The caretaker federal government in Islamabad has released 34 Baloch protesters, who were detained during a police crackdown last week. The decision, made on the advice of the negotiation committee led by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, follows talks between the government’s team, headed by Privatization Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad, and the protesting marchers. The demonstrators had demanded the immediate release of those arrested. The protest originally stemmed from the alleged “extra-judicial killing” of a Baloch youth by Counter-Terrorism Department officials in Turbat. The crackdown on the Baloch marchers in Islamabad sparked nationwide condemnation from human rights organizations, politicians, and…
Author: Saifullah
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Renowned fashion designer and social media activist Khadija Shah has been granted post-arrest bail by a local court in Quetta. Accused of involvement in the May 9 riots, Shah faced charges of murder and attempted murder related to the violent protests. The anti-terrorism court (ATC) judge approved her bail application after her counsel argued that she was innocent, emphasizing that Shah was a victim of a political vendetta with fabricated cases against her. The court ordered her release while instructing Shah to cooperate with the police in the ongoing investigation and appear when summoned.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Thursday, filing a petition that calls for the transfer of Inspector General (IG) and Chief Secretary Punjab. The petition, submitted by lawyer Shoaib Shaheen, alleges that these officials have been engaging in harassment against PTI leaders and workers. In their plea, PTI urged the ECP to halt the arrests of nominated candidates and supporters, emphasizing the inclusion of PTI candidates in the vetting process. Election Commissioner Punjab Saeed Gul intervened in the matter by contacting IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar regarding the reported snatching of…
President Arif Alvi has strongly condemned the mistreatment of former Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi by police officials during his re-arrest outside Adiala Jail. In a social media post on platform ‘X’, President Alvi expressed concern about the infringement of human rights and dignity, urging authorities to address incidents like paper snatching, brutal actions on protestors, and the undignified treatment of a former foreign minister. The president emphasized that arguments based on similar incidents in the past are insufficient, asserting that Pakistan must undergo positive change. The post concluded with a call for the nation to agree on the need…
The Cabinet Division in Islamabad has acquired eight luxury vehicles valued at over Rs70 million for protocol duties, despite the ban on new car purchases imposed by the Pakistan Democratic Movement government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. These vehicles, including a 29-seater VIP Coaster, a 14-seater high-roof, and six 1800 CC cars, were procured between April 2022 and February 2023. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier declared austerity measures in 2022, emphasizing the auction of luxury cars used by cabinet members, economy class travel for officials on domestic and international trips, and reduced security for government officials. However, despite…
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), unveiled a comprehensive 10-point manifesto for the upcoming 2024 general election. This announcement, made on the 16th death anniversary of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, outlines the following key points: Double people’s salaries as the top priority. Provide free electricity for up to 300 units. Ensure universal access to education for every child. Establish a nationwide free healthcare system. Construct 3 million houses for those unable to afford homes. Enhance the Benazir Income Support Program for poverty alleviation. Introduce a card for farmers, akin to the Benazir Income Support Program. Introduction…
The Sukkur Barrage, Pakistan’s largest irrigation system, is scheduled for a 15-day closure starting from January 6th to January 20th, 2024, for essential maintenance and cleaning procedures. The administration of the barrage has confirmed that all seven off-taking canals will be temporarily shut during this period. The gates of the Sukkur Barrage will be closed to facilitate the annual cleaning and renovation of the structure, as announced by the barrage authority. This routine maintenance work is set to commence as the water level decreases in the waterworks, as highlighted by Abdul Aziz Soomro, the Incharge Control Room of the Sukkur…
Women’s Discrimination: Societal Behavior or Government Policies? In the discourse on women’s discrimination, the argument surfaces that a pivotal factor lies in creating a women-friendly environment in Pakistan. This environment, it is believed, could propel women to excel in society by providing ample opportunities. However, the unfortunate reality is that the current setup lacks the necessary encouragement for women to actively participate in various organizations, thereby impeding their progress. Women in Politics: Shedding light on the political landscape, it is acknowledged that some women, such as Benazir Bhutto, have made significant strides in politics. Despite these success stories, a substantial…
In a notable transition from his renowned singing career to the political landscape, Chahat Fateh Ali Khan celebrated for his distinctive and viral singing style on social media, has formally entered the political arena. The artist, known for his unique vocal talents and captivating online presence, has taken a step further by submitting his nomination papers for a seat in the National Assembly. Chahat Fateh Ali Khan, using his real name Kashif Rana, submitted the nomination papers from Lahore for the National Assembly constituency NA-128. This move signifies a significant shift in the artist’s trajectory as he ventures into the…
Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, during his visit to Christ Church in Rawalpindi for Christmas celebrations, underscored the pivotal role of promoting interfaith harmony to realize Quaid’s vision for a united and progressive Pakistan. Welcomed warmly by the congregation, the COAS extended Merry Christmas wishes to the Christian community nationwide. General Munir, expressing deep respect for religious communities, emphasized the significance of Islam’s teachings, fostering peace, friendship, and interfaith harmony in the contemporary context. He advocated for informed perspectives and knowledge-based opinions to address intricate national challenges, steering away from rhetoric and propaganda. Addressing threats posed by…
