Pakistan Finance Minister Asad Umar on Thursday said he would step down from his role after discussions with Prime Minister Imran Khan about a cabinet reshuffle, suggesting he is due to leave his position.

"As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position," Umar said on Twitter.

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As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position. I strongly believe <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> is the best hope for Pakistan and inshallah will make a naya pakistan
— Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Asad_Umar/status/1118803642314842112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Umar added that he strongly believes that Khan is the best hope for Pakistan, which is currently undergoing delicate negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout to avert a balance of payments crisis.

As the finance minister of Pakistan, Umar had a major role in bringing back the economy and was negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on behalf of Pakistan government for a bailout.

After Umar made the announcement on Twitter, many users expressed their disappointment.

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Not a good decision.
— Anwar Lodhi (@AnwarLodhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnwarLodhi/status/1118810115954610176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It’s not your failure , isn’t it the failure of the government ?
— Asma Shirazi (@asmashirazi) <a href="https://twitter.com/asmashirazi/status/1118809400087588864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While I respect your decision but I still believe that you're the BEST asset <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PTI</a> has &amp; a vast majority of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> VALUES your struggle &amp; pure intentions to make 🇵🇰 a better place to live in.👍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanZindabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanZindabad</a>
— Maleeha Hashmey (@MaleehaHashmey) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaleehaHashmey/status/1118806116526374912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As finance minister, Umar wrote letter to the Paris-based an international terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove India from the co-chair of its Asia-Pacific group. Pakistan is on the 'grey list' of the FATF for failing to curb anti-terror financing.

Imran Khan-led government and finance minister Umar in particular have faced mounting criticism by opposition parties and members of the business community over the handling of the economic crisis.

Cash-strapped Pakistan is seeking US $8 billion from the IMF to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy.

Pakistan has so far received a total of US $9.1 billion in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Finance Minister Asad Umar on Thursday said he would step down from his role after discussions with Prime Minister Imran Khan about a cabinet reshuffle, suggesting he is due to leave his position.

Pakistan Finance Minister Asad Umar on Thursday said he would step down from his role after discussions with Prime Minister Imran Khan about a cabinet reshuffle, suggesting he is due to leave his position. "As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position," Umar said on Twitter. As part of a cabinet reshuffle PM desired that I take the energy minister portfolio instead of finance. However, I have obtained his consent to not take any cabinet position. I strongly believe @ImranKhanPTI is the best hope for Pakistan and inshallah will make a naya pakistan — Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) April 18, 2019 × Umar added that he strongly believes that Khan is the best hope for Pakistan, which is currently undergoing delicate negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout to avert a balance of payments crisis. As the finance minister of Pakistan, Umar had a major role in bringing back the economy and was negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on behalf of Pakistan government for a bailout. After Umar made the announcement on Twitter, many users expressed their disappointment. Not a good decision. — Anwar Lodhi (@AnwarLodhi) April 18, 2019 × It’s not your failure , isn’t it the failure of the government ? — Asma Shirazi (@asmashirazi) April 18, 2019 × While I respect your decision but I still believe that you're the BEST asset #PTI has & a vast majority of #Pakistan VALUES your struggle & pure intentions to make 🇵🇰 a better place to live in.👍#PakistanZindabad — Maleeha Hashmey (@MaleehaHashmey) April 18, 2019 × As finance minister, Umar wrote letter to the Paris-based an international terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove India from the co-chair of its Asia-Pacific group. Pakistan is on the 'grey list' of the FATF for failing to curb anti-terror financing. Imran Khan-led government and finance minister Umar in particular have faced mounting criticism by opposition parties and members of the business community over the handling of the economic crisis. Cash-strapped Pakistan is seeking US $8 billion from the IMF to bail itself out from a severe balance-of-payments crisis that threatens to cripple the country's economy. Pakistan has so far received a total of US $9.1 billion in financial aid packages from friendly countries like China, Saudi Arabia and the UAE during the current fiscal year. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan finance minister Asad Umar steps down, won't take any cabinet position

The Pakistan government would file fresh corruption cases against jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's family members after proof of money laundering was found against them, according to media reports.

Prime Minister Imran Khan gave approval of filing cases against the Sharifs during a parliamentary meeting here on Wednesday.

The federal and provincial departments have collected data regarding the alleged corruption by the leadership of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party, dunyanews.Tv reported.

Sharif is the (PML-N) supremo, while his brother Shehbaz is the party's president.

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) filed three corruption cases against Sharif on the orders of the Supreme Court following the publication of the Panama Papers.

Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law retired captain Mohammad Safdar were granted bail in September last year in the Avenfield properties case that involved buying of four luxury flats in London through fraudulent means.

He was acquitted in December last year in the Flagship Investments corruption case in the high-profile Panama Papers scandal.

Shehbaz too is facing charges that he misused his authority while he was the chief minister of Punjab province.&nbsp;

The Pakistan government would file fresh corruption cases against jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's family members after proof of money laundering was found against them, according to media reports.

The Pakistan government would file fresh corruption cases against jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's family members after proof of money laundering was found against them, according to media reports. Prime Minister Imran Khan gave approval of filing cases against the Sharifs during a parliamentary meeting here on Wednesday. The federal and provincial departments have collected data regarding the alleged corruption by the leadership of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party, dunyanews.Tv reported. Sharif is the (PML-N) supremo, while his brother Shehbaz is the party's president. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) filed three corruption cases against Sharif on the orders of the Supreme Court following the publication of the Panama Papers. Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law retired captain Mohammad Safdar were granted bail in September last year in the Avenfield properties case that involved buying of four luxury flats in London through fraudulent means. He was acquitted in December last year in the Flagship Investments corruption case in the high-profile Panama Papers scandal. Shehbaz too is facing charges that he misused his authority while he was the chief minister of Punjab province.

Pakistan government to file fresh corruption cases against Nawaz Sharif's family

Outlawed Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed today dared the Pakistani government to arrest him&nbsp;if it can and said he will not stop fighting the case of Kashmiri people.

"If the Pakistani government wants to arrest me...Come and go for it but I will not stop dedicating 2018 for Kashmiris," Saeed said while addressing a rally here.

"We will emerge more strongly if you try to suppress us," said Saeed, who was listed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the US.

He criticised ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif for not playing his role on the issue of Kashmir.

"We may initiate efforts to make you (Sharif) prime minister again if you pledge to work for freedom of Kashmir," he said.

He also claimed that on the pressure of the US and India "our media coverage is banned in Pakistan".

Saeed, who was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hafiz-saeed-walks-free-vows-to-fight-for-kashmir-cause-24988" target="_blank">released from house arrest</a> in Pakistan in November, carries a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/concerned-about-hafiz-saeed-running-for-office-in-pak-says-us-27279">$10 million bounty</a> on his head.

He asked the government to allow the UN Security Council monitoring team to visit JuD and FIF centres in the country so that it could come to know about their charity work. "We welcome the international monitoring teams to our centres."

The JuD is believed to be the front organization for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attack that killed 166 people. It has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014.

'If the Pakistani government wants to arrest me...Come and go for it but I will not stop dedicating 2018 for Kashmiris,' Saeed said while addressing a rally here

Outlawed Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed today dared the Pakistani government to arrest him if it can and said he will not stop fighting the case of Kashmiri people. "If the Pakistani government wants to arrest me...Come and go for it but I will not stop dedicating 2018 for Kashmiris," Saeed said while addressing a rally here. "We will emerge more strongly if you try to suppress us," said Saeed, who was listed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the US. He criticised ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif for not playing his role on the issue of Kashmir. "We may initiate efforts to make you (Sharif) prime minister again if you pledge to work for freedom of Kashmir," he said. He also claimed that on the pressure of the US and India "our media coverage is banned in Pakistan". Saeed, who was released from house arrest in Pakistan in November, carries a $10 million bounty on his head. He asked the government to allow the UN Security Council monitoring team to visit JuD and FIF centres in the country so that it could come to know about their charity work. "We welcome the international monitoring teams to our centres." The JuD is believed to be the front organization for the LeT which is responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attack that killed 166 people. It has been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014.

Hafiz Saeed dares Pakistan government to arrest him

Breaking News: Pakistan government bans Masood Azhar's JeM

The Pakistan government on Tuesday said no film from India will release in the country as it has called for a ban on Indian content after the Indian air force destroyed a terror training camp in Balakot. The country's information and broadcasting minister Chaudhry Fawad Hussain said the country's film exhibitors association will be boycotting the Indian films.

He also said that he has instructed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to crack down on "made-in-India advertisements". "Cinema Exhibitors Association has boycotted Indian content, no Indian movie will be released in Pakistan. Also, have instructed PEMRA to act against Made in India Advertisements. #PakistanTayarHai" Hussain tweeted.

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Cinema Exhibitors Association has boycotted Indian content, no Indian Movie ll be released in Pakistan. Also have instructed PEMRA to act against Made in India Advertisements. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanTayarHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanTayarHai</a> <a href="https://t.co/9BPo6LIsVB">https://t.co/9BPo6LIsVB</a>
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) <a href="https://twitter.com/fawadchaudhry/status/1100387324075171840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The minister's comments came on a day when India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's (JeM) biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC). The bombing resulted in the killing of a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders, officials said in New Delhi.

The air strikes came 12 days after the JeM carried out a suicide attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. In the wake of the terror attack, the makers of films such as Total Dhamaal, Luka Chuppi, Arjun Patiala, Notebook and Kabir Singh had announced that they will not be screening their movies the neighbouring country.&nbsp;

The Pakistan government on Tuesday said no film from India will release in the country as it has called for a ban on Indian content after the Indian air force destroyed a terror training camp in Balakot.

The Pakistan government on Tuesday said no film from India will release in the country as it has called for a ban on Indian content after the Indian air force destroyed a terror training camp in Balakot. The country's information and broadcasting minister Chaudhry Fawad Hussain said the country's film exhibitors association will be boycotting the Indian films. He also said that he has instructed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to crack down on "made-in-India advertisements". "Cinema Exhibitors Association has boycotted Indian content, no Indian movie will be released in Pakistan. Also, have instructed PEMRA to act against Made in India Advertisements. #PakistanTayarHai" Hussain tweeted. Cinema Exhibitors Association has boycotted Indian content, no Indian Movie ll be released in Pakistan. Also have instructed PEMRA to act against Made in India Advertisements. #PakistanTayarHai https://t.co/9BPo6LIsVB — Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) February 26, 2019 × The minister's comments came on a day when India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's (JeM) biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC). The bombing resulted in the killing of a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders, officials said in New Delhi. The air strikes came 12 days after the JeM carried out a suicide attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. In the wake of the terror attack, the makers of films such as Total Dhamaal, Luka Chuppi, Arjun Patiala, Notebook and Kabir Singh had announced that they will not be screening their movies the neighbouring country.

Indian films will not release in Pakistan: Pak govt after IAF strike in Balakot

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-crisis-us-will-take-action-says-mike-pompeo-199230">Venezuela crisis: US 'will take action', says Mike Pompeo</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Saturday the United States "will take action" as he condemned violence perpetrated by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's "thugs" after security forces fired on demonstrators.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-tensions-peak-after-government-launches-crackdown-on-separatists-who-call-for-bandh-today-199250">J&amp;K: Tension mounts after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-tensions-peak-after-government-launches-crackdown-on-separatists-who-call-for-bandh-today-199250">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-tensions-peak-after-government-launches-crackdown-on-separatists-who-call-for-bandh-today-199250"> crackdown, separatists call for bandh today</a>

Tension mounted in Kashmir on Saturday as the government launched a massive crackdown on separatists and detained over 150 people, mainly from the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, including its chief Abdul Hamid Fayaz, ahead of a hearing in the Supreme Court on Article 35-A of the Constitution.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-takes-u-turn-says-bahawalpur-seminary-not-linked-to-jem-199229">After claiming it has taken control of JeM headquarters, Pakistan makes U-turn, says it is 'seminary'</a>

Making a complete U-turn, the Pakistan government on Saturday dismissed its claim of having taken control of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) headquarters in Bahawalpur. It instead said the complex has no link with the terror outfit, which had claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ailing-goa-chief-minister-manohar-parrikar-hospitalised-again-199231">Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar hospitalised again</a>

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar was admitted in the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) late Saturday night, a statement said.

The chief minister's office said in the statement that he was taken to GMCH for an upper GI endoscopy. "His health condition continues to be stable," the CMO said, adding Parrikar would be kept under observation for around 48 hours.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/r-kelly-facing-sex-abuse-charges-gets-1-million-bail-199240">Singer R Kelly, accused of sexually abusing minor girls, gets $1 million bail</a>

A US judge set $1 million bail for R&amp;B superstar R Kelly on Saturday after prosecutors laid out graphic details of charges that he sexually abused four victims, three of them minors.&nbsp;

Venezuela crisis: US 'will take action', says Mike Pompeo US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Saturday the United States "will take action" as he condemned violence perpetrated by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's "thugs" after security forces fired on demonstrators.

Venezuela crisis: US 'will take action', says Mike Pompeo US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Saturday the United States "will take action" as he condemned violence perpetrated by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's "thugs" after security forces fired on demonstrators. J&K: Tension mounts after government crackdown, separatists call for bandh today Tension mounted in Kashmir on Saturday as the government launched a massive crackdown on separatists and detained over 150 people, mainly from the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, including its chief Abdul Hamid Fayaz, ahead of a hearing in the Supreme Court on Article 35-A of the Constitution. After claiming it has taken control of JeM headquarters, Pakistan makes U-turn, says it is 'seminary' Making a complete U-turn, the Pakistan government on Saturday dismissed its claim of having taken control of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) headquarters in Bahawalpur. It instead said the complex has no link with the terror outfit, which had claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir. Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar hospitalised again Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar was admitted in the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) late Saturday night, a statement said. The chief minister's office said in the statement that he was taken to GMCH for an upper GI endoscopy. "His health condition continues to be stable," the CMO said, adding Parrikar would be kept under observation for around 48 hours. Singer R Kelly, accused of sexually abusing minor girls, gets $1 million bail A US judge set $1 million bail for R&B superstar R Kelly on Saturday after prosecutors laid out graphic details of charges that he sexually abused four victims, three of them minors.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Even as India Saudi Arabia joint statement called for "need for creation of conditions necessary for resumption" of India Pakistan dialogue, WION has learnt that Riyadh agrees with India that it's Islamabad which has to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue.&nbsp;

Sources told WION that, "Pakistan has to create a conducive environment for the talks, that means they have to denounce terrorism and Saudi Arabia agreed with this on India. And there was no ambiguity"

Modi government's official policy on talks with Pakistan has been that talks and terror cant go together.

Sources told WION that the visit added "substance" to India Saudi strategic partnership with Riyadh showing "considerable sensitivity on terror" and "recognised India's position on J&amp;K"

The Saudi prince indicated an understanding of the threat India is facing.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir last week, New Delhi's focus has been the isolation of Pakistan and for that, it's has been briefing foreign envoys about the country's involvement in the terror attack.

Saudi Arabia and India will be starting joint Naval exercises this year as part of defence cooperation.&nbsp;

Both sides have agreed to cooperate and collaborate in joint defence production of spare parts for Naval and Land systems in line with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vision 2030’.

On the business front, the source told WION, the $ 100 billion earmarked for India shows confidence the West Asian enjoys in the "Indian growth story", adding further that "India can be the centre of there investment in the region particularly petrochemical"

50 Saudi entities were present at the India Saudi business forum which met on Wednesday.11 MoUs were signed during the forum meet with the crown prince meeting a select group of CEOs.

At Rashtrapati Bhawan, speaking to media after the ceremonial reception on Wednesday, Crown prince described PM Modi as "elder brother" and said, "I am his younger brother, I admire him" 
&nbsp;

Even as India Saudi Arabia joint statement called for "need for creation of conditions necessary for resumption" of India Pakistan dialogue, WION has learnt that Riyadh agrees with India that it's Islamabad which has to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue.

Even as India Saudi Arabia joint statement called for "need for creation of conditions necessary for resumption" of India Pakistan dialogue, WION has learnt that Riyadh agrees with India that it's Islamabad which has to create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue. Sources told WION that, "Pakistan has to create a conducive environment for the talks, that means they have to denounce terrorism and Saudi Arabia agreed with this on India. And there was no ambiguity" Modi government's official policy on talks with Pakistan has been that talks and terror cant go together. Sources told WION that the visit added "substance" to India Saudi strategic partnership with Riyadh showing "considerable sensitivity on terror" and "recognised India's position on J&K" The Saudi prince indicated an understanding of the threat India is facing. In the aftermath of the Pulwama attack that killed over 40 CRPF personnel in Jammu and Kashmir last week, New Delhi's focus has been the isolation of Pakistan and for that, it's has been briefing foreign envoys about the country's involvement in the terror attack. Saudi Arabia and India will be starting joint Naval exercises this year as part of defence cooperation. Both sides have agreed to cooperate and collaborate in joint defence production of spare parts for Naval and Land systems in line with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vision 2030’. On the business front, the source told WION, the $ 100 billion earmarked for India shows confidence the West Asian enjoys in the "Indian growth story", adding further that "India can be the centre of there investment in the region particularly petrochemical" 50 Saudi entities were present at the India Saudi business forum which met on Wednesday.11 MoUs were signed during the forum meet with the crown prince meeting a select group of CEOs. At Rashtrapati Bhawan, speaking to media after the ceremonial reception on Wednesday, Crown prince described PM Modi as "elder brother" and said, "I am his younger brother, I admire him"

Saudi Arabia agrees with India that Pak should act on terror, create atmosphere for talks: Sources 

The Pakistan government on Saturday rejected prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law's requests seeking removal of their names from the Exit Control List (ECL), which is preventing them from flying abroad.

In October last year, Sharif, his daughter Maryam and son-in-law Mohammad Safdar had separately applied to the Interior Ministry seeking removal of their names from the ECL, the Geo News reported.

In their petitions, the trio argued that the Exit From Pakistan Rules 2010 did not apply to them as they were not involved in corruption, misuse of authority, terrorism or any conspiracy and thus their names should be removed from ECL.

The Ministry of Interior rejected the petitions of Nawaz, Maryam and Capt (retd) Safdar, the report said quoting sources.

The decision to place the names of the Sharif family on ECL was taken on August 20 last year during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan.&nbsp;

In July 2018, an accountability court in Islamabad convicted Sharif, Maryam and Safdar in the Avenfield properties case and sentenced them to prison terms of 11 years, eight years and one year, respectively.&nbsp;

On September 19, Sharif, Maryam and Safdar were released from jail after the Islamabad High Court suspended their sentences in the Avenfield case. 
In December last year, the Accountability Court in Islamabad sentenced 69-year-old Sharif to seven years of rigorous imprisonment in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills graft case, but acquitted him in the Flagship Investments case. The former premier is serving the jail term in Kot Lakhpat prison since then.&nbsp;

The Pakistan government on Saturday rejected prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law's requests seeking removal of their names from the Exit Control List (ECL), which is preventing them from flying abroad.

The Pakistan government on Saturday rejected prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter and son-in-law's requests seeking removal of their names from the Exit Control List (ECL), which is preventing them from flying abroad. In October last year, Sharif, his daughter Maryam and son-in-law Mohammad Safdar had separately applied to the Interior Ministry seeking removal of their names from the ECL, the Geo News reported. In their petitions, the trio argued that the Exit From Pakistan Rules 2010 did not apply to them as they were not involved in corruption, misuse of authority, terrorism or any conspiracy and thus their names should be removed from ECL. The Ministry of Interior rejected the petitions of Nawaz, Maryam and Capt (retd) Safdar, the report said quoting sources. The decision to place the names of the Sharif family on ECL was taken on August 20 last year during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan. In July 2018, an accountability court in Islamabad convicted Sharif, Maryam and Safdar in the Avenfield properties case and sentenced them to prison terms of 11 years, eight years and one year, respectively. On September 19, Sharif, Maryam and Safdar were released from jail after the Islamabad High Court suspended their sentences in the Avenfield case. In December last year, the Accountability Court in Islamabad sentenced 69-year-old Sharif to seven years of rigorous imprisonment in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills graft case, but acquitted him in the Flagship Investments case. The former premier is serving the jail term in Kot Lakhpat prison since then.

Pak govt refuses to remove names of Sharif, daughter, son-in-law from Exit Control List

The Pakistan government's decision to abolish the Haj subsidy will save Rs 450 crore to national exchequer, the country's Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Minister Noorul Haq Qadri has said.

The decision to abolish the Haj subsidy was taken during a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad recently, sparking a debate whether Islam allows a subsidised Haj or not.

"The previous (PML-N) government was paying Rs 42,000 subsidy on each pilgrim which put an additional burden of Rs 450 crore on national exchequer. Keeping the current financial situation of the country, the Federal Cabinet has decided to withdraw this subsidy," Qadri was quoted as saying by The News on Tuesday.

This year 184,000 Pakistanis will perform Haj out of which 107,000 will go on government quota whereas the remaining will perform the pilgrimage on private quota, the minister said.

"The government has withdrawn Rs 450 crore financial assistance which it was paying as subsidy for the pilgrims. Major chunk of Haj's inflated price is due to rupee devaluation and Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed by the Saudi government," he said.

"Pakistan's Haj expenditure are still the lowest in the region if you count it in US dollar as India, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia are charging more in term of US dollars. My ministry had proposed that the subsidy should not be abolished but the Federal Cabinet decided against it," the minister said.

Last week, the federal government increased Haj prices up to 60 per cent putting an additional burden of up to Rs 156,000 on each pilgrim.

The political leaders of opposition parties have criticised Prime Minister Khan's government for abolishing subsidy and increasing Haj price.

The Haj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and is required of all able-bodied Muslims once in their lifetime if they are healthy enough and have the means to do so.

The Pakistan government's decision to abolish the Haj subsidy will save Rs 450 crore to national exchequer, the country's Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Minister Noorul Haq Qadri has said.

The Pakistan government's decision to abolish the Haj subsidy will save Rs 450 crore to national exchequer, the country's Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Minister Noorul Haq Qadri has said. The decision to abolish the Haj subsidy was taken during a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad recently, sparking a debate whether Islam allows a subsidised Haj or not. "The previous (PML-N) government was paying Rs 42,000 subsidy on each pilgrim which put an additional burden of Rs 450 crore on national exchequer. Keeping the current financial situation of the country, the Federal Cabinet has decided to withdraw this subsidy," Qadri was quoted as saying by The News on Tuesday. This year 184,000 Pakistanis will perform Haj out of which 107,000 will go on government quota whereas the remaining will perform the pilgrimage on private quota, the minister said. "The government has withdrawn Rs 450 crore financial assistance which it was paying as subsidy for the pilgrims. Major chunk of Haj's inflated price is due to rupee devaluation and Value Added Tax (VAT) imposed by the Saudi government," he said. "Pakistan's Haj expenditure are still the lowest in the region if you count it in US dollar as India, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia are charging more in term of US dollars. My ministry had proposed that the subsidy should not be abolished but the Federal Cabinet decided against it," the minister said. Last week, the federal government increased Haj prices up to 60 per cent putting an additional burden of up to Rs 156,000 on each pilgrim. The political leaders of opposition parties have criticised Prime Minister Khan's government for abolishing subsidy and increasing Haj price. The Haj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and is required of all able-bodied Muslims once in their lifetime if they are healthy enough and have the means to do so.

Pakistan government to save Rs 450 crore by abolishing Haj subsidy to pilgrims: Minister

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday asked the government to review its decision to place 172 people, including former president Asif Ali Zardari and the Sindh Chief Minister, on the Exit Control List (ECL) after they were named in a money laundering scam.&nbsp;

Last week, the names of 172 people - including politicians, bankers and businessmen who were named in the court-ordered joint investigation team's (JIT) probe report - were placed on the no-fly list.

A two-member bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar expressed anger over the placement of the suspects' names on the ECL and summoned "the minister responsible" for the move to court.

Justice Nisar summoned State Minister for Interior Shehryar Afridi in the court and asked why the cabinet discussed the JIT report when it was still sub-judice. 
The court was hearing a suo motu case on a delay in a 2015 probe into fake bank accounts allegedly used to launder billions of rupees.

Several bigwigs, including Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and several other top politicians, businessmen and bureaucrats are in the list.

"Review this decision, take it back before the cabinet,"&nbsp;the chief justice said.

He also directed the minister to submit the names of those on ECL in the court and adjourned hearing until January 7.&nbsp;

The chief justice expressed displeasure over name of Sindh chief minister in no-fly list and asked the attorney general how the government banned the chief minister of second biggest province from leaving the country.

Speaking to the attorney general, Justice Nisar said: "You placed the name of the chief minister of the second largest province on the ECL. Tomorrow, you will place the name of National Accountability Bureau's (NAB) chairman on the ECL and tell him to continue working."

"Maybe we should place four ministers' names on the ECL so that there is a balance," the chief justice suggested.

The court expressed anger at the discussion on the JIT report in media when the court has yet to give its ruling over the report.

The bench also asked Zardari's defence counsel, Farook H Naek, to continue representing his client though his name was in JIT report.

Naek had requested the court to allow him to recuse from the case.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday asked the government to review its decision to place 172 people, including former president Asif Ali Zardari and the Sindh Chief Minister, on the Exit Control List (ECL) after they were named in a money laundering scam.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday asked the government to review its decision to place 172 people, including former president Asif Ali Zardari and the Sindh Chief Minister, on the Exit Control List (ECL) after they were named in a money laundering scam. Last week, the names of 172 people - including politicians, bankers and businessmen who were named in the court-ordered joint investigation team's (JIT) probe report - were placed on the no-fly list. A two-member bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar expressed anger over the placement of the suspects' names on the ECL and summoned "the minister responsible" for the move to court. Justice Nisar summoned State Minister for Interior Shehryar Afridi in the court and asked why the cabinet discussed the JIT report when it was still sub-judice. The court was hearing a suo motu case on a delay in a 2015 probe into fake bank accounts allegedly used to launder billions of rupees. Several bigwigs, including Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and several other top politicians, businessmen and bureaucrats are in the list. "Review this decision, take it back before the cabinet," the chief justice said. He also directed the minister to submit the names of those on ECL in the court and adjourned hearing until January 7. The chief justice expressed displeasure over name of Sindh chief minister in no-fly list and asked the attorney general how the government banned the chief minister of second biggest province from leaving the country. Speaking to the attorney general, Justice Nisar said: "You placed the name of the chief minister of the second largest province on the ECL. Tomorrow, you will place the name of National Accountability Bureau's (NAB) chairman on the ECL and tell him to continue working." "Maybe we should place four ministers' names on the ECL so that there is a balance," the chief justice suggested. The court expressed anger at the discussion on the JIT report in media when the court has yet to give its ruling over the report. The bench also asked Zardari's defence counsel, Farook H Naek, to continue representing his client though his name was in JIT report. Naek had requested the court to allow him to recuse from the case.

Pakistan SC asks govt to review decision to place 172 people on Exit Control List

The Pakistan government has decided to cut by 10 per cent the non-salary current budget of the civilian setup as part of an austerity drive to solve the cash-strapped nation's economic woes,&nbsp;according to a media report.

The Express Tribune reported that the move will help save nearly Rs 10 billion in the remaining period of the fiscal year (2018-19) but would not address core fiscal problems.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has also decided to continue with a ban imposed on the creation of new posts excepts where the posts are required to be created under development projects, the report said. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Ministry of Finance has issued an office memorandum to give effect to the austerity measures for the fiscal year 2018-19. Effectively, the cut in the current non-salary expenditure will be on the budget allocations for the period from December 2018 to June 2019, the report said.&nbsp;

"In consideration of fiscal constraints and keeping in view the austerity drive of the present government and to save public money, it has been decided to effect a saving of 10 per cent in current expenditures," said the ministry of finance office memorandum.&nbsp;

The 10 per cent cut will not be applicable to employees' related expenses, their retirement benefits, subsidies, transfers, and civil works. The military budget has also not been slashed.

The PTI government is implementing tight fiscal and monetary policies. The State Bank of Pakistan has already downward revised the economic growth rate projections to 4 per cent for this fiscal year as against 5.8 per cent growth rate in the last fiscal year.

The total downward revised annual budget for running the civil government is Rs 460 billion for the fiscal year 2018-19. Nearly 70 per cent expenditures have been exempted from the budget cut, which would reduce the net benefit to not more than Rs 10 billion, according to an official of the Ministry of Finance.

The total non-salary expenditures are Rs 180 billion and some components like transfers and civil works are exempted from the cut. The total budget for this fiscal year is Rs 5.3 trillion. Out of this, an amount of Rs 1.1 trillion has been allocated for defence and Rs 1.842 trillion for servicing of the public debt.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan, after his swearing on August 18, moved into a modest three-bedroom house of his military secretary along with two servants.

He had announced that he would not be staying in the sprawling PM House which has a staff of 524 and a fleet of 80 vehicles, keeping his pledge to cut down the expenditure of the cash-strapped government.&nbsp;

The Pakistan government has decided to cut by 10 per cent the non-salary current budget of the civilian setup as part of an austerity drive to solve the cash-strapped nation's economic woes, according to a media report.

The Pakistan government has decided to cut by 10 per cent the non-salary current budget of the civilian setup as part of an austerity drive to solve the cash-strapped nation's economic woes, according to a media report. The Express Tribune reported that the move will help save nearly Rs 10 billion in the remaining period of the fiscal year (2018-19) but would not address core fiscal problems. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has also decided to continue with a ban imposed on the creation of new posts excepts where the posts are required to be created under development projects, the report said. The Ministry of Finance has issued an office memorandum to give effect to the austerity measures for the fiscal year 2018-19. Effectively, the cut in the current non-salary expenditure will be on the budget allocations for the period from December 2018 to June 2019, the report said. "In consideration of fiscal constraints and keeping in view the austerity drive of the present government and to save public money, it has been decided to effect a saving of 10 per cent in current expenditures," said the ministry of finance office memorandum. The 10 per cent cut will not be applicable to employees' related expenses, their retirement benefits, subsidies, transfers, and civil works. The military budget has also not been slashed. The PTI government is implementing tight fiscal and monetary policies. The State Bank of Pakistan has already downward revised the economic growth rate projections to 4 per cent for this fiscal year as against 5.8 per cent growth rate in the last fiscal year. The total downward revised annual budget for running the civil government is Rs 460 billion for the fiscal year 2018-19. Nearly 70 per cent expenditures have been exempted from the budget cut, which would reduce the net benefit to not more than Rs 10 billion, according to an official of the Ministry of Finance. The total non-salary expenditures are Rs 180 billion and some components like transfers and civil works are exempted from the cut. The total budget for this fiscal year is Rs 5.3 trillion. Out of this, an amount of Rs 1.1 trillion has been allocated for defence and Rs 1.842 trillion for servicing of the public debt. Prime Minister Imran Khan, after his swearing on August 18, moved into a modest three-bedroom house of his military secretary along with two servants. He had announced that he would not be staying in the sprawling PM House which has a staff of 524 and a fleet of 80 vehicles, keeping his pledge to cut down the expenditure of the cash-strapped government.

Pakistan slashes non-salary budget by 10%

Pakistan Government wants $3 Billion for CPEC

The Pakistan government on Saturday strongly rejected reports that an Israeli aircraft carrying some officials secretly landed in Islamabad and flew away after several hours at the airport here.

It all started when an Israeli journalist Avi Scharf said in a tweet on October 25 that an Israeli business jet flew from Tel Aviv to Islamabad where it was on the ground for 10 hours, before flying back to Tel Aviv.

Social media users took note and flayed the Pakistan government with the&nbsp;opposition also joining in to demand an explanation about the "secret Israeli mission".

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry rejected the reports and said the "government would not negotiate in secret with either Israel or India".

He regretted such reports despite the fact that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had also denied reports of the presence of any Israeli aircraft in Pakistani airspace or at its airports.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Ahsan Iqbal, who earlier led the Opposition's barrage, said Chaudhry's reaction showed the government was trying to hide something.

"The parliament should be taken into confidence over the issue," he demanded.

BBC Urdu reported that the aircraft in question was a Canadian-manufactured Bombardier Global Express with the serial number 9394. It was registered on February 22, 2017 in the Isle of Man in the UK by a company called Multibird Overseas Ltd.

The Israeli journalist later said he was not "100 per cent sure" if the plane had landed in Islamabad.

Pakistan and Israel do not have diplomatic relations and their aircraft are not allowed to use each other's airspace.&nbsp;

The Pakistan government on Saturday strongly rejected reports that an Israeli aircraft carrying some officials secretly landed in Islamabad and flew away after several hours at the airport here.

The Pakistan government on Saturday strongly rejected reports that an Israeli aircraft carrying some officials secretly landed in Islamabad and flew away after several hours at the airport here. It all started when an Israeli journalist Avi Scharf said in a tweet on October 25 that an Israeli business jet flew from Tel Aviv to Islamabad where it was on the ground for 10 hours, before flying back to Tel Aviv. Social media users took note and flayed the Pakistan government with the opposition also joining in to demand an explanation about the "secret Israeli mission". Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry rejected the reports and said the "government would not negotiate in secret with either Israel or India". He regretted such reports despite the fact that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had also denied reports of the presence of any Israeli aircraft in Pakistani airspace or at its airports. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Ahsan Iqbal, who earlier led the Opposition's barrage, said Chaudhry's reaction showed the government was trying to hide something. "The parliament should be taken into confidence over the issue," he demanded. BBC Urdu reported that the aircraft in question was a Canadian-manufactured Bombardier Global Express with the serial number 9394. It was registered on February 22, 2017 in the Isle of Man in the UK by a company called Multibird Overseas Ltd. The Israeli journalist later said he was not "100 per cent sure" if the plane had landed in Islamabad. Pakistan and Israel do not have diplomatic relations and their aircraft are not allowed to use each other's airspace.

Pakistan government rejects reports of Israeli aircraft secretly landing in Islamabad 

The Pakistan government today directed the interior ministry to block the national identity card (NIC) and passport of former dictator General (retd) Pervez Musharraf, a media report said today.

Complying with a special court's order, the government took the action to restrict the Dubai-based former president's travel and certain facilities available to him as he failed to appear before the court in the high treason case against him.

The National Data Base and Registration Authority (NADRA) and Immigration and Passport Directorate were directed to undertake the action, the Express Tribune reported.

Musharraf would not be able to travel abroad and would also be unable to avail the facility of banking transactions.

"He will also be barred from sale and purchase of his properties in Pakistan and abroad," the daily said quoting a source.

The special court had ordered the government to arrest the former president and confiscate all his properties while hearing the high treason case against the "proclaimed offender" for imposing emergency rule in the country in 2007.

The treason case was instituted on the charges of subverting the Constitution by imposing "emergency rule" on November 3, 2007.

On April 7, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar proposed fresh composition of the special bench, led by Lahore High Court Chief Justice Yawar Ali, but the federal government is yet to issue a formal notification.

Musharraf, 74, was indicted in March, 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in 2007 which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges.

The special court had earlier directed the Interior Ministry to approach the Interpol for the arrest of Musharraf.

A conviction for high treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Musharraf ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He is wanted in Pakistan in several criminal cases including in the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

Complying with a special court's order, the government took the action to restrict the Dubai-based former president's travel and certain facilities available to him as he failed to appear before the court in the high treason case against him

The Pakistan government today directed the interior ministry to block the national identity card (NIC) and passport of former dictator General (retd) Pervez Musharraf, a media report said today. Complying with a special court's order, the government took the action to restrict the Dubai-based former president's travel and certain facilities available to him as he failed to appear before the court in the high treason case against him. The National Data Base and Registration Authority (NADRA) and Immigration and Passport Directorate were directed to undertake the action, the Express Tribune reported. Musharraf would not be able to travel abroad and would also be unable to avail the facility of banking transactions. "He will also be barred from sale and purchase of his properties in Pakistan and abroad," the daily said quoting a source. The special court had ordered the government to arrest the former president and confiscate all his properties while hearing the high treason case against the "proclaimed offender" for imposing emergency rule in the country in 2007. The treason case was instituted on the charges of subverting the Constitution by imposing "emergency rule" on November 3, 2007. On April 7, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar proposed fresh composition of the special bench, led by Lahore High Court Chief Justice Yawar Ali, but the federal government is yet to issue a formal notification. Musharraf, 74, was indicted in March, 2014 on treason charges for imposing emergency in 2007 which led to the confinement of a number of superior court judges in their houses and sacking of over 100 judges. The special court had earlier directed the Interior Ministry to approach the Interpol for the arrest of Musharraf. A conviction for high treason carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. Musharraf ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He is wanted in Pakistan in several criminal cases including in the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

Pakistan government to block Musharraf's national identity card, passport

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan which are scheduled to be held in July, the opposition parties in the country have failed to appoint a caretaker prime minister.

According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government.

The current government will come to an end in Pakistan on May 31 while the elections will be held on July 25-27. The new goverment will therefore be formed within 60 days.&nbsp

The responsibility to appoint a neutral government lies with the leader of the house (Prime Minister) and leader of the opposition. The two are required to hold a consultation to suggest a name for the caretaker PM .

The leader of Opposition Party in Pakistan, Khursheed Shah who belongs to the Pakistan People's Party said he had held a discussion of five rounds with PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, but the two could not agree on a single name.

He added that now the speaker of the National Assembly will set a Parliamentary Committee to decide on the name of the Caretaker PM.

The Committee will include members from the two parties in Pakistan, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan's People's Party. The two parties will send the name of their nominees to the committee.

If the Parliamentary also fails to agree on a single name for the post, the decision will rest on the Election Commission of Pakistan which will appoint the Caretaker PM from the list of the nominees.

According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government

Ahead of the general elections in Pakistan which are scheduled to be held in July, the opposition parties in the country have failed to appoint a caretaker prime minister. According to the law in Pakistan, a caretaker prime minister is appointed to fill in the temporary vacuum created after the conclusion of the existing government and appointment of the new government. The current government will come to an end in Pakistan on May 31 while the elections will be held on July 25-27. The new goverment will therefore be formed within 60 days. The responsibility to appoint a neutral government lies with the leader of the house (Prime Minister) and leader of the opposition. The two are required to hold a consultation to suggest a name for the caretaker PM . The leader of Opposition Party in Pakistan, Khursheed Shah who belongs to the Pakistan People's Party said he had held a discussion of five rounds with PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, but the two could not agree on a single name. He added that now the speaker of the National Assembly will set a Parliamentary Committee to decide on the name of the Caretaker PM. The Committee will include members from the two parties in Pakistan, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Pakistan's People's Party. The two parties will send the name of their nominees to the committee. If the Parliamentary also fails to agree on a single name for the post, the decision will rest on the Election Commission of Pakistan which will appoint the Caretaker PM from the list of the nominees.

Pakistan political parties fail to appoint caretaker PM

The Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar has said that Pakistan is trying to make efforts to mainstream Hafiz Saeed and his system as a political party.

He added that the world is watching that Pakistan is not taking any action against Saeed.

He said &quot;Pakistan is mandated under UN Law to take action against Hafiz Saeed but instant developments coming out of Pak seems to be an attempt by Pak establishment to mainstream him and his system as a political party. It is a way of shielding what he used to do earlier. The true face of Hafiz Saeed and Pakistan is for all to see. Not only India but also the entire international community feels that the action which should be taken against Hafiz Saeed is not being taken&quot;.

Speaking on the rising tensions in the Korean peninsula, Kumar said India&nbsp;is ready to indulge in any kind of dialogue and diplomacy to maintain peace in the region.&nbsp;

&quot;We believe that any solution to the issues in Koran peninsula must take into account and address concerns about the proliferation linkages of DPRK&#39;s nuclear envisage programme. India supports all efforts to bring about peace and stability in the Korean peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy. We hope that such engagement will help in reducing tensions and pave the way for lasting peace &amp; reconciliation in the Korean peninsula&quot;.

Speaking of the reports that claimed Indians were not allowed to attend the event of Dalai Lama, the spokesperson clarified that the Buddhist leader is free to carry his religious functions in India.&nbsp;

He said &quot;Dalai Lama is a revered religious leader and worshipped in India. There is no change in that position. He is free to carry his religious functions here&quot;.

He also spoke about the controversy surrounding the visit of Canadian Prime minister in India.

He said &quot;Jaspal Atwal&nbsp;travelled to India on a valid visa. This was the third visit. Government of India has a conscious policy of outreach to Indian diaspora including misguided elements who in past may have harboured anti-India sentiments which they have since renounced.&nbsp;&quot;There are well-established procedures for grant of visa to foreign travellers which have been followed in this case as well&quot;.

Jaspal Atwal was part of a movement that supported an independent Sikh nation in the 1980 and was imprisoned&nbsp;for the attempted murder of a visiting Indian minister in 1986.

He was invited to a dinner with Canadian Prime minister&nbsp;Justin Trudeau in New Delhi.

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As far as I know, the paperwork from UAE govt were handed over to us and on the basis of that the mortal remains were brought to India. Had there been something suspicious, it would have come out by now: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sridevi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sridevi</a> <a href="https://t.co/PVeAJSxxra">pic.twitter.com/PVeAJSxxra</a>
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He added that the world is watching that Pakistan is not taking any action against Saeed

The Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar has said that Pakistan is trying to make efforts to mainstream Hafiz Saeed and his system as a political party. He added that the world is watching that Pakistan is not taking any action against Saeed. He said "Pakistan is mandated under UN Law to take action against Hafiz Saeed but instant developments coming out of Pak seems to be an attempt by Pak establishment to mainstream him and his system as a political party. It is a way of shielding what he used to do earlier. The true face of Hafiz Saeed and Pakistan is for all to see. Not only India but also the entire international community feels that the action which should be taken against Hafiz Saeed is not being taken". Speaking on the rising tensions in the Korean peninsula, Kumar said India is ready to indulge in any kind of dialogue and diplomacy to maintain peace in the region. "We believe that any solution to the issues in Koran peninsula must take into account and address concerns about the proliferation linkages of DPRK's nuclear envisage programme. India supports all efforts to bring about peace and stability in the Korean peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy. We hope that such engagement will help in reducing tensions and pave the way for lasting peace & reconciliation in the Korean peninsula". Speaking of the reports that claimed Indians were not allowed to attend the event of Dalai Lama, the spokesperson clarified that the Buddhist leader is free to carry his religious functions in India. He said "Dalai Lama is a revered religious leader and worshipped in India. There is no change in that position. He is free to carry his religious functions here". He also spoke about the controversy surrounding the visit of Canadian Prime minister in India. He said "Jaspal Atwal travelled to India on a valid visa. This was the third visit. Government of India has a conscious policy of outreach to Indian diaspora including misguided elements who in past may have harboured anti-India sentiments which they have since renounced. "There are well-established procedures for grant of visa to foreign travellers which have been followed in this case as well". Jaspal Atwal was part of a movement that supported an independent Sikh nation in the 1980 and was imprisoned for the attempted murder of a visiting Indian minister in 1986. He was invited to a dinner with Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau in New Delhi. As far as I know, the paperwork from UAE govt were handed over to us and on the basis of that the mortal remains were brought to India. Had there been something suspicious, it would have come out by now: Raveesh Kumar, MEA Spokesperson on #Sridevi pic.twitter.com/PVeAJSxxra — ANI (@ANI) March 9, 2018 ×

Pak govt making efforts to mainstream Hafiz Saeed and his system: India's MEA

Pakistan`s Supreme Court was informed today that Interpol had not issued any warrant against former ambassador to the United States Husain Haqqani in response to a request by the Pakistan government and had raised certain queries instead.

Pakistan`s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) may now register a case against Haqqani, acknowledging that six years after the former ambassador to US was accused in a scandal termed `Memogate`.The FIA requires some time to fulfil Interpol`s requirements which include providing details of the alleged crime, Assistant Attorney General Waqar Rana told the Supreme Court today according to Pakistani media reports.

Rana also requested the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar to hear the matter in his chamber.The Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) accepted the plea and asked AAG and petitioner to appear in his chamber making it clear that he would not be influenced by any lobby.On February 15, Pakistan `s apex court issued an arrest warrant against Haqqani and directed him to appear in the Memogate case.However, Haqqani failed to comply with the court orders.

The FIA had asked Interpol to issue a red warrant for Haqqani, Additional Attorney General Rana Waqar told the top court but Interpol asked what, if any, criminal case had been filed against Haqqani.The Memogate scandal erupted in 2011 when Pakistani-American businessman Mansoor Ijaz claimed to have received an `anti-army` memo from Haqqani for the then-US joint chiefs chairman Admiral Mike Mullen.

Cases have recently been registered against Haqqani under Sections 120b (hatching a criminal conspiracy) and 121a (waging a war against Pakistan) of the Pakistan Penal Code.In this regard, a court notice has already been issued to Haqqani and other respondents of the case - including former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The scandal, taken to the Supreme Court by then opposition leader Nawaz Sharif, led to Haqqani`s resignation.

As per the international criminal police organization, Interpol`s charter prohibits it from intervening into a political, military, religious, or racial dispute.

Interpol mainly focuses on public safety and combating transnational crimes against humanity, child pornography, computer crime and cybercrime, drug trafficking, environmental crime, genocide, human trafficking.

Besides this, it also deals with cases related to illicit drug production, copyright infringement, illicit traffic in works of art, intellectual property crime, money laundering, organized crime, corruption, terrorism, war crimes, weapons smuggling, and white-collar crime.

The scandal, taken to the Supreme Court by then opposition leader Nawaz Sharif, led to Haqqani`s resignation.

Pakistan`s Supreme Court was informed today that Interpol had not issued any warrant against former ambassador to the United States Husain Haqqani in response to a request by the Pakistan government and had raised certain queries instead. Pakistan`s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) may now register a case against Haqqani, acknowledging that six years after the former ambassador to US was accused in a scandal termed `Memogate`.The FIA requires some time to fulfil Interpol`s requirements which include providing details of the alleged crime, Assistant Attorney General Waqar Rana told the Supreme Court today according to Pakistani media reports. Rana also requested the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar to hear the matter in his chamber.The Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) accepted the plea and asked AAG and petitioner to appear in his chamber making it clear that he would not be influenced by any lobby.On February 15, Pakistan `s apex court issued an arrest warrant against Haqqani and directed him to appear in the Memogate case.However, Haqqani failed to comply with the court orders. The FIA had asked Interpol to issue a red warrant for Haqqani, Additional Attorney General Rana Waqar told the top court but Interpol asked what, if any, criminal case had been filed against Haqqani.The Memogate scandal erupted in 2011 when Pakistani-American businessman Mansoor Ijaz claimed to have received an `anti-army` memo from Haqqani for the then-US joint chiefs chairman Admiral Mike Mullen. Cases have recently been registered against Haqqani under Sections 120b (hatching a criminal conspiracy) and 121a (waging a war against Pakistan) of the Pakistan Penal Code.In this regard, a court notice has already been issued to Haqqani and other respondents of the case - including former prime minister Nawaz Sharif. The scandal, taken to the Supreme Court by then opposition leader Nawaz Sharif, led to Haqqani`s resignation. As per the international criminal police organization, Interpol`s charter prohibits it from intervening into a political, military, religious, or racial dispute. Interpol mainly focuses on public safety and combating transnational crimes against humanity, child pornography, computer crime and cybercrime, drug trafficking, environmental crime, genocide, human trafficking. Besides this, it also deals with cases related to illicit drug production, copyright infringement, illicit traffic in works of art, intellectual property crime, money laundering, organized crime, corruption, terrorism, war crimes, weapons smuggling, and white-collar crime.

Interpol refuses to act against former Pak ambassador to US Husain Haqqani

The Islamic State (IS) militant group poses a major threat to Pakistan and is alarmingly increasing its presence in the country, according to a think- tank report.

Pakistan has been denying that ISIS had an organised presence in the country, however, even though the terrorist group has claimed responsibility for several other attacks in Baluchistan in recent years.

The security report by Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) yesterday stated that the ISIS, especially active in northern Sindh and Balochistan, was also behind the abduction and killing of two Chinese nationals last year, Dawn News reported.

The PIPS shared the findings of its security analysis titled Special Report 2017, providing an insight into security challenges of Pakistan.

&quot;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaatul Ahrar and others with similar objectives perpetrated 58 per cent attacks, while 37 per cent and 5 per cent of the attacks were carried out by nationalist insurgents and violent sectarian groups respectively,&quot; it said.

The report has also highlighted that Baloch nationalist- insurgent groups, especially Balochistan Liberation Army and Balochistan Liberation Front were only second to TTP as far as their threat capability was concerned.

The report also noted the alarming increase in the footprint of ISIS, especially in Balochistan and northern Sindh as it carried out the deadliest attacks in those provinces. It said that footprints of ISIS was increasing and it &quot;killed 153 in 6 deadliest attacks&quot;.

It said, &quot;down 16 per cent from the year before, 370 terrorist attacks took place in Pakistan (in 2017), killing 815 and injuring 1,736 people.&quot;

 
It said that Balochistan and the tribal region remained critical areas with 288 and 253 terrorism-related killings, respectively, in 2017.

The report said that security forces and law enforcement agencies killed 524 militants in military/security operations as well as armed clashes and encounters.

It also reported that Pakistan&#39;s National Security Policy is set to be released in 2018 and it will take into account especially global and regional scenarios, including the evolving Pakistan-US relations.

Though Pakistan government has denied the presence of the Islamic State (IS) on its soil, a leading think-tank here has warned that the dreaded terror outfit is alarmingly increasing its presence, posing a major threat to the country

The Islamic State (IS) militant group poses a major threat to Pakistan and is alarmingly increasing its presence in the country, according to a think- tank report. Pakistan has been denying that ISIS had an organised presence in the country, however, even though the terrorist group has claimed responsibility for several other attacks in Baluchistan in recent years. The security report by Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) yesterday stated that the ISIS, especially active in northern Sindh and Balochistan, was also behind the abduction and killing of two Chinese nationals last year, Dawn News reported. The PIPS shared the findings of its security analysis titled Special Report 2017, providing an insight into security challenges of Pakistan. "Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaatul Ahrar and others with similar objectives perpetrated 58 per cent attacks, while 37 per cent and 5 per cent of the attacks were carried out by nationalist insurgents and violent sectarian groups respectively," it said. The report has also highlighted that Baloch nationalist- insurgent groups, especially Balochistan Liberation Army and Balochistan Liberation Front were only second to TTP as far as their threat capability was concerned. The report also noted the alarming increase in the footprint of ISIS, especially in Balochistan and northern Sindh as it carried out the deadliest attacks in those provinces. It said that footprints of ISIS was increasing and it "killed 153 in 6 deadliest attacks". It said, "down 16 per cent from the year before, 370 terrorist attacks took place in Pakistan (in 2017), killing 815 and injuring 1,736 people." It said that Balochistan and the tribal region remained critical areas with 288 and 253 terrorism-related killings, respectively, in 2017. The report said that security forces and law enforcement agencies killed 524 militants in military/security operations as well as armed clashes and encounters. It also reported that Pakistan's National Security Policy is set to be released in 2018 and it will take into account especially global and regional scenarios, including the evolving Pakistan-US relations.

ISIS on the rise in Pakistan: Report

Pakistan&#39;s Federal Ministry of Interior has released a list which has blacklisted Hafiz Saeed&rsquo;s Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and its subsidiary Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF).

The list also includes 72 other banned groups.&nbsp;

The press release mentioned that any support to these organisations, financially or otherwise, will be considered a criminal offence.&nbsp;

People have been directed to report any suspicious activities from these organisations and forbid any kind of charity.&nbsp;

The list was released following the government move against proscribed organisations that were working undercover.

The government also restricted fundraising or any kind of activities being carried by proscribed organisations and individuals despite the ban - mainly social, political, welfare and religious activities.&nbsp;

So far three First Information Reports (FIR) have been registered in Islamabad against those putting up FIF banners.

The press release mentioned that any support to these organisations, financially or otherwise, will be considered a criminal offence

Pakistan's Federal Ministry of Interior has released a list which has blacklisted Hafiz Saeed’s Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) and its subsidiary Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF). The list also includes 72 other banned groups. The press release mentioned that any support to these organisations, financially or otherwise, will be considered a criminal offence. People have been directed to report any suspicious activities from these organisations and forbid any kind of charity. The list was released following the government move against proscribed organisations that were working undercover. The government also restricted fundraising or any kind of activities being carried by proscribed organisations and individuals despite the ban - mainly social, political, welfare and religious activities. So far three First Information Reports (FIR) have been registered in Islamabad against those putting up FIF banners.

Pakistan government blacklists Hafiz Saeed's JuD

Pakistan government has come up with strange explanations for confiscating Kulbhushan Jadhav&#39;s wife&#39;s shoes during the monitored meeting, claiming that&nbsp;&quot;there was something in her shoes&quot;.

&ldquo;There was something in the shoe [of Jadhav&#39;s wife],&rdquo; Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal told Pakistan daily Dawn News on Tuesday.

Her shoes had been removed due to security reasons and are currently being examined - she was given a replacement pair in exchange.

Jadhav&#39;s wife, Chetnakul, stated that she had received all stuff except the shoes after meeting her husband on Monday.&nbsp;

India&#39;s&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs&#39; had earlier released a&nbsp;statement&nbsp;on Jadhav&#39;s meeting with his mother and wife.

&ldquo;Under the pretext of security precautions, the cultural and religious sensibilities of family members were disregarded. This included removal of mangal sutra, bangles and bindi, as well as a change in attire that was not warranted by security,&rdquo; stated the Ministry of External Affairs&#39;statement&nbsp;

&ldquo;For some inexplicable reason, despite her repeated requests, the shoes of the wife of Shri Jadhav were not returned to her after the meeting. We would caution against any mischievous intent in this regard,&rdquo; it further mentioned. 
&nbsp; 
The mother and wife of convicted Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav visited Pakistan on Monday and met the arrested Indian national at the office of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad surrounded by heavy security. 
&nbsp;

Her shoes are currently being examined, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal added

Pakistan government has come up with strange explanations for confiscating Kulbhushan Jadhav's wife's shoes during the monitored meeting, claiming that "there was something in her shoes". “There was something in the shoe [of Jadhav's wife],” Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal told Pakistan daily Dawn News on Tuesday. Her shoes had been removed due to security reasons and are currently being examined - she was given a replacement pair in exchange. Jadhav's wife, Chetnakul, stated that she had received all stuff except the shoes after meeting her husband on Monday. India's Ministry of External Affairs' had earlier released a statement on Jadhav's meeting with his mother and wife. “Under the pretext of security precautions, the cultural and religious sensibilities of family members were disregarded. This included removal of mangal sutra, bangles and bindi, as well as a change in attire that was not warranted by security,” stated the Ministry of External Affairs'statement “For some inexplicable reason, despite her repeated requests, the shoes of the wife of Shri Jadhav were not returned to her after the meeting. We would caution against any mischievous intent in this regard,” it further mentioned. The mother and wife of convicted Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav visited Pakistan on Monday and met the arrested Indian national at the office of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad surrounded by heavy security.

'There was something in them': Pakistan's answer to why Jadhav's wife's shoes were taken

Widespread protests have erupted across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan against Pakistan&#39;s ill-treatment of the region and its people.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, people have come out onto the streets shouting anti-Pakistan slogans and rejecting the Pakistan Government&#39;s enforced taxation. Markets and business establishments remained shut and traders in large numbers gathered in major cities, including Gilgit and Skardu to express their anger against the imposition of &quot;illegal&quot;&nbsp;taxes by Islamabad.

They called on the government to withdraw all taxes imposed in Gilgit Baltistan under the GB Tax Adaptation Act 2012. The protest call was given by the Anjiman-i-Tajran and the Awami Action Committee (AAC), and backed by all political and religious parties in Baltistan.

Addressing a gathering in Skardu, Basharat, an advocate and member of Baltistan civil society, blamed Islamabad for its autocratic behaviour and for abusing the powers of the Gilgit Baltistan Council which is headed by the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

He said, &quot;Gilgit-Baltistan Council is chaired by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He definitely has no sympathy for Gilgit-Baltistan. If it was so, he would have taken decisions as per the convenience of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He never attends any meeting. It is very sad.

The Prime Minister only endorses a plan designed by a section officer in Islamabad.The protests will continue till the government meets the demands, the organisers have announced.&quot;This is the height of barbarism. We don&#39;t have any party to express our concerns.

So, the people have no option but to block roads and go on strike. Now, the government will use force to demolish our campaign.

For the past 47 years, they have kept us confined by dividing us on sectarian lines&quot;, said a protester. In Rawalakot city, people came out onto the streets to protest against the discriminatory surge in load shedding hours.

The protest was organised by the Jammu Kashmir National Awami Party (JKNAP), which claimed that the PoK produces some 5,000 megawatts of electricity from five dams and 4500 Megawatts of that electricity is diverted to the Islamabad grid leaving the local people with just 500 Megawatts.

Sardar Liaqat Hayat, President of JKNAP, said, &quot;We people are paying hefty bills despite having hours long load shedding. We all need to come onto the streets to protest for our right to free electricity. We need to give sacrifices as nothing comes free. Those who are getting everything free are the &#39;moulvis&#39;&nbsp;sitting in a mosque. Ordinary people have to fight for their rights&quot;.

The JKNAP has threatened to intensify its protest against Islamabad if their demands are not met. It also blames Pakistan for exploiting resources from PoK and being responsible for the poverty and underdevelopment in the region.

People came to streets raising anti-Pakistan slogans and rejecting the Pakistan Government's enforced taxation

Widespread protests have erupted across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan against Pakistan's ill-treatment of the region and its people. In Gilgit-Baltistan, people have come out onto the streets shouting anti-Pakistan slogans and rejecting the Pakistan Government's enforced taxation. Markets and business establishments remained shut and traders in large numbers gathered in major cities, including Gilgit and Skardu to express their anger against the imposition of "illegal" taxes by Islamabad. They called on the government to withdraw all taxes imposed in Gilgit Baltistan under the GB Tax Adaptation Act 2012. The protest call was given by the Anjiman-i-Tajran and the Awami Action Committee (AAC), and backed by all political and religious parties in Baltistan. Addressing a gathering in Skardu, Basharat, an advocate and member of Baltistan civil society, blamed Islamabad for its autocratic behaviour and for abusing the powers of the Gilgit Baltistan Council which is headed by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He said, "Gilgit-Baltistan Council is chaired by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He definitely has no sympathy for Gilgit-Baltistan. If it was so, he would have taken decisions as per the convenience of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He never attends any meeting. It is very sad. The Prime Minister only endorses a plan designed by a section officer in Islamabad.The protests will continue till the government meets the demands, the organisers have announced."This is the height of barbarism. We don't have any party to express our concerns. So, the people have no option but to block roads and go on strike. Now, the government will use force to demolish our campaign. For the past 47 years, they have kept us confined by dividing us on sectarian lines", said a protester. In Rawalakot city, people came out onto the streets to protest against the discriminatory surge in load shedding hours. The protest was organised by the Jammu Kashmir National Awami Party (JKNAP), which claimed that the PoK produces some 5,000 megawatts of electricity from five dams and 4500 Megawatts of that electricity is diverted to the Islamabad grid leaving the local people with just 500 Megawatts. Sardar Liaqat Hayat, President of JKNAP, said, "We people are paying hefty bills despite having hours long load shedding. We all need to come onto the streets to protest for our right to free electricity. We need to give sacrifices as nothing comes free. Those who are getting everything free are the 'moulvis' sitting in a mosque. Ordinary people have to fight for their rights". The JKNAP has threatened to intensify its protest against Islamabad if their demands are not met. It also blames Pakistan for exploiting resources from PoK and being responsible for the poverty and underdevelopment in the region.

Widespread protests in PoK, Gilgit Baltistan against ill-treatment of locals by Pakistan

The independent leadership in Pakistan administered Kashmir and Gilgit, led by the United Kashmir People&#39;s National Party (UKPNP), have strongly rejected moves by Pakistan to establish military courts in the region in order to further suppress the local population. 
 
In a conference titled &quot;National Action Plan &amp; Freedom of Expression in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan&quot; held recently in Mirpur city of the region, Kashmiri leaders vehemently rejected the draconian law. 
 
Pakistani security forces have arrested many Kashmiri nationalist leaders under the national action Plan that was established by Pakistan government in January 2015 to crack down on terrorism. 
&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Mirpur (PoK): Kashmiri leaders protest Pakistan&rsquo;s move to establish military courts. <a href="https://t.co/z4zxzgznvQ">pic.twitter.com/z4zxzgznvQ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/761757222678519808">August 6, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="~/platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
 
 
In a resolution passed unanimously, the participants demounces establishment of military courts and implementation of national action plan (NAP) in Pakistan administered Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan. They said Pakistan has no jurisdiction in these areas. 
 
Asif Shah Kashmiri, president of J K Peoples National Party said, &quot;In Gilgit Baltistan, the Pakistan court have imposed false cases against Baba Jan and his colleagues and announced 20 years of imprisonment. We strictly condemn it.&quot; He said, &quot;We condemn sedition charges leveled against Muhammad Khwaja Rafiq of Kashmir International Friendship Club, Talat Mehmood and other political leaders of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.&quot; 
 
Most speakers criticised Kashmir policy of Pakistan government and human rights violations committed by them in the region and Gilgit-Baltistan. 
 
Advocate Nasir Ansari, president of J&amp;K Plebiscite Front (JK Mahaz-e-Rai Shumari) said, &quot;We also want to see a progressive Pakistan. It is making atomic bombs. But, can a human being eat these atom bombs? Pakistan has failed to provide a glass of clean drinking water to its citizens in the past 70 years. Can we have faith on Pakistan that it will make us free?&quot; 
 
The speakers said that the Pakistan establishment is trying to convey that recent elections in the region were free and fair, but in fact, the elections were rigged, unfair and partial. Nationalist parties were not allowed to participate in the elections. 
 
Shafique Kayani, secretary general of the J K Freedom Movement said, &quot;Why you required a National Action Plan. It was because to arrest those Kashmiris who are demanding freedom. Why you are not arresting those terrorists in Karachi who are involved in kidnappings and killings. They are carrying out terrorist attacks and killings children in schools.&quot;&nbsp; 
(ANI)

Security forces have arrested many leaders in Pakistan administered Kashmir under the national action plan to crack down on terrorists

The independent leadership in Pakistan administered Kashmir and Gilgit, led by the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP), have strongly rejected moves by Pakistan to establish military courts in the region in order to further suppress the local population. In a conference titled "National Action Plan & Freedom of Expression in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan" held recently in Mirpur city of the region, Kashmiri leaders vehemently rejected the draconian law. Pakistani security forces have arrested many Kashmiri nationalist leaders under the national action Plan that was established by Pakistan government in January 2015 to crack down on terrorism. Mirpur (PoK): Kashmiri leaders protest Pakistan’s move to establish military courts. pic.twitter.com/z4zxzgznvQ — ANI (@ANI_news) August 6, 2016 In a resolution passed unanimously, the participants demounces establishment of military courts and implementation of national action plan (NAP) in Pakistan administered Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan. They said Pakistan has no jurisdiction in these areas. Asif Shah Kashmiri, president of J K Peoples National Party said, "In Gilgit Baltistan, the Pakistan court have imposed false cases against Baba Jan and his colleagues and announced 20 years of imprisonment. We strictly condemn it." He said, "We condemn sedition charges leveled against Muhammad Khwaja Rafiq of Kashmir International Friendship Club, Talat Mehmood and other political leaders of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan." Most speakers criticised Kashmir policy of Pakistan government and human rights violations committed by them in the region and Gilgit-Baltistan. Advocate Nasir Ansari, president of J&K Plebiscite Front (JK Mahaz-e-Rai Shumari) said, "We also want to see a progressive Pakistan. It is making atomic bombs. But, can a human being eat these atom bombs? Pakistan has failed to provide a glass of clean drinking water to its citizens in the past 70 years. Can we have faith on Pakistan that it will make us free?" The speakers said that the Pakistan establishment is trying to convey that recent elections in the region were free and fair, but in fact, the elections were rigged, unfair and partial. Nationalist parties were not allowed to participate in the elections. Shafique Kayani, secretary general of the J K Freedom Movement said, "Why you required a National Action Plan. It was because to arrest those Kashmiris who are demanding freedom. Why you are not arresting those terrorists in Karachi who are involved in kidnappings and killings. They are carrying out terrorist attacks and killings children in schools." (ANI)

Activists in Pakistan administered Kashmir protest move to establish military courts in region

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Activists in Pakistan administered Kashmir protest move to establish military courts in region