تازہ ترین

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    MQM-P pushes for grand national dialogue on new pr…

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) has announced plans to approach political parties across the country to launch a “grand national dialogue” on the creation of new provinces and administrative units. Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, MQM-P Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said Pakistan needed a serious national discussion on restructuring its administrative system, arguing that the country’s growing population had increased the need for additional provinces. Siddiqui said MQM-P had been advocating the creation of more provinces for decades, maintaining that Pakistan’s existing provincial structure was largely shaped by linguistic considerations rather than purely administrative requirements. He stressed that the party’s demand was not limited to Sindh and that it would support calls for new provinces wherever there was public and political backing. The MQM-P leader urged political parties to sit together and discuss their proposals and reservations instead of treating the issue as a source of political confrontation. He said his party was prepared to take the lead in initiating such a dialogue. Siddiqui also linked the debate over new provinces with the need to strengthen local governments. Referring to Article 140-A of the Constitution, he said provinces were constitutionally required to devolve political, administrative and financial powers to elected local representatives. He criticised the failure to fully implement the provision and recalled that MQM-P had previously approached the Supreme Court over the issue. He argued that creating additional provinces was not unconstitutional and said Parliament could debate the appropriate mechanism for establishing them. He also questioned whether existing provinces should have the sole authority to decide on their own division. MQM-P leader and Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said the party’s proposal was aimed at administrative restructuring rather than dividing communities or territories. He argued that people should have greater control over local leadership and governance, particularly when their cities face serious problems in living standards and public services. The MQM-P campaign follows recent remarks by Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi, who called for political parties to address major national issues, including the creation of new provinces. His proposal has since generated debate among government figures, lawyers and political circles, giving fresh momentum to the long-running discussion over Pakistan’s provincial structure. The MQM-P leadership said it would also engage legal experts and explore further legal avenues regarding the implementation of constitutional provisions related to local governance.

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    Quaid-i-Azam’s statue unveiled at Pakistan Embas…

    ByJustpaste.in

    WASHINGTON: A statue of Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, has been unveiled at the Pakistan Embassy in Washington as part of the country’s Independence Day celebrations. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh inaugurated the statue during a ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani-American community, diplomats and media representatives. The statue was donated by the Quaid-i-Azam Foundation of Houston and will remain permanently installed at the embassy. The unveiling comes as Pakistan prepares to commemorate Jinnah’s 150th birth anniversary later this year, adding historical significance to the Independence Day event. Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Sheikh paid tribute to Jinnah’s constitutional struggle and leadership, saying his efforts transformed the vision of Pakistan into reality. He urged Pakistanis, particularly those living abroad, to follow the founder’s guiding principles of “Unity, Faith and Discipline.” The ceremony opened with the hoisting of Pakistan’s national flag and the national anthem, followed by Quranic recitation and the reading of messages from Pakistan’s president, prime minister and deputy prime minister. The ambassador also highlighted Pakistan’s growing importance in its relationship with the United States. His remarks came alongside a message from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who noted cooperation between the two countries in areas including regional mediation, critical minerals, energy, counterterrorism, cultural heritage, trade and investment. Pakistan’s role in regional diplomacy has gained particular attention amid efforts to ease tensions between the United States and Iran, with Islamabad seeking to use its ties with both countries to encourage dialogue. The event also featured an investiture ceremony for Waqar Ali Khan, who received the President’s Award for Pride of Performance in recognition of his long-standing contribution as a community leader and cultural ambassador in the United States.

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    Content creator killed in broad-daylight shooting …

    ByJustpaste.in

    TAXILA: A female TikTok content creator was shot dead and her teenage sister critically wounded in a broad-daylight attack near the Taxila bypass on GT Road, police said. According to police sources, the sisters were travelling in their car when a motorcyclist intercepted them near the bypass and opened fire. Both sustained multiple bullet wounds, while their vehicle lost control and crashed into a dumper. The content creator died at the scene, while her critically injured sister was initially taken to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, Taxila, before being shifted to Islamabad for further treatment. The victim’s brother told police that he had nominated two suspects in the case, alleging that a financial dispute between the woman and the accused had led to the targeted attack. Police registered a case and launched an investigation into the shooting. In a separate incident in Attock, police registered a target-killing case following the shooting deaths of two brothers in Malho village, within the jurisdiction of Rango Police Station in Hazro. Meanwhile, a 13-year-old boy drowned while swimming in a village pond in the Chappri area of Jand. Rescue 1122 officials recovered the boy’s body and shifted it to Tehsil Headquarters Hospital. Police registered a case and began an investigation into the incident.

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    Pakistan set to begin $2.5bn ML-1 Railway upgrade …

    ByJustpaste.in

    LAHORE: Pakistan Railways is moving ahead with preparations for the first phase of the $2.5 billion Main Line-1 (ML-1) project, with civil works expected to begin in January 2027 under the government’s accelerated implementation plan. The first phase will focus on the 480-kilometre Karachi-Rohri railway corridor, where new tracks will be constructed alongside safety fencing to prevent unauthorised access. The project is expected to take around two-and-a-half to three years to complete. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi said the department was making every effort to meet the January deadline set by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He noted that consultations with contractors and consultants, international tendering, bidding, shortlisting and contract awards could take four to five months, but the government was determined to keep the project on schedule. Pakistan Railways has scheduled an online market engagement session for September 8 with local and international contractors, consultants and other stakeholders. The discussions will focus on project readiness, procurement, technical requirements, contract packages, qualification criteria, risk allocation and construction while railway operations continue. The Karachi-Rohri section has been prioritised because it carries a major share of the country’s railway traffic and includes stretches affected by deteriorating infrastructure and frequent accidents. Once upgraded, the corridor is expected to allow trains to operate at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour. The project will include track reconstruction, selected realignments, bridges, culverts, stations, freight facilities and other infrastructure along the Keamari-Landhi-Hyderabad, Hyderabad-Nawabshah and Nawabshah-Rohri sections. Upgrades to signalling, telecommunications and Walton Academy are also part of the broader plan. The Asian Development Bank is expected to finance the project, while Pakistan is also exploring co-financing from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, World Bank, Islamic Development Bank and other partners. A meeting at Pakistan Railways headquarters reviewed preparations for the Karachi-Rohri upgrade, with Railway Board Chairman Syed Mazhar Ali Shah directing officials to complete the project review by October 30, 2026. Weekly monitoring of progress was also ordered. Officials said international expertise and market feedback would be incorporated into the project to improve its efficiency, sustainability and technical viability. Authorities also pledged to maintain transparency, competitiveness and merit throughout the procurement and implementation process. The government sees ML-1 as a key step towards modernising Pakistan’s railway network, improving passenger services, increasing freight efficiency and strengthening connectivity between major population centres and industrial areas.

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    Naqvi defends officials over viral carriage video

    ByJustpaste.in

    Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has defended the Capital Development Authority (CDA) chairman and Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) after a video of the two officials arriving at an Independence Day event in a horse-drawn carriage triggered criticism on social media. CDA Chairman retired Lt Sohail Ashraf and Islamabad IGP Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi were seen arriving at the parade in the carriage. The video showed event organisers asking the audience to applaud as the officials arrived, but little response could be heard from the crowd. The footage quickly spread online, with several social media users describing the scene as outdated and comparing it with practices associated with the colonial era. Naqvi later issued a clarification, saying the officials should not be blamed for using the carriage. According to the interior minister, the chief guest and he were delayed because of a meeting between the president and prime minister. He said people had been waiting at the venue since 5pm. When it became clear that the senior officials would arrive late, instructions were given to start the programme so that citizens would not have to wait any longer. Naqvi explained that the horse carriage had originally been arranged for the chief guest. However, due to the delay, it was used by the CDA chairman and Islamabad police chief to proceed with the programme. The minister also said both officers had initially been reluctant to begin the event in the absence of the chief guest and himself. He maintained that they proceeded only after receiving specific instructions. Despite the explanation, criticism continued online. Former federal minister Shireen Mazari shared the video and questioned the decision, while digital rights activist Usama Khilji criticised what he described as behaviour inappropriate for senior government officials. Several journalists and public figures also reacted strongly to the footage. Journalist Farzana Ali questioned the appropriateness of such a display at a time when ordinary citizens are facing economic difficulties. Journalist Zarrar Khuhro described the scene as embarrassing, while researcher Ammar Rashid criticised what he viewed as the growing distance between government officials and the public. Former Pemra chairman Absar Alam also condemned the incident, calling it an example of an outdated bureaucratic mindset. Former Sindh governor Mohammad Zubair drew a comparison with the recent visit of Norway’s foreign minister to Islamabad. He highlighted footage showing the foreign minister handling his own luggage at the airport and contrasted it with the behaviour shown in the Islamabad parade video

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    Kaia Gerber reveals she underwent an exorcism as a child

    ByJustpaste.in

    Model and actress Kaia Gerber has made a startling revelation about her childhood, saying she underwent an unusual exorcism after her mother, supermodel Cindy Crawford, feared she might be possessed. The 24-year-old opened up about the experience during an interview on The Mitch Churi Chat Show, where she was promoting Ryan Murphy’s upcoming series The Shards. Gerber also spoke about her long-standing fascination with supernatural experiences and encounters. Gerber said she had been told as a child that she was possessed and described herself as having been “haunted” throughout her life. She then revealed that an exorcism had actually been performed on her. According to the actress, the ritual involved a didgeridoo being played around her. “I’ve never talked about it, but that actually did happen,” Gerber said while recalling the unusual childhood experience. Her comments also brought attention to her connection with supernatural themes. During her appearance in American Horror Story: Double Feature, Crawford reportedly took precautions because of concerns about the show’s subject matter. Gerber said her mother gave her holy water during the production because she worried that her daughter could become possessed. The revelation comes as Gerber has also been speaking more openly about the pressures she has faced growing up as the daughter of one of the world’s most recognisable models. In a recent interview, she discussed the constant comparisons between herself and Crawford, particularly regarding their physical appearances. Gerber said such comparisons affected how she viewed her own body and admitted that she had sometimes felt jealous of her mother’s figure. The actress explained that comments about her appearance have been difficult because people often expect her to discuss her body publicly. Gerber has also attracted attention for her relationship with actor Lewis Pullman. The couple reportedly began dating in early 2025 after her relationship with Austin Butler ended. More recently, Gerber described her relationship with Pullman in highly positive terms, saying she values being able to remain herself rather than changing her personality depending on whether she is with a partner, friends or colleagues.

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    Noor Bukhari opens up about remarriage and life lessons

    ByJustpaste.in

    Former Pakistani actress Noor Bukhari has spoken candidly about her decision to marry her former husband, Aoun Chaudhary, again and the experiences that shaped her outlook on life. In a recent interview with Ambreen Fatima, Noor discussed her personal journey, her years in the entertainment industry and the changes she made after leaving showbiz to focus on her religious life. Speaking about her relationship with Aoun Chaudhary, Noor said their reunion was not something she had planned. She described it as part of destiny and said that circumstances eventually brought the two back together. The actress explained that she and Aoun already shared a daughter, which she believed was also an important factor in their reunion. She said that after she left acting, Aoun also developed the desire to rebuild their relationship. Noor said they now have four children together and described their family life as a happy one. The actress also reflected on the difficult periods she experienced in her personal life. She has previously spoken about going through multiple marriages and divorces, experiences that she said taught her important lessons about relationships and faith. According to Noor, one of the biggest lessons she learned was that people may come and go, but Allah remains with a person through every difficult period. She said her experiences strengthened her belief that Allah never abandons those who turn to Him. Noor added that she does not like dwelling on the past. Instead, she prefers to focus on her present life and move forward. During the interview, she also shared her views about women with daughters who consider remarriage. Noor said Islam permits women to marry again, but expressed her personal concerns about raising a daughter in a new family. She suggested that women should carefully consider the impact of a second marriage on their children. She also said reconciliation with a former husband could be an option in some circumstances. Her comments generated discussion on social media, with users expressing different opinions about her views on marriage, divorce and family life. Some praised Noor for openly discussing her experiences and described her reunion with Aoun as a matter of destiny. Others questioned parts of her advice regarding remarriage and relationships.

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    Epstein survivors urge UK PM to deliver justice

    ByJustpaste.in

    The UK Epstein Survivors Campaign has renewed its call for truth, accountability and justice, urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s government to take further action over the Jeffrey Epstein case. The campaign has expressed hope that the new government will be more willing to engage directly with survivors and address long-standing questions surrounding Epstein’s links to influential figures and institutions. A spokesperson for the campaign said survivors believed there was now an opportunity to obtain the truth they had been seeking for years. The group welcomed what it described as Burnham’s willingness to listen to victims and show compassion toward those affected by Epstein’s crimes. The campaign also called for greater transparency over how Epstein was able to gain access to powerful circles and continue his criminal activities for such a long period. The issue has also been raised by the government’s victims minister, whose responsibilities have reportedly been expanded to cover international matters. The minister has said that survivors and victims deserve a complete account of what happened so that those responsible can be held accountable. He has backed the idea of a full statutory public inquiry into Epstein’s access to the British establishment and the circumstances that allowed his abuse and criminal activity to continue. Supporters of the proposed inquiry argue that it should have sufficient legal powers to compel witnesses and obtain relevant communications, including messages and emails. They say such powers would be necessary to establish the full chain of events and determine whether individuals or institutions failed to act when concerns about Epstein were known. The campaign maintains that a comprehensive investigation is essential not only for survivors but also for preventing similar failures in the future. It wants the authorities to examine how Epstein built relationships with powerful people and why safeguards failed to stop his activities earlier. The renewed demand comes as pressure continues for greater transparency surrounding the wider Epstein case. Survivors and campaigners have repeatedly argued that accountability should extend beyond Epstein himself and include any individuals or institutions that enabled or overlooked wrongdoing.

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    US-Pakistan trade surpasses $8 billion, says Natal…

    ByJustpaste.in

    US Chargé d’Affaires in Pakistan Natalie Baker has said that bilateral trade between the United States and Pakistan exceeded $8 billion in 2025. Baker visited Lahore on August 11 and 12, where she held meetings with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Adviser Ali Dar, business leaders and technology experts. According to the US Embassy, discussions during the visit focused on artificial intelligence (AI), higher education, innovation, trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Baker said the United States remained committed to working with Pakistan’s private sector, universities, innovators and government institutions to strengthen economic and technological cooperation. She noted that Pakistan’s technology sector was expanding rapidly, creating opportunities for greater collaboration in trade, investment, AI and emerging technologies. The US diplomat highlighted software development, digital services and artificial intelligence as areas with significant potential for cooperation between the two countries. Emphasising the importance of stronger commercial ties, Baker said bilateral trade had crossed the $8 billion mark in 2025. She also stressed the potential of US educational expertise to create new opportunities for Pakistani students while contributing to stronger economic ties between Pakistan and the United States. Baker’s Lahore visit focused on exploring new areas of partnership and strengthening existing economic and technological links. Discussions with government officials, business representatives and technology experts also highlighted the growing role of innovation and digital industries in Pakistan’s economy. The US diplomat said continued cooperation between the two countries could help expand investment, support technological development and create new opportunities for businesses and students in both countries.

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    Maira Khan’s bold social media transformation sparks debate

    ByJustpaste.in

    Maira Khan is a familiar name in the Pakistani television industry, having appeared in several popular dramas throughout her acting career. She has been part of projects such as Riwaaj, Kisey Awaaz Doon, Cousins, Jalan, Cheekh, and Bewafa, among others. Her performances helped her establish a presence in the entertainment industry, while her appearance on ARY Digital’s reality show Tamasha recently brought her renewed attention from viewers. Apart from television, Maira Khan has also worked in the feature film Durj, a project that received critical appreciation. Over the years, she has remained a subject of public interest, particularly because of her changing appearance, fashion choices, and occasional discussions surrounding cosmetic procedures and her evolving personal style. In recent years, however, Maira has largely stepped away from the Pakistani drama scene. Instead of appearing regularly on television, she is now frequently seen travelling with friends and sharing glimpses of her lifestyle on social media. Her Instagram presence has also become more noticeable, with the former actress posting photographs and reels showcasing her fashion choices and travels. Her recent posts have attracted particular attention because of her preference for Western-style outfits and a more confident approach to fashion. Some of her latest pictures feature outfits that are considerably bolder than the image audiences may remember from her television career. Her transformation has sparked a wide range of reactions across social media, with some people praising her confidence while others have criticised her new appearance. Several social media users have speculated about the reason behind her change in lifestyle and fashion. Some suggested that her reduced presence in Pakistani television dramas may have influenced her decision to pursue a different lifestyle, while others argued that her clothing choices are simply a matter of personal preference. The discussion also took an unexpected turn, with some users questioning her religious identity and making assumptions about her beliefs based on her appearance. Such comments generated further debate, as many people pointed out that a person’s faith cannot be determined simply by their clothing or social media posts. Some critics expressed disappointment over what they described as a shift from her earlier, more modest public image. One commenter said that Pakistani actresses appear to be becoming increasingly bold and prayed for them to receive guidance. Another user wrote that Maira had appeared much more decent in the past. Others shared reminders about morality and the temporary nature of worldly life. At the same time, her supporters believe that Maira has the right to make her own choices regarding fashion, lifestyle, and social media presence. The contrasting reactions demonstrate how strongly Pakistani celebrities continue to be scrutinised for their personal choices, particularly when they adopt a style that differs from their earlier public image.