<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a high-level executive committee to decide on the national team’s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup in India. The high-level committee is headed by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and will soon submit a report to the PM on whether the situation is safe for the national team to participate in the ODI World Cup or not.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is part of the committee?</strong></h2>

<p>As things stand, the committee headed by Bilawal Bhutto consists of Sports Minister Ahsan Mazari, Maryam Aurangzeb, Asad Mahmood, Amin ul Haq, Qamar Zaman Kaira, and former diplomat Tariq Fatmi. They will review the situation in the coming days as a high-level security delegation will travel to India to inspect the venues and other key elements during the World Cup. Once the report is finalised, it will be submitted to the PM, who also acts as the patron-in-chief of the PCB.</p>

<p>On the flip side, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have finalised the programme for the World Cup after the schedule was made public on Tuesday, June 27. None of Pakistan’s demands were met when the schedule was released as the board demanded not to play Afghanistan in Chennai and Australia in Bangalore.</p>

<p>As things stand, Pakistan is yet to finalise its participation in the tournament as they have conveyed that no stand will be taken by the board until the government gives its clearance.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ddca-director-shyam-sharma-provides-latest-update-on-rishabh-pants-recovery-613381">DDCA director Shyam Sharma provides latest update on Rishabh Pant's recovery</a></p>

<h2><strong>PCB’s turmoil</strong></h2>

<p>On the other hand, the PCB has been going through the turmoil of events with the elections to get the next chairman of the board yet again postponed indefinitely. Currently, a new management committee has been formed by the order of the PM and has been headed by Zaka Ashraf, the likely next chairman of the PCB.</p>

<p>Ashraf will travel to Durban in the coming hours to participate in an ICC board meeting, where he is likely to open on Pakistan’s stand on whether to participate in the ODI World Cup or not.</p>

<p>According to the current schedule, the ODI World Cup will start on October 5 with the opening clash between England and New Zealand. Pakistan will open their campaign against one of the qualifier teams on October 6 with them playing India on Sunday, October 15.</p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a high-level executive committee to decide on the national team’s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup in India.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a high-level executive committee to decide on the national team’s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup in India. The high-level committee is headed by Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto and will soon submit a report to the PM on whether the situation is safe for the national team to participate in the ODI World Cup or not. Who is part of the committee? As things stand, the committee headed by Bilawal Bhutto consists of Sports Minister Ahsan Mazari, Maryam Aurangzeb, Asad Mahmood, Amin ul Haq, Qamar Zaman Kaira, and former diplomat Tariq Fatmi. They will review the situation in the coming days as a high-level security delegation will travel to India to inspect the venues and other key elements during the World Cup. Once the report is finalised, it will be submitted to the PM, who also acts as the patron-in-chief of the PCB. On the flip side, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have finalised the programme for the World Cup after the schedule was made public on Tuesday, June 27. None of Pakistan’s demands were met when the schedule was released as the board demanded not to play Afghanistan in Chennai and Australia in Bangalore. As things stand, Pakistan is yet to finalise its participation in the tournament as they have conveyed that no stand will be taken by the board until the government gives its clearance. ALSO READ | DDCA director Shyam Sharma provides latest update on Rishabh Pant's recovery PCB’s turmoil On the other hand, the PCB has been going through the turmoil of events with the elections to get the next chairman of the board yet again postponed indefinitely. Currently, a new management committee has been formed by the order of the PM and has been headed by Zaka Ashraf, the likely next chairman of the PCB. Ashraf will travel to Durban in the coming hours to participate in an ICC board meeting, where he is likely to open on Pakistan’s stand on whether to participate in the ODI World Cup or not. According to the current schedule, the ODI World Cup will start on October 5 with the opening clash between England and New Zealand. Pakistan will open their campaign against one of the qualifier teams on October 6 with them playing India on Sunday, October 15. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan PM forms high-level committee as national team's participation hangs in limbo

<p>Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif slammed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, on Sunday, for engaging in a 'vile, sinister and malicious campaign' against Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.</p>

<p>Sharif took to Twitter and lashed out at the PTI chief saying that his tricks have been 'badly exposed'.</p>

<p>"Imran Khan continues to engage in a vile, sinister and malicious campaign against COAS General Syed Asim Munir. His trick of using the proxies to threaten the Army Chief of an assassination attempt has been badly exposed," he said.</p>

<p>He then further condemned the former Pakistan PM for planning desperate moves to coerce his way back into power after a failed planned attack on the state symbols.</p>

<p>"After his methodically planned attack on the State symbols failed, he is clearly desperate and wants to coerce his way back into power, little knowing that the time of his politics of intimidation, violence and hatred is over," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-officials-hold-meeting-with-former-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-on-bailout-deal-613345"> IMF officials hold meeting with former Pakistan PM Imran Khan on bailout deal</a></p>

<p>"Through such highly condemnable antics, he is only exposing himself, the core of which is defined by putting his personal interest (power grab) over everything else," he further said.</p>

<p>He then restated the support of the people of Pakistan and the political parties for the armed forces and army chief Gen Munir.</p>

<p>"The people of Pakistan and the political parties stand behind their Army Chief and the armed forces like a rock &amp; will thwart any attempt and conspiracy at undermining their prestige, honour and integrity," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Imran Khan continues to engage in a vile, sinister &amp; malicious campaign against COAS General Syed Asim Munir. His trick of using the proxies to threaten the Army Chief of an assassination attempt has been badly exposed. After his methodically planned attack on the State symbols…</p>
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1677937397592629250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Shehbaz Sharif orders legal action against ones involved in 'malicious campaigns'</strong></h2>

<p>As per Geo.tv reports, Sharif, in a press statement shared by PM Office Media Wing, ordered the authorities to take legal action against the ones involved in malicious acts inside the country and abroad.</p>

<p>“It is a clear message to 9th May planners, facilitators and handlers that conspiracy against Pakistan and its institutions will be crushed,” the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Local court in Pakistan upholds maintainability of Toshakhana case</strong></h2>

<p>A local court in Pakistan on Saturday upheld the maintainability of the Toshakhana case against Imran Khan, as per Geo News reports.</p>

<p>The verdict was announced by Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ), Islamabad, Humayun Dilawar, with the hearing set to take place on July 12.</p>

<p>Last year, on October 21, the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified the former PM in the Toshakhana reference under Article 63(1)(p) of the Constitution for making "false statements and incorrect declaration".</p>

<p>Then in the month of May this year, a trial court rejected the former Pakistan PM's petition, challenging the<br />
maintainability of the reference. The court also indicted the PTI chief who declined all the accusations levelled against him.</p>

<p>Khan then challenged the trial court's decision before the Islamabad High Court (IHC), which sent the case back to the trial court for re-examination within a span of seven days, according to Geo news reports.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif slammed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, on Sunday, for engaging in a 'vile, sinister and malicious campaign' against Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif slammed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan, on Sunday, for engaging in a 'vile, sinister and malicious campaign' against Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir. Sharif took to Twitter and lashed out at the PTI chief saying that his tricks have been 'badly exposed'. "Imran Khan continues to engage in a vile, sinister and malicious campaign against COAS General Syed Asim Munir. His trick of using the proxies to threaten the Army Chief of an assassination attempt has been badly exposed," he said. He then further condemned the former Pakistan PM for planning desperate moves to coerce his way back into power after a failed planned attack on the state symbols. "After his methodically planned attack on the State symbols failed, he is clearly desperate and wants to coerce his way back into power, little knowing that the time of his politics of intimidation, violence and hatred is over," he said. Also read: IMF officials hold meeting with former Pakistan PM Imran Khan on bailout deal "Through such highly condemnable antics, he is only exposing himself, the core of which is defined by putting his personal interest (power grab) over everything else," he further said. He then restated the support of the people of Pakistan and the political parties for the armed forces and army chief Gen Munir. "The people of Pakistan and the political parties stand behind their Army Chief and the armed forces like a rock & will thwart any attempt and conspiracy at undermining their prestige, honour and integrity," he added. Imran Khan continues to engage in a vile, sinister & malicious campaign against COAS General Syed Asim Munir. His trick of using the proxies to threaten the Army Chief of an assassination attempt has been badly exposed. After his methodically planned attack on the State symbols… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 9, 2023 × Shehbaz Sharif orders legal action against ones involved in 'malicious campaigns' As per Geo.tv reports, Sharif, in a press statement shared by PM Office Media Wing, ordered the authorities to take legal action against the ones involved in malicious acts inside the country and abroad. “It is a clear message to 9th May planners, facilitators and handlers that conspiracy against Pakistan and its institutions will be crushed,” the statement added. Local court in Pakistan upholds maintainability of Toshakhana case A local court in Pakistan on Saturday upheld the maintainability of the Toshakhana case against Imran Khan, as per Geo News reports. The verdict was announced by Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ), Islamabad, Humayun Dilawar, with the hearing set to take place on July 12. Last year, on October 21, the Election Commission of Pakistan disqualified the former PM in the Toshakhana reference under Article 63(1)(p) of the Constitution for making "false statements and incorrect declaration". Then in the month of May this year, a trial court rejected the former Pakistan PM's petition, challenging the maintainability of the reference. The court also indicted the PTI chief who declined all the accusations levelled against him. Khan then challenged the trial court's decision before the Islamabad High Court (IHC), which sent the case back to the trial court for re-examination within a span of seven days, according to Geo news reports. (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.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif slams Imran Khan for engaging in 'malicious campaign' against army chief

<p>Pakistan's participation in the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is still under the cloud. When the ICC, after much delay, announced the official schedule on June 27, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had said that their participation depends on government clearance. The Pakistani board, however, has written a letter to their government too seek the permission to play in India, reported ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p>In a letter addressed to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the PCB asked for advice on the upcoming travel to India required for the ODI World Cup 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Soon after the World Cup schedule was announced last Tuesday, we wrote to our Patron, Honourable Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, through the Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Ministry, copying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior, requesting clearance to participate in the World Cup," a PCB official told ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-skipper-ben-stokes-reacts-to-jonny-bairstows-run-out-after-loss-in-lords-test-611143">Ashes 2023: England skipper Ben Stokes reacts to Jonny Bairstow's run-out after loss in Lord's Test</a></p>

<p>The letter also seeks views on the government's reservation, if any, on the team travelling to India and also if the it wants to send a security delegation to India beforehand.<br />
<br />
Pakistan will play their nine games at five venues: Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai Kolkata and Ahmedabad.&nbsp;If qualified for the semifinals, Pakistan will play in Kolkata on November 16 in Kolkata. India will play in Mumbai if qualified for semis unless they play against Pakistan, in which case they'll play in Kolkata, reported ICC at time of announcement of schedule.</p>

<p>Pakistan's tie against India - one of the marquee world cup matches - will be played in Ahmedabad on October 15.</p>

<table align="center" border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Opponent</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Venue</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Date</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Qualifier Team</td>
			<td>Hyderabad</td>
			<td>October 6</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Qualifier Team</td>
			<td>Hyderabad</td>
			<td>October 12</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>India</td>
			<td>Ahmedabad</td>
			<td>October 15</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Australia</td>
			<td>Bengaluru</td>
			<td>October 20</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Afghanistan</td>
			<td>Chennai</td>
			<td>October 23</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>South Africa</td>
			<td>Chennai</td>
			<td>October 27</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Bangladesh</td>
			<td>Kolkata</td>
			<td>October 31</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>New Zealand</td>
			<td>Bengaluru</td>
			<td>November 4</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>England</td>
			<td>Kolkata</td>
			<td>November 12</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>"The decision to visit India and approve venues at which we can play our matches is the prerogative of the Government of Pakistan. We have absolute trust in the judgment of our government and will follow whatever is advised. It is entirely up to the Government of Pakistan the process it wants to formulate and follow before advising us on the next steps. If this requires sending an advance team to India to inspect the venues and hold meetings with the event organisers, then it will solely be the government's decision," the PCB official further stated.</p>

<p>The two countries are at loggerheads due to political tension between them. The BCCI recently had decided not to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming Asia Cup. The regional tournament, after BCCI's objection, will now be held in a hybrid model, with rest of the games after first four to be played in Sri Lanka. Pakistan had threatened to pull out of the ODI World Cup after India decided not to play in Pakistan for the upcoming Asia Cup.</p>

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Pakistan's participation in the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is still under the cloud. When the ICC, after much delay, announced the official schedule on June 27, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had said that their participation depends on government clearance.

Pakistan's participation in the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is still under the cloud. When the ICC, after much delay, announced the official schedule on June 27, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had said that their participation depends on government clearance. The Pakistani board, however, has written a letter to their government too seek the permission to play in India, reported ESPNCricinfo. In a letter addressed to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the PCB asked for advice on the upcoming travel to India required for the ODI World Cup 2023. "Soon after the World Cup schedule was announced last Tuesday, we wrote to our Patron, Honourable Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, through the Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Ministry, copying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior, requesting clearance to participate in the World Cup," a PCB official told ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Ashes 2023: England skipper Ben Stokes reacts to Jonny Bairstow's run-out after loss in Lord's Test The letter also seeks views on the government's reservation, if any, on the team travelling to India and also if the it wants to send a security delegation to India beforehand. Pakistan will play their nine games at five venues: Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai Kolkata and Ahmedabad. If qualified for the semifinals, Pakistan will play in Kolkata on November 16 in Kolkata. India will play in Mumbai if qualified for semis unless they play against Pakistan, in which case they'll play in Kolkata, reported ICC at time of announcement of schedule. Pakistan's tie against India - one of the marquee world cup matches - will be played in Ahmedabad on October 15. Opponent Venue Date Qualifier Team Hyderabad October 6 Qualifier Team Hyderabad October 12 India Ahmedabad October 15 Australia Bengaluru October 20 Afghanistan Chennai October 23 South Africa Chennai October 27 Bangladesh Kolkata October 31 New Zealand Bengaluru November 4 England Kolkata November 12 "The decision to visit India and approve venues at which we can play our matches is the prerogative of the Government of Pakistan. We have absolute trust in the judgment of our government and will follow whatever is advised. It is entirely up to the Government of Pakistan the process it wants to formulate and follow before advising us on the next steps. If this requires sending an advance team to India to inspect the venues and hold meetings with the event organisers, then it will solely be the government's decision," the PCB official further stated. The two countries are at loggerheads due to political tension between them. The BCCI recently had decided not to travel to Pakistan for the upcoming Asia Cup. The regional tournament, after BCCI's objection, will now be held in a hybrid model, with rest of the games after first four to be played in Sri Lanka. Pakistan had threatened to pull out of the ODI World Cup after India decided not to play in Pakistan for the upcoming Asia Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup: PCB writes to Shehbaz Sharif government to seek travel clearance for India

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again stirred&nbsp;a new controversy. A video of the Pakistan leader who is in France to attend the two-day New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris is going viral on Twitter. Here's why it is causing a controversy on social media.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's what happened</strong></h2>

<p>Following his arrival in France, a video shared by his office has sparked a row on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-village-mourns-24-feared-dead-in-greek-migrant-tragedy-607006">Pakistan village mourns 24 feared dead in Greek migrant boat tragedy</a></strong></p>

<p>In the video which is being widely shared by people on Twitter and other platforms, Sharif can be seen taking an umbrella away from a woman protocol officer who came to receive him in rain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif insisted on holding the umbrella himself when a protocol officer received him at a summit hosted by the French president on Thursday. But his “good gesture” left the woman officer walking in the rain. ☔️ <a href="https://t.co/8R50EvHy3j">pic.twitter.com/8R50EvHy3j</a></p>
— Baker Atyani (@atyanibaker) <a href="https://twitter.com/atyanibaker/status/1671807239437398017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why is this a big deal?</strong></h2>

<p><br />
Upon Shehbaz Sharif's landing and the subsequent arrival at Palais Brogniart to attend the summit, it was raining in Paris.</p>

<p>To receive the Pakistani Prime Minister, a lady protocol officer was waiting for him with an umbrella. Once Sharif exited the car, the two started walking towards the venue.</p>

<p>They can then be seen having a word, following which the Pakistani leader takes the umbrella from the female protocol officer and paces ahead with it. The female officer follows the Pakistan PM, walking in the rain just a few steps behind him.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-new-sc-bench-to-hear-pleas-against-military-trial-of-civilians-after-senior-judge-recuses-himself-607271">Pakistan: New SC bench formed to hear pleas against military trial of civilians after senior judges' concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, the video has sparked a debate. While some people are calling it a "good gesture", others are calling the behaviour an "embarrassment", yet others have labelled Sharif's conduct as "impolite".</p>

<p>However, many have also jumped to his defence. One user posted a screenshot from the video and wrote, "There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷 <a href="https://t.co/mECnFff9yQ">pic.twitter.com/mECnFff9yQ</a></p>
— Halima (@HalimaS01) <a href="https://twitter.com/HalimaS01/status/1671854291769004032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Another wrote: "Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life.</p>
— BIKKI JHA (@BIKKIJHA13) <a href="https://twitter.com/BIKKIJHA13/status/1671935313864970241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Yet another user pointed out that Sharif may have taken the umbrella from the officer "because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown</p>
— عمر (@OZK_Speaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/OZK_Speaks/status/1672039377558728711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella. He is such a great man," said another.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella.<br />
He is such a great man.</p>
— MUHAMMAD ANWER KHAN (@MUHAMMADANWERKH) <a href="https://twitter.com/MUHAMMADANWERKH/status/1671906640520704001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why is Shehbaz Sharif in France?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Paris to attend the two-day summit, on the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron.</p>

<p>As per an Radio Pakistan report, the Pakistani PM earlier met with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in a last-ditch effort to get a much-needed loan to aid Pakistan through its financial troubles.</p>

<p>The South Asian nation has also asked the United Stes to play a role in reviving the stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, reported IANS. However, the US is reportedly more interested in finding out what Paksitan will do to cope with the economic challenges, in case the IMF funding falls through.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again stirred a new controversy. A video of the Pakistan leader who is in France to attend the two-day New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris is going viral on Twitter.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again stirred a new controversy. A video of the Pakistan leader who is in France to attend the two-day New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris is going viral on Twitter. Here's why it is causing a controversy on social media. Here's what happened Following his arrival in France, a video shared by his office has sparked a row on social media. Also read | Pakistan village mourns 24 feared dead in Greek migrant boat tragedy In the video which is being widely shared by people on Twitter and other platforms, Sharif can be seen taking an umbrella away from a woman protocol officer who came to receive him in rain. Watch the video here: PM of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif insisted on holding the umbrella himself when a protocol officer received him at a summit hosted by the French president on Thursday. But his “good gesture” left the woman officer walking in the rain. ☔️ pic.twitter.com/8R50EvHy3j — Baker Atyani (@atyanibaker) June 22, 2023 × Why is this a big deal? Upon Shehbaz Sharif's landing and the subsequent arrival at Palais Brogniart to attend the summit, it was raining in Paris. To receive the Pakistani Prime Minister, a lady protocol officer was waiting for him with an umbrella. Once Sharif exited the car, the two started walking towards the venue. They can then be seen having a word, following which the Pakistani leader takes the umbrella from the female protocol officer and paces ahead with it. The female officer follows the Pakistan PM, walking in the rain just a few steps behind him. Also read | Pakistan: New SC bench formed to hear pleas against military trial of civilians after senior judges' concerns Now, the video has sparked a debate. While some people are calling it a "good gesture", others are calling the behaviour an "embarrassment", yet others have labelled Sharif's conduct as "impolite". However, many have also jumped to his defence. One user posted a screenshot from the video and wrote, "There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷". There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷 pic.twitter.com/mECnFff9yQ — Halima (@HalimaS01) June 22, 2023 × Another wrote: "Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life." Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life. — BIKKI JHA (@BIKKIJHA13) June 22, 2023 × Yet another user pointed out that Sharif may have taken the umbrella from the officer "because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown." Because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown — عمر (@OZK_Speaks) June 23, 2023 × "We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella. He is such a great man," said another. We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella. He is such a great man. — MUHAMMAD ANWER KHAN (@MUHAMMADANWERKH) June 22, 2023 × Why is Shehbaz Sharif in France? Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Paris to attend the two-day summit, on the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. As per an Radio Pakistan report, the Pakistani PM earlier met with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in a last-ditch effort to get a much-needed loan to aid Pakistan through its financial troubles. The South Asian nation has also asked the United Stes to play a role in reviving the stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, reported IANS. However, the US is reportedly more interested in finding out what Paksitan will do to cope with the economic challenges, in case the IMF funding falls through. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif takes away umbrella from woman, leaving her to walk behind in rain. Watch!

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<p>Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has been severely criticised for his remarks on Pakistani expatriates in the National Assembly. In a statement last week, the Association of Physicians of Pakistani-Descent of North America (APPNA) said that Defence Minister Asif used "condescending and degraded language" when referring to the Pakistani diaspora in the United States and Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the National Assembly last Wednesday (June 14), Asif said, "English speakers sitting outside of Pakistan are saying that remittance will be stopped… remittances are sent by Gulf countries. Someone is living in Canada, someone in America… these are shameless people, they come back to bury the bodies and then go back," The Tribune reported on Saturday (June 17).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Asif's remarks unfortunate &amp; unacceptable: APPNA</strong></h2>

<p>Hitting back, the APPNA said in a statement that Asif's remarks "were glaringly contemptuous of Pakistanis in North America and Europe."</p>

<p>"Derogatory comments about more than three million overseas Pakistanis by a sitting minister of the Pakistan government holding a very important portfolio of Defence is unfortunate and unacceptable."</p>

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<p>The APPNA pointed out that the Pakistani diaspora living in the Western world, in general, and North America in particular, "has forever nothing but the welfare of Pakistan on its mind".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">APPNA condemns disparaging remarks of Khwaja Mohammad Asif, Pakistan Minister for Defense about overseas Pakistanis, demands apology. Requests Honorable Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmshehbaz</a> to reconsider Mr. Asif’s position in the cabinet. <a href="https://t.co/yMvu2ygsQU">pic.twitter.com/yMvu2ygsQU</a></p>
— Assoc. of Pakistani Physicians of North America (@APPNA) <a href="https://twitter.com/APPNA/status/1669405829513052160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The association also said that the services of overseas Pakistanis, regardless of whether they carried single or dual nationality, always brought a good name to Pakistan. "Mr Asif may have his political differences with some overseas Pakistanis, but that does not give him any right to disparage the whole community. Even responding to political opponents should be with political arguments and not with hateful rhetoric," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The APPNA hoped that the defence minister's remarks did not reflect the stance of Islamabad. The association further said it felt sorry for some members of the National Assembly who encouraged Asif's remarks with desk thumping.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PTI leader hits out at Asif: 'Remarks utterly ill-informed'</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Umar hit out at Defence Minister Asif over his remarks on Pakistani expatriates. Taking to Twitter, Umar said on Saturday that Asif's remarks were shameful and utterly ill-informed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Khwaja asif comments about Pakistani's living in western countries is both shameful and utterly ill informed. In first 11 months of this fiscal year almost $ 10.5 billion remittances have been recieved from north America, Europe and Australia. This is 42% of total remittances.…</p>
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<p>"In the first 11 months of this fiscal year, almost $ 10.5 billion in remittances have been received from North America, Europe and Australia. This is 42% of total remittances. State bank total reserves right now are about $4 billion," Umar tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So if these English-speaking Pakistanis as Asif calls them, had not sent these remittances, Pakistan would have defaulted by now," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has been severely criticised for his remarks on Pakistani expatriates in the National Assembly. In a statement last week, the Association of Physicians of Pakistani-Descent of North America (APPNA) said that Defence Minister Asif used "condescending and degraded language" when referring to the Pakistani diaspora in the United States and Canada.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has been severely criticised for his remarks on Pakistani expatriates in the National Assembly. In a statement last week, the Association of Physicians of Pakistani-Descent of North America (APPNA) said that Defence Minister Asif used "condescending and degraded language" when referring to the Pakistani diaspora in the United States and Canada. Addressing the National Assembly last Wednesday (June 14), Asif said, "English speakers sitting outside of Pakistan are saying that remittance will be stopped… remittances are sent by Gulf countries. Someone is living in Canada, someone in America… these are shameless people, they come back to bury the bodies and then go back," The Tribune reported on Saturday (June 17). Asif's remarks unfortunate & unacceptable: APPNA Hitting back, the APPNA said in a statement that Asif's remarks "were glaringly contemptuous of Pakistanis in North America and Europe." "Derogatory comments about more than three million overseas Pakistanis by a sitting minister of the Pakistan government holding a very important portfolio of Defence is unfortunate and unacceptable." Also read | Al-Qadir Trust case: Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan, wife's pre-arrest bail approved until July 4 The APPNA pointed out that the Pakistani diaspora living in the Western world, in general, and North America in particular, "has forever nothing but the welfare of Pakistan on its mind". APPNA condemns disparaging remarks of Khwaja Mohammad Asif, Pakistan Minister for Defense about overseas Pakistanis, demands apology. Requests Honorable Prime Minister @cmshehbaz to reconsider Mr. Asif’s position in the cabinet. pic.twitter.com/yMvu2ygsQU — Assoc. of Pakistani Physicians of North America (@APPNA) June 15, 2023 × The association also said that the services of overseas Pakistanis, regardless of whether they carried single or dual nationality, always brought a good name to Pakistan. "Mr Asif may have his political differences with some overseas Pakistanis, but that does not give him any right to disparage the whole community. Even responding to political opponents should be with political arguments and not with hateful rhetoric," the statement added. The APPNA hoped that the defence minister's remarks did not reflect the stance of Islamabad. The association further said it felt sorry for some members of the National Assembly who encouraged Asif's remarks with desk thumping. PTI leader hits out at Asif: 'Remarks utterly ill-informed' Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Umar hit out at Defence Minister Asif over his remarks on Pakistani expatriates. Taking to Twitter, Umar said on Saturday that Asif's remarks were shameful and utterly ill-informed. Khwaja asif comments about Pakistani's living in western countries is both shameful and utterly ill informed. In first 11 months of this fiscal year almost $ 10.5 billion remittances have been recieved from north America, Europe and Australia. This is 42% of total remittances.… — Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) June 17, 2023 × "In the first 11 months of this fiscal year, almost $ 10.5 billion in remittances have been received from North America, Europe and Australia. This is 42% of total remittances. State bank total reserves right now are about $4 billion," Umar tweeted. "So if these English-speaking Pakistanis as Asif calls them, had not sent these remittances, Pakistan would have defaulted by now," he added. 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.

Pakistan defence minister severely criticised for remarks on Pak expatriates

<p>Pakistan's Prime Minister&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif&nbsp;has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News. The Pakistani PM also made the plea during the central general council meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stating that he was waiting for his elder brother to come back so that he could hand over the presidency of the PML-N to him.</p>

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<p>Nawaz Sharif has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 due to health reasons. Shehbaz Sharif, who took over the PML-N's presidency after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court, acknowledged the need for young leadership within the party and praised the efforts of Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz.</p>

<p>"You will see that the map of politics will change when Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan," Shehbaz Sharif said.</p>

<p>The statement from Shehbaz Sharif comes after Pakistan President Arif Alvi signed the Supreme Court Review of Judgements and Orders Act 2023, which allows Nawaz Sharif to exercise his right to appeal against lifetime disqualifications within 60 days. The new law permits appeals against court decisions under Article 184(3) and applies to past verdicts as well.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-25-students-killed-in-overnight-militant-attack-605495">Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack</a></p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Pakistan Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017, for concealing unpaid salary from his son. Later, the court ruled that individuals disqualified under Articles 62 and 63 cannot serve as the head of a political party.</p>

<h2><strong>Shehbaz Sharif chosen as PML-N president</strong></h2>

<p>During the PML-N general council meeting, the ruling party appointed Shehbaz Sharif as the president, and Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, as the senior vice president. The meeting also selected other office bearers, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>The uncontested elections within the PML-N showcased a facade of unity but revealed the strong influence of the Sharif family, with virtually every office holder being hand-picked by them, the report suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shehbaz Sharif assumed leadership of the party in 2018 after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification as prime minister and subsequent ban on his presidency. It is widely believed that despite residing in London, Nawaz Sharif continues to exert significant control over the PML-N, with decisions made in the party requiring his consent.</p>

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Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News. The Pakistani PM also made the plea during the central general council meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stating that he was waiting for his elder brother to come back so that he could hand over the presidency of the PML-N to him. Also Read | China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record Nawaz Sharif has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 due to health reasons. Shehbaz Sharif, who took over the PML-N's presidency after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court, acknowledged the need for young leadership within the party and praised the efforts of Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz. "You will see that the map of politics will change when Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan," Shehbaz Sharif said. The statement from Shehbaz Sharif comes after Pakistan President Arif Alvi signed the Supreme Court Review of Judgements and Orders Act 2023, which allows Nawaz Sharif to exercise his right to appeal against lifetime disqualifications within 60 days. The new law permits appeals against court decisions under Article 184(3) and applies to past verdicts as well. Also Read | Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Pakistan Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017, for concealing unpaid salary from his son. Later, the court ruled that individuals disqualified under Articles 62 and 63 cannot serve as the head of a political party. Shehbaz Sharif chosen as PML-N president During the PML-N general council meeting, the ruling party appointed Shehbaz Sharif as the president, and Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, as the senior vice president. The meeting also selected other office bearers, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × The uncontested elections within the PML-N showcased a facade of unity but revealed the strong influence of the Sharif family, with virtually every office holder being hand-picked by them, the report suggested. Shehbaz Sharif assumed leadership of the party in 2018 after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification as prime minister and subsequent ban on his presidency. It is widely believed that despite residing in London, Nawaz Sharif continues to exert significant control over the PML-N, with decisions made in the party requiring his consent. 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. ×

Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign

The Shehbaz Sharif administration, which is unveiling the budget for 2023–24, is facing challenging times as the economy of Pakistan is in disarray and appears to have fallen short of all of its goals for this year.

Pakistan releases new budget amid severe economic crisis

<p>At least 11 individuals, including a four-year-old boy, lost their lives when an avalanche struck a group of nomadic tribe members crossing a mountainous area in northern Pakistan, according to the country's disaster management agency.&nbsp;The tragic incident occurred late on Friday at Shounter Top Pass, situated at an elevation of 4,420 meters (14,501ft), connecting the Astore district of the Gilgit-Baltistan region to the neighboring Kashmir valley.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The bodies of the victims have been recovered, and the injured are receiving medical attention. Alongside the fatalities, 25 others sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Rescue efforts were hindered by severe weather conditions and the remote location of the incident.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-secures-approval-for-second-hydropower-project-in-nepal-strengthening-bilateral-energy-cooperation-597637">India secures approval for second hydropower project in Nepal, strengthening bilateral energy cooperation</a></p>

<p>Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed concern over the rising incidence of such events in Pakistan, attributing them to the impact of climate change. Pakistan has experienced unprecedented monsoon rains and glacial melting in recent years, placing it among the top 10 countries at risk of natural disasters resulting from climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharif called on the international community to fulfill its responsibility in assisting developing countries facing economic challenges arising from the adverse effects of climate change.&nbsp;"Such incidents are rising in Pakistan due to the impact of climate change," Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a statement.</p>

<p>Watch | Turkey Elections 2023: Erdogan back for another five years</p>

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<p>Floods in Pakistan have significant impacts on infrastructure, agriculture, and the livelihoods of people in affected areas. They cause displacement, damage to homes, loss of crops, and even loss of life.</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan 2022 floods&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In 2022, Pakistan experienced a severe monsoon season with heavy rainfall, leading to devastating floods and landslides that had a significant impact on millions of people. All major provinces of the country were affected, affecting approximately 15% of the population.</p>

<p>According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), even six months after the Pakistani government declared a national emergency, around 1.8 million people were still living in areas near stagnant floodwater that was contaminated.</p>

<p>This number was a decrease from 4.5 million people in January, as shown by imagery from the UN Satellite Centre. While some displaced individuals have begun to return to their places of origin, they continue to face difficult circumstances, as per reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to UNOCHA, “There is a looming nutrition crisis: the number of children suffering from wasting in Pakistan’s flood-affected areas had greatly increased compared to the pre-flood situation, which was already reaching emergency levels.”&nbsp;</p>

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At least 11 individuals, including a four-year-old boy, lost their lives when an avalanche struck a group of nomadic tribe members crossing a mountainous area in northern Pakistan, according to the country's disaster management agency.

At least 11 individuals, including a four-year-old boy, lost their lives when an avalanche struck a group of nomadic tribe members crossing a mountainous area in northern Pakistan, according to the country's disaster management agency. The tragic incident occurred late on Friday at Shounter Top Pass, situated at an elevation of 4,420 meters (14,501ft), connecting the Astore district of the Gilgit-Baltistan region to the neighboring Kashmir valley. Also Read | Mysterious! Venice canal stuns locals as patch takes on fluorescent green hue The bodies of the victims have been recovered, and the injured are receiving medical attention. Alongside the fatalities, 25 others sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Rescue efforts were hindered by severe weather conditions and the remote location of the incident. Also Read | India secures approval for second hydropower project in Nepal, strengthening bilateral energy cooperation Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed concern over the rising incidence of such events in Pakistan, attributing them to the impact of climate change. Pakistan has experienced unprecedented monsoon rains and glacial melting in recent years, placing it among the top 10 countries at risk of natural disasters resulting from climate change. Sharif called on the international community to fulfill its responsibility in assisting developing countries facing economic challenges arising from the adverse effects of climate change. "Such incidents are rising in Pakistan due to the impact of climate change," Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said in a statement. Watch | Turkey Elections 2023: Erdogan back for another five years × Floods in Pakistan have significant impacts on infrastructure, agriculture, and the livelihoods of people in affected areas. They cause displacement, damage to homes, loss of crops, and even loss of life. Pakistan 2022 floods In 2022, Pakistan experienced a severe monsoon season with heavy rainfall, leading to devastating floods and landslides that had a significant impact on millions of people. All major provinces of the country were affected, affecting approximately 15% of the population. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), even six months after the Pakistani government declared a national emergency, around 1.8 million people were still living in areas near stagnant floodwater that was contaminated. This number was a decrease from 4.5 million people in January, as shown by imagery from the UN Satellite Centre. While some displaced individuals have begun to return to their places of origin, they continue to face difficult circumstances, as per reports. According to UNOCHA, “There is a looming nutrition crisis: the number of children suffering from wasting in Pakistan’s flood-affected areas had greatly increased compared to the pre-flood situation, which was already reaching emergency levels.” 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. ×

Pakistan avalanche claims 11 lives, including four-year-old boy

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<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to bring the perpetrators responsible for May 9 violence to justice, saying the rioters would be punished in the same&nbsp;way the United States did to its citizens who stormed Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. on January 6, 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of a water supply project, Sharif said no one should object if the government punished rioters under the law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, in the city of Quaid, we all are ashamed of what happened on May 9 in Lahore. Justice requires punishing the perpetrators like the rioters of the Capitol building on January 6, 2021," said Sharif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If that [American] punishment is legal, then no one should object if we do so under our law for the desecration of [the memorials of] our martyrs,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharif, referring to former PM Imran Khan e-Insaaf (PTI) chief and his party workers said politics of chaos started by the group culminated on May 9 in the form of the desecration of the nation’s martyrs and security installations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Strings of the May 9 riots are being pulled abroad and the desecration of martyrs’ memorials and installations at the instigation of Imran Khan is the darkest chapter in the nation’s history.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/imran-khan-blames-pakistan-army-chief-asim-munir-for-arrest-592289"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Imran Khan blames Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir for arrest</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Government mulls ban on Khan's party&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The statement by Sharif comes days after&nbsp;Defence Minister Khawaja Asif in a televised&nbsp;address said the government was mulling a ban on PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is under consideration to ban PTI," said Asif, adding, "The PTI has attacked the very basis of the state, that never happened before. It can't be tolerated."</p>

<p>Talking about the violence that erupted in the aftermath of Imran's arrest earlier this month, Asif said,&nbsp;“Whatever happened on May 9 wasn’t spontaneous. It was pre-planned, so in this background there are chances we consider the&nbsp;ban.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-mentally-unstable-and-drug-abuser-must-be-kept-in-museum-pak-health-minister-596951" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Imran Khan ‘mentally unstable’ and drug abuser, must be kept in museum: Pak health minister</strong></a></p>

<p>While attacks mount on Imran, his party appears to be fragmented. A day after&nbsp;PTI Vice Chairman&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi was rearrested by Punjab Police,&nbsp;Imran's close aide and former human rights minister&nbsp;Shireen Mazari resigned from the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, she criticised the violence that broke out after Khan was arrested on May 9</p>

<p>"Not only the May 9-10 violence, but I’ve always condemned every kind of violence especially against state institutions and symbols like the General Headquarters, Supreme Court and Parliament,” she stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to bring the perpetrators responsible for May 9 violence to justice, saying the rioters would be punished in the same way the United States did to its citizens who stormed Capitol Hill in Washington D.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has vowed to bring the perpetrators responsible for May 9 violence to justice, saying the rioters would be punished in the same way the United States did to its citizens who stormed Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. on January 6, 2021. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of a water supply project, Sharif said no one should object if the government punished rioters under the law. "Today, in the city of Quaid, we all are ashamed of what happened on May 9 in Lahore. Justice requires punishing the perpetrators like the rioters of the Capitol building on January 6, 2021," said Sharif. “If that [American] punishment is legal, then no one should object if we do so under our law for the desecration of [the memorials of] our martyrs,” he added. Sharif, referring to former PM Imran Khan e-Insaaf (PTI) chief and his party workers said politics of chaos started by the group culminated on May 9 in the form of the desecration of the nation’s martyrs and security installations. “Strings of the May 9 riots are being pulled abroad and the desecration of martyrs’ memorials and installations at the instigation of Imran Khan is the darkest chapter in the nation’s history.” WATCH | Imran Khan blames Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir for arrest Government mulls ban on Khan's party The statement by Sharif comes days after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif in a televised address said the government was mulling a ban on PTI. "It is under consideration to ban PTI," said Asif, adding, "The PTI has attacked the very basis of the state, that never happened before. It can't be tolerated." Talking about the violence that erupted in the aftermath of Imran's arrest earlier this month, Asif said, “Whatever happened on May 9 wasn’t spontaneous. It was pre-planned, so in this background there are chances we consider the ban.” ALSO READ | Imran Khan ‘mentally unstable’ and drug abuser, must be kept in museum: Pak health minister While attacks mount on Imran, his party appears to be fragmented. A day after PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi was rearrested by Punjab Police, Imran's close aide and former human rights minister Shireen Mazari resigned from the party. Speaking at a press conference, she criticised the violence that broke out after Khan was arrested on May 9 "Not only the May 9-10 violence, but I’ve always condemned every kind of violence especially against state institutions and symbols like the General Headquarters, Supreme Court and Parliament,” she stated. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan PM says May 9 rioters should be punished like US Capitol Hill attackers

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday announced that Iran will supply a 100 megawatts of electricity daily to Balochistan's Gwadar region. The supply will begin once the electricity commission line project becomes functional.

Iran to supply 100 MW of electricity to Pakistan; Shehbaz Sharif & Ebrahim Raisi inaugurate project

<p>Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on former PM Imran Khan to join the investigation into the Al Qadir Trust case. According to Dawn, the Pakistani PM said, “Leave the fabrications of here and there. Join the investigation and account for your corruption. End of the matter.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>His statement came hours after Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi was granted protective bail by the Lahore Court on Monday. Imran and his wife Bibi are implicated in a graft case. The couple is alleged to have availed financial assistance from a land developer involved in the building of Al Qadir University. Both Khan and Bibi are trustees at the university.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Khan was granted bail in Al Qadir Trust case</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Imran Khan was granted a two-week bail by the Islamabad High Court on Friday after Pakistan’s Supreme Court termed his arrest “invalid and unlawful.” The Pakistani government, on the other hand, has accused the court of favouring Imran Khan. The country’s National Assembly has also formed a five-member committee to file references against the Supreme Court judges.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ruling coalition stages protests before Supreme Court</strong></h2>

<p>Parties and groups backed by Pakistan's ruling coalition staged protests in front of the Supreme Court on Monday to press the court to take a hard stance against Khan and his supporters.&nbsp;Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman were among those who joined the coalition's sit-in.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ex-PM Imran Khan reminds nation of erstwhile east Pakistan</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, the protestors broke into Islamabad's highly sensitive red zone area, where the Pakistani prime minister and president live. Police said the protests were peaceful but warned that there was a "risk of terrorism".</p>

<h2><strong>Al Qadir Trust case- Explained in detail</strong></h2>

<p>Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, along with his wife Bushra Bibi, and their close associates Zulfiqar Bukhari and Babar Awan, are facing serious allegations of embezzling billions of Pakistani rupees. It is claimed that they received substantial amounts of money from a real estate firm called Bahria Town in exchange for legalising a laundered sum of 50 billion PKR. This money was previously identified and returned to Pakistan by the United Kingdom during the tenure of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-imran-khan-reaches-lahore-high-court-to-seek-bail-592625">Also Read |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan reaches Lahore High Court to seek bail</a></strong></p>

<p>Authorities in Pakistan have stated that Imran Khan was arrested by officials from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) specifically in relation to the Al-Qadir Trust case. They further mentioned that there are numerous other corruption cases under investigation involving the former prime minister.</p>

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Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on former PM Imran Khan to join the investigation into the Al Qadir Trust case. According to Dawn, the Pakistani PM said, “Leave the fabrications of here and there.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on former PM Imran Khan to join the investigation into the Al Qadir Trust case. According to Dawn, the Pakistani PM said, “Leave the fabrications of here and there. Join the investigation and account for your corruption. End of the matter.” His statement came hours after Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi was granted protective bail by the Lahore Court on Monday. Imran and his wife Bibi are implicated in a graft case. The couple is alleged to have availed financial assistance from a land developer involved in the building of Al Qadir University. Both Khan and Bibi are trustees at the university. Khan was granted bail in Al Qadir Trust case Earlier, Imran Khan was granted a two-week bail by the Islamabad High Court on Friday after Pakistan’s Supreme Court termed his arrest “invalid and unlawful.” The Pakistani government, on the other hand, has accused the court of favouring Imran Khan. The country’s National Assembly has also formed a five-member committee to file references against the Supreme Court judges. Ruling coalition stages protests before Supreme Court Parties and groups backed by Pakistan's ruling coalition staged protests in front of the Supreme Court on Monday to press the court to take a hard stance against Khan and his supporters. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman were among those who joined the coalition's sit-in. Watch: Ex-PM Imran Khan reminds nation of erstwhile east Pakistan × Earlier, the protestors broke into Islamabad's highly sensitive red zone area, where the Pakistani prime minister and president live. Police said the protests were peaceful but warned that there was a "risk of terrorism". Al Qadir Trust case- Explained in detail Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, along with his wife Bushra Bibi, and their close associates Zulfiqar Bukhari and Babar Awan, are facing serious allegations of embezzling billions of Pakistani rupees. It is claimed that they received substantial amounts of money from a real estate firm called Bahria Town in exchange for legalising a laundered sum of 50 billion PKR. This money was previously identified and returned to Pakistan by the United Kingdom during the tenure of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. Also Read | Pakistan: Imran Khan reaches Lahore High Court to seek bail Authorities in Pakistan have stated that Imran Khan was arrested by officials from the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) specifically in relation to the Al-Qadir Trust case. They further mentioned that there are numerous other corruption cases under investigation involving the former prime minister. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pakistan turmoil: Protests against judiciary continue as government decides to file references against judges

The Pakistani government is currently pursuing the arsonist who attacked public buildings a day after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif gave security forces a 72-hour deadline as the country's week of unparalleled unrest drew to an end. In Pakistan, hundreds of individuals have been detained.

Pakistan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issues 72-hour ultimatum for arrests

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the authorities on Saturday to track down and arrest in the next 72 hours all those responsible for arson and vandalism at the Jinnah House and military and civil installations, reported ARY News.</p>

<p>The instructions were given by Shehbaz Sharif while he chaired a meeting held at the Punjab Safe City Authority Headquarters in Lahore. "All the culprits, planners, instigators, and attackers involved in the vandalism should be arrested in the next 72 hours," PM Sharif said.</p>

<p>"This is a critical task that requires swift action to ensure the safety and security of our citizens.”</p>

<p>Pakistan's prime minister expressed regret over the Safe City Project's destruction during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) tenure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/this-mafia-is-going-all-out-imran-khan-recalls-bangladesh-liberation-osamas-killing-to-slam-army-592097">Imran Khan recalls Bangladesh liberation, Osama's killing to slam army</a></p>

<p>"I am deeply disturbed by this situation, and I would like to request the chief minister to take immediate action,” Sharif said. He added that he clearly told Punjab's caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi that any act of sabotage is unacceptable and the culprits will be arrested and made to appear before the court for justice.</p>

<p>Sharif stated that he was informed around 40 to 60 per cent of CCTV cameras were found to be non-functional in the last five years. He stated that the Safe City System which has been designed to protect people has suffered because of criminal negligence.</p>

<p>He further directed to increase the number of anti-terrorism courts present in the province where they can swiftly begin legal proceedings against all culprits.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Pakistan: Imran Khan attacks Army Chief, says 'no rule of law in Pakistan' | WION Pulse</strong></p>

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<p>"It is time to do or die or now or never. The real culprits who showed this kind of enmity against the motherland should be arrested and produced in anti-terrorism courts under the relevant laws. These elements should be arrested immediately," Shehbaz Sharif was quoted as saying by the ARY News.</p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, PM Sharif tweeted, "I have given law enforcement apparatus a target of 72 hours to arrest all those involved in facilitating, abetting and perpetrating the disgraceful incidents of arson, ransacking, sabotage &amp; damaging public &amp; private properties. All available resources including technological aid &amp; intelligence are being deployed to chase down these elements. Bringing these people to justice is a test case for the government. Their cases will be tried by the anti-terrorism courts."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have given law enforcement apparatus a target of 72 hours to arrest all those involved in facilitating, abetting and perpetrating the disgraceful incidents of arson, ransacking, sabotage &amp; damaging public &amp; private properties. All available resources including technological aid…</p>
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1657332222276571137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, Punjab's caretaker CM Mohsin Naqvi and PM Sharif visited the vandalised Lahore Corps Commander House where he expressed solidarity with the military leadership of the country. The prime minister also visited the Services Hospital and met the injured personnel.</p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the authorities on Saturday to track down and arrest in the next 72 hours all those responsible for arson and vandalism at the Jinnah House and military and civil installations, reported ARY News.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the authorities on Saturday to track down and arrest in the next 72 hours all those responsible for arson and vandalism at the Jinnah House and military and civil installations, reported ARY News. The instructions were given by Shehbaz Sharif while he chaired a meeting held at the Punjab Safe City Authority Headquarters in Lahore. "All the culprits, planners, instigators, and attackers involved in the vandalism should be arrested in the next 72 hours," PM Sharif said. "This is a critical task that requires swift action to ensure the safety and security of our citizens.” Pakistan's prime minister expressed regret over the Safe City Project's destruction during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) tenure. ALSO READ | Imran Khan recalls Bangladesh liberation, Osama's killing to slam army "I am deeply disturbed by this situation, and I would like to request the chief minister to take immediate action,” Sharif said. He added that he clearly told Punjab's caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi that any act of sabotage is unacceptable and the culprits will be arrested and made to appear before the court for justice. Sharif stated that he was informed around 40 to 60 per cent of CCTV cameras were found to be non-functional in the last five years. He stated that the Safe City System which has been designed to protect people has suffered because of criminal negligence. He further directed to increase the number of anti-terrorism courts present in the province where they can swiftly begin legal proceedings against all culprits. WATCH | Pakistan: Imran Khan attacks Army Chief, says 'no rule of law in Pakistan' | WION Pulse "It is time to do or die or now or never. The real culprits who showed this kind of enmity against the motherland should be arrested and produced in anti-terrorism courts under the relevant laws. These elements should be arrested immediately," Shehbaz Sharif was quoted as saying by the ARY News. Taking to Twitter, PM Sharif tweeted, "I have given law enforcement apparatus a target of 72 hours to arrest all those involved in facilitating, abetting and perpetrating the disgraceful incidents of arson, ransacking, sabotage & damaging public & private properties. All available resources including technological aid & intelligence are being deployed to chase down these elements. Bringing these people to justice is a test case for the government. Their cases will be tried by the anti-terrorism courts." I have given law enforcement apparatus a target of 72 hours to arrest all those involved in facilitating, abetting and perpetrating the disgraceful incidents of arson, ransacking, sabotage & damaging public & private properties. All available resources including technological aid… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 13, 2023 × Earlier, Punjab's caretaker CM Mohsin Naqvi and PM Sharif visited the vandalised Lahore Corps Commander House where he expressed solidarity with the military leadership of the country. The prime minister also visited the Services Hospital and met the injured personnel. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Track and arrest people involved in vandalism in 72 hours, orders Pak PM Sharif

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has labelled the "relief" provided to his predecessor Imran Khan by the courts as "double standards" in corruption cases and termed him a 'laadla' of courts. Responding to the&nbsp;Supreme Court's granting of relief to its "laadla" Imran Khan, Sharif said the "double standards&nbsp;have led to the death of justice in Pakistan".<br />
<br />
Pakistan's Supreme Court granted&nbsp;a major relief for Khan&nbsp;on Thursday when it declared his dramatic arrest "unlawful" and "invalid" and ordered his immediate release after he was produced before a bench on its orders.<br />
<br />
Sharif said that the apex court's relief was nothing but an NRO. He was referring to the infamous National Reconciliation Ordinance, which was used by past leaders to pardon their allies, before being outlawed by the top court itself.<br />
<br />
Addressing Pakistan's federal cabinet, Sharif referred to the arrests of PML-N [Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz)] supremo Nawaz Sharif and other members of the federal coalition and asked why such&nbsp;leniency was not given to them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-says-hes-worried-they-will-pick-him-again-warns-of-same-reaction-if-arrested-again-591698">Imran Khan says he's worried 'they' will pick him again; warns of 'same reaction' if arrested again</a></strong></p>

<p>"No one spoke to Nawaz about injustices suffered by him."</p>

<p>Calling&nbsp;Imran Khan the "laadla," a crude reference that roughly translates to blue-eyed-boy, he said, "If you want to keep favouring this laadla then you should also release all the dacoits behind bars in the country."</p>

<p>"Let this be free for all," he said, adding that everyone will bear the consequences of whatever followed next.</p>

<p>Talking about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party workers' protests, he said they have disrespected the martyrs of Pakistan in a way that has never been done by "our enemies".</p>

<p>Lamenting the protests after Imran Khan's May 9 arrest, he said such scenes have not been witnessed in Pakistan since the fall of Dhaka in 1973.</p>

<p>"The attacks on army installations, there can be no greater terrorism in the country," he said. "And seeing all this, a country, I don’t want to take its name, was celebrating that what couldn’t happen in 75 years is now happening in Pakistan."</p>

<p>He said that even after the death of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, the nation had erupted into protests but no one "moved towards military installations".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has labelled the "relief" provided to his predecessor Imran Khan by the courts as "double standards" in corruption cases and termed him a 'laadla' of courts.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has labelled the "relief" provided to his predecessor Imran Khan by the courts as "double standards" in corruption cases and termed him a 'laadla' of courts. Responding to the Supreme Court's granting of relief to its "laadla" Imran Khan, Sharif said the "double standards have led to the death of justice in Pakistan". Pakistan's Supreme Court granted a major relief for Khan on Thursday when it declared his dramatic arrest "unlawful" and "invalid" and ordered his immediate release after he was produced before a bench on its orders. Sharif said that the apex court's relief was nothing but an NRO. He was referring to the infamous National Reconciliation Ordinance, which was used by past leaders to pardon their allies, before being outlawed by the top court itself. Addressing Pakistan's federal cabinet, Sharif referred to the arrests of PML-N [Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz)] supremo Nawaz Sharif and other members of the federal coalition and asked why such leniency was not given to them. Also read | Imran Khan says he's worried 'they' will pick him again; warns of 'same reaction' if arrested again "No one spoke to Nawaz about injustices suffered by him." Calling Imran Khan the "laadla," a crude reference that roughly translates to blue-eyed-boy, he said, "If you want to keep favouring this laadla then you should also release all the dacoits behind bars in the country." "Let this be free for all," he said, adding that everyone will bear the consequences of whatever followed next. Talking about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party workers' protests, he said they have disrespected the martyrs of Pakistan in a way that has never been done by "our enemies". Lamenting the protests after Imran Khan's May 9 arrest, he said such scenes have not been witnessed in Pakistan since the fall of Dhaka in 1973. "The attacks on army installations, there can be no greater terrorism in the country," he said. "And seeing all this, a country, I don’t want to take its name, was celebrating that what couldn’t happen in 75 years is now happening in Pakistan." He said that even after the death of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, the nation had erupted into protests but no one "moved towards military installations". (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.

PM Sharif: Courts' relief to ‘laadla’ Imran exposes ‘double standards’, led to death of justice in Pak

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son&nbsp;Hamza have been declared innocent in the money laundering case after&nbsp;the anti-graft body - National Accountability Bureau (NAB), concluded a reinvestigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A supplementary report was submitted and presented before Accountability Court Judge&nbsp;Qamar-uz-Zaman, according to Pakistani media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The supplementary report stated that Sharif, his wife&nbsp;Nusrat Shehbaz, his son Hamza Shehbaz, and other accused were found to have no involvement in the money laundering scheme. It added that corruption allegations could not be proved or substantiated under the&nbsp;NAB Amendment Act.</p>

<p>The court, during the hearing, also approved Hamza's petition wherein he sought an exemption from attendance on medical grounds. However, further proceedings have been adjourned till May 24, while interim bails of&nbsp;Haroon Yousaf Aziz and&nbsp;Syed Muhammad Tahir Naqvi - the other co-accused, have been extended till then.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the money laundering case?</strong></h2>

<p>71-year-old Shehbaz, and his sons Hamza, 47, and Suleman, 40, were booked in November 2020 by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Anti-Money Laundering Act.</p>

<p>According to the FIA report submitted in the court, the probe team&nbsp;"detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs 16.3 billion&nbsp;was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shehbaz-sharif-booked-for-money-laundering-case-during-2008-18-474595"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif booked for money laundering case during 2008-18</strong></a></p>

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<p>Benami transactions are those transactions that are made by a person without using their name or by using the name of another. The amount was kept in hidden accounts and allegedly given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the probe found initially.</p>

<p>However, Shehbaz kept vouching for his innocence throughout the court proceedings, saying he even used to give up his salary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I never committed a single penny of corruption nor received any kickbacks in any project during my tenure as the chief minister of Punjab. During my tenure, I would give up my salary and other perks amounting to Rs 100 million,” said Shehbaz during one of the hearings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-never-committed-a-single-penny-of-corruption-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-pleads-in-court-523665"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;'I never committed a single penny of corruption', Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif pleads in court</strong></a></p>

<p>In September last year,&nbsp;13 bank accounts of companies&nbsp;related to Sharif and Suleman were frozen by the special court.&nbsp;Besides, the special court also issued show-cause notices to the officials of different banks for not adhering to an earlier order over the attachment of the accounts owned by two other proclaimed offenders.</p>

<p>The judgment, however, is likely is divide the Pakistani civil society further as it comes a day after riots broke out in parts of the country following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza have been declared innocent in the money laundering case after the anti-graft body - National Accountability Bureau (NAB), concluded a reinvestigation.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Hamza have been declared innocent in the money laundering case after the anti-graft body - National Accountability Bureau (NAB), concluded a reinvestigation. A supplementary report was submitted and presented before Accountability Court Judge Qamar-uz-Zaman, according to Pakistani media reports. The supplementary report stated that Sharif, his wife Nusrat Shehbaz, his son Hamza Shehbaz, and other accused were found to have no involvement in the money laundering scheme. It added that corruption allegations could not be proved or substantiated under the NAB Amendment Act. The court, during the hearing, also approved Hamza's petition wherein he sought an exemption from attendance on medical grounds. However, further proceedings have been adjourned till May 24, while interim bails of Haroon Yousaf Aziz and Syed Muhammad Tahir Naqvi - the other co-accused, have been extended till then. What is the money laundering case? 71-year-old Shehbaz, and his sons Hamza, 47, and Suleman, 40, were booked in November 2020 by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Anti-Money Laundering Act. According to the FIA report submitted in the court, the probe team "detected 28 benami accounts of the Shehbaz family through which money laundering of Rs 16.3 billion was committed during 2008-18. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions." WATCH | Shehbaz Sharif booked for money laundering case during 2008-18 × Benami transactions are those transactions that are made by a person without using their name or by using the name of another. The amount was kept in hidden accounts and allegedly given to Shehbaz in a personal capacity, the probe found initially. However, Shehbaz kept vouching for his innocence throughout the court proceedings, saying he even used to give up his salary. “I never committed a single penny of corruption nor received any kickbacks in any project during my tenure as the chief minister of Punjab. During my tenure, I would give up my salary and other perks amounting to Rs 100 million,” said Shehbaz during one of the hearings. ALSO READ | 'I never committed a single penny of corruption', Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif pleads in court In September last year, 13 bank accounts of companies related to Sharif and Suleman were frozen by the special court. Besides, the special court also issued show-cause notices to the officials of different banks for not adhering to an earlier order over the attachment of the accounts owned by two other proclaimed offenders. The judgment, however, is likely is divide the Pakistani civil society further as it comes a day after riots broke out in parts of the country following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and son declared innocent in money laundering case

At least 16 people, mostly policemen, were killed and over 50 were wounded in two powerful explosions that ripped through a Pakistani police station on the 24th of April. Such was the impact of the explosions that it levelled the counter-terrorism department in Kabal town of Swat valley. Pakistani prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, initially described the blasts as a "suicide attack". But later tweeted that " the nature of the blast is being investigated". No one has claimed responsibility for the attack, though in recent months, the Pakistani Taliban have been responsible for a wave of attacks, specifically targeting the police personnel.

Counter terrorism department in Swat Valley blown apart in twin explosions | World At War

Pakistan is teetering on the edge. The South Asian country is battling a double whammy - economic chaos & never-ending political instability. The nation's woes have been compounded by a surge in attacks. Pakistan has been in political turmoil for a year since khan was ousted as pm last April through a no-confidence vote. Amid the calls for snap polls, sharif secured a major win for the ruling coalition. Sharif won a vote of confidence from the national assembly. Meanwhile, Imran Khan dismissed the claim made by the govt that his life is under threat from foreign agencies. He said he has identified a total of 6 persons within the country, including three fresh ones, who plotted to kill him. Pakistan is deeply in debt & needs to introduce tough reforms to unlock a tranche of a $6.5 billion bailout from the IMF, in order to avoid default. On Thursday, US called on Pakistan to move ahead on stalled reforms sought by the IMF, promising technical help.

Imran Khan says six people plotted to kill him; Shehbaz Sharif wins vote of confidence | Details

Pakistan is teetering on the edge, the South Asian nation is having a double whammy - economic chaos and never-ending political instability. The nation's woes have been compounded by certain terror attacks as well.

Pakistan: Amid calls for snap polls, Shehbaz Sharif wins vote of confidence | World News | WION

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has won a vote of confidence from the national assembly, in a major victory for the country’s governing coalition amid persistent opposition calls for a general election.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wins vote of confidence

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on April 27 secured a vote of confidence from the National Assembly, with 180 lawmakers expressing "full confidence" in his leadership, in a surprise development amidst an increasing confrontation between the government and the top judiciary.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif secures vote of confidence in National Assembly

<p>Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman and the country's former prime minister Imran Khan said that the former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had given him the advice to dissolve the provincial assemblies of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), The News.com reported.</p>

<p>In an interview held on Sunday, Khan said that he held a meeting with General Bajwa, in the presence of President Arif Alvi, where the former army chief suggested if he wanted elections then he needs to dissolve his governments in the provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), according to a report published by The News.com.</p>

<p>The deposed prime minister was ousted from his office following a no-confidence motion in April 2022. Khan said that he was informed by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) that Bajwa intended to bring Shehbaz Sharif into power.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khans-interim-bail-in-three-cases-extended-till-april-13-579092">Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's interim bail in three cases extended till April 13</a></p>

<p>"General Bajwa and the (premier intelligence) agency knew that the current rulers had stolen the money from the national kitty and taken it abroad. Despite knowing this, General Bajwa was willing to give them 'NRO' as he had planned an extension (for himself)," said Khan.</p>

<p>In the interview, Khan stated that elections can take place in July if the incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif decides to dissolve the National Assembly, which is the parliament's lower house.</p>

<p>"Elections can be held in July if the prime minister dissolves the assembly," stated the ousted premier.</p>

<p>He further emphasised that the caretaker government present in the provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where PTI was in power before the two assemblies were dissolved by Khan on January 14 and 18, respectively, are illegal as their stipulated term has lapsed.</p>

<p>He stated that the caretaker government needs to be abolished and a new "neutral" interim government must be instated. He added that the country's Supreme Court has given the date of May 14 for the Punjab elections and his party won't allow the government to postpone elections beyond that.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Imran Khan urges international community to recognise Taliban | WION Dispatch</strong></p>

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<p>"If they think they (incumbent government) will pressurise the Supreme Court, we will not let it happen. They will scandalise the top court to run away from elections," Khan said.</p>

<p>Even as the government continues to cite security as a major issue for conducting elections, the lack of monetary funds for conducting polls has been communicated as the real reason behind the delay.</p>

<p>"There may be no money even in October. The situation may worsen. We cannot go beyond May 14,” Khan said. He added that people have been irked by the rising inflation and the government is afraid of their reaction and hence, is postponing the elections. "They are scared of elections," Khan said.</p>

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman and the country's former prime minister Imran Khan said that the former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had given him the advice to dissolve the provincial assemblies of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), The News.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman and the country's former prime minister Imran Khan said that the former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa had given him the advice to dissolve the provincial assemblies of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), The News.com reported. In an interview held on Sunday, Khan said that he held a meeting with General Bajwa, in the presence of President Arif Alvi, where the former army chief suggested if he wanted elections then he needs to dissolve his governments in the provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), according to a report published by The News.com. The deposed prime minister was ousted from his office following a no-confidence motion in April 2022. Khan said that he was informed by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) that Bajwa intended to bring Shehbaz Sharif into power. ALSO READ | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's interim bail in three cases extended till April 13 "General Bajwa and the (premier intelligence) agency knew that the current rulers had stolen the money from the national kitty and taken it abroad. Despite knowing this, General Bajwa was willing to give them 'NRO' as he had planned an extension (for himself)," said Khan. In the interview, Khan stated that elections can take place in July if the incumbent Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif decides to dissolve the National Assembly, which is the parliament's lower house. "Elections can be held in July if the prime minister dissolves the assembly," stated the ousted premier. He further emphasised that the caretaker government present in the provinces of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where PTI was in power before the two assemblies were dissolved by Khan on January 14 and 18, respectively, are illegal as their stipulated term has lapsed. He stated that the caretaker government needs to be abolished and a new "neutral" interim government must be instated. He added that the country's Supreme Court has given the date of May 14 for the Punjab elections and his party won't allow the government to postpone elections beyond that. WATCH | Imran Khan urges international community to recognise Taliban | WION Dispatch "If they think they (incumbent government) will pressurise the Supreme Court, we will not let it happen. They will scandalise the top court to run away from elections," Khan said. Even as the government continues to cite security as a major issue for conducting elections, the lack of monetary funds for conducting polls has been communicated as the real reason behind the delay. "There may be no money even in October. The situation may worsen. We cannot go beyond May 14,” Khan said. He added that people have been irked by the rising inflation and the government is afraid of their reaction and hence, is postponing the elections. "They are scared of elections," Khan said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan: Imran Khan says former army chief Bajwa asked him to dissolve provincial assemblies

Pakistan's dwindling situation is no secret to anyone, and its tryst with the international monetary fund is becoming more and more antagonising. A day after making the announcement, that they were all set to get the approval for a one billion dollar bailout from the IMF, it seems the celebrations were rather premature.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: Pak not created to act like beggar | World News | WION

On Inside South Asia with Dasuni Athauda: - 1 year of Shehbaz Sharif's govt - Decoding China's influence in the Indian subcontinent - Zojila Tunnel: Inside India's extraordinary engineering marvel - Pakistan: To the help of an ailing jumbo

Inside South Asia: One year of Shehbaz Sharif's government in Pakistan

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said it was Army Chief General Asim Munir who had been working behind the scenes&nbsp;to secure bilateral financing&nbsp;from friendly countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia&nbsp;to meet the pre-condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure a bailout package.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharif, while addressing a ceremony, said he was now hopeful that the IMF will not delay in releasing the $1.1 billion payment as part of the bailout package agreed upon in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir has contributed to the government's efforts to secure funds from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Hopefully the IMF will now have no excuse to delay the agreement (to release a tranche of USD 1.1 billion)," said Sharif.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/inflation-breaks-fifty-year-record-in-pakistan-touches-high-of-315-567577#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>UAE and Saudi Arabia step up to help</strong></h2>

<p>The cash-strapped country has been looking to secure the IMF package for a long time. However, the international lender has been reluctant to open its wallet, unless Islamabad satisfies its pre-requisites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After seeing no light at the end of the tunnel, UAE on Friday confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad. A week earlier,&nbsp;Saudi Arabia assured that it would provide $2 billion in the loan amount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Realising our problems, China provided a rollover of $2 billion loan, besides returning back previous debt amount paid back by Pakistan. The UAE had committed a loan of $3 billion,"&nbsp;added Sharif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement by Sharif come in stark contrast to the announcement made by the Pakistani Army wherein it was said that General Munir had no role in the politics of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pakistan-gets-a-step-closer-to-getting-imf-bailout-after-uae-saudi-arabia-pledge-billions-in-assistance-582451"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Pakistan a step closer to getting IMF bailout after UAE, Saudi Arabia pledge billions in assistance</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Pakistan needs IMF's help</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan is in dire need of funds. Last week, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank projected the&nbsp;country’s gross domestic product to grow by a measly 0.4 per cent and 0.6 per cent respectively. Additionally, the inflation for FY23 was projected at 29.5 per cent and 27.5 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, fresh readings issued by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) last month showed that yearly short-term inflation rose by 46.65 per cent during the week that ended on March 22 — the highest recorded in the country's history.</p>

<p>According to reports, Pakistan has less than a month’s worth of foreign exchange reserves.&nbsp; Moreover, the global credit rating agency Moody's downgraded Pakistan's local and foreign currency credit ratings from Caa1 to Caa3.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said it was Army Chief General Asim Munir who had been working behind the scenes to secure bilateral financing from friendly countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia to meet the pre-condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure a bailout package.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said it was Army Chief General Asim Munir who had been working behind the scenes to secure bilateral financing from friendly countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia to meet the pre-condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to secure a bailout package. Sharif, while addressing a ceremony, said he was now hopeful that the IMF will not delay in releasing the $1.1 billion payment as part of the bailout package agreed upon in 2019. "Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir has contributed to the government's efforts to secure funds from Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Hopefully the IMF will now have no excuse to delay the agreement (to release a tranche of USD 1.1 billion)," said Sharif. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? × UAE and Saudi Arabia step up to help The cash-strapped country has been looking to secure the IMF package for a long time. However, the international lender has been reluctant to open its wallet, unless Islamabad satisfies its pre-requisites. After seeing no light at the end of the tunnel, UAE on Friday confirmed that it would provide a $1 billion loan to Islamabad. A week earlier, Saudi Arabia assured that it would provide $2 billion in the loan amount. "Realising our problems, China provided a rollover of $2 billion loan, besides returning back previous debt amount paid back by Pakistan. The UAE had committed a loan of $3 billion," added Sharif. The statement by Sharif come in stark contrast to the announcement made by the Pakistani Army wherein it was said that General Munir had no role in the politics of the country. ALSO READ | Pakistan a step closer to getting IMF bailout after UAE, Saudi Arabia pledge billions in assistance Pakistan needs IMF's help Pakistan is in dire need of funds. Last week, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank projected the country’s gross domestic product to grow by a measly 0.4 per cent and 0.6 per cent respectively. Additionally, the inflation for FY23 was projected at 29.5 per cent and 27.5 per cent. Notably, fresh readings issued by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) last month showed that yearly short-term inflation rose by 46.65 per cent during the week that ended on March 22 — the highest recorded in the country's history. According to reports, Pakistan has less than a month’s worth of foreign exchange reserves. Moreover, the global credit rating agency Moody's downgraded Pakistan's local and foreign currency credit ratings from Caa1 to Caa3. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan Army chief helped secure funds from UAE, Saudi to fulfill IMF pre-condition, says PM Sharif

The Shehbaz Sharif government in Pakistan completes one year in office this week. Perhaps the biggest highlight of the year gone by in Pakistan has been an economy in tailspin mode. Inflation is at an all time high, the Pakistani Rupee has sunk to new lows, and the IMF clearing a $1.1 billion bailout package remains desperately awaited. The state of the economy is just one end of Pakistan's troubles that range from frequent terror attacks, intense politicking and big fissures within state institutions. The common man is seeing the most difficult Ramadan yet, with the nightmare refusing to end.

1 year of Shehbaz Sharif's govt: What went wrong? | Inside South Asia

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has completed one year in office. Sharif replaced Imran Khan after he was ousted from power in a vote of no confidence a year ago. Sharif promised to revive the economy and bring political stability. Here's what the citizens think.

Pakistan: Lookback at Shehbaz Sharif's year as Prime Minister

There was a major security breach at Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's official residence on Saturday when a suspicious Afghan man sneaked inside the house. The suspect was immediately taken into custody by the Counter-Terrorism Department of the Islamabad Police and has been shifted to an unknown place, according to a report.

Pakistan: Intruder breaks into PM Shehbaz Sharif's home

<p>Pakistan's government on Tuesday night introduced a bill in the parliament to curtail the discretionary powers of the chief justice, hours after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that "history would not forgive us" if parliament did not enact laws to curtail the powers of the country's top judge.</p>

<p>Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented 'The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023', which was approved by the Cabinet earlier in the evening.</p>

<p>The development comes a day after two Supreme Court judges questioned the suo motu powers of the country's top judge.</p>

<p>Tarar said that the bill prepared by the ministry of law and justice was deliberated by the cabinet and after its approval, he was presenting the bill before the parliament.</p>

<p>Giving the details, he said that the bill ensures that "every cause, appeal or matter before the Supreme Court shall be heard and disposed of by a bench constituted by the Committee comprising the Chief Justice of Pakistan and two senior-most judges, in order of seniority" and the decisions of such a committee shall be by majority.</p>

<p>Regarding suo motu powers, the draft states that any matter invoking exercise of original jurisdiction under Article 184 (3) shall be first placed before the committee of three senior-most judges.</p>

<p>"..If the Committee is of the view that a question of public importance with reference to enforcement of any of the fundamental rights conferred by Chapter I of Part II of the Constitution is involved, it shall constitute a bench comprising not less than three judges of the Supreme Court of Pakistan which may also include the members of the Committee, for adjudication of the matter,&nbsp;it adds.</p>

<p>The legislation also allows appeals within 30 days of a verdict being issued on a suo motu case and enforces that a bench be constituted to hear such an appeal within 14 days.</p>

<p>"An appeal shall lie within thirty days from a final order of a bench of the Supreme Court who exercised jurisdiction under clause (3) of Article 184 of the Constitution to a larger bench of the Supreme Court and such appeal shall, for hearing, be fixed within a period not exceeding fourteen days,"&nbsp;according to the proposed bill.</p>

<p>After the bill was presented various members demanded that the bill should be sent to a committee to discuss it and report back before voting. As the law minister did not oppose the demand, the speaker announced to send the bill to a committee with hope that it would present its report soon.</p>

<p>Later, the Speaker prorogued the proceedings till Wednesday.</p>

<p>The bill as presented aimed to reduce the discretionary powers of the chief justice to take suo motu action and also set up benches for hearing of cases.</p>

<p>Addressing the joint session of parliament earlier, Sharif talked at length about the dissenting judgement by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail of the apex court, who lashed out at the unlimited authority of the chief justice to take a suo motu (on its own) action on any issue and constitute benches of choice to hear different cases.</p>

<p>Their judgment was about the case of suo motu notice taken by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial on February 22 about elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.</p>

<p>Speaking passionately about the need for new laws to limit the chief justice's power, Sharif said if the legislation were not passed, "history would not forgive us".</p>

<p>The suo motu power is based on the original jurisdiction of the court under Article 184 of the Constitution. However, its usage over the years has created an impression of partiality on the Chief Justices' part.</p>

<p>It was openly challenged for the first time by the two judges who were part of a bench that, in its 3-2 majority decision of March 1, directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to consult with President Arif Alvi for polls in Punjab and Governor Ghulam Ali for elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.</p>

<p>The five-member bench was reconstituted by Bandial, who took a suo motu action against the delay in elections and initially formed a nine-member bench to deal with the issue. However, two of the nine judges differed with the decision to take suo motu notice, while two other judges recused themselves, prompting the Chief Justice to form a new bench.</p>

<p>Justice Shah and Justice Mandokhail, in their detailed 28-page dissenting note, also rejected the 3-2 judgment in the suo motu case by saying that it was a 4-3 judgment to reject the maintainability of the case and lambasted the Chief Justice's power to form a bench for important cases.</p>

<p>The coalition government led by Prime Minister Sharif, which is supporting the ECP's decision to delay the election in the two provinces until October 8, is trying to use the parliament to curtail the powers of the Chief Justice.</p>

<p>The premier also said that the courts were treating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan favourably and were not ready to hold Khan accountable.</p>

<p>Sharif said that "enough is enough"&nbsp;and the law would take its course while the government would not allow "the favourite"&nbsp;to play with Pakistan.&nbsp;He added that the Constitution clearly defined the division of powers between the legislature, judiciary and administration and set a red line that no one should cross.</p>

<p>The powers of the legislature defined by the Constitution and the powers of the judiciary were being flouted, the prime minister said.&nbsp;The joint session of parliament was summoned last week to discuss the key issues confronting Pakistan and provide guidelines to deal with those issues.</p>

<p>The development comes as the top court is hearing a case about the decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan to postpone the provincial election till October 8, well beyond the 90 days deadline by the constitution to hold elections after the dissolution of an assembly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan's government on Tuesday night introduced a bill in the parliament to curtail the discretionary powers of the chief justice, hours after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that "history would not forgive us" if parliament did not enact laws to curtail the powers of the country's top judge.

Pakistan's government on Tuesday night introduced a bill in the parliament to curtail the discretionary powers of the chief justice, hours after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that "history would not forgive us" if parliament did not enact laws to curtail the powers of the country's top judge. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented 'The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023', which was approved by the Cabinet earlier in the evening. The development comes a day after two Supreme Court judges questioned the suo motu powers of the country's top judge. Tarar said that the bill prepared by the ministry of law and justice was deliberated by the cabinet and after its approval, he was presenting the bill before the parliament. Giving the details, he said that the bill ensures that "every cause, appeal or matter before the Supreme Court shall be heard and disposed of by a bench constituted by the Committee comprising the Chief Justice of Pakistan and two senior-most judges, in order of seniority" and the decisions of such a committee shall be by majority. Regarding suo motu powers, the draft states that any matter invoking exercise of original jurisdiction under Article 184 (3) shall be first placed before the committee of three senior-most judges. "..If the Committee is of the view that a question of public importance with reference to enforcement of any of the fundamental rights conferred by Chapter I of Part II of the Constitution is involved, it shall constitute a bench comprising not less than three judges of the Supreme Court of Pakistan which may also include the members of the Committee, for adjudication of the matter, it adds. The legislation also allows appeals within 30 days of a verdict being issued on a suo motu case and enforces that a bench be constituted to hear such an appeal within 14 days. "An appeal shall lie within thirty days from a final order of a bench of the Supreme Court who exercised jurisdiction under clause (3) of Article 184 of the Constitution to a larger bench of the Supreme Court and such appeal shall, for hearing, be fixed within a period not exceeding fourteen days," according to the proposed bill. After the bill was presented various members demanded that the bill should be sent to a committee to discuss it and report back before voting. As the law minister did not oppose the demand, the speaker announced to send the bill to a committee with hope that it would present its report soon. Later, the Speaker prorogued the proceedings till Wednesday. The bill as presented aimed to reduce the discretionary powers of the chief justice to take suo motu action and also set up benches for hearing of cases. Addressing the joint session of parliament earlier, Sharif talked at length about the dissenting judgement by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail of the apex court, who lashed out at the unlimited authority of the chief justice to take a suo motu (on its own) action on any issue and constitute benches of choice to hear different cases. Their judgment was about the case of suo motu notice taken by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial on February 22 about elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Speaking passionately about the need for new laws to limit the chief justice's power, Sharif said if the legislation were not passed, "history would not forgive us". The suo motu power is based on the original jurisdiction of the court under Article 184 of the Constitution. However, its usage over the years has created an impression of partiality on the Chief Justices' part. It was openly challenged for the first time by the two judges who were part of a bench that, in its 3-2 majority decision of March 1, directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to consult with President Arif Alvi for polls in Punjab and Governor Ghulam Ali for elections in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The five-member bench was reconstituted by Bandial, who took a suo motu action against the delay in elections and initially formed a nine-member bench to deal with the issue. However, two of the nine judges differed with the decision to take suo motu notice, while two other judges recused themselves, prompting the Chief Justice to form a new bench. Justice Shah and Justice Mandokhail, in their detailed 28-page dissenting note, also rejected the 3-2 judgment in the suo motu case by saying that it was a 4-3 judgment to reject the maintainability of the case and lambasted the Chief Justice's power to form a bench for important cases. The coalition government led by Prime Minister Sharif, which is supporting the ECP's decision to delay the election in the two provinces until October 8, is trying to use the parliament to curtail the powers of the Chief Justice. The premier also said that the courts were treating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan favourably and were not ready to hold Khan accountable. Sharif said that "enough is enough" and the law would take its course while the government would not allow "the favourite" to play with Pakistan. He added that the Constitution clearly defined the division of powers between the legislature, judiciary and administration and set a red line that no one should cross. The powers of the legislature defined by the Constitution and the powers of the judiciary were being flouted, the prime minister said. The joint session of parliament was summoned last week to discuss the key issues confronting Pakistan and provide guidelines to deal with those issues. The development comes as the top court is hearing a case about the decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan to postpone the provincial election till October 8, well beyond the 90 days deadline by the constitution to hold elections after the dissolution of an assembly. (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.

Pakistan judiciary turmoil: Govt introduces bill in parliament to curtail powers of Chief Justice

<p>Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan on Sunday called off his mega election rally for the second time after the interim Punjab government imposed Section 144, banning public gatherings in the provincial capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan took to Twitter to inform his supporters about the change in plan and said the rally had been postponed till Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It seems again Sec 144 has been imposed illegally solely on PTI election campaign as all other public activities are ongoing in Lahore. Only Zaman Park has been surrounded by containers &amp; heavy police contingent. Clearly, like 8 March, Punjab CM &amp; police want to provoke clashes to file more sham FIRs against PTI leadership &amp; workers &amp; to use as pretext for postponing elections."</p>

<p>Urging his followers to not 'fall into the trap', Khan added, "Hence, we have postponed rally till tomorrow". Notably, Khan first attempted to take out his rally on March 8&nbsp;in the eastern city of Lahore but the death of a party worker and the heavy-handedness of the authorities meant that he had to cancel the show.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/imran-khan-will-hold-election-rally-in-lahore-on-monday-571203"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Imran Khan: Will hold election rally in Lahore on Monday</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to local media reports, one PTI worker was killed after police launched a crackdown, following the violation of Section 144 by Khan's supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I called off the long march immediately after the police attack on May 25 last year and called off March 8 election rally merely hours after the police resorted to torture and tear-gas shelling on political workers,”</p>

<p>However, after recuperating, Khan, last Saturday&nbsp;announced that he was restarting the rally on Sunday and&nbsp;urged the masses to stand beside him.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rogue-imran-khan-defies-orders-calls-another-mega-election-rally-in-lahore-571026"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Pakistan: Ex-PM Imran Khan calls another mega election rally in Lahore to defy orders</strong></a></p>

<p>"I will lead the election rally to show them that we are not domesticated animals. I have decided that I will fight against the corrupt system and looters of national wealth till the last drop of my blood,” said Khan in a television address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since being ousted from power last April, Khan has been looking to find his footing. However, his political movements have been cut short by assassination attempts, media censorship and government pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan on Sunday called off his mega election rally for the second time after the interim Punjab government imposed Section 144, banning public gatherings in the provincial capital.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan on Sunday called off his mega election rally for the second time after the interim Punjab government imposed Section 144, banning public gatherings in the provincial capital. Khan took to Twitter to inform his supporters about the change in plan and said the rally had been postponed till Monday. "It seems again Sec 144 has been imposed illegally solely on PTI election campaign as all other public activities are ongoing in Lahore. Only Zaman Park has been surrounded by containers & heavy police contingent. Clearly, like 8 March, Punjab CM & police want to provoke clashes to file more sham FIRs against PTI leadership & workers & to use as pretext for postponing elections." Urging his followers to not 'fall into the trap', Khan added, "Hence, we have postponed rally till tomorrow". Notably, Khan first attempted to take out his rally on March 8 in the eastern city of Lahore but the death of a party worker and the heavy-handedness of the authorities meant that he had to cancel the show. WATCH | Imran Khan: Will hold election rally in Lahore on Monday × According to local media reports, one PTI worker was killed after police launched a crackdown, following the violation of Section 144 by Khan's supporters. “I called off the long march immediately after the police attack on May 25 last year and called off March 8 election rally merely hours after the police resorted to torture and tear-gas shelling on political workers,” However, after recuperating, Khan, last Saturday announced that he was restarting the rally on Sunday and urged the masses to stand beside him. Read more: Pakistan: Ex-PM Imran Khan calls another mega election rally in Lahore to defy orders "I will lead the election rally to show them that we are not domesticated animals. I have decided that I will fight against the corrupt system and looters of national wealth till the last drop of my blood,” said Khan in a television address. Ever since being ousted from power last April, Khan has been looking to find his footing. However, his political movements have been cut short by assassination attempts, media censorship and government pressure. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan: Ex-PM Imran Khan postpones election rally for second time

<p>In a study titled Public Pulse Report released by Gallup Pakistan on Monday (March 6), 61 per cent of Pakistanis have a "positive impression" of PTI chairman Imran Khan, while just 36 per cent do so of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.</p>

<p>A total of 2,000 people from all four provinces, including urban and rural regions, participated in the survey.</p>

<p>It said that with a 95 per cent confidence level, the error margin for such a poll was around 3 to 4 per cent.</p>

<p>Imran had a favourable&nbsp;rating from 61 per cent of the people, while 37 per cent gave him a negative rating, according to the research. Furthermore, he had the greatest approval ratings of any politician from the provinces, with 29 per cent from Punjab, 28 per cent from Sindh, and 14 per cent from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on the other hand, had a bad rating from 65 per cent&nbsp;of Pakistanis while just 32 per cent&nbsp;gave him a favourable rating. Nonetheless, Punjabis gave him higher ratings than residents of other regions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-pakistan-imposes-section-144-ahead-of-pti-rally-clashes-break-out-between-party-workers-and-police-569951">Pakistan imposes Section 144 ahead of PTI rally, Imran Khan calls it a strategy to escape elections</a></p>

<p>Over three out of five people (59 per cent) rated his brother Nawaz negatively, compared to 36 per cent who rated him favourably. Additionally, respondents from KP evaluated the PML-N supremo more adversely than citizens from other provinces.</p>

<p>Regarding PPP Chairman Bilawal, just 36 per cent&nbsp;of respondents gave him a favourable rating while 57 per cent were unfavourable. He had the highest approval ratings from Sindh out of all the provinces.</p>

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<p>PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz, however, was evaluated unfavourably by 61 per cent&nbsp;while 34 per cent&nbsp;gave her a favourable rating. In contrast to other provinces, "people from Punjab regard her in a favourable light," according to the study.</p>

<p>Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), was rated negatively by 57 per cent of respondents while receiving just 31 per cent of favourable responses. 67 per cent of people had negative opinions of former president Asif Ali Zardari, while 27 per cent had favourable opinions.</p>

<p>“Since 2022, Zardari has gained a more favourable opinion amongst the Public Pulse Report population. However, people from Punjab gave him the most negative ratings, followed by KP and then Sindh,” the survey said.<br />
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In a study titled Public Pulse Report released by Gallup Pakistan on Monday (March 6), 61 per cent of Pakistanis have a "positive impression" of PTI chairman Imran Khan, while just 36 per cent do so of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.

In a study titled Public Pulse Report released by Gallup Pakistan on Monday (March 6), 61 per cent of Pakistanis have a "positive impression" of PTI chairman Imran Khan, while just 36 per cent do so of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. A total of 2,000 people from all four provinces, including urban and rural regions, participated in the survey. It said that with a 95 per cent confidence level, the error margin for such a poll was around 3 to 4 per cent. Imran had a favourable rating from 61 per cent of the people, while 37 per cent gave him a negative rating, according to the research. Furthermore, he had the greatest approval ratings of any politician from the provinces, with 29 per cent from Punjab, 28 per cent from Sindh, and 14 per cent from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on the other hand, had a bad rating from 65 per cent of Pakistanis while just 32 per cent gave him a favourable rating. Nonetheless, Punjabis gave him higher ratings than residents of other regions. ALSO READ | Pakistan imposes Section 144 ahead of PTI rally, Imran Khan calls it a strategy to escape elections Over three out of five people (59 per cent) rated his brother Nawaz negatively, compared to 36 per cent who rated him favourably. Additionally, respondents from KP evaluated the PML-N supremo more adversely than citizens from other provinces. Regarding PPP Chairman Bilawal, just 36 per cent of respondents gave him a favourable rating while 57 per cent were unfavourable. He had the highest approval ratings from Sindh out of all the provinces. Imran Khan 'most popular leader' in Pakistan: survey. Watch!https://t.co/SnvrLkrehA — WION (@WIONews) March 8, 2023 × PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz, however, was evaluated unfavourably by 61 per cent while 34 per cent gave her a favourable rating. In contrast to other provinces, "people from Punjab regard her in a favourable light," according to the study. Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), was rated negatively by 57 per cent of respondents while receiving just 31 per cent of favourable responses. 67 per cent of people had negative opinions of former president Asif Ali Zardari, while 27 per cent had favourable opinions. “Since 2022, Zardari has gained a more favourable opinion amongst the Public Pulse Report population. However, people from Punjab gave him the most negative ratings, followed by KP and then Sindh,” the survey said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION HERE:

Imran Khan 'most popular leader' in Pakistan: Gallup survey

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<p>Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan has called back his party supporters and urged them to stop the rally after the police launched a crackdown in the eastern city of Lahore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You all should stop this protest because I fear the government will take this as an excuse to stop the elections from going ahead,” said Khan, before adding, “They are trying to create a law and order situation and that is why I am asking my supporters that we must stop the today. We are calling it off."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to local media reports, one PTI worker was killed after police launched a crackdown, following the violation of Section 144 by Khan's supporters. Water cannons and tear gas canisters were fired as the police&nbsp;arrested more than 40 PTI workers for defying the public gathering ban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan slammed the police officials saying that no country uses water canons to silence women on International woman's day, but the current government in power did it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Imran Khan-led PTI election rally was scheduled to begin at Zaman Park and end at Data Darbar after moving through numerous locations such as Mall Road Underpass, PMG Chowk, Government College, and Central Model School.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-pakistan-imposes-section-144-ahead-of-pti-rally-clashes-break-out-between-party-workers-and-police-569951" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Pakistan imposes Section 144 ahead of PTI rally, Imran calls it a strategy to avoid elections</strong></a></p>

<p>Imran Khan has been one of the most vocal opposition voices in the country at the moment. Ever since losing his PM chair to Shehbaz Sharif last year, he has opened a front against not only the government but also the military institutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Sharif administration, in recent weeks has tightened the noose around Khan and his rebellion. Earlier this week, media regulator Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) banned television channels from carrying any snippets of Khan's speeches.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/news-channel-suspended-for-airing-imran-khans-speech-in-pakistan-569200" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: News channel suspended for airing Imran Khan's speech in Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p>The agency cited the airing of 'baseless allegations' and 'hateful, slanderous' statements by Khan against the state violated Article 19 of the constitution.&nbsp;Consequently, ARY News, a private news channel had its license suspended for airing Khan's speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan has called back his party supporters and urged them to stop the rally after the police launched a crackdown in the eastern city of Lahore.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan has called back his party supporters and urged them to stop the rally after the police launched a crackdown in the eastern city of Lahore. “You all should stop this protest because I fear the government will take this as an excuse to stop the elections from going ahead,” said Khan, before adding, “They are trying to create a law and order situation and that is why I am asking my supporters that we must stop the today. We are calling it off." According to local media reports, one PTI worker was killed after police launched a crackdown, following the violation of Section 144 by Khan's supporters. Water cannons and tear gas canisters were fired as the police arrested more than 40 PTI workers for defying the public gathering ban. Khan slammed the police officials saying that no country uses water canons to silence women on International woman's day, but the current government in power did it. The Imran Khan-led PTI election rally was scheduled to begin at Zaman Park and end at Data Darbar after moving through numerous locations such as Mall Road Underpass, PMG Chowk, Government College, and Central Model School. WATCH | Pakistan imposes Section 144 ahead of PTI rally, Imran calls it a strategy to avoid elections Imran Khan has been one of the most vocal opposition voices in the country at the moment. Ever since losing his PM chair to Shehbaz Sharif last year, he has opened a front against not only the government but also the military institutions. However, the Sharif administration, in recent weeks has tightened the noose around Khan and his rebellion. Earlier this week, media regulator Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) banned television channels from carrying any snippets of Khan's speeches. Read more: News channel suspended for airing Imran Khan's speech in Pakistan The agency cited the airing of 'baseless allegations' and 'hateful, slanderous' statements by Khan against the state violated Article 19 of the constitution. Consequently, ARY News, a private news channel had its license suspended for airing Khan's speech. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Imran Khan calls off PTI rally after police crackdown kills one worker

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