Thursday, October 31, 2019

PM Imran announces to waive off two requirements for pilgrimages coming to Kartarpur

PM Imran announces to waive off two requirements for pilgrimages coming to Kartarpur
Prime Minister Imran Khan has announced to waive off two requirements for Sikh pilgrimages coming to Kartarpur from India.

In a tweet, he said they would not need a passport and just have a valid Identity Card.

He said they no longer have to register ten days in advance.

Prime Minister also announced that no fee will be charged on day of inauguration of Kartarpur and on Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 550th birthday.

JUI-F's Azadi March rally reaches in Islamabad

JUI-F's Azadi March rally reaches in Islamabad
Azadi March of JUI-F has entered Islamabad on 5th day of its start where local leadership of PML-N and PPP welcomed the marchers.

Azadi March starting from Karachi traveled 1450 Km in 5 days to finally reach federal capital. The central rally under the leadership of Maulana Fazlur Rehman had started its journey from Karachi on Sunday.

The march travelling from Hyderabad, Matiari, Nawabshah, Noshehroferoz and Khairpur reached Sukkur for night stay. On Monday morning the march started its journey for Multan via Ghotki, Rahim Yar Khan and Uch Sharif.

On Tuesday the marchers moved towards Lahore via Khanewal, Mian Channu, Chicha Watnai, Sahiwal, Okara and Patoki. Passing night in Lahore the marchers moved towards their final destination in federal capital via Gujranwala, Gujrat, Jehlum and Gujar Khan.

JUI-F leadership remained in the container where consultations were being made.

Earlier, Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman rejected the news regarding postponement of Azadi March and said all caravans are on their way to federal capital.

Kashmir Day being observed to express solidarity with Kashmiris today

Kashmir Day being observed to express solidarity with Kashmiris today
Kashmir Day is being observed today to express solidarity with the oppressed people of occupied Kashmir.

Exhibitions and photo competitions on Kashmir issue will be held across the country, including in Islamabad, provincial capitals, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan. The Islamabad event will be organized at Constitution Avenue.

Those working in the government departments will wear black arm bands entitled "I am Kashmir" to convey the message that Pakistan fully stands by their Kashmiri brethern.

LHC reserves verdict on Maryam Nawaz's bail plea

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Maryam Nawaz
The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday reserved its judgement on bail plea of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Maryam Nawaz.

The verdict was reserved by Justice Baqar Najfi and will be announced on Friday.

Also read: Accountability court extends judicial remand of Maryam Nawaz

Maryam is on judicial remand in an inquiry related to Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

An accountability court last week extended her judicial remand till November 2.

Marchers will be comfortable in Islamabad: Ijaz Shah

Federal Minister for Interior Brig (r) Ijaz Shah
Federal Minister for Interior Brig (r) Ijaz Shah while addressing the media said that when the marchers reach Islamabad they will be provided safety and security.

“If they bring more people than expected, we will give them more space,” Shah told reporters, “We will make them feel comfortable, as comfortable as staying in a five star hotel.”

He also added that during negotiations the only point of discussion was the venue of the protest. The marchers, he said, demanded that the government let them enter D Chowk, “we said that it not possible.”

He added, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) will have to abide by the the judgments of Supreme Court judge Qazi Faez Isa and the Islamabad High Court regarding the sit-in.

The federal minister said Maulana Fazl was allowed to march but he should respect the court decisions too.

Shah said the prime minister decided not to prevent the JUI-F from marching since he himself is a politician.

He conceded that political statements issued by both government and the opposition made the atmosphere tense.

Maulana Fazl, along with thousands of protesters have been camping near Gujar Khan, some 53 kilometers from the federal capital.

Fazl intends to enter Islamabad in his bid to de-seat Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The JUI-F backed by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) started its Azadi March from Karachi on October 27.

Pakistan rejects India's 'illegal' bifurcation of occupied Kashmir

Dr Faisal
Pakistan on Thursday rejected the "void" and "illegal" bifurcation of India-occupied Kashmir into two union territories, saying that "no step by the government of India" can change the internationally recognised fact that it is a disputed territory.

The Indian government had on August 5 repealed Article 370 of its constitution, stripping occupied Kashmir of its special status. The orders went into effect today, dividing up occupied Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories; one Jammu and Kashmir, and the other the Buddhist-dominated high altitude region of Ladakh.

In a statement released by the Foreign Office, Pakistan termed the move a "complete violation of the UN Security Council Resolutions and bilateral agreements between India and Pakistan, especially the Simla Agreement".

The statement underlined that India-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognised disputed territory. "No step by the government of India can change this. These changes are illegal and void as per the relevant UNSC Resolutions, and do not prejudice the right to self-determination of the people of occupied Jammu & Kashmir."

Pakistan particularly highlighted that the August 5 measures announced by India "were forced upon" the people of India-occupied Jammu and Kashmir "through the barrel of a gun". The FO statement said that the region has been turned into a prison with the deployment of over 900,000 Indian security forces.

The statement further observed that many people including political leaders, civil society members, women and children "remain under illegal detention".

"An iron curtain remains in place on more than 8 million Kashmiri people snapping their communications with the outside world," said the statement.

"Curfew remains imposed and movement of people restricted. Many people, especially women and children, are being continuously abused and tortured by Indian occupation forces," it added.

Pakistan rejected the narrative that the changes are India's "internal matter" and termed them as "illegal and unilateral" as the dispute "remains on the agenda of the Security Council".

The FO, in its statement said that the purpose of these changes "is neither development of the region nor welfare of the Kashmiri people".

"The real motive is to alter the demographic structure of the Muslim majority state in pursuance of the extremist 'Hindutva' ideology."

Pakistan called upon the international community to "take notice that the transfer of civilian population from outside into India-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is in grave violation of the international laws particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention".

The statement laid emphasis on the fact that this forceful occupation by India will never be accepted by the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir. India's unilateral actions "would only further aggravate the human rights situation in the region and threaten to destabilise the peace, security and stability of the South Asian region as well as the world".

Pakistan called on India to "stop brutalising the innocent Kashmiris under its illegal occupation for the last seven decades".

"India should immediately withdraw its military forces from the region, remove draconian laws, restore basic human rights of the people, free all detainees, lift all restrictions on the free movement and communications, allow unimpeded and full access to the UN and other international human rights observers, including independent foreign media," urged the Foreign Office.

"It is imperative that India implements the UN Security Council Resolutions on the right of Kashmiris to self-determination, without further prevarication."

The statement also asserted Pakistan's resolve to continue to "extend its full moral, political and diplomatic support to the suffering Kashmiri brothers and sisters" until their right to self-dermination in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions is realised.

Khabar Hone Tak 31 October 2019

Khabar Hone Tak 31 October 2019

Awam Ka Such 31 October 2019

Awam Ka Such 31 October 2019

Aaj Kay Akhbaar 31 October 2019

Aaj Kay Akhbaar 31 October 2019

Sheb-e-Abi Talib Say Karbala Tak 31 October 2019

Sheb-e-Abi Talib Say Karbala Tak 31 October 2019

Such Savera 31 October 2019

Such Savera 31 October 2019

President, PM express deep sorrow over loss of lives in train incident

President, PM express deep sorrow over loss of lives in train incident
President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan have expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives in Tezgam Express fire incident in Rahim Yar Khan.

In their separate condolence messages, they condoled with the bereaved families.

The Prime Minister directed the authorities concerned to provide prompt and best possible medical treatment to those injured in the incident.

Special Assistant to Prime Minsiter on Information and Broadcasting Firdous Ashiq Awan has also expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of lives in Tezgam train incident. She condoled with the bereaved families.

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Sheikh Rasheed orders inquiry of Train accident within 24 hours

Sheikh Rasheed orders inquiry of Train accident within 24 hours
Federal Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed ordered an inquiry into the incident to determine the root cause along with details of the officers that allowed gas cylinders on board the train.

The minister has demanded the preliminary inquiry report within 24 hours.

Sheikh Rasheed expressed tremendous grief and sorrow on the harrowing incident and condoled those whose loved ones have died or are injured due to the fact.

The Minister also requested individuals traveling via trains to not cook over live flames or carry possible flammable substances during travel to safeguard themselves from such tragedies.

He also informed that the train track would be cleared for commute within two hours, the Tableeghi Jamaat members were headed for a religious gathering in Rawalpindi and were trying to cook something over a gas cylinder when a possible leakage resulted in catastrophe.

10 fire extinguishing vehicles of rescue 1122 are participating in the efforts to kill the flame.

Forty six people reportedly dead and forty others injured when fire engulfed three bogies of Tezgam Express due to a cylinder explosion at Liaquatpur in Rahim Yar Khan earlier in the morning.

The injured are being shifted to nearby hospitals while rescue teams are busy in extinguishing the fire.

The train was on its way from Karachi to Rawalpindi when the unfortunate occurrence took place.

The people who brought the gas cylinder on board are being said to be from the Tableeghi Jamaat.

Escalation in number of deaths and those that sustained injuries is feared.

PM Imran, Cuba’s Vice President Discuss matters of mutual interest

PM Imran, Cuba’s Vice President Discuss matters of mutual interest
Cuba’s Vice President Roberto Morales Ojeda on Wednesday called on Prime Minister Imran Khan at his office in Islamabad.

Matters of mutual interest, bilateral ties, overall regional situation and other issues were came under discussion in the meeting, said sources.

Speaking on the occasion, the prime minister said that Pakistan and Cuba had historically enjoyed close and cordial ties. He noted that the Cuban leaders including former President Fidel Castro were held in high esteem by the people of Pakistan.

PM Imran particularly recalled Cuba’s medical assistance for the victims of 2005 earthquake and for medical education of over 900 Pakistani students, both initiatives of President Castro.

He added that the visit by the Cuban delegation was timely and would help reinforce the friendly relations between the two countries expand mutually beneficial collaboration in various fields.

The Cuban vice president highlighted the excellent nature of Cuba-Pakistan relations and thanked Pakistan for close collaboration in multilateral fora.

On the occasion, both the leaders emphasized the need to build on the existing political ties and to augment bilateral economic relations in diverse areas.

At least 11 dead, others injured after train catches fire near Rahim Yar Khan

At least 11 dead, others injured after train catches fire near Rahim Yar Khan
At least 11 passengers lost their lives and 30 others sustained burn injuries when three carriages of a Tezgam Express caught fire due to explosion in a gas stove, according to initial reports.

Meanwhile, firefighters have initiated a rescue operation to extinguish the fire and other passengers are being evacuated from the train to safe places. The affected carriages are being separated from the train.

The train, Tezgam, was on its way from Karachi to Rawalpindi, when a gas cylinder carried by a passenger exploded, leaving several dead and injured. The fire was caused by the explosion in a gas cylinder, confirmed the Pakistan Railways official.

According to details, the passengers were cooking breakfast when the gas cylinder exploded. After the blast, the raging fire engulfed two other coaches as well.

Fire fighters were still extinguishing the fire as per last reports.

Aaj Ka Such 30 October 2019

Aaj Ka Such 30 October 2019

Goya With Arsalan Khalid 30 October 2019

Goya With Arsalan Khalid 30 October 2019

Talk@ 7 30 October 2019 Such tv

Talk@ 7 30 October 2019 Such tv

Lebanon reopens but crisis remains after PM resigns

Lebanon reopens but crisis remains after PM resigns
The Lebanese government's resignation under pressure from the street looked set to ease a two-week-old nationwide lockdown but protesters vowed on Wednesday to keep pushing for deeper change.

President Michel Aoun acknowledged Saad Hariri's resignation as prime minister on Tuesday but asked his government to stay on in a caretaker capacity until a new cabinet is formed.

But there was no clear way out of the political crisis that has drawn warnings from Lebanon's foreign partners.

On the ground, security forces reopened most roads that had remained mostly blocked by protesters since a proposed tax on calls via messaging apps sparked a wave of demonstrations on October 17.

The unprecedented mobilisation swelled into a popular drive to remove a political elite which has remained largely unchanged since the end of the civil war three decades ago.

Euphoric protesters experiencing a rare moment of national unity have pilloried politicians of all parties, calling for better public services, an end to rampant corruption and a complete overhaul of sectarian-based politics.

When a sombre Hariri appeared on television to announce his resignation, crowds erupted into celebrations across the country but warned that the government's fall was only one of their demands.

“The resignation is not enough to get us off the streets,” said Charbel, a 26-year-old draped in a Lebanese flag, who was still protesting in central Beirut on Wednesday.

“We need to keep up the pressure, but we should not keep the roads closed because now it's bothering even the people who were supporting the movement,” he said.

Protest life

Hariri's resignation came after counter-demonstrators loyal to some of his political rivals attacked the main protest site in the capital's Martyr's Square.

They destroyed tents and marquees and the rest of the temporary infrastructure that turned downtown Beirut into a huge encampment — hosting protests and political meetings by day, concerts and parties by night.

Well-organised protesters, however, swiftly cleaned up and returned to the site, occupying the main flyover again on Tuesday evening.

Food stands serving sandwiches or corn on the cob were doing brisk business.

Some protesters laid out carpets and sofas, some slept in hammocks hung between traffic signals and others brought goal posts to set up a football pitch across the four-lane highway.

By Wednesday, having won the government's resignation, protesters were divided over the decision to remove roadblocks, which they see as one of the few sources of leverage for their leaderless and spontaneous movement.

As roads reopened, the education ministry called on schools and universities to resume classes on Thursday morning, and banks were set to open again the following day.

The resignation announced by Hariri came after the failure of days of consultations with his fractious cabinet to agree on a reshuffle and meet some of the protesters' demands for a technocratic government.

Early in the protests, Hariri had hinted that resigning was an option but his rivals in the government coalition, including Aoun's party and its allies from the powerful Shiite movement Hezbollah, had warned a political vacuum could lead to chaos.

Hariri's suggestions were rejected by Aoun, whose son-in-law Gebran Bassil is the outgoing foreign minister and one of the most reviled figures for the protesters.

What's next?

Forming a government in Lebanon can typically take months, with every sectarian and party leader seeking to protect their own communal interests.

“There is no time for any of the old games,” Heiko Wimmen, Lebanon project director at the International Crisis Group think-tank, told AFP.

“The pressure of the street and, perhaps even more so, the fear of economic collapse will dictate an accelerated government formation,” he said.

The 49-year-old Hariri, who had already stepped down twice as prime minister in 10 years, could yet return as the head of the next government.

“Hariri throws it all away to better negotiate his return,” wrote the French-language newspaper L'Orient-Le Jour.

One rising name in the Sunni community to which the post is usually reserved is outgoing interior minister Raya al-Hassan, the first woman to hold that job and who has received praise for her bloodless handling of the protests.

Lebanon's economy, crippled by ballooning public debt, has been sliding to the brink of collapse in recent months.

Hariri announced a much-delayed reform package last week in a bid to address some of the protesters' demands and the requirements for a huge foreign assistance programme to be unlocked.

Some protesters want fresh elections to be organised, a move that would further delay the implementation of those reforms.

'Terrorism' too widely defined in Anti Terrorism Act: SC

Chief Justice of Pakistan Asif Saeed Khosa
The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a judgment reviewing the meaning and scope of the term 'terrorism' as defined in the Anti Terrorism Act, 1997 and recommended that Parliament bring changes to the current understanding of the term, which is "too wide".

The 59-page judgment was authored by Chief Justice of Pakistan Asif Saeed Khosa.

The court in its judgment observed that the matter had been "a subject of controversy" for some time and that "different honourable benches of varying strength deciding different cases have [...] understood and interpreted the said term differently".

"It is in this backdrop that the present larger bench has been constituted so as to put an end to that controversy," read the judgment.

According to the judgment, the term 'terrorism' can be applied to the use of force, under an organised plan, for the realisation of religious, ideological or political goals.

It can also be applied when, under the plan, terror is struck in the hearts of people and damage dealt to lives and property.

The offence of terrorism is also committed when under an organised plan, religious sectarianism is spread in society.

Attacking journalists, the business community, the public, and the social sector under an organised plan also falls within the definition of terrorism. Similarly, an attack on law enforcement agencies and security forces is also terrorism, according to the judgment.

Employing an organised plan to cause damage to government property and to commit theft and robbery under such a plan are also acts of terrorism.

The judgment also outlined what offences cannot be viewed as terrorism.

The court clearly distinguished in its judgment that acts of violence, such as setting things on fire and extortion, committed under a personal vendetta arising out of enmity or hostility are not 'terrorism'.

Personal enmity as a result of contempt for a person's religion is not terrorism.

A person's involvement in an act of violence owing to hostility or personal enmity against the police, army or government employees does not fall within the scope of terrorism, ruled the court.

The Supreme Court clarified that "any action constituting an offence, howsoever grave, shocking, brutal, gruesome or horrifying, does not qualify to be termed as terrorism if it is not committed with the design or purpose specified or mentioned in clauses (b) or (c) of subsection (1) of section 6 of the said Act".

"It is further clarified that the actions specified in subsection (2) of section 6 of that Act do not qualify to be labeled or characterised as terrorism if such actions are taken in furtherance of personal enmity or private vendetta," said the court in its judgment.

It also observed that the definition of terrorism at present, as defined in the Act, is "too wide and the same includes so many actions, designs and purposes which have no nexus with the generally recognised concept of what terrorism is".

"Apart from that including some other heinous offences in the Preamble and the Third Schedule to that Act for trial of such offences by an Anti Terrorism Court when such other offences do not qualify to be included in the definition of terrorism puts an extra and unnecessary burden on such courts and causes delay in trial of actual cases of terrorism," said the court judgment.

The court recommended that the Parliament consider substituting the current definition with "a more succinct" one bringing it "in line with the international perspectives of that offence and focusing on violent activities aimed at achieving political, ideological or religious objectives".

"We further recommend that the Parliament may also consider suitably amending the preamble to the Act and removing all those offences from the Third Schedule to the Act which offences have no nexus with the offence of terrorism," said the judgment.

Capt (retd) Safdar released from prison after bail in hate speech case

Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar and Maryyum Nawaz
A sessions court in Lahore on Wednesday approved Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar’s bail application in a hate speech case, following which he got released from the camp prison.

The court was hearing Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader’s plea seeking a bail in the hate speech case filed against him. The court also asked Safdar to submit a surety bond of Rs200,000.

After his release, overjoyed PML-N workers chanted slogans in Safdar’s favour.

Safdar and Maryam Nawaz’s son and party workers were present outside the jail to receive him, after the court announced the PML-N leader’s bail in the case.

Lahore police had arrested former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s son-in-law near the Ravi Toll plaza and registered a case against him in Lahore’s Islampura police station last week.

The case was registered under section 16 of the MPO and additional charges were also added after the he was presented before the court.

Go home, hand power back to the people: Fazl to govt

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman urged the government to resign and hand power back to the people.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman urged the government on Wednesday to resign and hand power back to the people.

Addressing a large rally in Kamoke where his Azadi March caravan arrived on Wednesday night, Fazl said that the present rulers had destroyed the economy of the country.

“The entire nation is on a single page,” said Fazl. “Join hands with me to send these rulers a clear message. When economies of nations are destroyed, their geographies are altered,” he added.

Fazl urged the masses to follow him if they wanted to ensure security in the country and make sure Pakistan’s future remains bright.

A session held at the Foreign Office today, pertaining to Maulana Fazlur Rahman’s protest, concluded under the headship of Secretary Interior Azam Suleman.

The session, attended by representatives of all Law Enforcement Agencies, took a closer look at Fazlur Rahman’s Azaadi March, participants of which were permitted to enter Islamabad through the assigned route.

Moreover, non-custom paid vehicles and those carrying weaponry would be barred from entering the federal capital.

As per the agreement, entry into Islamabad’s Red Zone is prohibited.

Last week, the government and opposition parties reached an agreement regarding the march.

Defence Minister Pervaiz Khattak led the government delegation. He said that the committee did not demand Prime Minister Imran’s resignation neither did it say that it would topple the government.

“We expect the JUI-F to protest within the limits set out in the constitution of Pakistan,” he said. “If they remain peaceful, we will not create any hurdles for them.”

Tezi Mandi 30 October 2019

Tezi Mandi 30 October 2019

Sheb-e Abi-Talib (A.S) Say Karbala Tak 30 October 2019

Sheb-e Abi-Talib (A.S) Say Karbala Tak 30 October 2019

Such Savera 30 October 2019

Such Savera 30 October 2019

Sehat Zindagi 30 October 2019

Sehat Zindagi 30 October 2019

Aaj Kay Akhbar 30 October 2019

Aaj Kay Akhbar 30 October 2019

Tezi Mandi 29 October 2019

Tezi Mandi 29 October 2019

Talk@7 29 October 2019

Talk@7 29 October 2019

Facilitating small farmers is foremost priority of present govt: PM Imran

Facilitating small farmers is foremost priority of present govt: PM Imran
Prime Minister Imran Khan has said facilitating the small farmers is amongst the foremost priorities of present government.

He was chairing a meeting in Islamabad on Wednesday which reviewed matters pertaining to the agro production especially the facilitation of small farmers.

The Prime Minister pointed out the agriculture policy especially the focus on facilitation of small farmers is the manifestation of government's commitment towards the agriculture sector.

Imran Khan noted that extending facilities to small farmers will not only bolster agriculture yield but also help alleviate poverty and improve the economic conditions.

The Prime Minister directed to enhance coordination amongst the provinces to achieve the targets in the agriculture sector.

Traders union Strike Continues against anti-business policies of govt

Traders union Strike
Traders continue nationwide shutterdown strike on Wednesday against the anti-business policies of the government and new taxation system introduced by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

According to details, traders in Islamabad and Rawalpindi gave a powerful message about their unity as many shops and outlets are remained closed in the twin cities.

The nationwide strike call was given by All-Pakistan Anjuman-i-Tajiran (APAT).

The leaders of traders’ associations said that if FBR does not simply the tax procedure then we will lock our shops and hand over the keys to the prime minister.

Traders demanded that the incumbent government should play its role to resolve the problems of the business community.

Judicial remand of Khawaja brothers' extended in Paragon Housing Case

Judicial remand of Khawaja brothers' extended in Paragon Housing Case
An accountability court today resumed hearing witnesses in the Paragon Housing scam case against PMLN stalwarts, Khawaja Saad and Salman Rafique.

Accountability court judge, Jawad Ul Hassan presiding over the case noted down testimonies of 5 witnesses in the first day of trial.

More witnesses have been summoned by the court for the next hearing so that their statements can also be recorded.

The court awarded both representatives of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PMLN) extensions in their judicial remand and asked them to appear in the court again on November 13.

Saad and Salman tried to meet fellow party worker and leader of the opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Hamza Shehbaz Sharif after the court was adjourned but were denied access.

Both brothers currently face an assets beyond means and paragon housing scam case.

On October 16, accountability court rejected acquittal pleas of former railways minister Khawaja Saad Rafique and his brother Khawaja Salman Rafique in Paragon Housing Society case.

Khawaja brothers had filed petitions for their acquittal and also challenged jurisdiction of the court in the case.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

First quarter of financial year indicates country's economy on right track: Hafeez Sheikh

Adviser on Finance Dr. Hafeez Sheikh
Adviser on Finance Dr. Hafeez Sheikh says the statistics of the first quarter of the current financial year indicate that the country's economy is on the right track and it is gradually stabilizing.

He gave these remarks during a meeting with Pakistan's Permanent Representative at the United Nations Munir Akram in Islamabad on Wednesday.

The Adviser on Finance informed Munir Akram about the measures taken for improvement of national economy and their positive results.

PM Imran emphasizes on introducing Sufi teachings to youth

PM Imran emphasizes on introducing Sufi teachings to youth
Prime Minister Imran Khan has emphasized on the importance of introducing Sufi teachings in true spirit and philosophy of the Sufi saints to the youth.

He was talking to Dr Tamara Sonn, a professor of Islamic History at Georgetown University, who called on him in Islamabad today (Tuesday).

The prime minister said it is utmost necessary to aware the youth of Sufi saints’ service in spread of Islam in the Sub-continent and research and extensive study should be encouraged in this regard to meet the challenges of the current times.

Imran Khan said his government has laid the foundation stone of Al-Qadir University at Sohawa to study Sufi teachings in its true spirit.

He said a committee is being constituted under the ministry of education to introduce subjects pertaining to Sufi teachings in the educational institutions, which will present its recommendations regarding the nature of subjects and syllabus.

The prime minister lauded Dr Tamara Sonn’s educational and research endevors, especially her efforts to intdocuce Islamic teachings to the students.

Indian State of Manipur announce separation from India

Indian State of Manipur announce separation from India
The dissident political leaders from the Indian state of Manipur have declared independence from India and forming a government-in-exile in Britain.

Addressing a press conference in London, representatives of Manipur’s King Leishemba Sanajaoba also announced formation of Manipur State Council.

The Chief Minister Yamben Biren and Minister of External Affairs and Defence Narengbam Samarjit of the Manipur State Council said we believe that now is the right time to make public the Independent Government of Manipur before the international community and seek recognition.

They also urged all the governments of the sovereign states and members of the United Nations for recognition of the de-jure and exile Government of the Manipur from today onwards.

The leaders of Manipur State Council also produced a document showing that Maharaja of Manipur has authorised them to solve the political problems of the State of Manipur.

They said Narendra Modi’s government is intolerant and believes in physical annihilation of small nations and communities for sake of Hindutva supremacy and therefore it is not safe for them to continue operating from India.

FATF Cell established in interior ministry for effective implementation of action plan

FATF Cell established in interior ministry
The government has established ‘FATF Cell’ in the interior ministry to ensure effective implementation on all the points of the action plan.

According to sources, three officers associated with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and four from the National Counter Terrorism Authority were inducted in the cell.

The sources further said that the cell was comprised 11 members and it will work on FATF action plan. The cell will help complete all the points of FATF action plan.

Aaj Ka Such 29 October 2019

Aaj Ka Such 29 October 2019

Internet services disrupted across Pakistan as submarine cables go offline

Internet services disrupted across Pakistan as submarine cables go offline
Internet services across the country were impacted on Tuesday evening, following a fault that developed in international submarine cables that connect Pakistan.

"We regret to inform you that due to international submarine cable fault, internet services are impacted across Pakistan," said Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) in a post on Twitter.

"Our technical teams are working on fully restoring internet services. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience."
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, in a statement, said: "Due to a fault in the international submarine cable, internet services have been affected."

"Since today evening, some areas of Pakistan experienced a disruption in services," said the PTA spokesperson.

The telecom authority said that PTCL, along with international organisations, "are working to ascertain the location where the fault has developed".

According to ProPakistani, two submarine cables have gone offline, disrupting internet in Pakistan.

"IMEWE and SEAMEWE 4, that carry almost 50 per cent of Pakistan’s internet traffic, went offline due to a fault at a location that’s yet not determined," it said.

Internet users across the country will experience downgraded speeds until the fault is fixed, ProPakistani reported, adding that, internet service providers "are in the process of shifting the load to other submarine systems, that will balance the load to an extent".

An internet outage also occurred earlier this year, in June, when services were disrupted due to "multiple cable cuts".

Goya with Arslan Khalid 28 October 2019

Goya with Arslan Khalid 28 October 2019

Such Savera 28 October 2019

Such Savera 28 October 2019

Alazizia Case: IHC Grants 8-week bail to Nawaz Sharif on medical grounds

Alazizia Case: IHC Grants 8-week bail to Nawaz Sharif on medical grounds
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday granted former prime minister Nawaz Sharif bail for eight weeks to obtain medical treatment.

A two-judge bench comprising Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani heard Shehbaz Sharif’s request to grant Nawaz Sharif bail on medical grounds in the Al-Azizia corruption reference.

Announcing the verdict, the court granted Sharif bail for eight weeks to get medical treatment. He has been ordered to deposit two bail bonds worth Rs2 million each.

“In case the indisposition of petitioner No.2 (Nawaz Sharif) continues, he before the expiry of perod of eight weeks may approach the Government of Punjab under Section 401 (2) Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 and until the decision of the Provincial Government on the application, he shall continue to remain on bail. However, if petitioner No. 2 does not approach the Provincial Government within the period mentioned hereinabove this order shall cease to have effect on lapse of period of eight weeks and the bail granted shall stand revoked/cancelled,” the IHC announced.

Sehat Zindagi 29 October 2019

Sehat Zindagi 29 October 2019

Sheb-e-Abi Talib Say Karbala Tak 28 October 2019

Sheb-e-Abi Talib Say Karbala Tak 28 October 2019

Aaj Kay Akhbaar 29 October 2019

Aaj Kay Akhbaar 29 October 2019

Talk@7 28 October 2019

Talk@7 28 October 2019

Aaj Ka Such 28 October 2019

Aaj Ka Such 28 October 2019

Kekra-I project met failure, PPL found nothing but water after digging deep

natural gas reserves near Karachi
Prime Minister Imran Khan was reportedly misinformed about the presence of natural gas reserves near Karachi coast as there is a 86% chance that the expected reserves – called Kekra-I – would not be found under the surface of the sea.

The project entails a cost of Rs124 billion on account of digging and associated machinery and other resources. The information from the project work would be beneficial in future.

Now the authorities would dig up the surface under shallow water rather than deep water as it would have a much higher success rate and would cost less. The revelation was made by the Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) managing director as he spoke to media after the PPL’s 68th annual general meeting.


Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) managing director said the prospects of success in Kekra-I was only 12% and even though the project met failure, the information from the work being carried out would pave the way for discovery of new reserves.

“In Kekra-I, we found nothing but water after digging deep inside the surface. However, there are chances of vast resources of oil and gas underneath the shallow water of Indus Block and the PPL will administer drilling in the site in future,” he said.

The official maintained that the PPL was selling gas at 159 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) instead of 250MMCFD despite its contract, while the company was facing a great financial strain due to circular debt for which activities of oil and gas exploration could not be adequately financed.

Currently, the PPL has Rs227 billion in outstanding receivables. The PPL is in talks with a Saudi company for expansion of its mining operations, while the state oil company of Iraq is also contemplating a deal for drilling and exploration.

Commenting on the company’s performance, the official said the PPL had dug 12 wells during the past year of which 7 were PPL-operated, while the remaining were on partnership basis.

The company reported Rs61.6 billion in net profits during the past financial year and declared 20% bonus shares as well as 20% dividend for existing shareholders. In addition, the company also announced 10% bonus shares for transferable preference shares.

Actor Munawar announced engagement in March was called off by his family

Sheheryar Munawar engagement was called off
Sheheryar Munawar has confirmed in recent that he is single again. The actor in a recent interview with media said that his engagement was called off by his family.

When asked about what’s the most daring thing he has done in his life, Munawar shared, “The most daring thing I’ve done is tell my mother that I’ve tried once because you said so and you yourself ended it. But this time, I’ll choose the girl I want to get married to.”

Munawar announced engagement this year in March with Haala Soomro.

The actor has also released an official statement on the matter.

“I will not comment on a decision taken by my family. This is a private matter that involves two families, and I would like to take this opportunity to request everyone to give our families, myself and my ex-fiance our due share of privacy and time to deal with this new development in our lives,” he said.

“I would like to thank my fans for all their love and understanding and members of the media for their continued support and request everyone to respect my need for privacy at this time. I will not be commenting any further on this matter,” the statement further read.

Monday, October 28, 2019

Pak-China Friendship: China disapproves FATF’s politicization, takes exception to anti-Pakistan designs

China disapproves FATF’s politicization, takes exception to anti-Pakistan designs
Reiterating its support to Pakistan at the FATF platform, China has categorically announced that it did not want the forum to be politicized as some countries are pursuing their political agenda in a bid to blacklist Pakistan.

Talking to a group of visiting Pakistani journalists in Beijing, Deputy Director General for Policy Planning of Asian Affair in the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Yao Wen said China stood with Pakistan and blocked any attempt to include Pakistan in the blacklist.

He said China made it clear to the United States and India that China cannot do this and goes beyond the purpose of FATF.

Yao Wen said the Financial Action Task Force is not meant to put any country in the blacklist, rather to support it to take action against terror financing.

He said Pakistan is effectively pursuing its National Action Plan, and China encouraged it to act against terrorists and strengthen its system.

About the recent visit of Chinese President to India, he said the Chinese president conveyed Pakistan’s concerns to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over current development in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

He said India was told that Pakistan did not want war with it and desired to resolve the Kashmir issue through peaceful means.

He welcomed establishing of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority by Pakistan that would help expedite work on CPEC projects.

PM Khan reiterates Pakistan's support to Afghan peace, reconciliation process

Prime Minister Imran Khan was talking to U.S. Special Representative to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad
Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast and sincere support to Afghan peace and reconciliation process.

PM Imran was talking to U.S. Special Representative to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad who called on him in Islamabad.

The Prime Minister also underlined the need to overcome difficulties in this regard so that an enduring political solution to Afghan conflict could be achieved at the earliest.

Imran Khan stressed that it was important for all sides to take practical steps for checking violence in Afghanistan.

He said it was equally important to guard against the negative narratives and efforts by any quarter to undermine the progress made so far through painstaking efforts.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan will continue to play its role as a sincere and honest friend for establishing peace in Afghanistan.

Imran Khan said achieving sustainable peace and security in Afghanistan and the region is in Pakistan’s best national interest.