic and political turmoil. Pakistan's dollar-denominated debt of around $1 billion is coming due next year after the elections are conducted in February. Although the country is on the path of economic recovery, the country is susceptible to significant external risks, stated the IMF in a statement on Wednesday (Nov 15) after successfully concluding talks with the caretaker government of Pakistan. Pakistan to hold elections in February The interim government's term ends in February as the country votes in national elections to elect a new administration. Akhtar stated that the caretaker government will try to speak to the IMF for the next programme as the country will need the help of the international lender to consolidate macroeconomic stability. She stated that the foreign reserves of the country will increase in December after the materialisation of the pledges made by global lenders. A plan of raising funds from the global bond market was postponed by Pakistan as it won't fetch them the best price, stated the minister, further adding that the country is looking for other funding sources. Watch: Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan? A default on its debt was averted by Pakistan after it secured the current nine-month loan programme in July from the IMF and it is expected that the completion of its first review along and inflows from other lenders will boost its dwindling reserves which fell $115 million to $7.4 billion. This decline is equivalent to less than two months of the country's imports. The IMF agreement also gave a boost to the caretaker government of Pakistan under Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. The prime minister is making an attempt to secure $6.3 billion in loans from the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, and Islamic Development Bank, and around $10 billion in bilateral funding from creditor nations. As per reports, investors have been showing optimism about the fiscal recovery of Pakistan on the back of the IMF loan that has increased by more than 50 per cent return on its dollar bonds this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan to need another IMF bailout after $700 million payout, says finance minister

<p>Pakistan has achieved a crucial milestone in its economic recovery journey, securing initial approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the release of the next loan tranche from a $3 billion bailout program. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a Bloomberg report, the announcement came as the Washington-based lender revealed a staff-level agreement, signalling a green light for Pakistan to access a payout of approximately $700 million, contingent on approval from the IMF’s executive board. The funding is deemed essential for Pakistan to avoid defaulting on debt obligations as the government intensifies efforts to rectify economic imbalances, such as adjusting gas prices and combating the illicit dollar trade. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Bloomberg, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva commended Pakistan’s commitment to the program. She mentioned that the authorities, particularly the finance minister, deserved credit for navigating a very challenging period and adhering to the program they had in place.</p>

<p>The IMF's financial support is viewed as a catalyst for Pakistan's fiscal recovery, generating optimism among investors and resulting in a more than 50 per cent return on its dollar bonds this year. The KSE-100 Index, Pakistan's benchmark equity gauge, has stood out as one of the top performers globally since the IMF deal in July. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The positive market sentiment underscores the potential impact of the IMF program on Pakistan's economic trajectory. Dollar bonds due April 2031 held steady at about 49 cents on the dollar in early Asian trading on Thursday, reflecting the market's measured response to the news. However, the financial landscape remains intricate, with risks looming, including inflationary pressures and dependence on external financing from creditors, particularly countries in the Middle East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Given the financing risks and the impending election, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. issued a warning in October that the strength of the Pakistani rupee would not last.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While a nascent economic recovery is underway, the IMF team, led by Nathan Porter, has cautioned that Pakistan remains exposed to "significant external risks." The team's endorsement of the staff-level agreement acknowledges the progress made by Pakistan in adhering to the conditions of the IMF program. &nbsp;</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from Bloomberg)&nbsp;</i></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Pakistan has achieved a crucial milestone in its economic recovery journey, securing initial approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the release of the next loan tranche from a $3 billion bailout program.

Pakistan has achieved a crucial milestone in its economic recovery journey, securing initial approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the release of the next loan tranche from a $3 billion bailout program. According to a Bloomberg report, the announcement came as the Washington-based lender revealed a staff-level agreement, signalling a green light for Pakistan to access a payout of approximately $700 million, contingent on approval from the IMF’s executive board. The funding is deemed essential for Pakistan to avoid defaulting on debt obligations as the government intensifies efforts to rectify economic imbalances, such as adjusting gas prices and combating the illicit dollar trade. According to Bloomberg, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva commended Pakistan’s commitment to the program. She mentioned that the authorities, particularly the finance minister, deserved credit for navigating a very challenging period and adhering to the program they had in place. The IMF's financial support is viewed as a catalyst for Pakistan's fiscal recovery, generating optimism among investors and resulting in a more than 50 per cent return on its dollar bonds this year. The KSE-100 Index, Pakistan's benchmark equity gauge, has stood out as one of the top performers globally since the IMF deal in July. The positive market sentiment underscores the potential impact of the IMF program on Pakistan's economic trajectory. Dollar bonds due April 2031 held steady at about 49 cents on the dollar in early Asian trading on Thursday, reflecting the market's measured response to the news. However, the financial landscape remains intricate, with risks looming, including inflationary pressures and dependence on external financing from creditors, particularly countries in the Middle East. Given the financing risks and the impending election, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. issued a warning in October that the strength of the Pakistani rupee would not last. While a nascent economic recovery is underway, the IMF team, led by Nathan Porter, has cautioned that Pakistan remains exposed to "significant external risks." The team's endorsement of the staff-level agreement acknowledges the progress made by Pakistan in adhering to the conditions of the IMF program. (With inputs from Bloomberg) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan clinches initial IMF approval, eyes $700 million boost for fiscal stability 

<p>American actress and human rights activist Angelina Jolie has expressed concern and sadness over the mass expulsion of Afghan refugees from Pakistan. Jolie took to Instagram to call out Pakistan for its decision to send back scores of Afghans.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Jolie emphasised that Pakistan's long history of supporting Afghan refugee families and its sudden decision to oust the Afghans from their land has led to problems for women who are being denied basic rights.<br />
<br />
"Pakistan has been a supporter of many Afghan refugee families for decades. I am saddened they would so abruptly push back refugees who face the impossible realities of trying to survive in today's Afghanistan, where women have again been deprived of all rights and the possibility of education, many are being imprisoned, and there is a deep humanitarian crisis," she wrote.</p>

<p>"It is yet another example of the backsliding in human rights globally, and is a new tragedy in the long history of the suffering of Afghan people - who have experienced nothing but war and conflict and displacement for over forty years, and are being abandoned by the world after all the promises that were made of a better future for the Afghan people," she continued, adding, "Please, if you can, try to stay aware and informed. See the link in my bio for Afghan reporting. #Afghanistan #Pakistan."</p>

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<p>Jolie's post comes after Pakistan announced that it would expel over 1.73 million undocumented Afghan refugees after November 1 while the spokesman for the Taliban-led Kabul security department said that they have made preparations to help settle those who were deported from Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>


American actress and human rights activist Angelina Jolie has expressed concern and sadness over the mass expulsion of Afghan refugees from Pakistan. Jolie took to Instagram to call out Pakistan for its decision to send back scores of Afghans.

American actress and human rights activist Angelina Jolie has expressed concern and sadness over the mass expulsion of Afghan refugees from Pakistan. Jolie took to Instagram to call out Pakistan for its decision to send back scores of Afghans. Jolie emphasised that Pakistan's long history of supporting Afghan refugee families and its sudden decision to oust the Afghans from their land has led to problems for women who are being denied basic rights. "Pakistan has been a supporter of many Afghan refugee families for decades. I am saddened they would so abruptly push back refugees who face the impossible realities of trying to survive in today's Afghanistan, where women have again been deprived of all rights and the possibility of education, many are being imprisoned, and there is a deep humanitarian crisis," she wrote. "It is yet another example of the backsliding in human rights globally, and is a new tragedy in the long history of the suffering of Afghan people - who have experienced nothing but war and conflict and displacement for over forty years, and are being abandoned by the world after all the promises that were made of a better future for the Afghan people," she continued, adding, "Please, if you can, try to stay aware and informed. See the link in my bio for Afghan reporting. #Afghanistan #Pakistan." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Angelina Jolie (@angelinajolie) × Jolie's post comes after Pakistan announced that it would expel over 1.73 million undocumented Afghan refugees after November 1 while the spokesman for the Taliban-led Kabul security department said that they have made preparations to help settle those who were deported from Pakistan.

Angelina Jolie calls out Pakistan as it deports Afghan refugees

<p>In a big blow to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a significant member of the Pakistan-based terror organisation and close aide of Masood Azhar, Maulana Raheem Ullah Tariq was shot dead in Karachi's Orangi town on Monday (Nov 13).</p>

<p>According to a report by Pakistani media outlet ARY News, Tariq was on his way to attend a religious gathering when unidentified men opened fire at him.</p>

<p>The local media, citing the Senior Superintendent of the Police (SSP), reported the incident as a case of targeted killing, adding that the attackers approached the deceased and fired three shots at him.</p>

<p>The media reports further referred to the wanted terrorist as “Mauzin”, a person who proclaims the call to the daily prayer.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-wife-bushra-bibi-added-to-exit-control-list-amidst-growing-legal-woes-658162">Pakistan: Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi added to 'exit control list' amidst growing legal woes</a></p>

<p>The police official said that a mobile phone and other valuable items were recovered from Tariq, adding that 9mm bullet shells were also collected from the crime spot.</p>

<p>However, as per local media reports, the family of the deceased rebuffed enmity accusations.</p>

<p>This comes after the senior commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Akram Khan Ghazi, was killed by unidentified assailants in the Bajaur district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-passports-for-pakistanis-as-country-now-faces-shortage-of-lamination-paper-656979">No passports for Pakistanis as country now faces shortage of lamination paper</a></p>

<h2><strong>Mysterious killings</strong></h2>

<p>The reports of the killings of both Ghazi and Tariq come amid a spate of mysterious killings of terrorists in Pakistan by unidentified assailants over the past few weeks.</p>

<p>Earlier Khwaja Shahid, a significant member of Lashkar-e-Taiba who was also believed to be involved in the 2018 terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Sunjuwan, was reportedly kidnapped and later found beheaded close to the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.</p>

<p>In a similar incident, Daud Malik, who is also considered a trusted member of Masood Azhar, was killed in broad daylight in Waziristan in October.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a big blow to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a significant member of the Pakistan-based terror organisation and close aide of Masood Azhar, Maulana Raheem Ullah Tariq was shot dead in Karachi's Orangi town on Monday (Nov 13).

In a big blow to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a significant member of the Pakistan-based terror organisation and close aide of Masood Azhar, Maulana Raheem Ullah Tariq was shot dead in Karachi's Orangi town on Monday (Nov 13). According to a report by Pakistani media outlet ARY News, Tariq was on his way to attend a religious gathering when unidentified men opened fire at him. The local media, citing the Senior Superintendent of the Police (SSP), reported the incident as a case of targeted killing, adding that the attackers approached the deceased and fired three shots at him. The media reports further referred to the wanted terrorist as “Mauzin”, a person who proclaims the call to the daily prayer. Also read: Pakistan: Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi added to 'exit control list' amidst growing legal woes The police official said that a mobile phone and other valuable items were recovered from Tariq, adding that 9mm bullet shells were also collected from the crime spot. However, as per local media reports, the family of the deceased rebuffed enmity accusations. This comes after the senior commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Akram Khan Ghazi, was killed by unidentified assailants in the Bajaur district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Also read: No passports for Pakistanis as country now faces shortage of lamination paper Mysterious killings The reports of the killings of both Ghazi and Tariq come amid a spate of mysterious killings of terrorists in Pakistan by unidentified assailants over the past few weeks. Earlier Khwaja Shahid, a significant member of Lashkar-e-Taiba who was also believed to be involved in the 2018 terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Sunjuwan, was reportedly kidnapped and later found beheaded close to the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In a similar incident, Daud Malik, who is also considered a trusted member of Masood Azhar, was killed in broad daylight in Waziristan in October. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: JeM terrorist and Masood Azhar's close aide shot dead in Karachi

<p>In a significant setback for former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the name of Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, has been added to the country's 'Exit Control List' (ECL) — a list of people&nbsp;prohibited from leaving Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per ARY News, this step was taken by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) under its investigation of a $232 million (or £190 million) scandal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bushra-bibi-former-pakistan-pm-imran-khans-wife-may-face-arrest-report-657920">Bushra bibi, former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's wife, may face arrest: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes&nbsp;as&nbsp;the Islamabad Accountability Court on Monday issued arrest warrants for&nbsp;Imran Khan in the Toshakhana and the Al-Qadir Trust cases.</p>

<h2><strong>NAB's investigation and Bushra Bibi's potential arrest</strong></h2>

<p>The NAB, as per a CNN-News18 report citing sources, reportedly possesses crucial evidence against Bibi, and if proven, it could lead to her arrest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the publication reported that there was a likelihood of her arrest based on emerging evidence that may elevate her status from a witness to an accused party in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The investigation is expected to conclude soon, and the NAB is anticipated to file a reference charge sheet in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-orders-to-unseize-properties-and-assets-seized-from-nawaz-sharif-in-2020-657484">Nawaz Sharif: Pakistan court orders release of properties, assets seized from ex-PM in 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>As per ARY News, Bushra Bibi appeared before NAB investigators, where she was handed a questionnaire seeking her response to 11 queries.</p>

<p>Her advocate Naeem Haider Panjutha told the media that the former Pakistani first lady had already secured bail till November 15 in the case. He also disclosed that they were expecting her arrest today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Imran Khan and his family are always ready to face the law. Bushra Bibi was a trustee in the Al-Qadir Trust University and the former premier did not get any benefit from the property owned by a trust. There is no account of Bushra Bibi, and she did not hold any public office during the PTI government," said Panjutha.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Al-Qadir trust corruption case: Background</strong></h2>

<p>The Al-Qadir Trust corruption case revolves around allegations that Imran Khan and Bibi received substantial financial gains and land from a real estate firm for a settlement between the PTI administration and a real estate mogul. A whopping £190 million (or $232 million)&nbsp;was repatriated by the UK national exchequer during PTI's previous government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prosecution alleges that the funds from these activities were transferred to Bibi's extended family, with allegations of substantial amounts being stashed in multiple accounts across Pakistan and Middle East banks.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a significant setback for former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the name of Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, has been added to the country's 'Exit Control List' (ECL) — a list of people prohibited from leaving Pakistan.

In a significant setback for former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the name of Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, has been added to the country's 'Exit Control List' (ECL) — a list of people prohibited from leaving Pakistan. As per ARY News, this step was taken by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) under its investigation of a $232 million (or £190 million) scandal. Also read | Bushra bibi, former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's wife, may face arrest: Report This comes as the Islamabad Accountability Court on Monday issued arrest warrants for Imran Khan in the Toshakhana and the Al-Qadir Trust cases. NAB's investigation and Bushra Bibi's potential arrest The NAB, as per a CNN-News18 report citing sources, reportedly possesses crucial evidence against Bibi, and if proven, it could lead to her arrest. Earlier, the publication reported that there was a likelihood of her arrest based on emerging evidence that may elevate her status from a witness to an accused party in the case. The investigation is expected to conclude soon, and the NAB is anticipated to file a reference charge sheet in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. Also read | Nawaz Sharif: Pakistan court orders release of properties, assets seized from ex-PM in 2020 As per ARY News, Bushra Bibi appeared before NAB investigators, where she was handed a questionnaire seeking her response to 11 queries. Her advocate Naeem Haider Panjutha told the media that the former Pakistani first lady had already secured bail till November 15 in the case. He also disclosed that they were expecting her arrest today. "Imran Khan and his family are always ready to face the law. Bushra Bibi was a trustee in the Al-Qadir Trust University and the former premier did not get any benefit from the property owned by a trust. There is no account of Bushra Bibi, and she did not hold any public office during the PTI government," said Panjutha. Al-Qadir trust corruption case: Background The Al-Qadir Trust corruption case revolves around allegations that Imran Khan and Bibi received substantial financial gains and land from a real estate firm for a settlement between the PTI administration and a real estate mogul. A whopping £190 million (or $232 million) was repatriated by the UK national exchequer during PTI's previous government. The prosecution alleges that the funds from these activities were transferred to Bibi's extended family, with allegations of substantial amounts being stashed in multiple accounts across Pakistan and Middle East banks. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi added to 'exit control list' amidst growing legal woes

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