The ceasefire between the Pakistan government and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has ended as the terrorist group took responsibility for 3 attacks on police constables in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Lakki Marwat, and an attack in Peshawar that killed 1 security official and left 3 police personnel injured.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan ends ceasefire with Pakistan; to continue armed struggle

Is Afghanistan joining the CPEC? China & Pakistan want to extend the CPEC into Afghanistan to enhance 'regional connectivity'. The plan is to build a motorway linking Kabul to Peshawar. Palki Sharma decodes the security concerns this poses for India.

Gravitas: China & Pakistan want Afghanistan to join CPEC

A press conference hosted by Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan witnessed some heated moments after a journalist raised questions about governance and on his supporters allegedly abusing the Army general, prompting the cricketer-turned-politician to storm out of the event.

The press conference took place in Peshawar city on Friday evening.

During a Q &amp; A session after Khan completed his talk, the reporter suggested that the governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which is ruled by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party,&nbsp;was poor.

“...Secondly, you have a government in KP, and you are without a doubt a popular leader in Pakhtunkhwa. People cast votes for you, but people have not seen the walls of the prime minister's house and governor's house being demolished, nor did they see universities being built in the chief minister's house," Geo TV quoted the reporter as saying.

The scribe also claimed that PTI's "keyboard and social media warriors" have been running trends on social media "abusing the army general".

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وہ جو کہتے تھے کہ عمران خان بی بی سی کے ہارڈ ٹاک الجزیرہ اور سی این این کے انٹرویو سے نہیں ڈرتے وہ پشاور کے صحافی کے سوال سے بھاگ گئے <a href="https://t.co/RU5tzSnaOl">pic.twitter.com/RU5tzSnaOl</a>
— Lehaz Ali (@TheLehaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheLehaz/status/1530180769485836288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"What is your message to your supporters?" he asked.

Responding to the questions, the PTI leader said that said he could give hard-hitting answers, but claimed that he is refraining to do so.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/inviting-more-trouble-cash-strapped-pak-govt-ditches-citizens-raises-fuel-prices-by-20-to-get-aid-from-imf-482481" hreflang="en">Pak govt ditches citizens, raises fuel prices by 20% to get aid from IMF</a>

To a question that PTI was spreading hate, Khan said he was not involved in inciting people. "We are trying to unite people, without dividing them based on ethnicity."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-city-turns-into-fortress-ahead-of-ex-pak-pm-imran-khans-protest-482192" hreflang="en">Islamabad city turns into fortress ahead of ex-Pak PM Imran Khan’s protest</a>

"All your statements are wrong and instead of asking questions you made a speech during a press conference," Khan angrily said, stood up, and left the presser.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A press conference hosted by Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan witnessed some heated moments after a journalist raised questions about governance and on his supporters allegedly abusing the Army general, prompting the cricketer-turned-politician to storm out of the event.

A press conference hosted by Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan witnessed some heated moments after a journalist raised questions about governance and on his supporters allegedly abusing the Army general, prompting the cricketer-turned-politician to storm out of the event. The press conference took place in Peshawar city on Friday evening. During a Q & A session after Khan completed his talk, the reporter suggested that the governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which is ruled by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, was poor. “...Secondly, you have a government in KP, and you are without a doubt a popular leader in Pakhtunkhwa. People cast votes for you, but people have not seen the walls of the prime minister's house and governor's house being demolished, nor did they see universities being built in the chief minister's house," Geo TV quoted the reporter as saying. The scribe also claimed that PTI's "keyboard and social media warriors" have been running trends on social media "abusing the army general". وہ جو کہتے تھے کہ عمران خان بی بی سی کے ہارڈ ٹاک الجزیرہ اور سی این این کے انٹرویو سے نہیں ڈرتے وہ پشاور کے صحافی کے سوال سے بھاگ گئے pic.twitter.com/RU5tzSnaOl — Lehaz Ali (@TheLehaz) May 27, 2022 × "What is your message to your supporters?" he asked. Responding to the questions, the PTI leader said that said he could give hard-hitting answers, but claimed that he is refraining to do so. Also read | Pak govt ditches citizens, raises fuel prices by 20% to get aid from IMF To a question that PTI was spreading hate, Khan said he was not involved in inciting people. "We are trying to unite people, without dividing them based on ethnicity." Also read | Islamabad city turns into fortress ahead of ex-Pak PM Imran Khan’s protest "All your statements are wrong and instead of asking questions you made a speech during a press conference," Khan angrily said, stood up, and left the presser. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Watch: Ex-Pak PM Imran Khan storms out after being irked by journalist’s questions

Two Sikh men were shot dead by unknown assailants in Peshawar city, Pakistan. Terrorist organisation ISIS-K has claimed responsibility for this attack. WION's Anas Mallick brings you more insights in this ground report.

WION Ground Report: 2 Sikh men shot dead in broad daylight in Peshawar, Pakistan

India on Sunday “registered strong protest” with Pakistan over the continued targeting of members of the minority community hours after two Sikh men were brutally gunned down in broad daylight by unidentified assailants in Pakistan's Peshawar city.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said it has asked the authorities concerned to “sincerely investigate the matter and take strict action against those responsible for this deplorable incident.”

"We have seen the reports on the brutal killing of two Sikh traders by unidentified armed men in Peshawar. Sadly, this is not the first such case or a rare occurrence,” it said.

“We expect that the Government of Pakistan, in discharge of its responsibilities, will look after the safety, security and well-being of its minority communities,” it added.

The deceased—identified as Ranjit Singh (42) and Kuljeet Singh (38)— were at their shops selling spices at Batta Tal Chowk in the Sarband area when two assailants arrived on a motorbike and opened fire.

Police have been dispatched to the site to take note of the matter. They are determining whether the deceased were victims of targeted killings.

Around 15,000 Sikhs live in Peshawar, mostly in the Jogan Shah neighbourhood of the provincial capital.

Most of the members of the Sikh community in Peshawar are involved in business, while some also run pharmacies.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan has strongly condemned the attack and directed the police to take immediate steps to arrest the culprits.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/2-sikh-men-shot-dead-in-pakistan-outrage-in-indias-punjab-state-hate-killing-suspected-479132">2 Sikh men shot dead in Pakistan, hate crime suspected</a>

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also denounced the killing, saying, "Strongly condemn the killing of our Sikh citizens in Peshawar, KP. Pakistan belongs to all its people.”

“Have ordered a high level inquiry to ascertain facts. The killers will be arrested &amp; meted out exemplary punishment. My most sincere sympathies to the bereaved families."

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India on Sunday “registered strong protest” with Pakistan over the continued targeting of members of the minority community hours after two Sikh men were brutally gunned down in broad daylight by unidentified assailants in Pakistan's Peshawar city.

India on Sunday “registered strong protest” with Pakistan over the continued targeting of members of the minority community hours after two Sikh men were brutally gunned down in broad daylight by unidentified assailants in Pakistan's Peshawar city. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said it has asked the authorities concerned to “sincerely investigate the matter and take strict action against those responsible for this deplorable incident.” "We have seen the reports on the brutal killing of two Sikh traders by unidentified armed men in Peshawar. Sadly, this is not the first such case or a rare occurrence,” it said. “We expect that the Government of Pakistan, in discharge of its responsibilities, will look after the safety, security and well-being of its minority communities,” it added. The deceased—identified as Ranjit Singh (42) and Kuljeet Singh (38)— were at their shops selling spices at Batta Tal Chowk in the Sarband area when two assailants arrived on a motorbike and opened fire. Police have been dispatched to the site to take note of the matter. They are determining whether the deceased were victims of targeted killings. Around 15,000 Sikhs live in Peshawar, mostly in the Jogan Shah neighbourhood of the provincial capital. Most of the members of the Sikh community in Peshawar are involved in business, while some also run pharmacies. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan has strongly condemned the attack and directed the police to take immediate steps to arrest the culprits. Also read | 2 Sikh men shot dead in Pakistan, hate crime suspected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also denounced the killing, saying, "Strongly condemn the killing of our Sikh citizens in Peshawar, KP. Pakistan belongs to all its people.” “Have ordered a high level inquiry to ascertain facts. The killers will be arrested & meted out exemplary punishment. My most sincere sympathies to the bereaved families." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

2 Sikh men killed: India slams Pak over ‘continued targeting of minority community members’

Suicide bombing happened on March 4 in Pakistan’s Peshawar inside a Shia mosque. At least 57 people were killed and over 200 were injured in the blast.

What we know about suicide bombing in Pakistan’s Peshawar

Gunmen on a motorcycle killed a Christian priest and wounded another in Pakistani city of Peshawar. No one has immediately claimed responsibility for the shooting.

Christian Priest killed by gunmen in Pakistan's Peshawar

A Christian priest was killed and his colleague wounded by gunmen in Pakistan's Peshawar on Sunday. Both of them were driving home from church, said police.

Pastor William Siraj died instantly in the ambush, church authorities said.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the shooting. Peshawar has seen twin suicide bombing killing outside a church in 2013.

Azad Marshall, the most senior bishop in the protestant Church of Pakistan, condemned the attack and tweeted: "We demand justice and protection of Christians from the Government of Pakistan."

Pakistan's northwestern areas bordering Afghanistan have seen a rise in militant attacks on security forces in recent days, most of them claimed by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a group which associates itself with the Afghan Taliban.

The attackers opened fire on the car carrying Pastor Siraj and the Rev Patrick Naeem in the city's Chamkani area, church officials said.

Naeem was out of danger and being treated, a spokesman for the city's Lady Reading hospital said.

Bishop Azad said both were clergy of the Diocese of Peshawar in the Church of Pakistan, which is a union of protestant churches including the Methodists and the Anglicans.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Christian priest was killed and his colleague wounded by gunmen in Pakistan's Peshawar on Sunday. Both of them were driving home from church, said police. Pastor William Siraj died instantly in the ambush, church authorities said.

A Christian priest was killed and his colleague wounded by gunmen in Pakistan's Peshawar on Sunday. Both of them were driving home from church, said police. Pastor William Siraj died instantly in the ambush, church authorities said. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the shooting. Peshawar has seen twin suicide bombing killing outside a church in 2013. Azad Marshall, the most senior bishop in the protestant Church of Pakistan, condemned the attack and tweeted: "We demand justice and protection of Christians from the Government of Pakistan." Pakistan's northwestern areas bordering Afghanistan have seen a rise in militant attacks on security forces in recent days, most of them claimed by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a group which associates itself with the Afghan Taliban. The attackers opened fire on the car carrying Pastor Siraj and the Rev Patrick Naeem in the city's Chamkani area, church officials said. Naeem was out of danger and being treated, a spokesman for the city's Lady Reading hospital said. Bishop Azad said both were clergy of the Diocese of Peshawar in the Church of Pakistan, which is a union of protestant churches including the Methodists and the Anglicans. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Christian priest killed by unknown gunmen

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan appeared before the supreme court today after he was summoned by the apex court in connection with the ongoing hearing over the 2014 Peshawar school massacre.

Pakistan Supreme Court grills PM Imran Khan over 2014 Peshawar school massacre

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan appeared before the supreme court today after he was summoned by the apex court in connection with the ongoing hearing of the army public school attack case. A total of 147 people, 132 of them children, were killed after Tehreek-I-taliban Pakistan terrorists stormed the a-p-s-warsak school, in Peshawar, almost seven years ago.

Pak PM Imran Khan appears before supreme court

The police in Pakistan on Saturday claimed to have foiled a terror attack by neutralising 15 kgs of explosives here in the country's restive northwestern tribal region.

The bomb, planted to a 132-kilovolt electric tower in Urmur Bala village, was defused by the bomb squad, a police officer said.

Had the explosive device exploded, it would have caused a catastrophe in the area, he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/accused-of-supporting-taliban-pak-pm-reiterates-commitment-for-afghan-stability-405330" hreflang="en">Accused of supporting Taliban, Pak PM reiterates commitment for Afghan stability</a>

The police cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to nab the culprits.

The security around the provincial capital of Peshawar has been tightened to ward off the possibility of any mishap in the holy month of Muharram.

Tight security blankets have also been laid around Imam Bargahs in the province where mourning processions are generally taken out.

In a separate incident, four members of a family were ambushed by a rival group on their way back home after attending a meeting of elders called to settle a land dispute in the tribal district of Kurram bordering Afghanistan, according to the police.&nbsp;

The police in Pakistan on Saturday claimed to have foiled a terror attack by neutralising 15 kgs of explosives here in the country's restive northwestern tribal region.

The police in Pakistan on Saturday claimed to have foiled a terror attack by neutralising 15 kgs of explosives here in the country's restive northwestern tribal region. The bomb, planted to a 132-kilovolt electric tower in Urmur Bala village, was defused by the bomb squad, a police officer said. Had the explosive device exploded, it would have caused a catastrophe in the area, he said. Also read | Accused of supporting Taliban, Pak PM reiterates commitment for Afghan stability The police cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to nab the culprits. The security around the provincial capital of Peshawar has been tightened to ward off the possibility of any mishap in the holy month of Muharram. Tight security blankets have also been laid around Imam Bargahs in the province where mourning processions are generally taken out. In a separate incident, four members of a family were ambushed by a rival group on their way back home after attending a meeting of elders called to settle a land dispute in the tribal district of Kurram bordering Afghanistan, according to the police.

Terror attack foiled as 15-kg bomb defused in Peshawar: Pak Police

Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provincial government on Wednesday condoled the demise of legendary Indian actor Dilip Kumar, saying he will always be remembered for his love and affection he had for the people of his ancestral home town here.

Kumar, India's enduring film legend through the decades, died at a Mumbai hospital in the morning after a prolonged illness. He was 98.

In a statement, Kamran Bangash, the Special Assistant on Information to Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of the film legend.

The KP government spokesman said he was saddened to know about the death of Kumar, a resident of Peshawar who earned fame in acting.

'Late Dilip had great regard and respect for the people of his birth place Peshawar. He will always be remembered for his services, love and affection he had for the people of Peshawar,' the statement said.

Kumar was born on December 11, 1922 at his family home in the Qissa Khawani Bazaar area of Peshawar.

The Pakistan government has already declared his native house as a national heritage and completed all formalities to convert it into a museum in his name.

Kumar visited Peshawar in the early 90's. He was given an unprecedented reception and welcome by the people of Peshawar.

Kumar, known to generations of film-goers as 'tragedy king' for his portrayal of the brooding, intense romantic in classics such as 'Mughal-e-Azam' and 'Devdas', had been admitted to the Hinduja Hospital, a non-COVID-19 facility in Khar, since last Tuesday.

Kumar, born Yousuf Khan and often known as the Nehruvian hero, did his first film 'Jwar Bhata' in 1944 and his last 'Qila' in 1998, 54 years later. The five-decade career included 'Mughal-e-Azam', 'Devdas', 'Naya Daur', and 'Ram Aur Shyam', and later, as he graduated to character roles, 'Shakti' and 'Karma'.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provincial government on Wednesday condoled the demise of legendary Indian actor Dilip Kumar, saying he will always be remembered for his love and affection he had for the people of his ancestral home town here.

Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa provincial government on Wednesday condoled the demise of legendary Indian actor Dilip Kumar, saying he will always be remembered for his love and affection he had for the people of his ancestral home town here. Kumar, India's enduring film legend through the decades, died at a Mumbai hospital in the morning after a prolonged illness. He was 98. In a statement, Kamran Bangash, the Special Assistant on Information to Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of the film legend. The KP government spokesman said he was saddened to know about the death of Kumar, a resident of Peshawar who earned fame in acting. 'Late Dilip had great regard and respect for the people of his birth place Peshawar. He will always be remembered for his services, love and affection he had for the people of Peshawar,' the statement said. Kumar was born on December 11, 1922 at his family home in the Qissa Khawani Bazaar area of Peshawar. The Pakistan government has already declared his native house as a national heritage and completed all formalities to convert it into a museum in his name. Kumar visited Peshawar in the early 90's. He was given an unprecedented reception and welcome by the people of Peshawar. Kumar, known to generations of film-goers as 'tragedy king' for his portrayal of the brooding, intense romantic in classics such as 'Mughal-e-Azam' and 'Devdas', had been admitted to the Hinduja Hospital, a non-COVID-19 facility in Khar, since last Tuesday. Kumar, born Yousuf Khan and often known as the Nehruvian hero, did his first film 'Jwar Bhata' in 1944 and his last 'Qila' in 1998, 54 years later. The five-decade career included 'Mughal-e-Azam', 'Devdas', 'Naya Daur', and 'Ram Aur Shyam', and later, as he graduated to character roles, 'Shakti' and 'Karma'.

Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government condoles demise of Dilip Kumar

In a clear impersonation of Charlie Chaplin, Pakistan's Usman Khan, who wears a bowler’s hat and familiar toothbrush moustache, darts through traffic, swinging a cane, teasing motorists and shopkeepers for laughs and a few rupees. It has become a viral sensation.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old actor in bustling Peshawar hopes the silent film antics of old will bring a bit of joy to the residents of the notoriously chaotic frontier city. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Khan said the idea to impersonate Chaplin's iconic character from 'The Tramp' came to him as he watched a video of the legendary silent film actor while recovering from an illness. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I thought that I should start acting like Charlie and spread happiness among the people, to take their minds off the coronavirus pandemic," Khan said. &nbsp;

Dressed as Chaplin, Khan leaps into passing rickshaws, annoys local shopkeepers, and occasionally swats onlookers with his cane as he shuffles bow-legged across the city, where he is frequently mobbed by fans asking for selfies. &nbsp;

"It is my purpose to make people laugh, to make them happy, to help them get rid of their grief," said Khan. &nbsp;

The act has proven to be a hit. &nbsp;

In just two months, Khan has attracted more than 850,000 followers and garnered millions of likes on TikTok -- the hugely popular platform in Pakistan where he uploads videos of his slapstick routine.&nbsp;

But it hasn't always been all laughs for Khan, who like many in Pakistan is struggling to hold down a full-time job amid the economic fallout of the coronavirus epidemic. &nbsp;

The Chaplin stint, he said, has given him a new purpose. &nbsp;

"That's why I like to get up like Charlie Chaplin, to hide all my worries and grief."

In a clear impersonation of Charlie Chaplin, Pakistan's Usman Khan, who wears a bowler’s hat and familiar toothbrush moustache, darts through traffic, swinging a cane, teasing motorists and shopkeepers for laughs and a few rupees.

In a clear impersonation of Charlie Chaplin, Pakistan's Usman Khan, who wears a bowler’s hat and familiar toothbrush moustache, darts through traffic, swinging a cane, teasing motorists and shopkeepers for laughs and a few rupees. It has become a viral sensation. The 32-year-old actor in bustling Peshawar hopes the silent film antics of old will bring a bit of joy to the residents of the notoriously chaotic frontier city. Khan said the idea to impersonate Chaplin's iconic character from 'The Tramp' came to him as he watched a video of the legendary silent film actor while recovering from an illness. "I thought that I should start acting like Charlie and spread happiness among the people, to take their minds off the coronavirus pandemic," Khan said. Dressed as Chaplin, Khan leaps into passing rickshaws, annoys local shopkeepers, and occasionally swats onlookers with his cane as he shuffles bow-legged across the city, where he is frequently mobbed by fans asking for selfies. "It is my purpose to make people laugh, to make them happy, to help them get rid of their grief," said Khan. The act has proven to be a hit. In just two months, Khan has attracted more than 850,000 followers and garnered millions of likes on TikTok -- the hugely popular platform in Pakistan where he uploads videos of his slapstick routine. But it hasn't always been all laughs for Khan, who like many in Pakistan is struggling to hold down a full-time job amid the economic fallout of the coronavirus epidemic. The Chaplin stint, he said, has given him a new purpose. "That's why I like to get up like Charlie Chaplin, to hide all my worries and grief."

Pakistan's 'Charlie Chaplin' brings joy to frontier city

With a black bowler on his head, a walking stick in one hand and an alarmed look on his face, Usman Khan dodges between speeding cars and rickshaws on the streets of Pakistan's western city of Peshawar, mimicking Charlie Chaplin.

Meet Pakistan's 'Charlie Chaplin' -- bringing smiles to Pakistan amid bleak times

A grenade killed 3 children as it exploded while they played with it in Pakistan. The incident took place near Peshawar and killed 2 others. The four brothers and a neighbour were playing when they found the rusty grenade near a village.

Local police official confirmed the casualties and said that the children played with the grenade they found.

"The children first played with it and later hit it with a stone causing it to explode," Mansoor Aman, a local senior police official, told AFP.&nbsp;

Accidents involving discarded ordnance are common in northwestern Pakistan which has a border with Afghanistan. Old mortar shells, grenades etc are often smuggled across the border. Some of these munitions date back to the Soviet war in the 80s.

The area was also once a hub of anti-Taliban activities, with locals forming militias to fight against the insurgents.&nbsp;

Last year, five people were killed when a worker at a scrap metal shop tried to recycle an old mortar shell that exploded as he tampered with it.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

A grenade killed 3 children as it exploded while they played with it in Pakistan. The incident took place near Peshawar and killed 2 others. The four brothers and a neighbour were playing when they found the rusty grenade near a village.

A grenade killed 3 children as it exploded while they played with it in Pakistan. The incident took place near Peshawar and killed 2 others. The four brothers and a neighbour were playing when they found the rusty grenade near a village. Local police official confirmed the casualties and said that the children played with the grenade they found. "The children first played with it and later hit it with a stone causing it to explode," Mansoor Aman, a local senior police official, told AFP. Accidents involving discarded ordnance are common in northwestern Pakistan which has a border with Afghanistan. Old mortar shells, grenades etc are often smuggled across the border. Some of these munitions date back to the Soviet war in the 80s. The area was also once a hub of anti-Taliban activities, with locals forming militias to fight against the insurgents. Last year, five people were killed when a worker at a scrap metal shop tried to recycle an old mortar shell that exploded as he tampered with it. (With AFP inputs)

Pakistan: Children find a grenade, it explodes killing 3 as they play with it

Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's ancestral homes in the walled city of Peshawar, Pakistan will be sold at approximately PKR 23.56 million&nbsp;(approx $143000). The value has been set by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister.&nbsp; 
 
Local reports state that the two houses will be bought by the government and the payments will be done soon to the landowners.&nbsp; 
Raj Kapoor`s ancestral haveli at Ander Shaher Bazaar will be bought for Rs 15 million and Dilip Kumar`s house in Mohalla Khudadad will be acquired for Rs 8.56 million. 
 
To turn the Havelis into museums to attract tourism, the government has planned to acquire the properties and renovate them, as both are in bad shape. 
 
Once a magnificent haveli, the Kapoor family home is now in ruins and has not been inhabited for a long time due to the depleted condition. The locals of that area had demanded the acquisition of both houses for a long time. 
 
According to a report in The Express Tribune, the present owners were not willing to sell these houses as the government was reportedly not willing to pay the market prices. 
 
On the other hand, the government claimed that the owners were demanding exorbitantly higher prices and blackmailing the authorities due to the importance of these houses in the eyes of local residents. 
 
Now, the government has fixed a price on its own and it remains to be seen whether it will be acceptable for the owners as the landlord of the Kapoor`s haveli was planning to build a shopping mall and demolish the building when he failed to reach a consensus with the authorities over the pricing. 
 
In fact, for a long time, the prices of the houses remained a bone of contention as the landowners were also demanding billions and a far higher price than that of the market average. 
 
Director Archaeology Department Dr Abdul Sumad said they were trying to estimate the cost of renovation of both the buildings as the department has declared these houses national assets. 
 
Philanthropist and veteran actor Dilip Kumar also known as `The Tragedy King` has been credited for bringing the Method acting technique to Indian cinema. Kumar, whose career spans over five decades, has worked in over 65 films. The legendary star is known for roles in films such as the romantic `Andaz`, the swashbuckling `Aan`, the social drama `Daag`, the dramatic `Devdas`, ` Azaad`, the epic historical `Mughal-e-Azam`, `Gunga Jamuna` and the comedy `Ram Aur Shyam`. 
 
Actor, producer and director of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor is widely regarded as the greatest showman in the history of Indian cinema and entertainment. During his lifetime, the actor was two-time nominee for the Palme d`Or grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his films Awaara and `Boot Polish`.&nbsp; 
 
His hit films including `Awaara`, `Shree 420`,`Jagte Raho`, `Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai` and `Mera Naam Joker` are loved by audience till date.&nbsp; 
 
Kapoor's father, Prithviraj Kapoor too was a veteran actor in Bollywood and the Kapoor family is often considered the 'first family of Bollywood. Raj Kapoor's grandchildren Karisma, Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor are popular stars in Hindi cinema at present.&nbsp;

Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's ancestral homes in the walled city of Peshawar, Pakistan will be sold at approximately PKR 23.56 million (approx $143000).

Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor's ancestral homes in the walled city of Peshawar, Pakistan will be sold at approximately PKR 23.56 million (approx $143000). The value has been set by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister. Local reports state that the two houses will be bought by the government and the payments will be done soon to the landowners. Raj Kapoor`s ancestral haveli at Ander Shaher Bazaar will be bought for Rs 15 million and Dilip Kumar`s house in Mohalla Khudadad will be acquired for Rs 8.56 million. To turn the Havelis into museums to attract tourism, the government has planned to acquire the properties and renovate them, as both are in bad shape. Once a magnificent haveli, the Kapoor family home is now in ruins and has not been inhabited for a long time due to the depleted condition. The locals of that area had demanded the acquisition of both houses for a long time. According to a report in The Express Tribune, the present owners were not willing to sell these houses as the government was reportedly not willing to pay the market prices. On the other hand, the government claimed that the owners were demanding exorbitantly higher prices and blackmailing the authorities due to the importance of these houses in the eyes of local residents. Now, the government has fixed a price on its own and it remains to be seen whether it will be acceptable for the owners as the landlord of the Kapoor`s haveli was planning to build a shopping mall and demolish the building when he failed to reach a consensus with the authorities over the pricing. In fact, for a long time, the prices of the houses remained a bone of contention as the landowners were also demanding billions and a far higher price than that of the market average. Director Archaeology Department Dr Abdul Sumad said they were trying to estimate the cost of renovation of both the buildings as the department has declared these houses national assets. Philanthropist and veteran actor Dilip Kumar also known as `The Tragedy King` has been credited for bringing the Method acting technique to Indian cinema. Kumar, whose career spans over five decades, has worked in over 65 films. The legendary star is known for roles in films such as the romantic `Andaz`, the swashbuckling `Aan`, the social drama `Daag`, the dramatic `Devdas`, ` Azaad`, the epic historical `Mughal-e-Azam`, `Gunga Jamuna` and the comedy `Ram Aur Shyam`. Actor, producer and director of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor is widely regarded as the greatest showman in the history of Indian cinema and entertainment. During his lifetime, the actor was two-time nominee for the Palme d`Or grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival for his films Awaara and `Boot Polish`. His hit films including `Awaara`, `Shree 420`,`Jagte Raho`, `Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai` and `Mera Naam Joker` are loved by audience till date. Kapoor's father, Prithviraj Kapoor too was a veteran actor in Bollywood and the Kapoor family is often considered the 'first family of Bollywood. Raj Kapoor's grandchildren Karisma, Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor are popular stars in Hindi cinema at present.

Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor's ancestral houses in Pakistan estimated to be sold for $ 143000 

A Hindu temple in Pakistan destroyed by a Muslim mob last week will be rebuilt using provincial government funds, its information minister said Friday.

Around 1,500 people descended on the temple -- in a remote village of northeast Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province -- after protesting against renovations being made to an adjoining building owned by a Hindu group. They used sledgehammers to knock down walls before setting the building ablaze.

To this end, Kamran Bangash, the provincial information minister, said, "We regret the damage caused by the attack. The chief minister has ordered the reconstruction of the temple and adjoining house."

Interestingly, the provincial government is ruled by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, which is also the ruling party of the country.

Construction will start as soon as possible with the support of the Hindu community, he said, adding security would be provided at the site.&nbsp;

Pakistan's top court has ordered authorities to submit a report on the temple's destruction.

The temple, which was destroyed in similar circumstances in 1997 and then rebuilt, is located some 160 kilometres (100 miles) southeast of Peshawar, the provincial capital.

Earlier on Thursday, India lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over the demolishing of the temple via diplomatic channels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lodges-protest-with-pakistan-over-temple-demolishing-353823">Also read |&nbsp;India lodges protest with Pakistan over temple demolishing&nbsp;</a>

Around 45 people had been detained in connection with the incident -- including a local cleric, Maulana Sharif, who is accused of inciting the mob.

Police are also looking for Maulana Mirza Aqeem, the district leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), one of Pakistan's largest Islamist parties. 
&nbsp;

A Hindu temple in Pakistan destroyed by a Muslim mob last week will be rebuilt using provincial government funds, its information minister said Friday. Around 1,500 people descended on the temple -- in a remote village of northeast Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province -- after protesting against renovations being made to an adjoining building owned by a Hindu group.

A Hindu temple in Pakistan destroyed by a Muslim mob last week will be rebuilt using provincial government funds, its information minister said Friday. Around 1,500 people descended on the temple -- in a remote village of northeast Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province -- after protesting against renovations being made to an adjoining building owned by a Hindu group. They used sledgehammers to knock down walls before setting the building ablaze. To this end, Kamran Bangash, the provincial information minister, said, "We regret the damage caused by the attack. The chief minister has ordered the reconstruction of the temple and adjoining house." Interestingly, the provincial government is ruled by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, which is also the ruling party of the country. Construction will start as soon as possible with the support of the Hindu community, he said, adding security would be provided at the site. Pakistan's top court has ordered authorities to submit a report on the temple's destruction. The temple, which was destroyed in similar circumstances in 1997 and then rebuilt, is located some 160 kilometres (100 miles) southeast of Peshawar, the provincial capital. Earlier on Thursday, India lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over the demolishing of the temple via diplomatic channels. Also read | India lodges protest with Pakistan over temple demolishing Around 45 people had been detained in connection with the incident -- including a local cleric, Maulana Sharif, who is accused of inciting the mob. Police are also looking for Maulana Mirza Aqeem, the district leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), one of Pakistan's largest Islamist parties.

Provincial govt to pay for Pakistan Hindu temple destroyed by mob

The city of Peshawar has long been Pakistan's stronghold of cultural history. City's silk-road hub used to host several travellers and locals at the Qissa Khwani Bazaar.

The story of Peshawar's storytellers, city used to be stronghold of oral history

The newly-formed Pakistan Democratic Movement, an alliance of 11 Opposition parties, will hold its anti-government rally here on Sunday

Pakistan Opposition parties hold massive anti-government rally despite COVID surge

A massive explosion has killed seven persons and injured 112 in Peshawar, Pakistan. The blast was reported at the Dir Colony.

Pakistan: Huge explosion kills 7, injures 112 in Peshawar

At least three persons were killed and six other injured when some unidentified assailants opened fire at them in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday, police said.

The accused ambushed the car in Peshawar's Michni road, killing Muhammad Ali and his two gunmen while six persons sustained injuries as they were caught in the firing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-14-year-old-forcefully-converted-and-married-to-her-abductor-327201">Pakistan: 14-year-old forcefully converted and married to her abductor</a>

In another incident, the provincial vice president of the ruling Tehreek-e-Insaf party, Tahir Iqbal, was assassinated and his three friends wounded as their car was ambushed by unknown gunmen in Haripur district.

Chief Minister of the province Mehmud Khan ordered an inquiry into the killing of the party leader and sought a report from the provincial police chief.&nbsp;

At least three persons were killed and six other injured when some unidentified assailants opened fire at them in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday, police said.

At least three persons were killed and six other injured when some unidentified assailants opened fire at them in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday, police said. The accused ambushed the car in Peshawar's Michni road, killing Muhammad Ali and his two gunmen while six persons sustained injuries as they were caught in the firing. Also read | Pakistan: 14-year-old forcefully converted and married to her abductor In another incident, the provincial vice president of the ruling Tehreek-e-Insaf party, Tahir Iqbal, was assassinated and his three friends wounded as their car was ambushed by unknown gunmen in Haripur district. Chief Minister of the province Mehmud Khan ordered an inquiry into the killing of the party leader and sought a report from the provincial police chief.

3 killed, including PTI leader; 6 injured as gunmen open fire in Pakistan

A US citizen accused of blasphemy was shot dead by a Pakistani extremist inside a courtroom. Pakistani leaders are hailing the murderer as a hero & role model. WION's Palki Sharma gets you the story.

Gravitas: This Pakistani man killed a US citizen in a court

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported.

Sarfraz has become the first professional cricketer to succumb to COVID-19 in Pakistan.Sarfaraz had made his debut in 1988 and he went on to score 616 runs from 15 first-class games for Peshawar.He also managed to score 96 runs from six one-day games before retiring in 1994.

He then took up the role of coaching both the senior and the Under-19 Peshawar teams in the mid-2000s.Zafar was the brother of Pakistan international player Akhtar Sarfraz.Akhtar had passed away 10 months ago in the same city after a battle with colon cancer.

Peshawar, a city in the north of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has 744 of the nearly 5500 active cases in the country.Nearly 100 people have died from the coronavirus pandemic in Pakistan.

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported.

Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz has passed away after testing positive for COVID-19.The 50-year-old had been on a ventilator in the intensive care unit of a private hospital in Peshawar for the last three days, ESPNCricinfo reported. Sarfraz has become the first professional cricketer to succumb to COVID-19 in Pakistan.Sarfaraz had made his debut in 1988 and he went on to score 616 runs from 15 first-class games for Peshawar.He also managed to score 96 runs from six one-day games before retiring in 1994. He then took up the role of coaching both the senior and the Under-19 Peshawar teams in the mid-2000s.Zafar was the brother of Pakistan international player Akhtar Sarfraz.Akhtar had passed away 10 months ago in the same city after a battle with colon cancer. Peshawar, a city in the north of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has 744 of the nearly 5500 active cases in the country.Nearly 100 people have died from the coronavirus pandemic in Pakistan.

COVID-19: Former Pakistan first-class cricketer Zafar Sarfaraz passes away after testing positive for coronavirus

Pakistan on Monday opened Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan for four days to allow the exit of Afghan nationals stranded in the country, officials said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-police-baton-charged-doctors-who-were-demanding-protective-gear-to-fight-coronavirus-290940" hreflang="en">Pakistan: Police baton-charged doctors who were demanding protective gear to fight coronavirus</a>

The Foreign Office said in a statement that the step has been taken on a special request of the Afghan government based on humanitarian considerations and to facilitate the Afghan nationals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-cases-climb-to-3520-in-pakistan-as-authorities-scramble-to-contain-spread-290887" hreflang="en">Coronavirus cases climb to 3,520 in Pakistan as authorities scramble to contain spread</a>

Hundreds of Afghans were stuck up on the Pakistani side due to closure of the border as a precautionary measure to contain the deadly coronavirus from spreading.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-cases-rise-to-349-in-afghanistan-290875" hreflang="en">COVID-19 cases rise to 349 in Afghanistan</a>

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Spokesman Ajmal Wazir told a media briefing that all facilities would be provided to Afghan nationals in their return to their country in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.

He said that the number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 405 in the province after 33 new cases were reported on Monday. So far, 16 people have died due to the virus in the province.

Pakistan on Monday opened Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan for four days to allow the exit of Afghan nationals stranded in the country, officials said.

Pakistan on Monday opened Torkham and Chaman border crossings with Afghanistan for four days to allow the exit of Afghan nationals stranded in the country, officials said. Also read: Pakistan: Police baton-charged doctors who were demanding protective gear to fight coronavirus The Foreign Office said in a statement that the step has been taken on a special request of the Afghan government based on humanitarian considerations and to facilitate the Afghan nationals. Also read: Coronavirus cases climb to 3,520 in Pakistan as authorities scramble to contain spread Hundreds of Afghans were stuck up on the Pakistani side due to closure of the border as a precautionary measure to contain the deadly coronavirus from spreading. Also read: COVID-19 cases rise to 349 in Afghanistan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Spokesman Ajmal Wazir told a media briefing that all facilities would be provided to Afghan nationals in their return to their country in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. He said that the number of COVID-19 cases climbed to 405 in the province after 33 new cases were reported on Monday. So far, 16 people have died due to the virus in the province.

Pakistan opens two border crossings with Afghanistan for four days

Parents and family members of children who died in a 2014 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/peshawar-attack-9-suspects-arrested-25683">terror attack</a> on the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar moved the Peshawar High Court on Saturday over the escape of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) former spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan from a Pakistani jail.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/car-bomb-injured-six-people-in-pakistans-peshawar-188389">kin of victims</a> filed a petition with the court, seeking contempt of court proceedings against multiple government officials - including the Director-General of the ISI, the Army Chief as well as the federal and provincial secretaries,&nbsp;reports stated.

The petition, submitted by Shuhada APS Forum President Fazal Khan Advocate, said that the respondents had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suicide-bomb-attack-in-peshawar-awami-national-party-leader-killed--150691">violated</a> earlier orders of the PHC barring authorities from releasing Ehsan. 
"Despite clear cut directions of this honourable court.&nbsp;Now it has come to light that (a) luxurious home (was provided to Ehsan) from which the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/remembering-the-peshawar-massacre-1504">terrorist has made his escape</a>: a fact not denied by the respondents," the petition read.

"The petitioner has been informed through reliable sources that clemency was in order of Ehsanullah Ehsan for his 'full and frank disclosure' which is not only highly deplorable but also outrightly illegal and unconstitutional," it added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-ehsanullah-ehsan-responsible-for-peshawar-army-school-attack-escapes-pakistans-jail-279246">Taliban leader Ehsanullah Ehsan escapes Pakistan's jail</a>

In an audio message released on Thursday, Ehsan claimed he escaped from the jail on January 11. However, no confirmation has been made by the Pakistani Army in this regard yet.

The escape of Ehsan has created an uproar in Pakistan where the opposition is accusing the government of "sheer incompetence".

Pakistan's opposition leader and PPP member Farhatullah Babar on Friday slammed the Pakistan government and demanded an explanation over the release of 'self-confessed terrorists'.

Parents and family members of children who died in a 2014 terror attack on the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar moved the Peshawar High Court on Saturday over the escape of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) former spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan from a Pakistani jail.

Parents and family members of children who died in a 2014 terror attack on the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar moved the Peshawar High Court on Saturday over the escape of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) former spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan from a Pakistani jail. The kin of victims filed a petition with the court, seeking contempt of court proceedings against multiple government officials - including the Director-General of the ISI, the Army Chief as well as the federal and provincial secretaries, reports stated. The petition, submitted by Shuhada APS Forum President Fazal Khan Advocate, said that the respondents had violated earlier orders of the PHC barring authorities from releasing Ehsan. "Despite clear cut directions of this honourable court. Now it has come to light that (a) luxurious home (was provided to Ehsan) from which the terrorist has made his escape: a fact not denied by the respondents," the petition read. "The petitioner has been informed through reliable sources that clemency was in order of Ehsanullah Ehsan for his 'full and frank disclosure' which is not only highly deplorable but also outrightly illegal and unconstitutional," it added. Also Read: Taliban leader Ehsanullah Ehsan escapes Pakistan's jail In an audio message released on Thursday, Ehsan claimed he escaped from the jail on January 11. However, no confirmation has been made by the Pakistani Army in this regard yet. The escape of Ehsan has created an uproar in Pakistan where the opposition is accusing the government of "sheer incompetence". Pakistan's opposition leader and PPP member Farhatullah Babar on Friday slammed the Pakistan government and demanded an explanation over the release of 'self-confessed terrorists'.

Parents of Peshawar school attack victims move court over escape of Ehsanullah Ehsan from Pak jail

A Sikh youth was killed by an unidentified person in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-reopens-consulate-in-pakistans-peshawar-after-nearly-three-months-270705">Peshawar</a>, Pakistan media reported on Sunday, citing police. 
 
The body of the person, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found in the Chamkani police station area of Peshawar. 
 
Police said that the Sikh person was a resident of Shangla District of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and had come to Peshawar to shop for a wedding. 
 
The family of the victim got to know about his death from a phone call by the unidentified assailant, suggesting that the incident could be a case of personal enmity. 
 
The dead body has been shifted to a hospital for postmortem. 
 
Further details are awaited.

A Sikh youth was killed by an unidentified person in Peshawar, Pakistan media reported on Sunday, citing police. The body of the person, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found in the Chamkani police station area of Peshawar.

A Sikh youth was killed by an unidentified person in Peshawar, Pakistan media reported on Sunday, citing police. The body of the person, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found in the Chamkani police station area of Peshawar. Police said that the Sikh person was a resident of Shangla District of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and had come to Peshawar to shop for a wedding. The family of the victim got to know about his death from a phone call by the unidentified assailant, suggesting that the incident could be a case of personal enmity. The dead body has been shifted to a hospital for postmortem. Further details are awaited.

Pakistan: Sikh youth killed by unidentified person in Peshawar

Punjab Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nankana-sahib-vandalism-rescue-sikhs-stranded-at-gurdwara-punjab-cm-appeals-to-imran-khan-271985">Captain Amarinder Singh</a> on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sikh-youth-killed-by-unidentified-person-in-peshawar-272286">Peshawar</a> and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators.

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Shocked &amp; anguished over killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>, coming on heels of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NankanaSahibAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NankanaSahibAttack</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> govt must ensure thorough investigation &amp; strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach.<a href="https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2">https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1213788169075707904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Shocked and anguished over the killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure a thorough investigation and strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach," he tweeted. 
 
Earlier today, the 25-year-old youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found murdered in Peshawar in Pakistan. 
 
The Peshawar Police said that the victim's body was found in the area under the Chamkani police station. 
 
Singh was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. 
 
A resident of Shangla district of Khyber <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-import-polio-markers-from-india-270229">Pakhtunkhwa</a> province, the youth had come to Peshawar to shop for his wedding, according to Pakistani media reports. 
 
Earlier in the day, India condemned the killing of a Sikh youth in Peshawar called upon the Pakistan government to "stop prevaricating and take immediate action" to apprehend the perpetrators.

Watch:&nbsp;India strongly condemns vandalism, stone pelting at Sikhs holy shrine Nankana Sahib in Pakistan

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"India strongly condemns targeted killing of minority Sikh community member in Peshawar (Pakistan) that follows recent despicable vandalism and desecration of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan at Nankana Sahib and the unresolved case of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of a Sikh girl," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-slammed-by-syed-akbaruddin-for-sharing-a-seven-years-old-fake-video-272024">Ministry of External Affairs</a> (MEA) said in a statement. 
 
"India calls upon the Government of Pakistan to stop prevaricating and take immediate action to apprehend and give exemplary punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts," the ministry added. 
 
The killing of Ravinder Singh in Peshawar came just two days after a Muslim mob's attack on the revered Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev. 
 
An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at the holy Sikh shrine in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year. 
 
India, on Friday, had strongly condemned the vandalism at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and called upon the Pakistan government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community in the neighbouring country.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in Peshawar and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in Peshawar and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators. Shocked & anguished over killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure thorough investigation & strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach.https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2 — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) January 5, 2020 × "Shocked and anguished over the killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure a thorough investigation and strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach," he tweeted. Earlier today, the 25-year-old youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found murdered in Peshawar in Pakistan. The Peshawar Police said that the victim's body was found in the area under the Chamkani police station. Singh was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. A resident of Shangla district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the youth had come to Peshawar to shop for his wedding, according to Pakistani media reports. Earlier in the day, India condemned the killing of a Sikh youth in Peshawar called upon the Pakistan government to "stop prevaricating and take immediate action" to apprehend the perpetrators. Watch: India strongly condemns vandalism, stone pelting at Sikhs holy shrine Nankana Sahib in Pakistan × "India strongly condemns targeted killing of minority Sikh community member in Peshawar (Pakistan) that follows recent despicable vandalism and desecration of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan at Nankana Sahib and the unresolved case of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of a Sikh girl," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. "India calls upon the Government of Pakistan to stop prevaricating and take immediate action to apprehend and give exemplary punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts," the ministry added. The killing of Ravinder Singh in Peshawar came just two days after a Muslim mob's attack on the revered Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev. An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at the holy Sikh shrine in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year. India, on Friday, had strongly condemned the vandalism at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and called upon the Pakistan government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community in the neighbouring country.

Punjab CM urges Imran Khan to ensure 'strict punishment' to culprits who killed Sikh youth

Afghanistan on Friday reopened its consulate in Peshawar after a gap of almost three months with Afghan delegation visiting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/18-houses-suffer-damage-as-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-kashmir-270652">Pakistan</a> for talks over the market ownership dispute in the city.

In early October, the consulate was closed in protest after the police in Peshawar had removed the Afghan national flag from a market, which Kabul said is its property.

The Afghan consulate has resumed visa operations from Friday, according to First Secretary at the Afghan Consulate in Peshawar Faridoon Haiderkhel.

He also wrote on his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-twitter-block-state-sponsored-manipulation-accounts-in-latest-crackdown-269455">Facebook</a> page that people in the city can now visit the embassy for applying and obtaining visas.

The dispute began after Pakistan's Supreme Court had ruled that a Pakistani national, Shaukat Kashmiri, was the owner of the Afghan Market, instructing the authorities to vacate the building and hand it over to him, according to the Pakistani news outlet.

Local authorities in Peshawar took strict action against shopkeepers and removed Afghanistan's national flag from the market. Later, the Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Atif Mashal unfurled the flag in the city leading to heightened tensions between the two countries.

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/27-local-peace-activists-abducted-in-western-afghanistan-270195">Afghanistan</a> has reopened its consulate, Pakistan is yet to reopen the consular section of its embassy in Kabul, which was shut on November 3 in view of the "harassment" of diplomats in the Afghan capital.

Pakistani sources in Kabul told Daily Times that the consular section is slated to be opened on January 5.

Afghanistan on Friday reopened its consulate in Peshawar after a gap of almost three months with Afghan delegation visiting Pakistan for talks over the market ownership dispute in the city.

Afghanistan on Friday reopened its consulate in Peshawar after a gap of almost three months with Afghan delegation visiting Pakistan for talks over the market ownership dispute in the city. In early October, the consulate was closed in protest after the police in Peshawar had removed the Afghan national flag from a market, which Kabul said is its property. The Afghan consulate has resumed visa operations from Friday, according to First Secretary at the Afghan Consulate in Peshawar Faridoon Haiderkhel. He also wrote on his Facebook page that people in the city can now visit the embassy for applying and obtaining visas. The dispute began after Pakistan's Supreme Court had ruled that a Pakistani national, Shaukat Kashmiri, was the owner of the Afghan Market, instructing the authorities to vacate the building and hand it over to him, according to the Pakistani news outlet. Local authorities in Peshawar took strict action against shopkeepers and removed Afghanistan's national flag from the market. Later, the Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Atif Mashal unfurled the flag in the city leading to heightened tensions between the two countries. While Afghanistan has reopened its consulate, Pakistan is yet to reopen the consular section of its embassy in Kabul, which was shut on November 3 in view of the "harassment" of diplomats in the Afghan capital. Pakistani sources in Kabul told Daily Times that the consular section is slated to be opened on January 5.

Afghanistan reopens consulate in Pakistan's Peshawar after nearly three months

Afghanistan has closed its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, in protest against raids by Pakistani policemen on Afghan market.

Tolo News quoted Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan, Shukrullah Atif Mashal, as saying that Pakistani police have repeatedly attacked the Afghan market in Peshawar and taken down the Afghan national flag. In response, the Afghan Embassy in Islamabad has closed its consulate in Peshawar.

"Many soldiers came here, acting like terrorists. This is not acceptable. This is not good for improving relations between the two countries," said Shukrullah Atif Mashal.

The Afghan consulate claims the Afghan Market as a property of the Afghan government. However, reports suggest that there is another claimant to the property.

Meanwhile, protests took place in front of the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul. The protesters chanted slogans against Pakistan with some of them saying that "our flag is our national identity, no one can disrespect our identity."

Afghanistan has closed its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, in protest against raids by Pakistani policemen on Afghan market. Tolo News quoted Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan, Shukrullah Atif Mashal, as saying that Pakistani police have repeatedly attacked the Afghan market in Peshawar and taken down the Afghan national flag.

Afghanistan has closed its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, in protest against raids by Pakistani policemen on Afghan market. Tolo News quoted Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan, Shukrullah Atif Mashal, as saying that Pakistani police have repeatedly attacked the Afghan market in Peshawar and taken down the Afghan national flag. In response, the Afghan Embassy in Islamabad has closed its consulate in Peshawar. "Many soldiers came here, acting like terrorists. This is not acceptable. This is not good for improving relations between the two countries," said Shukrullah Atif Mashal. The Afghan consulate claims the Afghan Market as a property of the Afghan government. However, reports suggest that there is another claimant to the property. Meanwhile, protests took place in front of the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul. The protesters chanted slogans against Pakistan with some of them saying that "our flag is our national identity, no one can disrespect our identity."

Afghanistan closes its consulate in Pakistan's Peshawar over raids on Afghan market

Twenty-two students of a religious seminary in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region were injured when the tractor-trailer they were travelling aboard overturned, officials said Sunday.

The incident happened in Kot village on the outskirts of Dargai tribal district.

"The students aged 9 to 16 years were going to a picnic when their tractor-trolley turned turtle injuring 22 students," said Inayat-ur-Rehman, a doctor at the hospital where the students were treated.

He blamed driver negligence for the accident.

Local police confirmed the accident.

Pakistan has one of the world's worst records for fatal traffic accidents, blamed on reckless driving, poor roads and badly maintained vehicles.

Twenty-two students of a religious seminary in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region were injured when the tractor-trailer they were travelling aboard overturned, officials said Sunday.

Twenty-two students of a religious seminary in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region were injured when the tractor-trailer they were travelling aboard overturned, officials said Sunday. The incident happened in Kot village on the outskirts of Dargai tribal district. "The students aged 9 to 16 years were going to a picnic when their tractor-trolley turned turtle injuring 22 students," said Inayat-ur-Rehman, a doctor at the hospital where the students were treated. He blamed driver negligence for the accident. Local police confirmed the accident. Pakistan has one of the world's worst records for fatal traffic accidents, blamed on reckless driving, poor roads and badly maintained vehicles.

Pakistan: 22 religious students injured in accident

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hopes-to-eradicate-polio-by-2020-189297">Pakistan's polio eradication campaign</a> has hit serious problems with an alarming spike in reported cases that have raised doubts over the quality of vaccination reporting and prompted officials to review their approach to stopping the crippling disease.

The country is one of only three in the world where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/monstrous-rumours-stoke-hostility-to-pakistans-anti-polio-drive-215546">polio is endemic</a>, along with neighbouring Afghanistan and Nigeria, but vaccination campaigns have cut the disease sharply, with only a dozen cases last year compared with 306 in 2014 and more than 350,000 in 1988, according to Pakistani health officials.

However, there has been a worrying jump this year, with 41 cases recorded, 33 of them in the northwestern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where many people resent what they see as intrusive and coercive vaccination campaigns often involving repeated rounds of visits, officials say.

Just as alarming for health services, environmental sampling has shown the presence of the virus in areas across the country, a clear sign of gaps in vaccination, which must cover the entire population to be effective.

Hopes that transmission of the disease could be ended this year have been abandoned.

"We need to take the bull by the horns and accept there are problems," said Babar Atta, Prime Minister Imran Khan's point person on polio eradication.

As well as the difficulty in reaching very remote areas and keeping track of people moving through big cities like Karachi, there have been problems in collecting reliable data, exacerbated by resistance to efforts to force vaccination.

Efforts to eradicate the disease have for years been undermined by opposition from some Islamists, who say immunization is a foreign plot to sterilize Muslim children or a cover for Western spies.

Local officials say parents suspicious of mass immunization campaigns have been getting hold of special markers, used by health workers to put a coloured spot on the little fingers of children who have been vaccinated.

"They would mark the fingers of their children, in case of an official visit to countercheck the vaccinated children," one official associated with an international organisation told Reuters in the northwestern city of Peshawar.

Officials estimate that so-called fake finger marking, sometimes in collusion with health workers, is hiding the true scale of refusal rates - and thus gaps in vaccination.

In some areas, as many as 8 per cent of families may be refusing or avoiding vaccination, a level which would mean the disease is not eradicated.

A senior official of the Health Department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said the exact data had been deliberately hidden by local health authorities nervous of being blamed for failing to ensure full coverage. "And the result of hiding figures had led us to face an epidemic-like situation today," he said.

Resistance

Polio, a disease transmitted through sewage which can cause crippling paralysis particularly in young children, is incurable and remains a threat to human health as long as it has not been eradicated. Immunization campaigns have succeeded in most countries and have come close to Pakistan, but persistent problems remain.

International observers have been watching the situation with alarm for some time. In October, the Independent Monitoring Board, which oversees the global polio eradication effort, wrote in its annual report that there was "something seriously wrong with the programme in Pakistan".

In April, fuelled by rumors on social media that children were being poisoned by the vaccinations, mobs rioted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and at least three polio workers were killed.

Even without violence, many people consider polio a "US disease". Facing more immediate threats such as a lack of clean water, many do not see why their families should be disturbed by what they consider intrusive foreign-sponsored campaigns.

Health workers, whose closeness to the communities they work in is vital in building trust, face difficult choices in remote areas where kinship and local power structures can often place them under severe pressure not to report cases of non-compliance.

According to many officials, the stubborn hostility to the campaigns and the high levels of avoidance underline the problems with heavy-handed repeat visits by health workers and police going after families that refuse vaccination.

"Why are the marker pens in the shops? Because parents want to buy them. They are sick and tired of repeated vaccinations," said Babar Atta.

Officials are now looking at more targeted approaches to areas where there are problems overcoming resistance to vaccination involving more persuasion and education.

Oliver Rosenbauer, a spokesman for the World Health Organization, said resistance to vaccination was hampering the eradication effort although other factors, including the movement of people in Pakistan and across the border with Afghanistan were potentially more important.

He said officials were analysing the series of problems confronting the programme to build a new approach.

"What is very clear to everyone is that if things keep going the way they're going, we're not going to eradicate polio in Pakistan," he said.

"We can keep a lid on it but that's not the aim. The aim is to eradicate it."

Pakistan's polio eradication campaign has hit serious problems with an alarming spike in reported cases that have raised doubts over the quality of vaccination reporting and prompted officials to review their approach to stopping the crippling disease.

Pakistan's polio eradication campaign has hit serious problems with an alarming spike in reported cases that have raised doubts over the quality of vaccination reporting and prompted officials to review their approach to stopping the crippling disease. The country is one of only three in the world where polio is endemic, along with neighbouring Afghanistan and Nigeria, but vaccination campaigns have cut the disease sharply, with only a dozen cases last year compared with 306 in 2014 and more than 350,000 in 1988, according to Pakistani health officials. However, there has been a worrying jump this year, with 41 cases recorded, 33 of them in the northwestern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where many people resent what they see as intrusive and coercive vaccination campaigns often involving repeated rounds of visits, officials say. Just as alarming for health services, environmental sampling has shown the presence of the virus in areas across the country, a clear sign of gaps in vaccination, which must cover the entire population to be effective. Hopes that transmission of the disease could be ended this year have been abandoned. "We need to take the bull by the horns and accept there are problems," said Babar Atta, Prime Minister Imran Khan's point person on polio eradication. As well as the difficulty in reaching very remote areas and keeping track of people moving through big cities like Karachi, there have been problems in collecting reliable data, exacerbated by resistance to efforts to force vaccination. Efforts to eradicate the disease have for years been undermined by opposition from some Islamists, who say immunization is a foreign plot to sterilize Muslim children or a cover for Western spies. Local officials say parents suspicious of mass immunization campaigns have been getting hold of special markers, used by health workers to put a coloured spot on the little fingers of children who have been vaccinated. "They would mark the fingers of their children, in case of an official visit to countercheck the vaccinated children," one official associated with an international organisation told Reuters in the northwestern city of Peshawar. Officials estimate that so-called fake finger marking, sometimes in collusion with health workers, is hiding the true scale of refusal rates - and thus gaps in vaccination. In some areas, as many as 8 per cent of families may be refusing or avoiding vaccination, a level which would mean the disease is not eradicated. A senior official of the Health Department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said the exact data had been deliberately hidden by local health authorities nervous of being blamed for failing to ensure full coverage. "And the result of hiding figures had led us to face an epidemic-like situation today," he said. Resistance Polio, a disease transmitted through sewage which can cause crippling paralysis particularly in young children, is incurable and remains a threat to human health as long as it has not been eradicated. Immunization campaigns have succeeded in most countries and have come close to Pakistan, but persistent problems remain. International observers have been watching the situation with alarm for some time. In October, the Independent Monitoring Board, which oversees the global polio eradication effort, wrote in its annual report that there was "something seriously wrong with the programme in Pakistan". In April, fuelled by rumors on social media that children were being poisoned by the vaccinations, mobs rioted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and at least three polio workers were killed. Even without violence, many people consider polio a "US disease". Facing more immediate threats such as a lack of clean water, many do not see why their families should be disturbed by what they consider intrusive foreign-sponsored campaigns. Health workers, whose closeness to the communities they work in is vital in building trust, face difficult choices in remote areas where kinship and local power structures can often place them under severe pressure not to report cases of non-compliance. According to many officials, the stubborn hostility to the campaigns and the high levels of avoidance underline the problems with heavy-handed repeat visits by health workers and police going after families that refuse vaccination. "Why are the marker pens in the shops? Because parents want to buy them. They are sick and tired of repeated vaccinations," said Babar Atta. Officials are now looking at more targeted approaches to areas where there are problems overcoming resistance to vaccination involving more persuasion and education. Oliver Rosenbauer, a spokesman for the World Health Organization, said resistance to vaccination was hampering the eradication effort although other factors, including the movement of people in Pakistan and across the border with Afghanistan were potentially more important. He said officials were analysing the series of problems confronting the programme to build a new approach. "What is very clear to everyone is that if things keep going the way they're going, we're not going to eradicate polio in Pakistan," he said. "We can keep a lid on it but that's not the aim. The aim is to eradicate it."

Pakistan: Fake polio markers highlight risks to vaccination drive

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