A total of 218 people, including 69 members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TLP) have been placed on the fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, in the Rawalpindi division by the Punjab home department.

Citing sources, Dawn reported that besides the 69 TLP members, the names of 39 activists of the banned outfit have been sent to the Punjab home department to place them on the watch list bringing the number of the banned organisation's activists in the list in the Rawalpindi region to 108.

Out of 39 individuals, 10 belong from Attock city, 14 hail from Jhelum and 15 from Chakwal.

Regional Police Officer (RPO) Rawalpindi Imran Ahmar confirmed the placement of TLP activists on the fourth schedule, adding the police had followed all the legal procedures to include them in the list.

According to Dawn, out of the 218 individuals who were involved in harmful activities and placed on the fourth schedule, 92 were from the Rawalpindi district, 68 from Attock, 14 from Jhelum and 44 from Chakwal.

The schedule also includes an individual suspected of having links with a proscribed organisation. Moreover, 17 TLP activists have been missing from their homes as they had left their residences without intimating the police concerned.

According to the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, anyone whose name is placed on the fourth schedule is bound to inform the police before leaving their permanent residence and upon return.

An individual placed on the watch list can't leave the country as their name is also put on the Exit Control List (ECL).

The TLP was banned by the Pakistan government after anti-France protests broke out in April where the supporters of the outfit took to the streets to protests against France over caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. The protests soon turned violent and exposed the grim security situation in Pakistan.

During the violent protests, hundreds of protesters and police personnel were injured and thousands of TLP activists and supporters were arrested and booked for attacking law enforcement personnel and blocking main roads and highways.

Several police vehicles were torched, buildings were attacked and policemen were kidnapped and tortured by the activists of the TLP across the Punjab province, with at least six policemen killed and over 800 injured.

The banned party, led by cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi gained popularity over the issue of blasphemy among the masses, specifically concerning Mumtaz Qadri, the killer of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer over blasphemy accusations.

A total of 218 people, including 69 members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TLP) have been placed on the fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, in the Rawalpindi division by the Punjab home department.

A total of 218 people, including 69 members of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TLP) have been placed on the fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, in the Rawalpindi division by the Punjab home department. Citing sources, Dawn reported that besides the 69 TLP members, the names of 39 activists of the banned outfit have been sent to the Punjab home department to place them on the watch list bringing the number of the banned organisation's activists in the list in the Rawalpindi region to 108. Out of 39 individuals, 10 belong from Attock city, 14 hail from Jhelum and 15 from Chakwal. Regional Police Officer (RPO) Rawalpindi Imran Ahmar confirmed the placement of TLP activists on the fourth schedule, adding the police had followed all the legal procedures to include them in the list. According to Dawn, out of the 218 individuals who were involved in harmful activities and placed on the fourth schedule, 92 were from the Rawalpindi district, 68 from Attock, 14 from Jhelum and 44 from Chakwal. The schedule also includes an individual suspected of having links with a proscribed organisation. Moreover, 17 TLP activists have been missing from their homes as they had left their residences without intimating the police concerned. According to the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, anyone whose name is placed on the fourth schedule is bound to inform the police before leaving their permanent residence and upon return. An individual placed on the watch list can't leave the country as their name is also put on the Exit Control List (ECL). The TLP was banned by the Pakistan government after anti-France protests broke out in April where the supporters of the outfit took to the streets to protests against France over caricatures of Prophet Muhammad. The protests soon turned violent and exposed the grim security situation in Pakistan. During the violent protests, hundreds of protesters and police personnel were injured and thousands of TLP activists and supporters were arrested and booked for attacking law enforcement personnel and blocking main roads and highways. Several police vehicles were torched, buildings were attacked and policemen were kidnapped and tortured by the activists of the TLP across the Punjab province, with at least six policemen killed and over 800 injured. The banned party, led by cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi gained popularity over the issue of blasphemy among the masses, specifically concerning Mumtaz Qadri, the killer of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer over blasphemy accusations.

69 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan members from Rawalpindi named in anti-terrorism schedule

With temperatures soaring to over the normal level in Pakistan's Rawalpindi, the city has been facing an acute shortage of water.

Low levels of underground water and lack of supply from dams are being largely blamed for the parched city.

Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Managing Director (MD) Raja Shaukat Mehmood said on Sunday that Rawalpindi city was getting 46 million gallons daily (MGD) against its need of 59 MGD, reported The Express Tribune.

Meanwhile, underground water has dropped to 650 feet while a cut in supply from Rawal and Khanpur dams had added to the shortage. The managing director informed that due to these factors, 460 tubewells installed to fulfil the water requirements of 1.6 million residents of Rawalpindi city are unable to meet demand.&nbsp;

The citizens were not getting water according to needs and the problem was worsening as the weather was turning hot, he added. According to Mehmood, the first phase of a water supply project is pending for the past two decades and has not been started despite the frequent review, reported The Express Tribune.

Even during the three years of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, the project has only remained part of the discussions and meetings and no concrete efforts have been made to start it.

Other areas of Pakistan have also been struck with an acute water crisis. In April, Karachi was reportedly facing an acute shortage of water amid temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the chief engineer of Guddu Barrage in Pakistan`s Sindh province has advised growers not to go for paddy sowing in May and June as the barrage as well as the province are experiencing `worst water shortage in 60 years.

This comes after the decision taken by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Saturday to apply 32 per cent shortages for Punjab and Sindh provinces, reported Dawn. Amid the rising population and climate change, the availability of freshwater is becoming worrisome in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan, which may face absolute water scarcity by 2040.

According to a Washington-based magazine, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has placed Pakistan at the third position in the list of countries facing acute water scarcity.&nbsp;

Moreover, the per capita availability of fresh water in Pakistan has fallen below the water scarcity threshold (1,000 cubic meters), which was 3,950 cubic meters in 1961 and 1600 in 1991.

(With inputs from agencies)

With temperatures soaring to over the normal level in Pakistan's Rawalpindi, the city has been facing an acute shortage of water. Low levels of underground water and lack of supply from dams are being largely blamed for the parched city.

With temperatures soaring to over the normal level in Pakistan's Rawalpindi, the city has been facing an acute shortage of water. Low levels of underground water and lack of supply from dams are being largely blamed for the parched city. Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Managing Director (MD) Raja Shaukat Mehmood said on Sunday that Rawalpindi city was getting 46 million gallons daily (MGD) against its need of 59 MGD, reported The Express Tribune. Meanwhile, underground water has dropped to 650 feet while a cut in supply from Rawal and Khanpur dams had added to the shortage. The managing director informed that due to these factors, 460 tubewells installed to fulfil the water requirements of 1.6 million residents of Rawalpindi city are unable to meet demand. The citizens were not getting water according to needs and the problem was worsening as the weather was turning hot, he added. According to Mehmood, the first phase of a water supply project is pending for the past two decades and has not been started despite the frequent review, reported The Express Tribune. Even during the three years of the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, the project has only remained part of the discussions and meetings and no concrete efforts have been made to start it. Other areas of Pakistan have also been struck with an acute water crisis. In April, Karachi was reportedly facing an acute shortage of water amid temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the chief engineer of Guddu Barrage in Pakistan`s Sindh province has advised growers not to go for paddy sowing in May and June as the barrage as well as the province are experiencing `worst water shortage in 60 years. This comes after the decision taken by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Saturday to apply 32 per cent shortages for Punjab and Sindh provinces, reported Dawn. Amid the rising population and climate change, the availability of freshwater is becoming worrisome in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan, which may face absolute water scarcity by 2040. According to a Washington-based magazine, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has placed Pakistan at the third position in the list of countries facing acute water scarcity. Moreover, the per capita availability of fresh water in Pakistan has fallen below the water scarcity threshold (1,000 cubic meters), which was 3,950 cubic meters in 1961 and 1600 in 1991. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Amid rising temperatures, Rawalpindi faces acute water shortage

An over 100-year-old Hindu temple undergoing renovation in Pakistan's garrison city of Rawalpindi has been attacked by a group of unidentified people, according to a complaint registered by the police.

The incident occurred at Purana Qila area of the city on Saturday when 10 to 15 people stormed the temple at about 7.30 pm and damaged the main door and another door at the upper storey as well as the staircase, according to a complaint made to police.

Dawn newspaper reported that the security officer of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), Northern Zone, Syed Raza Abbas Zaidi, lodged an FIR at Banni police station of Rawalpindi, saying that the construction and renovation work on the temple had been going on for the last one month.

He said there were some encroachments in front of the temple which were removed on March 24.

However, religious rites have not been started in the temple nor were there any idol or any other worship item.

He sought legal action against the people who had caused damage to the temple and its sanctity.

Earlier, the encroachment mafia had occupied the surroundings of the temple over a long time by making shops and kiosks.

The district administration assisted by the police recently removed all encroachments. 
After the temple was cleared of encroachments, renovation work was started.

Meanwhile, the administrator of the temple, Om Prakash, confirmed the incident and said that as soon as the information was received, Rawalpindi police personnel reached the spot and brought the situation under control.

Prakash said that police had been deployed at his house as well as at the temple for security. He, however, said that Holi celebrations will not be held at the temple, The Express Tribune newspaper reported.

Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan. According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan.

Attacks on minorities are common in Pakistan. Last year in December, a revered Hindu shrine was attacked by a mob in Karak district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province and damaged it.

An over 100-year-old Hindu temple undergoing renovation in Pakistan's garrison city of Rawalpindi has been attacked by a group of unidentified people, according to a complaint registered by the police.

An over 100-year-old Hindu temple undergoing renovation in Pakistan's garrison city of Rawalpindi has been attacked by a group of unidentified people, according to a complaint registered by the police. The incident occurred at Purana Qila area of the city on Saturday when 10 to 15 people stormed the temple at about 7.30 pm and damaged the main door and another door at the upper storey as well as the staircase, according to a complaint made to police. Dawn newspaper reported that the security officer of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), Northern Zone, Syed Raza Abbas Zaidi, lodged an FIR at Banni police station of Rawalpindi, saying that the construction and renovation work on the temple had been going on for the last one month. He said there were some encroachments in front of the temple which were removed on March 24. However, religious rites have not been started in the temple nor were there any idol or any other worship item. He sought legal action against the people who had caused damage to the temple and its sanctity. Earlier, the encroachment mafia had occupied the surroundings of the temple over a long time by making shops and kiosks. The district administration assisted by the police recently removed all encroachments. After the temple was cleared of encroachments, renovation work was started. Meanwhile, the administrator of the temple, Om Prakash, confirmed the incident and said that as soon as the information was received, Rawalpindi police personnel reached the spot and brought the situation under control. Prakash said that police had been deployed at his house as well as at the temple for security. He, however, said that Holi celebrations will not be held at the temple, The Express Tribune newspaper reported. Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan. According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. Attacks on minorities are common in Pakistan. Last year in December, a revered Hindu shrine was attacked by a mob in Karak district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province and damaged it.

Hundred-year-old Hindu temple in Pakistan's Rawalpindi attacked by unidentified people

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's anti-France rant has triggered chaos in Pakistan. More than 1,000 protesters have blocked a major highway connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how Imran Khan's campaign against France has got out of hand.

Gravitas: Imran Khan's anti-France rant triggers chaos in Pakistan

At least 20 people were killed and six others injured when a passenger bus veered off a mountain road and plunged into a deep ravine in northern Pakistan on Monday, authorities said.

The bus was on its way from Rawalpindi to Skardu when it fell into the ravine at Roundu near Gilgit, according to Faizullah Firaq, the spokesperson of the Gilgit Baltistan government.

Firaq said that 25 passengers were on board the vehicle when the accident occurred, adding that the cause of the mishap was not known.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/27-killed-in-rain-related-incidents-in-pakistans-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-285196">27 killed in rain-related incidents in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa</a>

At least 20 passengers died in the accident, Assistant Commissioner of Roundu tehsil said.

Police and rescue teams arrived at the spot and were helping to shift the injured and dead to hospitals.

Eight bodies have been recovered, he said, adding that Pakistan Army helicopters are carrying out operations to retrieve the remaining bodies.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/aurat-march-islamists-hurl-stones-and-shoes-at-womens-day-marchers-in-islamabad-285135">Aurat March: Islamists hurl stones and shoes at Women's Day marchers in Islamabad</a>

Gilgit Baltistan Governor Raja Jalal Hussain Maqpoon expressed grief over the tragedy and instructed the authorities to speed up the rescue operations.

Road accidents are common in Pakistan.

Most of them are caused due to reckless driving and bad roads.

Watch: 

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In September, at least 27 people, including 10 Pakistan Army soldiers, were killed and more than 15 wounded when a passenger bus rammed into a mountain in Babusar Pass which connects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province with Gilgit Baltistan.

At least 20 people were killed and six others injured when a passenger bus veered off a mountain road and plunged into a deep ravine in northern Pakistan on Monday, authorities said.

At least 20 people were killed and six others injured when a passenger bus veered off a mountain road and plunged into a deep ravine in northern Pakistan on Monday, authorities said. The bus was on its way from Rawalpindi to Skardu when it fell into the ravine at Roundu near Gilgit, according to Faizullah Firaq, the spokesperson of the Gilgit Baltistan government. Firaq said that 25 passengers were on board the vehicle when the accident occurred, adding that the cause of the mishap was not known. Also read: 27 killed in rain-related incidents in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa At least 20 passengers died in the accident, Assistant Commissioner of Roundu tehsil said. Police and rescue teams arrived at the spot and were helping to shift the injured and dead to hospitals. Eight bodies have been recovered, he said, adding that Pakistan Army helicopters are carrying out operations to retrieve the remaining bodies. Also see: Aurat March: Islamists hurl stones and shoes at Women's Day marchers in Islamabad Gilgit Baltistan Governor Raja Jalal Hussain Maqpoon expressed grief over the tragedy and instructed the authorities to speed up the rescue operations. Road accidents are common in Pakistan. Most of them are caused due to reckless driving and bad roads. Watch: × In September, at least 27 people, including 10 Pakistan Army soldiers, were killed and more than 15 wounded when a passenger bus rammed into a mountain in Babusar Pass which connects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province with Gilgit Baltistan.

20 killed in road accident in Pakistan

Pakistan's Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) has awarded 4,738 years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 13 million on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-cleric-threatens-sikh-pilgrims-from-visiting-kartarpur-gurdwara-265922">Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan</a> (TLP) chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi's brother and nephew and 87 other activists. 
 
The court has also ordered to confiscate all moveable and immoveable property of all accused, reported The News International. 
 
The order was delivered by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-charges-five-men-for-illegally-transporting-goods-to-pakistans-nuclear-program-274726">Rawalpindi</a> Judge Shaukat Kamal Dar late in the night on Thursday. 
 
The court has awarded 55 years imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 1,35000 for each accused. In case of non-payment of fine, the accused will face extra imprisonment of 146 years. 
 
There was high security all around in ATC Rawalpindi at the time of decision. 
 
As the court gave the decision, police and Elite Force/Special Branch officials loaded all accused in three buses to shift them to the Attock Jail. 
 
On November 24, 2018, police arrested TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi, his brother Ameer Hussain Rizvi, his nephew Muhammad Ali, besides 87 other religious activists, on charges of creating unrest. 
 
The arrests had been made after TLP led a protest, which lasted for days and included several other political parties. The sit-ins were against the Supreme Court's decision to release Asiya Bibi, a Christian woman on death row since 2010, acquitting her of blasphemy charges. The protests were ended after the government and the religious parties reached a 4-point agreement.

Pakistan's Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) has awarded 4,738 years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 13 million on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi's brother and nephew and 87 other activists.

Pakistan's Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) has awarded 4,738 years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 13 million on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi's brother and nephew and 87 other activists. The court has also ordered to confiscate all moveable and immoveable property of all accused, reported The News International. The order was delivered by Rawalpindi Judge Shaukat Kamal Dar late in the night on Thursday. The court has awarded 55 years imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 1,35000 for each accused. In case of non-payment of fine, the accused will face extra imprisonment of 146 years. There was high security all around in ATC Rawalpindi at the time of decision. As the court gave the decision, police and Elite Force/Special Branch officials loaded all accused in three buses to shift them to the Attock Jail. On November 24, 2018, police arrested TLP chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi, his brother Ameer Hussain Rizvi, his nephew Muhammad Ali, besides 87 other religious activists, on charges of creating unrest. The arrests had been made after TLP led a protest, which lasted for days and included several other political parties. The sit-ins were against the Supreme Court's decision to release Asiya Bibi, a Christian woman on death row since 2010, acquitting her of blasphemy charges. The protests were ended after the government and the religious parties reached a 4-point agreement.

Pakistan's court awards 4,738 years of jail to TLP activists

The Crown Prince of the United Arab Emirates arrived on Thursday in Islamabad for a day-long visit.&nbsp;

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan was received by PM Imran Khan at Nur Khan airbase, on the outskirts of Rawalpindi.

Khan personally drove the Crown Prince to the Prime Minister's Residence, where the two held a one-on-one meet, presumably to discuss ways of further enhancing cooperation among the two Islamic nations.

The Emirates are a very important player for the Pakistani market. Pakistan imports a large proportion of its goods from the UAE, second only to China. However, the Emirates are the fifth largest destination for Pakistani exports.

The visit by the crown prince comes amidst a controversy wherein Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan skipped the Muslim summit in Kuala Lumpur, after the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE stressed against it. The two Arab monarchies are among the largest suppliers of funds and investment for the crumbling country.

The Crown Prince of the United Arab Emirates arrived on Thursday in Islamabad for a day-long visit. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan was received by PM Imran Khan at Nur Khan airbase, on the outskirts of Rawalpindi.

The Crown Prince of the United Arab Emirates arrived on Thursday in Islamabad for a day-long visit. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan was received by PM Imran Khan at Nur Khan airbase, on the outskirts of Rawalpindi. Khan personally drove the Crown Prince to the Prime Minister's Residence, where the two held a one-on-one meet, presumably to discuss ways of further enhancing cooperation among the two Islamic nations. The Emirates are a very important player for the Pakistani market. Pakistan imports a large proportion of its goods from the UAE, second only to China. However, the Emirates are the fifth largest destination for Pakistani exports. The visit by the crown prince comes amidst a controversy wherein Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan skipped the Muslim summit in Kuala Lumpur, after the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE stressed against it. The two Arab monarchies are among the largest suppliers of funds and investment for the crumbling country.

UAE Crown Prince arrives in Pakistan to boost bilateral ties

An earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter Scale struck near Gilgit-Baltistan area in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) at 5:19 pm (UTC) on Monday.

According to the US Geological Survey, the quake had a depth of 38 km and struck at the North-Western part of Idgah of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-should-vacate-pok-as-its-part-of-sovereign-india-british-mp-bob-blackman-249903">PoK</a>.

The tremors of the earthquake were reported from Hunza, Gilgit, Ghazar and Skardu districts of Gilgit-Baltistan which caused panic among people who rushed out of their homes and other buildings.

Tremors were also felt in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamabad-may-host-oic-foreign-ministers-meet-on-kashmir-caa-report-270827">Islamabad</a>, Rawalpindi and other surrounding areas.

However, there has been no immediate report of any loss of life or property due to the quake.

An earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter Scale struck near Gilgit-Baltistan area in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) at 5:19 pm (UTC) on Monday. According to the US Geological Survey, the quake had a depth of 38 km and struck at the North-Western part of Idgah of PoK.

An earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter Scale struck near Gilgit-Baltistan area in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) at 5:19 pm (UTC) on Monday. According to the US Geological Survey, the quake had a depth of 38 km and struck at the North-Western part of Idgah of PoK. The tremors of the earthquake were reported from Hunza, Gilgit, Ghazar and Skardu districts of Gilgit-Baltistan which caused panic among people who rushed out of their homes and other buildings. Tremors were also felt in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and other surrounding areas. However, there has been no immediate report of any loss of life or property due to the quake.

5.3 magnitude quake hits Pakistan-occupied Kashmir's Gilgit-Baltistan area

Pakistan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-day-after-release-from-sub-jail-asif-ali-zardari-to-be-shifted-to-karachi-hospital-268059">National Accountability Bureau</a> (NAB) on Monday arrested former Interior Minister and senior <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pml-n-leaders-meet-in-london-to-discuss-army-chiefs-tenure-other-parliamentary-affairs-266915">Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz</a> (PML-N) leader Ahsan Iqbal for alleged corruption in a spots city project. 
 
Iqbal was arrested from NAB's office in Rawalpindi where he had appeared to record his statement in the case regarding alleged corruption in Narowal Sports City (NSC) Project, Dawn reported. 
 
The PML-N leader will be produced before an accountability court today, where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/auqaf-dept-case-nab-approves-fresh-probe-against-shahbaz-sharif-252217">NAB</a> will ask for his physical remand. 
 
Iqbal, who served as the Interior Minister from August 2017 to May 2018, is accused of using funds of the federal government and the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) for a sports city being established in Narowal.

Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Monday arrested former Interior Minister and senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Ahsan Iqbal for alleged corruption in a spots city project.

Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Monday arrested former Interior Minister and senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Ahsan Iqbal for alleged corruption in a spots city project. Iqbal was arrested from NAB's office in Rawalpindi where he had appeared to record his statement in the case regarding alleged corruption in Narowal Sports City (NSC) Project, Dawn reported. The PML-N leader will be produced before an accountability court today, where NAB will ask for his physical remand. Iqbal, who served as the Interior Minister from August 2017 to May 2018, is accused of using funds of the federal government and the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) for a sports city being established in Narowal.

Pakistan: NAB arrests former interior minister Ahsan Iqbal in sports complex corruption case

Sri Lanka arrived for the first Test cricket tour of Pakistan in 10 years on Monday following the deadly 2009 attack on their team that plunged Pakistan into sporting isolation.

"The arrival of Sri Lankan team is a historic occasion and we are delighted to host the two-match Test series starting from Wednesday," said Pakistan Cricket Board chief executive Waseem Khan.

The first Test starts in the garrison city of Rawalpindi on Wednesday, while the second begins in Karachi on December 19.

A video tweeted by the PCB showed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lankan-cricket-team-to-go-ahead-with-pakistan-tour-despite-terror-fears-250656">Sri Lankan team</a> arriving in Islamabad and being escorted by armed security forces.

The tour marks the return of Test cricket to Pakistan after a decade of isolation triggered by the attack in Lahore, which killed eight people and wounded several cricketers.

For years, Pakistan has been forced to play all its home matches in a neutral venue the United Arab Emirates as foreign teams refused to tour the country over security fears.

But as security has improved Pakistan has hosted a smattering of smaller matches including Twenty20 series with Zimbabwe and the West Indies, and an increasing number of domestic league matches featuring international players.

But until now no team has returned for a Test match, the five-day format considered the pinnacle of the game.

Sri Lanka toured Pakistan for three one-day internationals and as many Twenty20s in September and October and said they were satisfied with the security arrangements before confirming the Test tour.

Sri Lanka arrived for the first Test cricket tour of Pakistan in 10 years on Monday following the deadly 2009 attack on their team that plunged Pakistan into sporting isolation.

Sri Lanka arrived for the first Test cricket tour of Pakistan in 10 years on Monday following the deadly 2009 attack on their team that plunged Pakistan into sporting isolation. "The arrival of Sri Lankan team is a historic occasion and we are delighted to host the two-match Test series starting from Wednesday," said Pakistan Cricket Board chief executive Waseem Khan. The first Test starts in the garrison city of Rawalpindi on Wednesday, while the second begins in Karachi on December 19. A video tweeted by the PCB showed the Sri Lankan team arriving in Islamabad and being escorted by armed security forces. The tour marks the return of Test cricket to Pakistan after a decade of isolation triggered by the attack in Lahore, which killed eight people and wounded several cricketers. For years, Pakistan has been forced to play all its home matches in a neutral venue the United Arab Emirates as foreign teams refused to tour the country over security fears. But as security has improved Pakistan has hosted a smattering of smaller matches including Twenty20 series with Zimbabwe and the West Indies, and an increasing number of domestic league matches featuring international players. But until now no team has returned for a Test match, the five-day format considered the pinnacle of the game. Sri Lanka toured Pakistan for three one-day internationals and as many Twenty20s in September and October and said they were satisfied with the security arrangements before confirming the Test tour.

Sri Lanka arrive for first Tests in Pakistan since 2009 attack

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed grief over the Karachi-Rawalpindi <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-killed-as-train-catches-fire-in-pakistan-several-injured-258940">Tezgam Express tragedy</a> that claimed the lives of 62 people and injured several others.

"Deeply saddened by the terrible tragedy of the Tezgam train. My condolences go to the victims' families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have ordered an immediate inquiry to be completed on an urgent basis," Khan wrote on Twitter.

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Deeply saddened by the terrible tragedy of the Tezgam train. My condolences go to the victims' families &amp; prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have ordered an immediate inquiry to be completed on an urgent basis.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1189794580058791937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The incident happened in Liaquatpur, near Rahim Yar Khan of Punjab province when the train was en route for Lahore from Karachi, Geo TV reported.

The train caught fire following a gas cylinder explosion.

"Two cooking stoves blew up. They were cooking, they had (cooking) oil which added fuel to fire," Geo News quoted Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed as saying.

Rasheed also said that rescue operation was underway along with the efforts to restore the railway line. "The track will be functional in two hours", he added.

The district rescue service officer Baqir Hussain confirmed the death toll and added that the dead bodies would be identified through DNA tests.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed grief over the Karachi-Rawalpindi Tezgam Express tragedy that claimed the lives of 62 people and injured several others.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed grief over the Karachi-Rawalpindi Tezgam Express tragedy that claimed the lives of 62 people and injured several others. "Deeply saddened by the terrible tragedy of the Tezgam train. My condolences go to the victims' families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have ordered an immediate inquiry to be completed on an urgent basis," Khan wrote on Twitter. Deeply saddened by the terrible tragedy of the Tezgam train. My condolences go to the victims' families & prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have ordered an immediate inquiry to be completed on an urgent basis. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 31, 2019 × The incident happened in Liaquatpur, near Rahim Yar Khan of Punjab province when the train was en route for Lahore from Karachi, Geo TV reported. The train caught fire following a gas cylinder explosion. "Two cooking stoves blew up. They were cooking, they had (cooking) oil which added fuel to fire," Geo News quoted Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed as saying. Rasheed also said that rescue operation was underway along with the efforts to restore the railway line. "The track will be functional in two hours", he added. The district rescue service officer Baqir Hussain confirmed the death toll and added that the dead bodies would be identified through DNA tests.

Tezgam train tragedy: Prime Minister Imran Khan expresses grief

Two people were killed after a gunman went on a shooting spree in the ward of the District Headquarter Hospital here in the early hours of Saturday.

The deceased have been identified as Larsab and Naveed, Geo News reported.

According to police, the suspect was wearing a policeman's uniform and entered the hospital premises.

Larsab had come to the hospital for a medical check-up and Naveed was his attendant, police said.

Two days ago, Larsab had lodged a case against the suspect's father over personal issues with the accused, according to authorities.

An investigation has been launched into the incident.

Two people were killed after a gunman went on a shooting spree in the ward of the District Headquarter Hospital here in the early hours of Saturday. The deceased have been identified as Larsab and Naveed, Geo News reported.

Two people were killed after a gunman went on a shooting spree in the ward of the District Headquarter Hospital here in the early hours of Saturday. The deceased have been identified as Larsab and Naveed, Geo News reported. According to police, the suspect was wearing a policeman's uniform and entered the hospital premises. Larsab had come to the hospital for a medical check-up and Naveed was his attendant, police said. Two days ago, Larsab had lodged a case against the suspect's father over personal issues with the accused, according to authorities. An investigation has been launched into the incident.

Pakistan: 2 dead in Rawalpindi hospital shooting

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-brazil-prison-massacre-rises-to-57-several-decapitated-239329">Death toll in Brazil prison massacre rises to 57; several decapitated</a>

A bloody clash between two prison gangs on Monday left at least 57 inmates dead with 16 of them decapitated, authorities in the state of Para said, the latest deadly clash as Brazil's government struggles to control the country's overcrowded jails.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/17-killed-as-pakistani-army-plane-crashes-into-residential-area-239357">Death toll rises to 17 as Pakistani army plane crashes into residential area in Rawalpindi</a>o

Seventeen people were killed when a small military plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi early Tuesday, officials told AFP, in the latest disaster to hit the country’s troubled aviation sector.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-fails-to-override-trump-veto-of-bill-stopping-saudi-weapons-sales-239328">US Senate fails to override Trump veto of bill stopping Saudi weapons sales</a>

The US Senate on Monday failed to override President Donald Trump`s veto of legislation passed by Congress that would have blocked the sale of certain weapons to Saudi Arabia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cafe-coffee-day-founder-vg-siddhartha-gone-missing-near-netravati-river-in-mangaluru-239351">Cafe Coffee Day founder VG Siddhartha goes missing near river in Mangaluru</a>

VG Siddhartha, the founder-owner of Cafe Coffee Day(CCD) chain and son-in-law of former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna has been missing since Monday night, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-happy-to-have-ravi-bhai-as-coach-will-tell-cac-virat-kohli-239346">Will be happy to have Ravi bhai as coach, will tell CAC: Virat Kohli</a>

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday said that will be very happy if Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach.

"The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet. If they want my opinion, I'll go and speak to them. With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," Kohli told reporters before leaving for West Indies.

Death toll in Brazil prison massacre rises to 57; several decapitated A bloody clash between two prison gangs on Monday left at least 57 inmates dead with 16 of them decapitated, authorities in the state of Para said, the latest deadly clash as Brazil's government struggles to control the country's overcrowded jails.

Death toll in Brazil prison massacre rises to 57; several decapitated A bloody clash between two prison gangs on Monday left at least 57 inmates dead with 16 of them decapitated, authorities in the state of Para said, the latest deadly clash as Brazil's government struggles to control the country's overcrowded jails. Death toll rises to 17 as Pakistani army plane crashes into residential area in Rawalpindio Seventeen people were killed when a small military plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi early Tuesday, officials told AFP, in the latest disaster to hit the country’s troubled aviation sector. US Senate fails to override Trump veto of bill stopping Saudi weapons sales The US Senate on Monday failed to override President Donald Trump`s veto of legislation passed by Congress that would have blocked the sale of certain weapons to Saudi Arabia. Cafe Coffee Day founder VG Siddhartha goes missing near river in Mangaluru VG Siddhartha, the founder-owner of Cafe Coffee Day(CCD) chain and son-in-law of former Karnataka chief minister SM Krishna has been missing since Monday night, reports said. Will be happy to have Ravi bhai as coach, will tell CAC: Virat Kohli Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday said that will be very happy if Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach. "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet. If they want my opinion, I'll go and speak to them. With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," Kohli told reporters before leaving for West Indies.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Fifteen people were killed when a small plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi near the capital Islamabad, a rescue official told AFP early Tuesday.

"A small plane crashed into a residential area. So far we have retrieved 15 dead bodies, including 10 civilians and five crew members," rescue spokesman Farooq Butt said, adding that a further 12 people had been injured.

The type of plane was not immediately clear.

More details are awaited.

Fifteen people were killed when a small plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi near the capital Islamabad, a rescue official told AFP early Tuesday.

Fifteen people were killed when a small plane crashed into a residential area in the Pakistani city of Rawalpindi near the capital Islamabad, a rescue official told AFP early Tuesday. "A small plane crashed into a residential area. So far we have retrieved 15 dead bodies, including 10 civilians and five crew members," rescue spokesman Farooq Butt said, adding that a further 12 people had been injured. The type of plane was not immediately clear. More details are awaited.

Pakistan: At least 15 killed, 12 injured as plane crashes in Rawalpindi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-pulwama-attack-pakistan-army-tells-masood-azhar-hafiz-sayeed-to-lie-low-sources-198507">Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar</a> has been shifted from a military hospital in Rawalpindi to a highly protected facility called Kotghani near Bahawalpur in Pakistan, according to the inputs received by intelligence agencies from across the border.

“Three days after the attack on the CRPF convoy by the Jaish suicide bomber on February 14, Azhar was shifted to the facility in Kotghani where he has been kept in tight security,” the inputs received by the intelligence agencies suggest.

The agencies have also received certain inputs about a possible meeting between Hizbul Chief Sayyed Salahuddin and Azhar after the <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/maruti-eeco-used-in-pulwama-terror-attack-owner-on-the-run-nia-199691">Pulwama terror attack</a> but sources said they are probing the details further.

Jaish Chief Masood Azhar was in the Rawalpindi military hospital when the suicide bomber struck the CRPF convoy killing 44 personnel and injuring many others.

The security forces have been successful in eliminating Jaish terrorists Kamran and Ghazi, who are believed to have provided training and other logistics support to the suicide bomber in carrying out his attack.

India has exerted immense pressure on Pakistan through multiple international agencies but Pakistan is denying any complicity in the attacks or the role of Azhar and his gang in it.

Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar has been shifted from a military hospital in Rawalpindi to a highly protected facility called Kotghani near Bahawalpur in Pakistan, according to the inputs received by intelligence agencies from across the border.

Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar has been shifted from a military hospital in Rawalpindi to a highly protected facility called Kotghani near Bahawalpur in Pakistan, according to the inputs received by intelligence agencies from across the border. “Three days after the attack on the CRPF convoy by the Jaish suicide bomber on February 14, Azhar was shifted to the facility in Kotghani where he has been kept in tight security,” the inputs received by the intelligence agencies suggest. The agencies have also received certain inputs about a possible meeting between Hizbul Chief Sayyed Salahuddin and Azhar after the Pulwama terror attack but sources said they are probing the details further. Jaish Chief Masood Azhar was in the Rawalpindi military hospital when the suicide bomber struck the CRPF convoy killing 44 personnel and injuring many others. The security forces have been successful in eliminating Jaish terrorists Kamran and Ghazi, who are believed to have provided training and other logistics support to the suicide bomber in carrying out his attack. India has exerted immense pressure on Pakistan through multiple international agencies but Pakistan is denying any complicity in the attacks or the role of Azhar and his gang in it.

Masood Azhar shifted from military hospital to highly protected facility: Intel sources

Pakistan police on Saturday registered a murder case for the killing of Pakistan's former senator and Jamiat Ulema Islam-Sami (JUI-S) chief Maulana Sami ul Haq.

On the complaint of Maulana Hamidul Haq, son of the deceased, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the Airport Police Station in Rawalpindi, ARY News reported.

As per the details shared in the FIR, Maulana Sami ul Haq was stabbed 12 times and succumbed to his injuries at his Rawalpindi residence.

He was killed at around 6.30 pm on November 2. Sharing details of the murder, his son told ARY News that JUI-S chief was unwell and taking rest at home when he was attacked.

"Maulana Sami ul Haq's driver and the gunman were away when he was stabbed and when one of his servants returned he saw him (Sami ul Haq) lying in a pool of blood. He was shifted to the Safari Hospital in Rawalpindi for medico-legal formalities," Maulana Hamidul Haq said.

He further said that his family did not wish for a postmortem. Maulana Sami ul Haq was known as 'Father of Taliban'&nbsp;for his radical views and patronage to terror groups, including Taliban.&nbsp;

Pakistan police on Saturday registered a murder case for the killing of Pakistan's former senator and Jamiat Ulema Islam-Sami (JUI-S) chief Maulana Sami ul Haq. On the complaint of Maulana Hamidul Haq, son of the deceased, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the Airport Police Station in Rawalpindi, ARY News reported.

Pakistan police on Saturday registered a murder case for the killing of Pakistan's former senator and Jamiat Ulema Islam-Sami (JUI-S) chief Maulana Sami ul Haq. On the complaint of Maulana Hamidul Haq, son of the deceased, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the Airport Police Station in Rawalpindi, ARY News reported. As per the details shared in the FIR, Maulana Sami ul Haq was stabbed 12 times and succumbed to his injuries at his Rawalpindi residence. He was killed at around 6.30 pm on November 2. Sharing details of the murder, his son told ARY News that JUI-S chief was unwell and taking rest at home when he was attacked. "Maulana Sami ul Haq's driver and the gunman were away when he was stabbed and when one of his servants returned he saw him (Sami ul Haq) lying in a pool of blood. He was shifted to the Safari Hospital in Rawalpindi for medico-legal formalities," Maulana Hamidul Haq said. He further said that his family did not wish for a postmortem. Maulana Sami ul Haq was known as 'Father of Taliban' for his radical views and patronage to terror groups, including Taliban.

Pakistan: FIR registered in Maulana Sami ul Haq's assassination

Breaking News: Father of Taliban, Sami-Ul-Haq killed

The government of Punjab province in Pakistan has released 20 million rupees for the renovation work of a Krishna temple in Rawalpindi in Punjab province of Pakistan.

Under the renovation project, the temple would be expanded in order to accommodate more worshippers in the temple for their religious activities.

"Once reconstructed, the temple will be able to accommodate more people," news agency PTI quoted Mohammad Asif, the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Deputy Administrator as saying.

The reconstruction work of the temple is reportedly to begin soon.

Draft plan has already been made by a team who visited the site recently.

The main area of the temple where idols are kept is also sealed until the reconstruction work is being done.

Built by Kanji Mal and Ujagar Mal Ram Rachpal in 1897 the small temple is expected to attract more worshippers from nearby cities in future after the reconstruction of the temple.&nbsp The temple can currently accommodate around 100 people.

This Krishna temple is the only functioning Hindi temple in the Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It was closed after the partition which subsequently reopened in 1949.

The temple was operated by local Hindus before being handed over to the ETPB in 1970. Until the 1980s, even diplomats living in Islamabad visited the temple to pray.

Local Hindus have said the temple's area should be expanded.

Jag Mohan Arora said the temple courtyard, which can only accommodate 100 or so people, should be expanded, and shops next to the temple that the ETPB has leased to local traders should be retrieved to expand the front of the building.

"At present, the front of the temple is very small. The ETPB should vacate nearby shops that have been rented," Arora said.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

Under the renovation project, the temple would be expanded in order to accommodate more worshippers in the temple for their religious activities

The government of Punjab province in Pakistan has released 20 million rupees for the renovation work of a Krishna temple in Rawalpindi in Punjab province of Pakistan. Under the renovation project, the temple would be expanded in order to accommodate more worshippers in the temple for their religious activities. "Once reconstructed, the temple will be able to accommodate more people," news agency PTI quoted Mohammad Asif, the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Deputy Administrator as saying. The reconstruction work of the temple is reportedly to begin soon. Draft plan has already been made by a team who visited the site recently. The main area of the temple where idols are kept is also sealed until the reconstruction work is being done. Built by Kanji Mal and Ujagar Mal Ram Rachpal in 1897 the small temple is expected to attract more worshippers from nearby cities in future after the reconstruction of the temple. The temple can currently accommodate around 100 people. This Krishna temple is the only functioning Hindi temple in the Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It was closed after the partition which subsequently reopened in 1949. The temple was operated by local Hindus before being handed over to the ETPB in 1970. Until the 1980s, even diplomats living in Islamabad visited the temple to pray. Local Hindus have said the temple's area should be expanded. Jag Mohan Arora said the temple courtyard, which can only accommodate 100 or so people, should be expanded, and shops next to the temple that the ETPB has leased to local traders should be retrieved to expand the front of the building. "At present, the front of the temple is very small. The ETPB should vacate nearby shops that have been rented," Arora said. (With inputs from PTI)

Rawalpindi: 20 million rupees released for Krishna temple expansion

Pakistan on Wednesday is observing the 39th death anniversary of former prime minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

A ceremony is slated to be held in Rawalpindi's Jinnah Park (Old Jail).

A Quran Khawani would be held at 10 AM and dua will be offered at 1 PM, reported Geo TV.

Leaders of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), a party which was founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, will gather in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh village in Sindh province to address the party workers near the mausoleum of the former prime minister.

The meeting will be addressed by party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, co-chairman and Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, opposition leaders in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah and Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, and the PPP's central leaders, the report said.

To mark the occasion, the Sindh Labour and Human Resources department has declared April 4 as a public holiday across Sindh.

A documentary displaying Bhutto`s feat and accomplishments and his life will be shown.

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was hanged in 1979, two years after his government was toppled in a military coup by the chief of the army staff General Ziaul Haq, according to the media reports.

A ceremony is slated to be held in Rawalpindi's Jinnah Park (Old Jail)

Pakistan on Wednesday is observing the 39th death anniversary of former prime minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. A ceremony is slated to be held in Rawalpindi's Jinnah Park (Old Jail). A Quran Khawani would be held at 10 AM and dua will be offered at 1 PM, reported Geo TV. Leaders of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), a party which was founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, will gather in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh village in Sindh province to address the party workers near the mausoleum of the former prime minister. The meeting will be addressed by party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, co-chairman and Pakistan's former president Asif Ali Zardari, opposition leaders in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah and Nisar Ahmed Khuhro, Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, and the PPP's central leaders, the report said. To mark the occasion, the Sindh Labour and Human Resources department has declared April 4 as a public holiday across Sindh. A documentary displaying Bhutto`s feat and accomplishments and his life will be shown. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was hanged in 1979, two years after his government was toppled in a military coup by the chief of the army staff General Ziaul Haq, according to the media reports.

Pakistan observes Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's 39th death anniversary

Pakistan Rangers have taken control of the sit-in area after reportedly a clash erupted between protesters and paramilitary forces at Islamabad&#39;s Faizabad Interchange in Islamabad early on Sunday.

According to Radio Pakistan, Rangers have cordoned off the IJP Road, Expressway, Murree Road and the Faisal Avenue.

As per reports, the situation now is calm in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Earlier, at least six people were killed and hundreds injured after the police crackdown on the protestors, who had camped outside Faizabad Interchange for nearly three weeks, turned violent.

According to Dawn, those killed were identified as Hafiz Mohammad Adeel, Jahanzaib Butt, Abdul Rehman, Mohammad Sharjeel, Zohaib Ahmed and Mohammad Irfan.

According to a senior police official, no security personnel was killed in the clashes, however, a number of senior police officials sustained injuries.Meanwhile, the media blockade continues in the country, pushing it behind a virtual wall.

The series of events have left Pakistan isolated and nobody seems to know what is happening in the country.

According to reports, even after the civilian government asking the Army for help, the Commander 111 brigade, which generally takes minutes to enter the capital, was not seen anywhere.

The army`s reluctance in showing competence, when the nation perhaps needs it the most, maybe encouraging the hardliners more with an assurance of protection.

The civilian government had requested the Commander 111 Brigade directly, as per the mail that was leaked to the Pakistan media, violating the protocol. The proper channel would have been through the Chief of Army Staff General (COAS), Qamar Javed Bajwa, according to the sources.

Several hours later, there was no sign of any army movement in Islamabad or Rawalpindi.

The &quot;Faizabad dharna&quot; started after the cleric, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, and his followers were demanding the resignation of Pakistani law minister Zahid Hamid, as they saw the change in the words of an oath taken by the lawmakers as blasphemy.

Though the change has been reversed, the protesters continue to demand Hamid&#39;s resignation.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) had warned it would not cover Faizabad sit-in during a police crackdown on the protestors.

Following the PEMRA order, there was a media blackout in Islamabad, where almost all leading private TV channels went off the air.&nbsp;

According to Radio Pakistan, Rangers have cordoned off the IJP Road, Expressway, Murree Road and the Faisal Avenue

Pakistan Rangers have taken control of the sit-in area after reportedly a clash erupted between protesters and paramilitary forces at Islamabad's Faizabad Interchange in Islamabad early on Sunday. According to Radio Pakistan, Rangers have cordoned off the IJP Road, Expressway, Murree Road and the Faisal Avenue. As per reports, the situation now is calm in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Earlier, at least six people were killed and hundreds injured after the police crackdown on the protestors, who had camped outside Faizabad Interchange for nearly three weeks, turned violent. According to Dawn, those killed were identified as Hafiz Mohammad Adeel, Jahanzaib Butt, Abdul Rehman, Mohammad Sharjeel, Zohaib Ahmed and Mohammad Irfan. According to a senior police official, no security personnel was killed in the clashes, however, a number of senior police officials sustained injuries.Meanwhile, the media blockade continues in the country, pushing it behind a virtual wall. The series of events have left Pakistan isolated and nobody seems to know what is happening in the country. According to reports, even after the civilian government asking the Army for help, the Commander 111 brigade, which generally takes minutes to enter the capital, was not seen anywhere. The army`s reluctance in showing competence, when the nation perhaps needs it the most, maybe encouraging the hardliners more with an assurance of protection. The civilian government had requested the Commander 111 Brigade directly, as per the mail that was leaked to the Pakistan media, violating the protocol. The proper channel would have been through the Chief of Army Staff General (COAS), Qamar Javed Bajwa, according to the sources. Several hours later, there was no sign of any army movement in Islamabad or Rawalpindi. The "Faizabad dharna" started after the cleric, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, and his followers were demanding the resignation of Pakistani law minister Zahid Hamid, as they saw the change in the words of an oath taken by the lawmakers as blasphemy. Though the change has been reversed, the protesters continue to demand Hamid's resignation. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) had warned it would not cover Faizabad sit-in during a police crackdown on the protestors. Following the PEMRA order, there was a media blackout in Islamabad, where almost all leading private TV channels went off the air.

Pakistan rangers take control of sit-in area in Islamabad

Protesters from a hardline religious group blocked the main highway into Islamabad for the sixth day running Monday, virtually locking down the Pakistani capital and causing commuter fury as authorities hesitated to act.

The roughly 2,000 protesters are demanding the resignation of the federal law minister over a hastily-abandoned amendment to the oath election candidates must swear, a change the demonstrators have linked to blasphemy.

The protesters have camped for nearly a week on a flyover connecting Islamabad with the neighbouring garrison city of Rawalpindi, along which thousands of people commute every day to work in the capital.

Young men armed with clubs are searching anyone approaching the protest site and refusing to let vehicles pass, pelting those who come near with stones.&nbsp;

&quot;I have been stuck up on the road for (the) last one and a half hours because of this mess,&quot; said Adnan Iqbal, an employee of a pharmaceutical firm who spoke to AFP from the traffic jam where he was late for work.

The protesters, members of the Tehreek-i-Labaik Yah Rasool Allah Pakistan religious group, acted after the government introduced an amendment which altered some wording in the oath where candidates avow that the Prophet Mohammed was the last prophet.

The change was made inadvertently, said the government, which quickly reversed it through another amendment.

But the rightwing group insisted it softened that part of the oath and so would allow Ahmadis, a long persecuted Islamic minority sect, to take it.

Ahmadis were legally declared non-Muslims in Pakistan decades ago for their belief in a prophet after Mohammed. They are denounced as heretics by hardliners who describe their beliefs as blasphemy.

&quot;The protesters have baseless demands. Authorities should deal (with) them with force and move them away from the road,&quot; said Fayyaz Hussain, another commuter who had been struggling to reach his office for two hours Monday.

Authorities were shying away from employing force despite the palpable anger of commuters and days of traffic delays.

&quot;Use of force is no option at the moment,&quot; senior Islamabad official Shoaib Ali told AFP, adding that the priority was negotiations. 
Protesters, meanwhile, vowed to stay put.

&quot;Either the minister resigns or we are killed or arrested: we will not leave this place,&quot; Pir Muhammad Afzal Qadri, one of the group`s leaders, told AFP at the protest site.&nbsp;

Blasphemy is a highly contentious issue in deeply Muslim Pakistan, where it carries the death penalty, and even unproven allegations have prompted mob lynchings and other murders.

The roughly 2,000 protesters are demanding the resignation of the federal law minister

Protesters from a hardline religious group blocked the main highway into Islamabad for the sixth day running Monday, virtually locking down the Pakistani capital and causing commuter fury as authorities hesitated to act. The roughly 2,000 protesters are demanding the resignation of the federal law minister over a hastily-abandoned amendment to the oath election candidates must swear, a change the demonstrators have linked to blasphemy. The protesters have camped for nearly a week on a flyover connecting Islamabad with the neighbouring garrison city of Rawalpindi, along which thousands of people commute every day to work in the capital. Young men armed with clubs are searching anyone approaching the protest site and refusing to let vehicles pass, pelting those who come near with stones. "I have been stuck up on the road for (the) last one and a half hours because of this mess," said Adnan Iqbal, an employee of a pharmaceutical firm who spoke to AFP from the traffic jam where he was late for work. The protesters, members of the Tehreek-i-Labaik Yah Rasool Allah Pakistan religious group, acted after the government introduced an amendment which altered some wording in the oath where candidates avow that the Prophet Mohammed was the last prophet. The change was made inadvertently, said the government, which quickly reversed it through another amendment. But the rightwing group insisted it softened that part of the oath and so would allow Ahmadis, a long persecuted Islamic minority sect, to take it. Ahmadis were legally declared non-Muslims in Pakistan decades ago for their belief in a prophet after Mohammed. They are denounced as heretics by hardliners who describe their beliefs as blasphemy. "The protesters have baseless demands. Authorities should deal (with) them with force and move them away from the road," said Fayyaz Hussain, another commuter who had been struggling to reach his office for two hours Monday. Authorities were shying away from employing force despite the palpable anger of commuters and days of traffic delays. "Use of force is no option at the moment," senior Islamabad official Shoaib Ali told AFP, adding that the priority was negotiations. Protesters, meanwhile, vowed to stay put. "Either the minister resigns or we are killed or arrested: we will not leave this place," Pir Muhammad Afzal Qadri, one of the group`s leaders, told AFP at the protest site. Blasphemy is a highly contentious issue in deeply Muslim Pakistan, where it carries the death penalty, and even unproven allegations have prompted mob lynchings and other murders.

Pakistan: Religious group blocks main Islamabad highway for 6th day, locks down capital

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