تازہ ترین

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    Azad Kashmir: Police arrest IPP candidate Ali Shan…

    Police in Azad Jammu and Kashmir have arrested Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) candidate Ali Shan Soni following allegations of interference in the electoral process during polling in Bhimber district. Authorities say the arrest was made after reports that ballot boxes were removed from multiple polling stations. According to Mirpur Commissioner Tahir Mumtaz, Ali Shan Soni, accompanied by several supporters, allegedly removed ballot boxes from four polling stations during the election. The commissioner confirmed the arrest and said legal action was initiated over the alleged disruption of the voting process. Election officials stated that the incident prompted an immediate response from law enforcement agencies to ensure the integrity of the polling process. Authorities have not released further details regarding the investigation, but officials indicated that the matter will proceed in accordance with the applicable election laws. Ali Shan Soni was contesting the election from LA-6 Samahni on the ticket of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party. The constituency witnessed a competitive race, with unofficial election results indicating that Chaudhry Muhammad Razaq secured the lead. Based on unofficial results from 156 polling stations, Chaudhry Muhammad Razaq received more than 30,000 votes, placing him in first position. Ali Shan Soni was reported to have received 17,974 votes, putting him in second place. Election-related incidents are closely monitored by authorities to maintain transparency and public confidence in the democratic process. Any allegations of interference, including the unauthorized handling or removal of ballot boxes, are generally subject to investigation under election regulations. Officials have emphasized that legal proceedings will determine the facts surrounding the incident. No further official statement has been issued regarding the charges or the next stage of the investigation. The arrest has drawn attention to the importance of safeguarding the electoral process and ensuring that voting is conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. Election authorities and law enforcement agencies are expected to continue reviewing the incident while maintaining security and order throughout the completion of the electoral process. As the investigation continues, officials have urged the public to rely on verified information from relevant authorities and await the outcome of the legal proceedings before drawing conclusions about the allegations.

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    Common mood-stabilizing drug may offer hope for Alzheimer’s disease

      Medical researchers have suggested that lithium, a widely available and inexpensive medication commonly prescribed to treat bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, may also hold promise as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Although the findings are encouraging, scientists stress that much more research is required before lithium can be recommended as a treatment for patients with Alzheimer’s. According to previous studies researchers found that people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease tend to have lower levels of lithium in their brains compared to healthy individuals. This observation led scientists to investigate whether restoring lithium levels could help protect the brain from the damage caused by the disease. To explore this possibility, researchers conducted laboratory experiments using mice genetically modified to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that administering very low doses of lithium significantly improved the animals’ memory performance. In addition, the treatment reduced the harmful effects of brain cell damage that are typically associated with Alzheimer’s. These findings suggest that even small amounts of lithium may have protective effects on brain function. Scientists believe lithium works by helping to preserve the health of neurons, the specialized brain cells responsible for memory, learning, and thinking. The drug may also support communication between different regions of the brain by maintaining the connections between nerve cells. Since Alzheimer’s disease gradually destroys these connections, researchers believe lithium could potentially slow the progression of cognitive decline if administered during the early stages of the disease. Further support for this idea comes from a research paper published in the medical journal Translational Psychiatry. In the article, experts emphasized the need for more comprehensive studies to investigate the safety and effectiveness of low-dose lithium therapy for people with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. They argued that while the initial findings are promising, larger clinical trials involving human participants are essential before any firm conclusions can be drawn. Experts from Alzheimer’s advocacy organizations have also responded cautiously to the research. Dr. Richard Oakley, Director of Research at the Alzheimer’s Society, said the findings contribute to the ongoing scientific discussion about lithium’s potential role in Alzheimer’s treatment. However, he warned that there is currently no conclusive evidence showing that lithium can prevent dementia or serve as a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Oakley further explained that the human clinical trials conducted so far have been limited in size and scope. As a result, the available evidence is not yet strong enough to support the routine use of lithium for Alzheimer’s patients. He emphasized that larger, well-designed clinical studies are needed to determine the drug’s long-term benefits, possible side effects, and the most effective dosage. Alzheimer’s disease remains one of the world’s leading causes of dementia, affecting millions of people and placing a significant emotional and financial burden on families and healthcare systems. While current treatments can only help manage symptoms, researchers continue to search for therapies that can slow or stop the disease. If future studies confirm the benefits of low-dose lithium, this affordable and widely available medication could become an important addition to Alzheimer’s treatment. Until then, experts advise patients and caregivers not to use lithium for Alzheimer’s without medical supervision, as scientific evidence is still developing.

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    Waqar Zaka wins global trading competition

    Pakistani digital entrepreneur, television personality and cryptocurrency advocate Waqar Zaka has won the WEEX TradFi Masters, an international trading competition featuring more than 3,000 participants from around the world. The competition tested participants across multiple asset classes, including stocks, commodities, precious metals and cryptocurrencies, over a 20-day trading period. According to the organisers, Zaka recorded a 74 per cent return on an initial virtual trading capital of US$100,000, finishing ahead of competitors from South Korea and China, who secured second and third positions respectively. As part of the award, Zaka received a 2026 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon at a prize ceremony held in Dubai. Waqar Zaka first rose to prominence as a television host before becoming one of Pakistan’s most recognised digital entrepreneurs and cryptocurrency advocates. Over the past several years, he has built a large online following through content focused on blockchain technology, digital assets and financial education. He has consistently campaigned for the legalisation and regulation of cryptocurrencies in Pakistan and has urged policymakers to embrace blockchain technology and the digital economy. His latest achievement has been welcomed by supporters as another milestone in his career and has drawn attention to the growing participation of Pakistani traders in international financial and digital asset markets.

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    Marriyum Aurangzeb says Kashmiris have chosen PML-…

    Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir have already made their political choice in favour of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). In a statement, Aurangzeb said Mirpur had given its verdict in favour of the PML-N on July 24. She linked the decision to the visit of PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif and party leader Maryam Nawaz to the city. According to Aurangzeb, the response from the people of Mirpur showed their support for the PML-N leadership. She said the people had made their choice clear through their political support. Aurangzeb said the PML-N’s electoral symbol, the lion, had also received strong support. She claimed that by voting for the lion symbol, the people had formally expressed their belief that the development of Azad Jammu and Kashmir was connected with the PML-N. She said the party was committed to the progress and development of the region. Aurangzeb maintained that the public response in different areas was an indication of growing support for the PML-N. The senior provincial minister also referred to the situation in Muzaffarabad. She said the people of Muzaffarabad had already announced their decision on July 21. Aurangzeb said the political choices made in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad reflected the direction of the election campaign. She suggested that the response from voters in both areas had strengthened the PML-N’s position. She further said August 2 would be an important day for the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. According to her, voters would use the lion symbol to formally announce their decision through the ballot. Aurangzeb urged Kashmiris to vote for the PML-N and support its leadership. She presented the party as a force for development and progress in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The statement comes amid the ongoing electoral activity in the region. Political parties are campaigning to win the support of voters ahead of the final voting process. Aurangzeb’s remarks underline the PML-N’s focus on development as a central theme of its campaign. She said the people’s vote would determine the future political direction of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The minister expressed confidence that voters would reaffirm their support for the PML-N on August 2 by voting for the lion symbol.

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    AJK polls completed transparently, says top poll o…

    Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal has said that the first phase of the electoral process in the region was completed in a free and transparent manner. He said all political parties actively participated in the elections. He added that polling was conducted in a peaceful environment across the region. Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said voters participated in large numbers. He said people exercised their constitutional right to vote and took part in the electoral process. The chief election commissioner said the overall polling process remained peaceful. He said election authorities and other relevant institutions worked to ensure that voters could cast their ballots. He also acknowledged the role of law enforcement agencies during the elections. According to him, security personnel played an exemplary role in maintaining law and order. The chief election commissioner said security arrangements helped keep the polling environment peaceful. Law enforcement agencies remained deployed to deal with any situation that could affect the electoral process. However, he said an incident was reported in Samahni where attempts were made to disrupt polling. The people involved in creating a disturbance were arrested, he said. Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said the authorities took action to ensure that polling activities were not affected. He stressed that maintaining peace was essential for a smooth electoral process. He also highlighted the participation of political parties in the elections. He said their involvement reflected the importance of the electoral process in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The chief election commissioner’s statement came after the completion of the first phase of polling in the region. The election process attracted significant participation from voters. He said the authorities remained focused on ensuring transparency throughout the process. He also stressed the importance of maintaining law and order during polling. The election authorities are now expected to continue the next stages of the electoral process according to the announced schedule. The results and subsequent procedures will determine the political direction of the region. Justice (retd) Ghulam Mustafa Mughal said the peaceful completion of the first phase was an important development. He maintained that the cooperation of political parties, voters, election officials and law enforcement agencies helped the process move forward.

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    Aaliya Hamza allegedly attacked inside Kot Lakhpat…

    LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has alleged that party leader Aaliya Hamza was attacked by fellow inmates inside Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Jail. Aaliya Hamza is currently imprisoned at the facility. PTI leaders claimed that she faced a physical assault following a dispute over access to water in a jail toilet. According to the party, one female inmate and several other prisoners were involved in the incident. PTI representatives alleged that the situation became serious when the inmates allegedly tried to strangle Aaliya. They described the incident as an attempt on her life. The allegations have raised concerns within the party about her safety and security while in custody. PTI leaders Sanam Javed and Falak Javed were also present in the jail, according to the party’s account. They allegedly intervened during the incident and helped protect Aaliya from the other inmates. PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said the party had received disturbing information about the alleged incident. He called on the Punjab government and jail authorities to ensure Aaliya’s safety. Raja also demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the matter. He said officials found responsible for negligence should face action. He also called for legal proceedings if any jail staff were found to have failed in their duties. Raja said the party would consult Aaliya’s family about further legal steps. He added that a petition could be filed in court seeking a medical examination and additional protection for the jailed leader. However, prison authorities have rejected PTI’s account of a physical assault. Punjab Inspector General Prisons Mian Salik Jalal said there was no physical clash between the prisoners. He said the inmates had only exchanged heated words over fetching water from a toilet. The conflicting accounts have created questions about what exactly happened inside the jail. The PTI has called for a formal inquiry, while prison authorities maintain that no physical confrontation took place. Aaliya was arrested by Punjab police in March. Authorities had alleged that she was evading arrest and organising gatherings involving PTI lawmakers, election candidates and party workers outside Adiala Jail. She was later transferred to Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore. Her arrest took place while she was in Lahore visiting family members during Eidul Fitr. She was initially taken to Shadman Police Station before being moved to jail. The PTI has strongly criticised the cases against Aaliya. Party leaders have repeatedly described her arrest and legal proceedings as politically motivated.

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    Trump touts Iran talks as Netanyahu arrives

    US President Donald Trump has said that Washington is engaged in “very friendly talks” with Tehran as efforts continue to prevent a fresh escalation in the Iran war. Trump’s remarks came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Washington for talks with the US president. The meeting is expected to focus heavily on the conflict with Iran and the possibility of reaching a longer-term agreement. The latest developments come after several days of reduced military activity between the United States and Iran. However, tensions remain high. Both sides continue to issue warnings and maintain their military positions. Iran has indicated that it remains open to diplomacy. At the same time, Tehran has warned that it is prepared to respond strongly if the United States launches another attack. Iranian officials have also stressed that Washington will not decide when the country should choose between negotiations and confrontation. Tehran has said that communication with the US is continuing through intermediaries. Qatar and Pakistan are among the regional countries involved in facilitating communication between the two sides. Iranian officials have described the diplomatic channel as active but uncertain. Several major issues remain unresolved. The nuclear programme is expected to be one of the central subjects in any future agreement. Sanctions, compensation for war-related damage and security arrangements are also likely to complicate negotiations. The Strait of Hormuz remains another major obstacle. The strategic waterway is vital for international energy supplies. Iran has insisted on maintaining a significant role in controlling and regulating movement through the strait. Washington, meanwhile, wants the waterway to return to normal operations. The issue has become an important source of leverage for Tehran and a major concern for the global energy market. Trump has indicated that he wants an agreement but has also warned that military action could resume if diplomacy fails. His comments have added pressure to the ongoing negotiations. The situation has also created wider economic concerns. Australia, which relies heavily on imported fuel, is considering plans for a new domestic oil refinery. The proposal comes as disruptions to global energy supplies raise concerns about fuel security. The conflict has also affected several Gulf states. Saudi Arabia has condemned a reported drone attack by Iran-aligned groups in Iraq targeting Riyadh and energy infrastructure in the kingdom’s Eastern Province. Satellite imagery has also shown smoke rising from areas in Saudi Arabia after Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis claimed attacks against oil-related facilities. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s visit to Washington has added another layer to the diplomatic situation. Israel took part in the military campaign against Iran alongside the United States but has not been directly involved in the latest US-Iran diplomatic contacts. The Israeli prime minister is expected to discuss the conflict with Trump. Differences could emerge over the direction of US policy and the possibility of a diplomatic settlement. The meeting also comes amid continuing Israeli military operations in the occupied West Bank. Israeli forces have carried out further raids in the territory, while former senior Israeli military officials have reportedly urged Trump to pressure Netanyahu to reduce the violence. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has also raised concerns over alleged violations of international law in the region. His office has documented incidents in Lebanon and said some could potentially amount to war crimes. Despite the latest diplomatic activity, the path toward a lasting agreement remains uncertain. Washington and Tehran appear interested in avoiding another major escalation, but serious disagreements continue to stand in the way of a final settlement. The Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions and the consequences of the conflict are likely to remain central to the next phase of negotiations.

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    Isha Rikhi’s emotional Instagram note sparks online speculation

    Actor Isha Rikhi, wife of rapper Badshah, has shared an emotional message on social media that has sparked concern among fans and fueled speculation about her relationship with the singer. On Monday, Rikhi posted a heartfelt note on Instagram, speaking about fear, silence and finding the courage to speak up. While she did not reveal specific details or explain the circumstances behind her message, the post quickly drew widespread attention online. In her statement, Rikhi wrote that some battles leave no visible scars and admitted she had stayed silent for a long time because she was afraid. She said she felt overwhelmed by what she believed to be her husband’s influence, power and resources, adding that she convinced herself remaining quiet was the safest choice. She further explained that her silence should not be mistaken for acceptance, describing it instead as a means of survival. Rikhi said she is now choosing courage over fear and, although she is not yet ready to share the full story, she no longer wants to pretend that everything is fine. The emotional message has led to intense discussion across social media platforms, with many fans expressing concern for the actor and wondering whether the post hints at difficulties in her marriage. However, neither Rikhi nor Badshah has issued any additional statement to clarify the situation. The latest post comes only a few days after Rikhi shared an emotional video montage featuring memorable moments with Badshah. The video included personal clips from their time together as well as scenes from their intimate wedding ceremony. Accompanying the montage was a brief yet emotional caption that read, “Every storm is a lesson. Every prayer is hope,” followed by a broken-heart emoji. The post immediately caught the attention of fans, many of whom began speculating that the couple could be going through a difficult phase. The couple tied the knot earlier this year in a private ceremony attended by close family and friends. They chose to keep both their relationship and wedding away from the public spotlight, making very few public appearances together. News of their marriage first surfaced after wedding videos were shared online by Rikhi’s mother. The actor later confirmed the marriage during an interactive Instagram question-and-answer session with her followers. Despite growing online speculation, there has been no official confirmation regarding any issues between the couple. Rikhi’s latest statement does not directly accuse anyone or provide details about the experiences she referred to, leaving the meaning of her message open to interpretation. Until either Rikhi or Badshah offers further clarification, the exact context behind the emotional post remains unknown. For now, fans continue to react to the actor’s words, with many sending messages of support while others wait for more information about the couple’s relationship.

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    Jr NTR injured, doctors recommend six to eight weeks of rest

    Actor Jr NTR has sustained a shoulder injury and has been advised to take complete rest for the next six to eight weeks, according to an official statement released by his team on Monday. The announcement reassured fans that there is no reason to be concerned, adding that the actor is receiving appropriate medical care and is expected to make a full recovery. The statement noted that the injury occurred earlier in the day and that he underwent a detailed medical examination soon afterward. Following the evaluation, a team of doctors recommended a recovery period of six to eight weeks to allow the injury to heal properly. During this time, the actor has been instructed to avoid strenuous activities and focus entirely on rehabilitation. The statement emphasized that the rest period is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring a smooth and complete recovery. It also thanked fans and well-wishers for their continued support and understanding, while promising that any further updates regarding the actor’s health would be shared through official channels when appropriate. The injury comes at a time when Jr NTR has been busy working on his much-anticipated upcoming film Dragon, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Prashanth Neel. The project has generated significant excitement among moviegoers, marking the first collaboration between the actor and the director known for delivering large-scale action entertainers. The film has been in production for an extended period, with fans eagerly awaiting fresh updates. Earlier this year, the makers unveiled the film’s title along with its first glimpse to coincide with Jr NTR’s birthday celebrations in May. The teaser introduced audiences to the intense world of Dragon, showcasing Jr NTR in a powerful action-packed avatar. Packed with high-energy visuals, dramatic sequences, and the actor’s commanding screen presence, the glimpse heightened anticipation for the film’s release. Directed by Prashanth Neel, who is widely recognized for blockbuster action films, Dragon is expected to be one of the biggest releases featuring Jr NTR in the coming years. The project has attracted attention not only for its scale but also for bringing together one of Indian cinema’s most popular actors with a filmmaker known for creating visually striking action dramas. While the actor’s injury may temporarily affect his shooting schedule, the official statement did not provide any information regarding possible changes to the film’s production timeline. Fans have since flooded social media with messages wishing Jr NTR a speedy recovery and expressing hope that he returns to work only after making a complete recovery. For now, the focus remains on the actor’s health as he follows medical advice during the recommended rest period. Supporters are expected to await further updates from his team regarding both his recovery and the progress of Dragon.

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    Kajol expresses gratitude to her parents in heartfelt post

    Actor Kajol shared an emotional message on social media to mark National Parents’ Day, reflecting on how becoming a mother transformed her understanding of love, responsibility, and the sacrifices parents make for their children. The actor, who is married to Ajay Devgn, said that parenthood gave her a deeper appreciation of the unconditional support and care she received from her own parents while growing up. National Parents’ Day, observed on the fourth Sunday of July in the United States, inspired Kajol to express gratitude for the people who raised her while also acknowledging how raising her own children has changed the way she views family. Taking to Instagram, Kajol shared that the true meaning of being a parent is something that can only be understood after experiencing it firsthand. She explained that becoming a mother brought a quiet yet profound shift in her perspective, helping her recognize the depth of a parent’s unconditional love and the countless sacrifices made for their children. In her post, she wrote, “#Happyparentsday .. We are all parents now and the sheer responsibility of being a parent is something that u truly don’t understand till it happens to you.. and u never know how much ur parents love u and have sacrificed for u till it happens to u.” Kajol said that raising her two children, daughter Nysa Devgan and son Yug Devgan, has given her a new perspective on the constant encouragement and unwavering support she received throughout her life. She described the message as a heartfelt note of gratitude, saying that motherhood had helped her better understand the selfless nature of parental love. According to the actor, becoming a parent revealed the emotional depth behind the care, patience, and guidance that parents provide every day, often without expecting anything in return. Expressing her appreciation, Kajol thanked her parents for always standing by her and for surrounding her with unconditional love. She ended her message by acknowledging how fortunate she feels to have received such unwavering support. She wrote, “So this is a gratitude post to all my parents for loving me so much. I’m so very loved and therefore so very blessed.” Kajol’s heartfelt post resonated with many of her followers, who praised her honest reflections on parenthood and family bonds. Fans responded with messages celebrating parents and sharing their own experiences, making the occasion a reminder of the enduring love and sacrifices that define family relationships. The actor is known for frequently sharing glimpses of her personal life and family moments on social media. Her latest post once again highlighted the importance of gratitude, reminding people to appreciate the love and dedication of parents while celebrating the responsibilities and joys that come with raising the next generation.